Underdogs

A Pulse-Pounding Action-Thriller from the Sunday Times Bestselling Author of the Spider Shepherd Series

By: Stephen Leather

Narrated by: Paul Thornley

Buckle up for Underdogs, an adrenaline-fueled action-thriller from the Sunday Times bestselling author of the Spider Shepherd series. Perfect for fans of Lee Child and James Patterson.

‘He has the uncanny knack of producing plots that are all too real’ – DAILY MAIL

'A writer at the top of his game' – SUNDAY EXPRESS

'Kickass action, high stakes and nail-biting excitement. Underdogs delivers on all with flying colors and then some' BEST THRILLER BOOKS

Underestimate this underdog at your peril . . .

Once a fearless SAS hero, Andy 'Deadman' Bird now battles the harsh streets of London after a catastrophic mission stripped him of his hearing, career, home and marriage. His only solace is Tyson, his fiercely loyal and battle-tested dog.

When fate thrusts them into the path of a chilling alleyway murder, Andy and Tyson become the next targets. Who are these relentless hunters, and what dangerous secrets are they willing to kill for?

Desperate and cornered, Andy reaches out to his former brothers–in–arms – a team who owe him their very lives. But as they unravel a sinister web of organised crime and deadly political plots, who will be saving who this time?

Praise for Stephen Leather

‘Explosive’ – The Sun

‘Enthralling’ – Financial Times

‘A master of the thriller genre’ – Irish Times

Critic reviews

It wouldn't be a Stephen Leather story without kickass action, high stakes and nail-biting excitement. Underdogs delivers on all with flying colors and then some. As soon as you start your journey with Underdogs, you're only going to put it down once you've run out of pages to flip

Leather’s battered hero and his loyal dog power through a gritty thriller about unfinished business (*selected by the i Paper as a Best New Crime and Thriller Read for February 2026*)

He has the uncanny knack of producing plots that are all too real

A writer at the top of his game

PHEW!!!

First, no virtual anything!!! Only an outstanding LIVE narrator, a very likable protagonist and great story. I have started at least 10 books. Even eyeing Harry Potter!
Phew! Close ! Thank you, Mr. Leather. You have great timing. Just too short.

A true underdog storyline

The story is fast passed, with ample twists and turns. If you have ever had a dog in your life, this story is for you. The plight of homeless veterans is highlighted which is much needed. For those following the Spider Shepherd series, familiar characters are included. Well worth the time and money.