No Angel

by Jay Dobyns
No Angel cover
Good Books rating 4.0
True Crime
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  • ID: 2879
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781847675286
  • Publisher: Canongate Books
  • Published: 2009-02-26
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

No Angel is the gripping account of Jay Dobyns, the first federal agent to go undercover within the Hells Angels. His mission was to uncover the criminal activities of the infamous biker gang and build a case against them. The book offers a rare and chilling glimpse into the secretive world of outlaw motorcycle clubs, filled with danger and deception. Dobyns's journey is one of meticulous detective work and personal sacrifice, as he teeters on the edge of losing himself in the process. It's a thrilling tale that lifts the lid on one of the most notorious underworlds./n/nWritten with raw intensity, No Angel is not just a story of crime and punishment, but also a deep dive into the psychology of those who live on the fringes of society. Dobyns's firsthand account provides unprecedented insight into the inner workings of the Hells Angels, revealing the brutal realities of life within the gang. The book is a testament to the courage and determination of those who risk everything to bring justice to the shadows.

Reviews
Reddit - Sons of Anarchy · 2012-01-10
informative 4.00

The book is recommended for fans of the TV show 'Sons of Anarchy' and those interested in the realities of biker gangs. It provides answers to many questions about the inner workings of these groups.

A Reddit user highly recommends 'No Angel' to fans of 'Sons of Anarchy' and anyone curious about the real-life world of biker gangs. They praise the book for answering many questions about the general operations and culture of these groups. The reviewer finds the book to be an engaging read that offers a glimpse into the lives of outlaw bikers, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the subject matter. The firsthand account by Jay Dobyns is seen as a unique and informative perspective on the topic.

Quick quotes

    His book answered a lot of questions about general biker gangs.

    If you like Sons of Anarchy I definitely recommend it.

    It's a wild ride that provides a lot of insights into the world of outlaw bikers.

Civilian Reader · 2010-08-24
engaging 4.50

The book provides a gripping and detailed account of the Hells Angels, offering a unique perspective on the inner workings of the gang. It is praised for its authenticity and the depth of its storytelling.

The reviewer finds 'No Angel' to be a compelling read that delves deep into the world of outlaw biker gangs, particularly the Hells Angels. The firsthand account by Jay Dobyns is described as both harrowing and fascinating, providing insights that are rarely available to the public. The reviewer appreciates the raw and unfiltered look into the life of an undercover agent, making it a standout in the true crime genre. They highlight the book's ability to keep the reader engaged with its vivid descriptions and the tension of the undercover operation.

Quick quotes

    No Angel has been described as the new Donnie Brasco and the most in-depth account of the world of Outlaw Biker Gangs since Hunter Thompson's.

    It's a gripping tale that offers a rare glimpse into a world most of us will never see.

    The book is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime or the inner workings of outlaw motorcycle clubs.

PopMatters · 2009-06-09
raw 3.50

The book is described as a raw and unfiltered look into the world of outlaw biker gangs, with a focus on the Hells Angels. It is noted for its gritty and unapologetic portrayal of the lifestyle.

The reviewer at PopMatters finds 'No Angel' to be a book that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of life within the Hells Angels. They describe it as a raw and unfiltered account that offers a unique perspective on the undercover work of Jay Dobyns. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of the biker lifestyle, though they note that it may not be for everyone due to its graphic content. The book is praised for its authenticity and the detailed portrayal of the dangers and complexities of undercover operations.

Quick quotes

    If you are a fan of empty boasting, chest-puffed posturing and bad breath, this book is for you.

    It's a gritty and unapologetic look into a world that most of us will never experience firsthand.

    The book is a testament to the bravery of those who work undercover to bring down dangerous criminal organizations.

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