Divide and Rule, Rachel McLean
If you’ve ever wondered what the UK might be like if sweeping new laws are introduced that do more harm than good, read this book.
Wow! The second book in the Division Bell series certainly doesn’t disappoint.
It is fast-paced and intense as we follow the lives of Jennifer Sinclair, the MP imprisoned for opposing the government policies and caring for her family. Another woman imprisoned is Rita, a rebellious teacher who is sent away to a hidden centre along with Jennifer. Unlikely friendships are forged as they fight to hold on to their freedom whilst being pushed to their limits. The book ends with some resolution but I fear it is only the beginning of more trauma for Jennifer, Rita and their surprising advocate. A scary look into what might happen if we lose freedom of speech in the UK.
A great read, highly recommended if you like political thrillers.
The Borman Factor, Robert Lalonde
Political Thriller
A good political thriller with an interesting main character. I liked the plot and how Nick Borman as investigator uncovers a conspiracy involving some big players, including some dirty cops. The book was right up my street as it wasn’t overly violent and kept bad language to a minimum, showing that you can still tell a good story without overdoing these. It was an easy and gripping read.
POV Shifts
My only criticism is the use of third and first person throughout the book and in some chapters the author was ‘head hopping’ by moving from the first to third person in the same chapter, ultimately detracting from the story. I would have liked a bit more description and more detail in places. I hope that the author will edit the first and third person use out in his next book and decide on one consistent way of telling the story. I would be interested to read the next in the series. All in all, a good thriller.
Tears of Fire by Gordon Bickerstaff
This is another gritty and gripping political thriller from Gordon Bickerstaff.
This is the second book I have read in the series but works as a standalone if you haven’t read any of the others. Zoe is a ex SAS soldier and ferocious opponent with a softer side and her character makes the book compelling. In this book Zoe is being hunted by the very people she has saved from terror and they will do anything to capture and kill her.
The story features evil twin sisters who have a love for torture and will mete out suffering in any way they can. It is a well-woven plot that starts with a bang and then continues full throttle right through to the end. If you are a fan of thrillers and don’t mind some graphic violence then this book is a great read. Another page turner by a talented author.
A Few Bad Boys by Nicole
The Fratelli family are a close knit unit, and for those who are loyal, they are well rewarded. To outsiders though, they are a family of gangsters to be avoided and feared.
Lucy
Lucy Fratelli is just 19 and she has everything going for her except that she lives in fear. The reason for this is soon discovered by her best friend, Julie and then by the Fratellis. After this the family unit joins ranks to protect and defend Lucy and their own existence.
Mob Justice
While all of this is going on a big new deal is going down and one detective is determined to arrest Terry Fratelli and makes it his mission in life to hound the family.
Events unfold that see mob justice carried out which is not comfortable reading. Lucy is damaged but can she find new love? She discovers a dark side within herself that causes her even more distress when she allows it to take control.
Terry Fratelli, the father and protector of the family is determined to end the situation that has put his daughter and other members of the family in danger.
Detective Morgan is obsessed with bringing the family down but they seem to be able to run rings around him and are always one step ahead of him.
There are innocent children who have been born into this gangster family and one fears that they too will become London gangsters too.
A Page Turner
The plot is good except for some minor inconsistencies, but for a debut novel, this is a real page turner and I read it within a couple of days, in spite of it not being my usual reading genre. Although complete within itself, the ending leaves room for further books following the Fratelli family. If you like gangster stories, this book will appeal. It is a book for the over 18s in my opinion.