Category Gangland Crime

Revenge by Kerry Kaya @KerryKayaWriter @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #ganglandfiction #crime #thriller #bookreview

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I am delighted to share my review today for Revenge by Kerry Kaya. This is another fabulous read that continues in the Tempest series. Ideal for fans who love gangland crime thrillers.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my copy via the publisher Boldwood Books.

Revenge
Damage will be done…
After the brutal gangland murder of her husband Terry, Tracey Tempest just wants to move on. She’ll never get over Terry’s betrayal, but she’s determined his shady past won’t spoil life for her and her beloved boys Ricky and Jamie.


Max Hardcastle just wants a quiet life and to maybe see how things go between him and Tracey. He knows she’s been hurt in the past, but he’s nothing like Terry and he’ll do anything to keep Tracey happy and safe.


But some people have other ideas.


When Max’s car garage is torched, he’s certain someone still has a grudge to settle. And when the Tempest boys discover one last secret Terry’s been keeping, the fallout could tear their family apart.
Will the Tempests survive this storm? Or will revenge be their downfall?


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

When Tracy Tempest’s husband was killed in a gangland murder, it took her a while to come to terms with just what her husband did for a living. It seems she was the only one who didn’t know just what a devious man he was. Her two sons, Ricky and Jamies, knew and were up to speed with how things had been over the years. Two years later and Tracy is starting to move on, she is in a new relationship with Max Hardcastle, he is no choir boy himself and it seems that someone is out to destroy him and his businesses as well.

This is a brilliant follow on to the previous book, Travy has had to deal with the death of her husband as well as learn some home truths. She is now more aware of the gangs and the lives her sons and new partner are involved in. While she may be aware she is not fully grasp the seriousness of what is to come. Naive, yes she is but loyal and fiercely protective of her sons.

It is great to see another instalment in this series and the author brings you up to speed with some of what happened in the previous book. This one starts with a bang, quite literally as a car dealership goes up in flames, not a simple accidental one either, this one was planned. But who by is the question. Several other gangs are included in this story and they have been mentioned before, but they all have something in common, they cannot be trusted and they will each look out for their own.

This author is brilliant at injecting tension, drama and danger into her novels and this one is no expectation. There are some spectacular twists and scenes that she has worked into this story and it had me on the edge of my seat. I do like the Tempest family and Max, they seem to be the more moral ones in the story, that does not mean they are not brutal or any less dangerous though.

As the story progresses the author brings in other twists and characters, they all have a place in this story but what part they play is not always clear until it needs to be.

If you have not read the previous book I would definitely suggest you do, although it isn’t strictly necessary, it does give a brilliant intro to this family and the events.

This is open for fans who like a hard-boiled, dangerous and toxic gangland crime setting. It is a fabulous book and storyline and one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kerry Kaya is the hugely popular author of Essex-based gritty gangland thrillers with strong family dynamics. She grew up on one of the largest council estates in the UK, where she sets her novels. She also works full-time in a busy maternity department for the NHS.

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Savage Sisters by Heather Atkinson @HeatherAtkinso1 @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #crime #thriller #gangland #bookreview

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I am delighted to share my review of Savage Sisters by Heather Atkinson. I adore this author’s gangland crime books and this latest one is an amazing read.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of the book from Boldwood Books. book

Jane, Carly and Rose Savage are savage by name, savage by nature.
Having lost their mum too young, and with a bedridden father too ill to work, the sisters learnt early to stand on their own two feet. The family’s flat in the rough streets of Glasgow’s Haghill is their fortress, but when Carly’s ex-boyfriend Cole Alexander is released from prison, trouble soon comes knocking at their door. The Alexanders have beef with the Savages, so the girls call for back up in the shape of their uncle Eddie and his two gorgeous but dangerous sons, Harry and Dean.
As a turf war breaks out, the Savage sisters have choices to make. Stick to the straight and narrow or fight for what they deserve? And when the vicious girl gang Jane used to lead, the Unbeatable Bitches, are thrown into the mix, their minds might be made up for them. Because once a Savage always a Savage, and when the chips are down, there’s no one more deadly than a Savage sister.


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

What an amazing start to a gangland thriller. It soon became obvious to me that I was not going to put this one down until I had read it from start to finish in one sitting.

Savage by name and savage by nature!

Three sisters Jane, Carly and Rose Savage spend their days either working or caring for their ill father, while the youngest Rose is still in school. They lost their mum to cancer and their dad has early-onset Parkinson’s. He was once a feared man as were his daughters, but priorities change and they are now happy to keep their heads down and out of trouble. This is what was happening until Carly’s ex, Cole Alexander, was released from prison. His elder brother Ross thought Carly was a bad influence on Cole as she wanted to avoid the family gang business. While Coel was inside things had settled but now he is out she and her family are threatened to keep away from Cole. It’s a shame Cole doesn’t keep away, he is desperate to make amends with Carly. It is Carly’s father Alex who finally makes the decision to call his brother and nephews in.

This is a fabulous, fast-paced and danger edge of your seat crime thriller, if you are a fan of gangland crime then this is one you want to keep your eye out for.

The author has created some characters in the Savage family and some absolute psychopathic creations in the Alexander family. That does not mean that the Savage family are all innocent and sweetness, but when pushed they definitely know how to make a stand and defend themselves. Savage is one word for this family another is brutal, but that could apply to all of the characters involved.

This is one of those books that had me so addicted and the more I read the more I needed to know. The stories of the different families and how they are linked and what they have done in the past give some indications of what is to come, but it was the way the author felt like she had given them free-rein to do what was in their nature that really made this a fabulous read for me. I know they are fictional characters but I was so invested in them that they almost became real. The imagery that the author built up was amazing.

I adore this book a huge amount and it is one that I would definitely recommend if you are after a brutal, gangland crime thriller with some great scenes. I should add that there is a bit of a romance in this and it will be interesting to see if this continues in the next book. I can’t wait to see what the auhtor has in store for the Savage Sisters.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather Atkinson is the author of over fifty books – predominantly in the crime fiction genre. Although Lancashire born and bred she now lives with her family, including twin teenage daughters, on the beautiful west coast of Scotland. Her gangland series for Boldwood, set on the fictional Gallowburn estate in Glasgow begins with the title Blood Brothers.

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Payback by Edie Baylis @ediebaylis @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #ganglit #crime #thriller #bookreview

yvonnembee 4 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for Payback by Edie Baylis. This is a fabulous series and Payback is a brilliant next episode. This is an excellent series for fans of gangland crime thrillers.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my copy of the book from Boldwood Books.

Payback
Revenge will come at a price…


With his once thriving casino business now in ruins, Seb Stoker is certain about two things: One – he will rebuild bigger and better than ever. And two – someone will pay for torching his club.


But until that day comes, Seb has bigger things to worry about and a business deal that could make or break them all…
Sam Reynold knows Seb is out for revenge, and she’ll do anything she can to help him. But Sam has her own enemies and battles to fight – ones much closer to home.


With pressure mounting for both of them, tensions run high.
And payback will be deadly.


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

Just when you think you have read the best book in the series, the author once again comes up with another fabulous read to take that spot. Payback is brutal and so deviously twisted and if you have been following the series then you will be aware of the main characters of Sam and Seb.

Sam has arranged for her mum to go into rehab and Seb is trying to get his money together to rebuild his club. Together they are the golden couple, but the last book showed their weaknesses and left them vulnerable. Still coming to terms with what they have lost and the people that have appeared from their pasts, they still have some work to do. This is where the title is, once again, ideal for this book as it is about Payback.

I do like the combination of Seb and Sam, they are a good couple and she has proven herself tough enough to stand up to Seb and his men. Seb works on the wrong side of the law, having a detective on the payroll is advantageous, but sometimes things still work against you.

The book is brutal at times as the author brings the world of gangland crime to the forefront. Family is important and so is the respect that their names bring. Not everyone respects the name though and this is where the tensions are evident as well as people wanting their part of the pie. The only thing is with these people, they will want to take what they can.

The danger is once again apparent from the outset, the deceiving and conniving that the characters deal with is great. It meant I was kept constantly page-turning to find out if plans would work or if they would go awry. As we all know even the best-laid plans usually have some sort of kink, in the world of Sam and Seb though this kink could mean death.

If you are a fan of gritty gangland crime that has a fabulous ongoing story then this is a series you should have on your radar. There is mayhem, murder and brilliant characters so keep you on your toes. While this is about crime there is also a strong family bond within this series and this is something that I have been enjoying. Another brilliant book in the series and another one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Edie Baylis a successful self-published author of dark gritty thrillers with violent background settings. She lives in Worcestershire, has a history of owning daft cars and several motorbikes and is licensed to run a pub. She has signed a five-book deal with Boldwood and the first book in her new gang-lit series, set in Birmingham, was published in January 2022.


Social Media Links – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – INSTAGRAM – NEWSLETTER – BOOKBUB

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Queen of Diamonds by Gillian Godden @GGodden @rararesources @Boldwoodbooks #crime #thriller #gangland #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am, delighted to share my review today for Queen of Diamonds by Gillian Godden. I have read the previous books in the series and I am thoroughly enjoying them.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and arranging my e-copy from the publisher Boldwood Books.

Is the Diamond reign over?


Head of the Diamond family, Patsy is determined to make a success of husband Nick’s gangland empire – whatever the cost. Nick was ruthless and cold-blooded, but he built a legacy that Patsy wants to protect.


So when a mysterious woman from Nick’s past turns up claiming to be Patsy’s new business partner, she senses trouble. Karen Duret demands Patsy’s help, but it comes with a catch. If Patsy refuses, Karen threatens to expose the Diamond family’s darkest secrets…


Patsy needs the help of her trusted allies more than ever, but when a rival gang start a turf war, the stakes suddenly become deadly.
Torn between loyalties, Patsy knows that blood will be spilled. And as battle commences, the question on everyone’s lips is – who will be crowned the queen of diamonds?


Purchase Link – AMAZON

MY REVIEW

This is the 3rd book in the Diamonds series; they are all fabulous reads. This latest one see’s Patsy Diamond take a step further into her role as the head of the Diamond family and taking on the role of her late husband, Nick. He was ruthless and his work ethic was based on fear. Patsy, however, believes there is a better way of gaining trust and respect. Has she got what it takes though?

This is a brilliant book and sometimes quite hardcore as Patsy makes her mark in the gangland area of Glasgow. In previous books, she has had a lot to deal with, but now she wants to make changes and this means making deals with some of the worst of the worst. As Patsy comes across as quite aloof, the rich bitch, the well-dressed and manicured lady. It gives her a cold and uncaring persona, but she has a few surprises for people and I think she surprises herself with how much she now enjoys this challenge. She has to prove herself.

This one is a gritty and complex story and I adored it. There have always been things that have sprung up out of the woodwork in this series, and before you think there are no more surprises to come, you would be way off the mark. Yet again there are more surprises for the Diamonds and it could jeopardise the family business.

In a world of secrets, death, drugs, prostitution, money laundering and murder you need to be sure of those who are closest to you, a right-hand man is essential to help keep the day-to-day running of the business. There is an awful lot for Patsy to organise and with new deals and alliances to be forged, she really does have her work but out for her. If this isn’t enough there is also something far closer to home that requires her attention, if she gets this wrong it will destroy her.

The author has once again written an amazing book that I devoured in one sitting. It shows the strong woman that Patsy needs to be and it was a side that I didn’t expect to see. While she is strong she is also vulnerable and this brings out a nice balance to her character. Yes, she is naive, but she is also analytical in how she thinks things through and she will not be duped or made a fool of. I have really enjoyed seeing how the author has brought Pasty, the wife of Nick Diamond into the forefront and she is now beginning to stand on her own feet. She is not someone’s wife, she is Patsy or Mrs Diamond and she doesn’t take fools lightly.

Yet again the author has created a fabulous and dangerous story for her characters. This one speeds along at a great pace and there is a real sense of things potentially going very wrong. This is a book for those who love their gangland crime and it is one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gillian Godden is a brilliantly reviewed writer of gangland fiction as well as a full-time NHS Key Worker in Hull. She lived in London for over thirty years, where she sets her thrillers, and during this time worked in various stripper pubs and venues which have inspired her stories.

Social Media Links – Facebook – Twitter – Instagram – Newsletter – Bookbub

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Wicked Girls by Heather Atkinson @HeatherAtkinso1 @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #thriller #gangland #crime #bookreview

yvonnembee

Today I am delighted to share my review of Wicked Girls by Heather Atkinson. This is a brilliant gangland-style thriller, and, as with other books I have read by this author, it is another fabulous read.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of the book for review.

Cousins Valerie and Toni McVay have been best friends forever, and when you’re a McVay you need all the friends you can get.
When Toni’s twelfth birthday is marred by a terrible crime, the wicked path of the girls looks set. A decade later, the McVay family aren’t the unstoppable force they once were in the Glaswegian criminal underworld but Frankie McVay, the up-and-coming prince, is determined to restore the family to its former glory by whatever means necessary. And the whole family are expected to help.
His sister Toni shares her brother’s blood lust but Valerie dreams of a quieter life, and when she meets and falls in love with Seb, as straight as Frankie is bent, as kind as Frankie is wicked, Val sees her way out.
Can she escape a family that is determined to own the city, and to keep Valerie firmly in their violent grasp? And will Toni ever let her best friend Val turn her back on the bloody secret they have shared for all these years…


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

This is a brilliant read and if you are a fan of gritty and tough gangland-style genres with strong female leads then this is one you should have on your list.

Toni and Val are cousins, they stand by each other through thick and thin and always have each other’s back. The story starts in a shocking way when the girls are 12 years old, it gives a brief intro as to why Toni especially is so ferocious as she gets older. The main bulk of the story is told a few years later, Toni is coming up to her 20th birthday. When I say ferocious, she really is, but don’t underestimate Val, many have and many have realised their mistake.

The girls have always known the lifestyle they have been brought up in is a violent one. They are part of the McVay family and you don’t mess with them, especially Toni’s brother Frankie. Just his name is enough for people to back off unless, of course, you are one of the rival families.

While Toni is definitely happy with her lifestyle, Val is not so much and wants more of a normal life. Toni would call it boring, but this is where the girls do differ. With Val wanting a different life it means that there are going to be times when she has to make some tough decisions. This becomes more evident when she finds a “nice, normal boyfriend”, Seb shares the same interests, but he is a student and has a different calling in the way he sees his future.

I really enjoyed the dilemma that the author set out for Val. While she wants to continue a relationship with Seb, she doesn’t want him to know how violent her family actually is. At some point, it is obvious that he is going to meet them though.

The relationship between Val and Toni is great and I can see why the girls are as they are. But having different futures is something that doesn’t cross Toni’s mind. Val has a job which Toni sees as pointless as Frankie pays them for doing the ‘odd job’ for him.

These girls are tough, they know how to look after themselves and they are not averse to using whatever means necessary to prove their point. The author has had to make these two tough and the back story of Toni when she was 12, gives relevance and a reason. The story focuses mainly on Val, I liked this as it meant I could see a different side to her, while Toni is the strong and quick-tempered one, Val is more the thinker, the planner and the plotter. It is this difference that means Val can see the bigger picture.

The tension of this story gets better and better as you read it. The sense of danger lurks on each page and it did make me wonder how on earth these two girls were going to get through. The ending of the book is quite a shock, and it gives a really good conclusion.

This is a tough and at times shocking story, it is full of tension and there are some great twists. the characters are fabulous and there are definitely some I was rooting for. If you like gangland crime thriller stories then this s one you definitely should have your eye on. It is one I would also recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather Atkinson is the author of over fifty books – predominantly in the crime fiction genre. Although Lancashire born and bred she now lives with her family, including twin teenage daughters, on the beautiful west coast of Scotland. Her gangland series for Boldwood, set on the fictional Gallowburn estate in Glasgow begins with the title Blood Brothers.

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Betrayal by Kerry Kaya @KerryKayaAuthor @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #crime #thriller #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for Betrayal by Kerry Kaya. I have read a few books by this author and really enjoy them. Betrayal is the first book in The Tempests series and if you are a fan of gangland crime thriller books then this is a great place to start.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of this book via NetGalley from the publisher Boldwood Books.

Meet the Tempest family – and get ready for the storm.

Tracey Tempest adores her husband, Terry. But when on his 50th birthday, tragedy strikes, Tracey must face the terrifying prospect of a future without him. Desperate for answers and boiling with rage, Tracey wants revenge…

Together with her beloved sons, Ricky and Jamie, the Tempest family dig deeper into Terry’s past – who would want to kill him, and why?

But what they discover changes everything they knew about the man they loved and risks tearing their own family apart.

Can the Tempests weather the storm or will the past destroy them all?


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

What a brilliant start to a new series by this author. I have read a few of her books and she doesn’t hold back when she writes her gang-style stories.

Tracey Tempest has a bit of an eye-opener when she discovers exactly how her husband has made his money. Even though his sons, Ricky and Jamie are part of the family business there is a lot they don’t know about either. While they are coming to terms with the death of Terry, their husband and father, the family also discover some really shocking news. It isn’t the boys who are out for the truth, in fact, it is their Mum, Tracey. She has really got the bit between her teeth and she has no care about who she confronts. Ignorance is bliss for her, and allowances are made.

From the outset I really took to Tracey, she is the stay-at-home wife and Mum, always looking out for the men in her life. She has a nice house, and a great lifestyle and then suddenly the rose-tinted glasses are destroyed. I have a feeling the author really had fun with the character and it was great to see Tracey become the force I have a feeling she was always meant to be. I will admit that she did come across as naive, but no more so than her sons.

Having a character like Tracey was great, as she doesn’t know any of ” the baddies” she has no fear about asking hard questions, this played out well when she discovers an ally. Believe me when I say she will need an extra set of muscles for this story and it is the start of what I hope will be a business arrangement, or maybe more!

This is hard-core as far as some of the storylines are concerned. There are aspects of gangland crime that you expect to see in this style of story, and the author definitely includes some of them. I am not going to mention what they are, but I will say that there are some very unsavoury characters that have no consideration for others.

The main storyline for this book was great, combing grief with unearthing some awful truths was a great way to bring a close family even closer together. I am really looking forward to seeing where the author takes this series. I am sure there will be more shocks and secrets to be unearthed.

This is one for those who like their crime thrillers on the hard-boiled side, with a strong gang-related thread and what better way to read a book by this author than with the start of a new series. This is a cracker and one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kerry Kaya is the hugely popular author of Essex-based gritty gangland thrillers with strong family dynamics. She grew up on one of the largest council estates in the UK, where she sets her novels. She also works full-time in a busy maternity department for the NHS.

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Thief by Owen Mullen @owenmullen6 @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #ganglandfiction #crime #thriller #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for Thief by Owen Mullen. This is the 4th book in The Glass Family series and it is a series I am loving.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of this fabulous book via NetGalley from the publisher Boldwood Books.

It takes a thief to catch a thief…
Charley Glass arrived in her family’s lives like the hurricane she’d escaped. But she hadn’t run far enough: the ruthless Giordano family are on her tail and want two things – her life, and the return of the property she stole from them. No matter how many bodies stack up.
After years of longing, Charley finally has the family she’s always wanted, but now she’s going to have to tell them the real reason she came looking them. There is only one way she’s going to stay alive, and that is to employ the muscle of the notorious Glass Family.
The head of the family, Luke, has become embroiled in a dangerous political plot and isn’t sure they’re strong enough to take on one of New Orleans’ biggest crime gangs. But he’d put his life on the line to protect the empire they’ve built – even if they’ll have to take on an enemy hurting enough to cross an ocean for revenge.
Page-turning, gritty, and utterly compelling, Thief is Owen Mullen’s best book yet. Perfect for fans of Martina Cole, Kimberley Chambers, and Mandasue Heller.
Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

This is the 4th book in the Glass Family series and I would suggest reading these in order as you get more of a sense of who is who. There are several main characters, Luke, Nina, Charley, George and Felix and some from previous books. This story, however, brings a whole new family to the pages and they are not a friendly family.

Charley is a relative newcomer to the series, she is a Glass but one that has just made herself known. She has the Glass determination and stubborn streak and knows how to survive. To be honest, if she didn’t have this then Luke would have seen her as a threat and therefore she wouldn’t be around to have a story of her own.

She has proven her worth and does a great job of running the LBC, a club with a hefty subscription fee. This is where the rich and famous hang out, where the politicians and Heads of businesses and corporations get to mix business and pleasure in various forms.

Luke has been approached for a favour, not something he is unused to, but this one is political. He hasn’t really had to deal with this but the way he is approached is not respectful. It is abrupt and screams of entitlement and expectation. Trying to work out the unknown players and the real money men is something that Luke is good at. It may take time but get there he will.

With this going on Charley’s past suddenly makes an entrance. There is a short piece about this at the beginning of this story, it gives the basics and then jumps to the present day. No one knows the full s
story of Charley’s past, but they are aware she has not been completely translucent.

With a new family on the scene from the US, Luke’s backyard starts to become overcrowded. The Giordano Family want Charley, they don’t care who they have to go through to get her. They, however, do not understand how the Glass Family and others work.

This is my new favourite book in this series, I said it about the previous one, I think! I adore the Glass family and it is a chance to get to know more about Charley. While she does have a more prominent position in this book, it doesn’t mean she is the only focus. I think this is what I like about this series, the author features and focuses, but he doesn’t limit this book to one aspect. Each of the three siblings have their own sub-stories, and each one demands attention. Thank goodness the author manages to wrangle and twist all of the threads together to create such an amazing fast-paced tale.

The Glass family are not exactly legit, there are some legit aspects, some illegal aspects and quite a bit of grey in between. They are a gang family, they have their position in London, their own areas and while things run smoothly all is fine. So bringing in another family was a brilliant move and it showed how someone from a different culture brings their own ideas as to how things work. But at street level, things are different and grassroots are where you learn your lessons and your trade.

Flitting between individual stories of Luke, Nina and Charley was great to see them as individuals and what they have been going through. They are strong but they are also vulnerable. This is a book that is addictive and at times brutal, it is also devious and twisted and at times just very in your face. Brilliant crime thriller in the back streets and clubs of London. A book I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Owen Mullen is a highly regarded crime author who splits his time between Scotland and the island of Crete. In his earlier life, he lived in London and worked as a musician and session singer. He has now written 11 books and his first gangland thriller for Boldwood.

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The Mensch by Leopold Borstinski @Borstinski @ZooloosBT #historicalfiction crime #bookreview

yvonnembee 1 Comment

I am delighted to share my review today for The Mensch by Leopold Borstinski. While I am delighted to share I am also sad that this is the final book in the Alex Cohen series. It has been a fabulous series to read and an absolute pleasure to support in the Blog Tours.

My huge thanks to Zoe at Zooloo’s Book Tours for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of this wonderful book.

How can a crooked man ever go straight?
Jewish gangster, Alex Cohen settles down in Florida surrounded by his wife and family. But his past life in the criminal underworld stalks his every move and when a bullet whizzes past his ear, he must decide whether to run or fight.


In his desire to go straight, Alex inserts himself in the East Coast porn film industry, only to find that the tentacles of the mob are clasped tight around his life. With the Feds using new laws to hunt down mob bosses, and rats in his own organization all too ready to testify against him, Alex must clean house before the authorities throw him in jail or the mob kills him to stop him ratting them out.


The seventh book in the Alex Cohen series is a historical thriller novel, which reveals the dying embers of Jewish organized crime in America. Leopold Borstinski’s crime fiction shines a light on the death of the old-style mob in an explosive finale.

PURCHASE LINK – HERE

MY REVIEW

Mensch is a Yiddish term for a person of integrity and honour (according to Google). Could you call a gangster a man of honour or someone with integrity?

In this final book in the Alex Cohen series, the author takes a glimpse, at times of the past, of Alex. From his beginnings when he arrived at Ellis Island to where he is in 1965. He started in The Bowery’s and has gradually emerged into a name that is revered i8n the gangs of the US. The author has had him in the mix and rubbing shoulders and swapping stories with Alfonse Capone, The Kennedys, Fidel Castro and Frank Sinatra.

As the years have passed, Alex has become a husband and a father, he has a close-knit group of friends and business partners. He has worked hard and has put himself in danger many times. and occasionally the lives of his family. He has known a vast number of people and some of them have walked away unharmed!

In this final book, Alex is contemplating his future. He has always said that certain parts of his business will become legitimate and others will go to his oldest and closest business partners and friends. As the author gradually approached the 70s, the once feared name of Alex has started to lose some of its impact. The FEDs have been around for many years, but recently the noose is tightening around the old-style gang bosses. Eager to remain free, there are some who are not averse to turning witness.

Alex has always had a motto and it is one that has been mentioned several times in each book. In this final book, it is mentioned even more. If you have followed the series then you will know to what I refer.

I have enjoyed this series from the very start, following the highs and the lows. The Mensch is a book that feels slower, and it sort of makes sense to me as Alex is starting to slow down. But, that does not for one moment mean he is relaxing and taking things easy. He is getting things in order and this means huge amounts of travelling for face-to-face meetings. I think by slower, I mean he is spending time thinking over the past, the present and the future. Life is going to change, what and when that change will be, well you are going to have to read this one to find out.

This is a series that is one for those who like historical fiction that is based around the gangsters of the US. From an unknown immigrant to one who has associated with the rich, the famous and the notorious. A fab series and a brilliant finale in this final book. It is one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leopold Borstinski is an independent author whose past careers have included financial journalism, business management of financial software companies, consulting and product sales and marketing, as well as teaching.
There is nothing he likes better so he does as much nothing as he possibly can. He has travelled extensively in Europe and the US and has visited Asia on several occasions. Leopold holds a Philosophy degree and tries not to drop it too often.
He lives near London and is married with one wife, one child and no pets.

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Vendetta by Edie Baylis @ediebaylis @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #crime #thriller #gangland #NetGalley #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for Vendetta by Edie Baylis, this is the 3rd book in The Allegiance series. I am loving this series and if you like gangland thrillers then this is one that should be on your radar.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.

Who can you trust?


Once bitter enemies, Samantha Reynold and Seb Stoker’s powerful alliance enable their firms and casinos to go from strength to strength. With the families no longer in opposition, it seems that Sam and Seb are untouchable…


But not everyone is happy with the new power couple of the club world.


Unbeknownst to everyone, someone new wants to see Sam’s perfect life ruined. And they will stop at nothing to seek their revenge – even if it means destroying everything – and everyone – in their path.


With tensions high, Sam and Seb must put their trust in each other completely. But can they trust those closest to them? Or do they have a vendetta of their own?


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

This is the 3rd book in this series and while this could be read as a stand-alone book, I would suggest you read the series in order. There are several characters in this series that you are introduced to over the previous books, and, there are some ongoing storylines.

Sam Reynolds and Seb Stoker were rivals, but they both own businesses and they have gradually learnt to trust one another, so much so that marriage is on the cards. Sam has had a good upbringing and never fully realised how her father operated his business, so when she took over it was definitely an “in at the deep-end” move. Luckily she has had Seb there to help her and back her up, he along with his brothers own a casino. Both businesses work and there is now a problem with Seb, it leaves him moody and this unsettles Sam.

Now before you, you think this is just a story about Sam and Seb, there is far more to come. And boy does the author know how to turn the screws in this story, I found myself on the edge of my seat trying, and failing to work out how on earth the two storylines are going to add up. The second storyline is one that the author weaves brilliantly. It starts out tentative and then when things are in place the author then ramps up the tension and the danger.

With two storylines and also a few subplots, this is a fast-paced book and it suits this gangland thriller to a tee. Bringing in characters from the past and working with them as she has, the author has shown different sides to Sam and Seb. Sam is not quite the naive woman she was in the first book and Seb finds that he doesn’t want to risk Sam at all.

I adored how the author twisted the characters and had them do their worst. There are some mentions of prostitution and drugs, and to be honest it is part of the genre that these feature as part of the plot. They are tackled well and they do show a seedy side to casinos, clubs and the gangland scene.

This was addictive and at times brutal and I loved it. I think this is due to the fact that I have read each of the books in this series and I have grown to like some of the shadier characters. I know that they have dodgy and dangerous dealings, but the author shows a family and loyal side to these characters.

There is an ending to this book that I liked, yep a bit of a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to see what she is in store for Sam and Seb in the next book.

Fabulous series, tense, danger-ridden, and with a strong gangland thriller feel. It is one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Edie Baylis is a successful self-published author of dark gritty thrillers with violent background settings. She lives in Worcestershire, has a history of owning daft cars and several motorbikes and is licensed to run a pub. She has signed a five-book deal with Boldwood and the first book in her new ganglit series, set in Birmingham, was published in January 2022.

Social Media Links – Facebook – Twitter – Instagram – Newsletter – Bookbub

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Rough Diamonds by Gillian Godden @GGodden @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #crime #gangland #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for Rough Diamonds by Gillian Godden. This is the latest in the series and the Diamond Ladies take the lead.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the blog Tour and for arranging my e-copy via NetGalley

Rough Diamonds
Flawed, tough, unbreakable…


In the aftermath of her husband’s shocking murder, Patsy Diamond wants answers. Who was Nick really? Where is all his money? And who killed the man she once loved? Patsy knows exactly who to go to first – Nick’s pregnant mistress, Natasha.


Natasha might seem young and innocent, but Patsy’s certain the girl is hiding something. And the only way to find out what is to keep Natasha close and make her part of the Diamond family.


With the two women forming an unlikely bond, they begin to dig deeper into Nick’s secret life and discover things that shock…and terrify them.


Because Nick Diamond played a deadly game and if the women in his life want payback, then they are going to have to follow his rules – or break them and make their own.


But the strongest diamonds are created under pressure and these women are no exception…


Purchase Link – HERE

MY REVIEW

This is the latest book in the series that focuses on the Diamond Family. Nick Diamond has been shot, and the repercussions of his death are far-reaching. Some will be pleased that he is gone, others though see an opportunity to take over his patch.

This latest in the series see’s the focus change to the women in the Diamond family, Mother – Victoria, Wife – Pasty, Mistress – Natasha and those who are close to the family who live in one of the rougher parts of Scotland.

Pasty is threatened and she starts to realise that there was more to her husband’s activities than just him being a solicitor and money launderer. She discovers that her husband Nick had more underworld business dealings than she had ever realised. Splitting her time between London and Scotland, Patsy desperately tries to discover the truth and where Nick had hidden the large amount of money that is missing.

Seeing the Diamond women step up and take charge was something that I really liked. The author didn’t change their characters at all but instead made them determined. It would have been easy to toughen them up, but this is not who they are. Now don’t get me wrong, they are not people to be taken advantage of and they do have a bite, so the author does just enough to give them what they can deal with at the right time.

While Patsy doesn’t come across as likeable, her character is determined, and she really isn’t a woman to be messed with. She has made decisions and will act on them, who they will benefit in the long run though, well we will have to wait and see.

While this is the next book in the series, it is also one that marks a new chapter in the Diamond family. New contacts, friendships and business partners are needed but who to trust to watch your back is something that you will discover as the story unfolds.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it is one for those who like their crime thrillers with a gang-style kick to it, brutal at times but very addictive reading. It is one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gillian Godden is a brilliantly reviewed writer of gangland fiction as well as a full-time NHS Key Worker in Hull. She lived in London for over thirty years, where she sets her thrillers, and during this time worked in various stripper pubs and venues which have inspired her stories.

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