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The Fallen
ARE YOU READY TO SAVE A LIFE?
WHY HER?
Becca Palmer has just lost her job as assistant to Simon Jones MP - the highly-regarded Policing Minister, tipped as a future Prime Minister. But Becca claims that Simon was more than her boss, that she is in love with him.
WHY HERE?
When a heartbroken Becca leaves the Home Office, she heads to Westminster Bridge, intending to take her own life. Which is where hostage negotiator Alex Lewis meets her for the first time. It is his job to try to talk her back from the edge.
WHY NOW?
In the negotiation that follows, Becca suggests that she may know something about the Policing Minister that she shouldn't. Something that could prompt a serious fall from grace were it to come out.
But can Alex save Becca - and get to the bottom of an alleged conspiracy that goes deep inside the highest levels of government - before it's too late?
***
Praise for The
'Fascinating and unputdownable' - Jeffrey Archer
'The plot is intricate, frighteningly plausible and superbly paced; I raced through it in two sittings. Recommended.' - M W Craven
'An incredible blend of gripping characters, fabulous plot and chillingly authentic political corruption' - Graham Bartlett
WHY HER?
Becca Palmer has just lost her job as assistant to Simon Jones MP - the highly-regarded Policing Minister, tipped as a future Prime Minister. But Becca claims that Simon was more than her boss, that she is in love with him.
WHY HERE?
When a heartbroken Becca leaves the Home Office, she heads to Westminster Bridge, intending to take her own life. Which is where hostage negotiator Alex Lewis meets her for the first time. It is his job to try to talk her back from the edge.
WHY NOW?
In the negotiation that follows, Becca suggests that she may know something about the Policing Minister that she shouldn't. Something that could prompt a serious fall from grace were it to come out.
But can Alex save Becca - and get to the bottom of an alleged conspiracy that goes deep inside the highest levels of government - before it's too late?
***
Praise for The
'Fascinating and unputdownable' - Jeffrey Archer
'The plot is intricate, frighteningly plausible and superbly paced; I raced through it in two sittings. Recommended.' - M W Craven
'An incredible blend of gripping characters, fabulous plot and chillingly authentic political corruption' - Graham Bartlett
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2023
19 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
John Sutherland
4 books41 followersJohn Sutherland is a married father of three and he lives with his wife and children in South London.
He joined the Met Police in September 1992 and served a variety of ranks and roles across London.
Heretired on ill health grounds in February 2018.
He writes blogs about life and policing – about the extraordinary people he served alongside and the challenges they face.
He joined the Met Police in September 1992 and served a variety of ranks and roles across London.
Heretired on ill health grounds in February 2018.
He writes blogs about life and policing – about the extraordinary people he served alongside and the challenges they face.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 14, 2024
Having loved The Siege as soon as I heard that a second book was available to pre order I couldn’t wait to read it. Unfortunately, life got in the way, so it is only now that I have found the time to pick it up, but it was well worth the wait and even better than the first book.
Alex Lewis is still serving as a hostage negotiator and when he is called to assist in talking down a young girl on Westminster Bridge, he had no idea just how much this would impact his life. Becca Palmer had lost her job working for the policing minister and was clearly at a low point in her life, not knowing what to do she clearly just needed someone to listen and believe her and Alex is clearly that person. As much as he loves his job (for most of the time) he also cares about the people he tries to help. When it goes well its all good, but when it doesn’t those are the times, he is haunted in his sleep, and he is determined that Becca is not going to be one of the times it does not end well.
Becca is clearly very vulnerable and when Alex says he believes her it gives her hope that everything is going to be ok. It not going to be easy though as what she has to say could have far reaching implications right into the heart of the government, and that could also spell trouble for Alex and his career, but he made a promise, and he intends to keep it. This time though he may end up being the one in danger when he least expects it. Thankfully he has backup both at home and work that will see him through anything,
All I can say is wow, this book had me reading well into the night as the story unfurled. It wasn’t fast paced but the story didn’t warrant it. The slow build up is what makes this book special. This time we got to see how the actions of just one event affect both the victim and the police officer that is sent to help them. In Alex we see someone whose compassion doesn’t just let him switch off once the job is done and we tend to forget that. forget what they see and what they hear every day is more than we would see even once if we were lucky. But I think what is worse is this is a story that is highly believable in today’s climate.
What is always evident in Johns Sutherlands books is just how passionate he is about policing and how he feels it has been let down even though he is no longer a serving officer. Having listen to him talk on several occasions I am convinced there is a little bit of him in Alex Lewis and he cares just as much as Alex does and I am hoping that there will be a book 3 and we get to see more of Alex in action doing what he does best.
Alex Lewis is still serving as a hostage negotiator and when he is called to assist in talking down a young girl on Westminster Bridge, he had no idea just how much this would impact his life. Becca Palmer had lost her job working for the policing minister and was clearly at a low point in her life, not knowing what to do she clearly just needed someone to listen and believe her and Alex is clearly that person. As much as he loves his job (for most of the time) he also cares about the people he tries to help. When it goes well its all good, but when it doesn’t those are the times, he is haunted in his sleep, and he is determined that Becca is not going to be one of the times it does not end well.
Becca is clearly very vulnerable and when Alex says he believes her it gives her hope that everything is going to be ok. It not going to be easy though as what she has to say could have far reaching implications right into the heart of the government, and that could also spell trouble for Alex and his career, but he made a promise, and he intends to keep it. This time though he may end up being the one in danger when he least expects it. Thankfully he has backup both at home and work that will see him through anything,
All I can say is wow, this book had me reading well into the night as the story unfurled. It wasn’t fast paced but the story didn’t warrant it. The slow build up is what makes this book special. This time we got to see how the actions of just one event affect both the victim and the police officer that is sent to help them. In Alex we see someone whose compassion doesn’t just let him switch off once the job is done and we tend to forget that. forget what they see and what they hear every day is more than we would see even once if we were lucky. But I think what is worse is this is a story that is highly believable in today’s climate.
What is always evident in Johns Sutherlands books is just how passionate he is about policing and how he feels it has been let down even though he is no longer a serving officer. Having listen to him talk on several occasions I am convinced there is a little bit of him in Alex Lewis and he cares just as much as Alex does and I am hoping that there will be a book 3 and we get to see more of Alex in action doing what he does best.
June 10, 2023
This is my first taste of John Sutherland's brilliant London based series featuring the empathetic Superintendent Alex Lewis, a hostage negotiator who has seen far too much of human pain and suffering that he is having to deal with complex PTSD, experiencing traumatic nightmares, supported by his fellow hostage negotiator and partner, DI Philippa 'Pip' Williams. However, this does not stop him wanting to do his job, his commitment to saving lives is absolute, even as he despairs at the state of policing in Britain. Government budget cuts have seriously affected the service they can offer the public, whilst other public sector cuts have led to a rise in knife crime and the consequent deaths that follow. This has not stopped the government aiming to implement further cuts, chanting the dangerous mantra of private sector good, public sector bad, with the police constantly battered by being told to do the impossible, demoralised by being expected to do more with less.
Presiding over this debacle is the wealthy, good looking, charismatic, ambitious and well thought of 47 year old Sheffield MP, Simon Jones, the Policing Minister, with Camilla Lane as hiis senior advisor. It appears Jones can do no wrong, praised to the skies by the right wing of the party and the media, and is being touted to become the next PM. Alex saves the life of the young, vulnerable Becca Palmer, with mental health issues, who has just been fired by Jones, a junior member of his department. Becca was going to jump off a London Bridge, she's an utter mess, but when she claims that she loved Jones, and had an affair with him, he believes her, even though she comes across as unreliable. She has other suspicions concerning Jones, Alex ends up getting unusually close to Beth as events conspire to bring her into his and Pip's orbit.
The narrative begins to enter explosive territory when they and a journalist end up exposing corruption and more, all of it concluding in a fraught, shocking and nail biting finale. I am delighted to have discovered the tenacious Alex Lewis, a man of integrity overflowing with human compassion, this comes at a high price, but which he refuses to ditch for an easier life. Sutherland impresses with his astute, authentic, and insightful storytelling with its echoes of our real life contemporary politics, I suspect many would agree when one of his characters refers to the government as a 'crooked cabal of charlatans and chancers'. A gripping and terrific read that I recommend highly. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Presiding over this debacle is the wealthy, good looking, charismatic, ambitious and well thought of 47 year old Sheffield MP, Simon Jones, the Policing Minister, with Camilla Lane as hiis senior advisor. It appears Jones can do no wrong, praised to the skies by the right wing of the party and the media, and is being touted to become the next PM. Alex saves the life of the young, vulnerable Becca Palmer, with mental health issues, who has just been fired by Jones, a junior member of his department. Becca was going to jump off a London Bridge, she's an utter mess, but when she claims that she loved Jones, and had an affair with him, he believes her, even though she comes across as unreliable. She has other suspicions concerning Jones, Alex ends up getting unusually close to Beth as events conspire to bring her into his and Pip's orbit.
The narrative begins to enter explosive territory when they and a journalist end up exposing corruption and more, all of it concluding in a fraught, shocking and nail biting finale. I am delighted to have discovered the tenacious Alex Lewis, a man of integrity overflowing with human compassion, this comes at a high price, but which he refuses to ditch for an easier life. Sutherland impresses with his astute, authentic, and insightful storytelling with its echoes of our real life contemporary politics, I suspect many would agree when one of his characters refers to the government as a 'crooked cabal of charlatans and chancers'. A gripping and terrific read that I recommend highly. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
September 2, 2023
Plagued with memories of two previous hostage situations, police negotiator Superintendent Alex Lewis is sent to Westminster Bridge, where Becca Palmer is threatening to jump into the Thames. Successfully managing to talk the young woman down, Alex is then alarmed to discover two weeks later that the same woman is back on Westminster Bridge, once again threatening to jump.
During their conversations, Becca claims she had been having an affair with Simon Jones MP, the charismatic Policing Minister, but that he had just ended it. She also tells Alex she suspects Simon is involved with something criminal. However, when told of her claims and suicide attempts, the Minister denies all knowledge of her ‘obvious fantasy’. Instead, concerned for her welfare, he advocates the belief she needs help.
Convinced Becca could be telling the truth, and worried about her state of mind, Alex visits the Home Office to interview the Minister but is unable to speak to him. He is then warned by his superior to drop the matter and concentrate on his other duties, but when he learns that a freelance reporter, Rowan Blake, is carrying out her own investigation into Simon Jones’s possible illicit dealings, he decides to join forces with her to find out exactly what the Minister is up to – a decision that not only puts Becca’s life in danger but also his own.
Having liked John’s debut novel ‘The Siege’, I was keen to read ‘The Fallen’, his second novel following the traumatic life of police negotiator Alex Lewis. I was not disappointed. In fact, I found it even more engrossing.
The plot is well constructed, and the tension expertly maintained. Not only does the author manage to convey the enormous stress and sense of responsibility felt by a police negotiator, but he also provides an intriguing, multi-layered storyline – one which gradually reveals the dangerous consequences of trusting the wrong person.
Right from the start it is difficult to decide who is telling the truth. Becca has a history of instability and an over-active imagination, while Simon is a perfect family man with a spotless track record. Even Rowan’s motives are potentially suspect. After all, she is an ambitious journalist who is hoping to write a story that will make her name. Add to that a backdrop of political corruption and ruthless ambition and the stage is set for a thrilling read.
During their conversations, Becca claims she had been having an affair with Simon Jones MP, the charismatic Policing Minister, but that he had just ended it. She also tells Alex she suspects Simon is involved with something criminal. However, when told of her claims and suicide attempts, the Minister denies all knowledge of her ‘obvious fantasy’. Instead, concerned for her welfare, he advocates the belief she needs help.
Convinced Becca could be telling the truth, and worried about her state of mind, Alex visits the Home Office to interview the Minister but is unable to speak to him. He is then warned by his superior to drop the matter and concentrate on his other duties, but when he learns that a freelance reporter, Rowan Blake, is carrying out her own investigation into Simon Jones’s possible illicit dealings, he decides to join forces with her to find out exactly what the Minister is up to – a decision that not only puts Becca’s life in danger but also his own.
Having liked John’s debut novel ‘The Siege’, I was keen to read ‘The Fallen’, his second novel following the traumatic life of police negotiator Alex Lewis. I was not disappointed. In fact, I found it even more engrossing.
The plot is well constructed, and the tension expertly maintained. Not only does the author manage to convey the enormous stress and sense of responsibility felt by a police negotiator, but he also provides an intriguing, multi-layered storyline – one which gradually reveals the dangerous consequences of trusting the wrong person.
Right from the start it is difficult to decide who is telling the truth. Becca has a history of instability and an over-active imagination, while Simon is a perfect family man with a spotless track record. Even Rowan’s motives are potentially suspect. After all, she is an ambitious journalist who is hoping to write a story that will make her name. Add to that a backdrop of political corruption and ruthless ambition and the stage is set for a thrilling read.
April 17, 2023
"The Fallen" is a gripping and thrilling novel by John Sutherland that masterfully combines elements of suspense, politics, and emotional turmoil.
Becca Palmer, the protagonist, is a compelling character who finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and power struggles within the highest levels of government.
The story opens with Becca's sudden dismissal from her job as an assistant to Simon Jones MP, the highly-regarded Policing Minister. Her distress is amplified as she attempts to come to terms with her love for Simon, creating a highly emotional narrative. The author uses this intense opening to draw you into Becca's world right from the start.
The central theme of the novel revolves around a potential conspiracy encompassing the Policing Minister, with Becca hinting that she knows something incriminating about Simon Jones. This sets the stage for an intriguing exploration of corruption and deception, making it difficult for readers to put the book down.
The introduction of hostage negotiator Alex Lewis adds another layer of complexity to the story. As he tries to save Becca's life during a heart-wrenching scene on Westminster Bridge, their relationship develops, leaving readers rooting for both characters as they navigate this tense situation.
"The Fallen" excels in its ability to weave together the personal and political aspects of the story, maintaining a sense of urgency throughout. The intense pacing of events will keep you enthralled while offering enough detail and backstory to keep you fully invested in each character's journey.
In conclusion, "The Fallen" is an enthralling thriller that captivates its audience through a combination of emotional depth and political intrigue. John Sutherland expertly crafts an engaging tale that will leave readers craving more.
Highly recommended for fans of suspense and political thrillers alike.
Becca Palmer, the protagonist, is a compelling character who finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and power struggles within the highest levels of government.
The story opens with Becca's sudden dismissal from her job as an assistant to Simon Jones MP, the highly-regarded Policing Minister. Her distress is amplified as she attempts to come to terms with her love for Simon, creating a highly emotional narrative. The author uses this intense opening to draw you into Becca's world right from the start.
The central theme of the novel revolves around a potential conspiracy encompassing the Policing Minister, with Becca hinting that she knows something incriminating about Simon Jones. This sets the stage for an intriguing exploration of corruption and deception, making it difficult for readers to put the book down.
The introduction of hostage negotiator Alex Lewis adds another layer of complexity to the story. As he tries to save Becca's life during a heart-wrenching scene on Westminster Bridge, their relationship develops, leaving readers rooting for both characters as they navigate this tense situation.
"The Fallen" excels in its ability to weave together the personal and political aspects of the story, maintaining a sense of urgency throughout. The intense pacing of events will keep you enthralled while offering enough detail and backstory to keep you fully invested in each character's journey.
In conclusion, "The Fallen" is an enthralling thriller that captivates its audience through a combination of emotional depth and political intrigue. John Sutherland expertly crafts an engaging tale that will leave readers craving more.
Highly recommended for fans of suspense and political thrillers alike.
June 18, 2023
Following on from last years standout read The Siege, we now have The Fallen which takes things to another level
A read which just oozes tension, dripping in suspense
From the opening your’e intrigued by Becca Palmer and need to know more about her, you know that everything is not as it seems you just don’t know what. Straight away you get a real sense of her as a person, troubled, vulnerable, frightened, seemingly with no hope and no where to turn. There is however, one trait in her character which for me was the crux of the story and that is her past where she has been known to not always tell the truth and can easily be confused, the way the author has written her is to be aplauded, because all that self doubt for me is where the book shines in that you never know if what you are reading is the truth or to be believed and that just builds up the doubt in your mind as you read and where the suspense and drama take over, you question everything as you read it as the story starts to twist things and turn them on there head. You can all sense this in Alex Lewis and his partner Pip where they have to question if what they are hearing is the truth
It was a fascinating and absorbing read, which drew me in straight way, from then it builds until the climatic finale
John Sutherland knows how to engage with the reader, the plot is wonderfully thought out and constructed on the page, a slick and taut police thriller
Through Alex Lewis and Pip you get a glimpse of what it takes to be a hostage negotiator and the stresses and strains it can place on their lives
Another area which added a sense of realism for me, you can see the authors own experiences brought to the fore, you can believe in what you are reading, it has an air of authenticity.
In someways this is part political thriller, but also a social commentary on todays political system, which makes for a very relevant read, also how mental health issues can be manipulated against those who are at their most vulnerable
The chapters are constructed in a way that keep flitting between the main protagonists, but keep things moving along where you get the action from both sides as it unfolds, but cleverly they relate and inform each passage
The characters within come across with a sense of what it means to be in politics and the manipulation that goes on, the greed and the conniving to get to the top, even within the police
John Sutherland has crafted a novel which is sure to be a hit, a standout read, one of those which is hard to put down, a classic page turner, a novel packed with twists and turns and an exhilarating ending
5* one which I would highly recommend, for me an author to watch out for
A read which just oozes tension, dripping in suspense
From the opening your’e intrigued by Becca Palmer and need to know more about her, you know that everything is not as it seems you just don’t know what. Straight away you get a real sense of her as a person, troubled, vulnerable, frightened, seemingly with no hope and no where to turn. There is however, one trait in her character which for me was the crux of the story and that is her past where she has been known to not always tell the truth and can easily be confused, the way the author has written her is to be aplauded, because all that self doubt for me is where the book shines in that you never know if what you are reading is the truth or to be believed and that just builds up the doubt in your mind as you read and where the suspense and drama take over, you question everything as you read it as the story starts to twist things and turn them on there head. You can all sense this in Alex Lewis and his partner Pip where they have to question if what they are hearing is the truth
It was a fascinating and absorbing read, which drew me in straight way, from then it builds until the climatic finale
John Sutherland knows how to engage with the reader, the plot is wonderfully thought out and constructed on the page, a slick and taut police thriller
Through Alex Lewis and Pip you get a glimpse of what it takes to be a hostage negotiator and the stresses and strains it can place on their lives
Another area which added a sense of realism for me, you can see the authors own experiences brought to the fore, you can believe in what you are reading, it has an air of authenticity.
In someways this is part political thriller, but also a social commentary on todays political system, which makes for a very relevant read, also how mental health issues can be manipulated against those who are at their most vulnerable
The chapters are constructed in a way that keep flitting between the main protagonists, but keep things moving along where you get the action from both sides as it unfolds, but cleverly they relate and inform each passage
The characters within come across with a sense of what it means to be in politics and the manipulation that goes on, the greed and the conniving to get to the top, even within the police
John Sutherland has crafted a novel which is sure to be a hit, a standout read, one of those which is hard to put down, a classic page turner, a novel packed with twists and turns and an exhilarating ending
5* one which I would highly recommend, for me an author to watch out for
June 29, 2023
Still reeling from his last hostage negotiation job Alex Lewis a highly respected DS and experienced hostage negotiator is ready to return to his role as hostage negotiator when he’s called to Westminster Bridge. A young woman Becca Palmer is threatening to jump. When Alex shows up, it’s clear that Becca is in distress, and as he begins to coax her off the bridge she reveals that she has recently been fired from her role as an assistant to the Policing Minister Simon Jones, and not only this, she is in love with him and claims they were having a passionate affair which he had ended. She also tells Alex she has some information that Simon is involved in something dark, something that could end his career and he would be left in disgrace should it ever come to light. But is she telling the truth? And what is Simon doing? Can Alex save Becca and expose Simon and bring to the surface the lines of corruption that according to Becca run deep within the government?
I really enjoyed The Siege so I was looking forward to catching up with Alex again and I wasn’t disappointed! John clearly knows what he’s writing about, the storyline and plot was excellent and it was easy for me to follow what was going on despite the complexity of the issues. The plot was well thought through and had me turning pages at lightning speeds to find out what was going to happen next! This gave me a good insight in to the workings of hostage negotiation and what could potentially happen if there was a breech! I absolutely loved this book! I can’t wait for the next instalment!
I really enjoyed The Siege so I was looking forward to catching up with Alex again and I wasn’t disappointed! John clearly knows what he’s writing about, the storyline and plot was excellent and it was easy for me to follow what was going on despite the complexity of the issues. The plot was well thought through and had me turning pages at lightning speeds to find out what was going to happen next! This gave me a good insight in to the workings of hostage negotiation and what could potentially happen if there was a breech! I absolutely loved this book! I can’t wait for the next instalment!
May 1, 2023
I was extremely late in reading The Siege, the debut novel from John Sutherland, but when I did read it I absolutely loved it, in the way it's appropriate to love a book about a hostage situation that is. What it did mean was that when the opportunity came up to read an advance copy of book two, The Fallen, via Netgalley, I snapped it up. Thank you auto approval! It also meant that having been only recently acquainted with protagonist, Police Negotiator, Alex Lewis, I fell into step with this new case very, very quickly.
Quite a departure from the high stakes, multi-victim, almost literally explosive hostage situation of the first story, this time around Alex is called upon to talk a young woman, Becca, out of throwing herself off Westminster Bridge. No less dramatic and no less important than Alex's previous case, but the approach needed was very different and the outcome ... well that's an entirely different story too. Because this wasn't just a one time deal for Alex, and what he is told by Becca leads him into very dangerous waters, professionally speaking if not, thankfully, literally. Politics, policing and personal drama all make for a heady mix, one that had me turning the pages at speed and completely and utterly glued to the story.
I really like Alex as a character. He is down to earth, honest, highly principled, subtly flawed, and far too invested in the fates of the people he is sent to save. It's safe to say that his previous case, as with so many others, had taken a personal toll on him, and his confidence in going into this perilous situation with Becca is, at best, wavering. But when you are a person's only hope, you have to possess an inner strength, and this is something that shines through in Alex, even as he feels the weight of responsibility pressing down on his shoulders. Thankfully he has a lot of support from both professional and personal quarters so we can rest easier knowing that pastoral care is in place for some of his darker, self doubting moments. Yes, I'm that invested in him as a character. This stuff really matters you know!
You can feel the authenticity of the portrayal of this side of Alex's character really coming through in the narrative, drawing, no doubt, from the various experiences of the author himself. Whether John Sutherland was ever embroiled in anything quite as scandalous as this case turns out to be ... Well, I'm sure there are many stories that he'll never be in a position to tell, but then again you don't have to look much further than the daily news features to work out where the inspiration for this particular story may have come from. Despite this being a very different kind of hostage drama, there is still a huge amount of tension and, surprisingly, action, that flows through the book. Whilst there is, inevitably, a certain amount of political wrangling and subterfuge that dictates the direction of the story, there is a lot of mystery to be resolved and the more that is revealed, the more and more intrigued I became.
As a former government employee, it is not just the loss of Becca's job which has led her to such a low, and the more we delve into her personal circumstances courtesy of Alex and his partner and fellow hostage negotiator, Pip Williams, the more understandable her situation becomes. As I said earlier, I literally raced through this book, sometimes gobsmacked by what was revealed, and more often than I perhaps expected, caught unawares by what was uncovered. And then those final scenes ... well, I was not expecting that. As the tension grew, the pacing increased to match. It's all high stakes stuff for the characters involved, people for whom failure, the loss of reputation and status, is really not an option. it's even higher for Alex, and this I'm not sure I've yet forgiven the author for the level of peril he places the poor man in.
Whether we get a proper happy, or at least just, ending or not, you'll need to read to find out, but let's just say that I'm hoping it's not the last we've seen of Alex and Pip. I'm loving these books and really enjoying seeing a completely different side of policing. Definitely recommended.
Quite a departure from the high stakes, multi-victim, almost literally explosive hostage situation of the first story, this time around Alex is called upon to talk a young woman, Becca, out of throwing herself off Westminster Bridge. No less dramatic and no less important than Alex's previous case, but the approach needed was very different and the outcome ... well that's an entirely different story too. Because this wasn't just a one time deal for Alex, and what he is told by Becca leads him into very dangerous waters, professionally speaking if not, thankfully, literally. Politics, policing and personal drama all make for a heady mix, one that had me turning the pages at speed and completely and utterly glued to the story.
I really like Alex as a character. He is down to earth, honest, highly principled, subtly flawed, and far too invested in the fates of the people he is sent to save. It's safe to say that his previous case, as with so many others, had taken a personal toll on him, and his confidence in going into this perilous situation with Becca is, at best, wavering. But when you are a person's only hope, you have to possess an inner strength, and this is something that shines through in Alex, even as he feels the weight of responsibility pressing down on his shoulders. Thankfully he has a lot of support from both professional and personal quarters so we can rest easier knowing that pastoral care is in place for some of his darker, self doubting moments. Yes, I'm that invested in him as a character. This stuff really matters you know!
You can feel the authenticity of the portrayal of this side of Alex's character really coming through in the narrative, drawing, no doubt, from the various experiences of the author himself. Whether John Sutherland was ever embroiled in anything quite as scandalous as this case turns out to be ... Well, I'm sure there are many stories that he'll never be in a position to tell, but then again you don't have to look much further than the daily news features to work out where the inspiration for this particular story may have come from. Despite this being a very different kind of hostage drama, there is still a huge amount of tension and, surprisingly, action, that flows through the book. Whilst there is, inevitably, a certain amount of political wrangling and subterfuge that dictates the direction of the story, there is a lot of mystery to be resolved and the more that is revealed, the more and more intrigued I became.
As a former government employee, it is not just the loss of Becca's job which has led her to such a low, and the more we delve into her personal circumstances courtesy of Alex and his partner and fellow hostage negotiator, Pip Williams, the more understandable her situation becomes. As I said earlier, I literally raced through this book, sometimes gobsmacked by what was revealed, and more often than I perhaps expected, caught unawares by what was uncovered. And then those final scenes ... well, I was not expecting that. As the tension grew, the pacing increased to match. It's all high stakes stuff for the characters involved, people for whom failure, the loss of reputation and status, is really not an option. it's even higher for Alex, and this I'm not sure I've yet forgiven the author for the level of peril he places the poor man in.
Whether we get a proper happy, or at least just, ending or not, you'll need to read to find out, but let's just say that I'm hoping it's not the last we've seen of Alex and Pip. I'm loving these books and really enjoying seeing a completely different side of policing. Definitely recommended.
January 12, 2025
A sublime way to kick of the year of new reads. Sutherland's second foray into writing fiction adds even more prowess to that displayed in The Seige.
Alex and Pip have become one of my favourite power couples of the book world. In a world shrouded in fake news, vigilantes, social media and tabloids galore. This novel capitalises on the constant toing and froing of what is fact and what is but a fabrication, keeping us at odds with what we believe for the duration, right until we turn the final page.
With a delicate balance of technical policing knowledge and human led content, The Fallen emphasies the need to follow the evidence and always look deeper than what appears on the surface - And always listen to your instincts!
Sutherland has cemented himself as one of my favourite authors, allowing us to escape into Alex's world but question our own beliefs and challenge our own prejudices along the way. A narrative that keeps you hanging on every word, with the sentiment of 'just one more chapter' pulling you in to then throw so much action at you during the closing chapters.
3W: Exhilarating. Provocative. Necessary.
Alex and Pip have become one of my favourite power couples of the book world. In a world shrouded in fake news, vigilantes, social media and tabloids galore. This novel capitalises on the constant toing and froing of what is fact and what is but a fabrication, keeping us at odds with what we believe for the duration, right until we turn the final page.
With a delicate balance of technical policing knowledge and human led content, The Fallen emphasies the need to follow the evidence and always look deeper than what appears on the surface - And always listen to your instincts!
Sutherland has cemented himself as one of my favourite authors, allowing us to escape into Alex's world but question our own beliefs and challenge our own prejudices along the way. A narrative that keeps you hanging on every word, with the sentiment of 'just one more chapter' pulling you in to then throw so much action at you during the closing chapters.
3W: Exhilarating. Provocative. Necessary.
April 16, 2023
Superintendent Alex Lewis, a skilled police negotiator, returns in John Sutherland's second book to take on new challenges, including navigating the murky world of politics and corruption while grappling with his own personal issues.
Sutherland deftly weaves together an intricate plot that offers both thought-provoking moments and unexpected twists, while showcasing the humanity of a police officer who is simply trying to do his best in a difficult and often dangerous job. This is a book that feels all too real at times, and readers will find themselves fully engrossed in Lewis's mission to save those who are most in need.
With its gripping storyline and nuanced characters, this is a must-read.
Don't miss out on the chance to get your hands on this thrilling book when it hits shelves on June 6th.
Sutherland deftly weaves together an intricate plot that offers both thought-provoking moments and unexpected twists, while showcasing the humanity of a police officer who is simply trying to do his best in a difficult and often dangerous job. This is a book that feels all too real at times, and readers will find themselves fully engrossed in Lewis's mission to save those who are most in need.
With its gripping storyline and nuanced characters, this is a must-read.
Don't miss out on the chance to get your hands on this thrilling book when it hits shelves on June 6th.
July 3, 2023
I was very fortunate to win a proof copy of The Fallen, the second in the series following hostage negotiator Alex Lewis by John Sutherland.
Whilst it follows the same main character, this book takes a different approach than The Siege did, and rather than a multiple hostage situation, this focuses on Alex’s call out to help an individual young woman who is intent on taking her own life. No spoilers here, but the story unfolds in ways you couldn’t imagine and has so many twists you won’t be able to put it down (I read the whole thing over one evening and a half day!) Incredibly well written, engaging, high octane and really likeable main characters who you just want to champion.
The Siege was one of my favourite books of 2022 and I think this is an early contender for my top picks of 2023 already! Very much hoping we’ll get a third instalment of Alex and Pip please!
Whilst it follows the same main character, this book takes a different approach than The Siege did, and rather than a multiple hostage situation, this focuses on Alex’s call out to help an individual young woman who is intent on taking her own life. No spoilers here, but the story unfolds in ways you couldn’t imagine and has so many twists you won’t be able to put it down (I read the whole thing over one evening and a half day!) Incredibly well written, engaging, high octane and really likeable main characters who you just want to champion.
The Siege was one of my favourite books of 2022 and I think this is an early contender for my top picks of 2023 already! Very much hoping we’ll get a third instalment of Alex and Pip please!
May 15, 2023
This is an interesting thriller from the author, a good mixture of thriller, police procedural and political suspense. I really liked the plot and the characterisation, especially Becca who is assistant to a rising MP. It's an emotional read, woven beautifully by the author as we see Becca struggling to come to terms after being dismissed from her job. Superintendent Alex Lewis is drawn in to this as a negotiator when Becca attempts to take her own life. An excellent mixture of suspense and political thriller which i would recommend. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
January 29, 2025
John Sutherland once again shows his experience as a police officer and this really shines through in this excellent sequel to The Siege. This is a cracking story of the police and corrupt politicians with just the right amount of pace and tension. You don’t know who to trust in the cast of the main players adding suspense to the well plotted storyline. Absolutely gripping from start to finish and kept me up as I just needed to finish it! There isn’t much wrong with this book and John Sutherland is an author that will be on my go-to list for sure
March 26, 2023
The second Alex Lewis book sees the troubled hostage negotiator back in fine form as he is at the heart of a plot they threatens the security of the nation.
Well plotted and empathetically written the book is naturally accurate on the workings of the police and an exciting g and roller coaster read.
Highly recommended.
Well plotted and empathetically written the book is naturally accurate on the workings of the police and an exciting g and roller coaster read.
Highly recommended.
June 12, 2023
Superb - totally recommend you read this!
Another page turner of a book from John Sutherland. I quite literally struggled to put it down.
In an alternate reality the true colours of a Conservative policing minister come to light.
Is this a parable for our times? Read it and make your own mind up.
Another page turner of a book from John Sutherland. I quite literally struggled to put it down.
In an alternate reality the true colours of a Conservative policing minister come to light.
Is this a parable for our times? Read it and make your own mind up.
June 25, 2023
Very well written with a well delivered understanding of the day to day workings of the Police.
The plot takes you through the the roller coaster of emotions felt by the young woman on the bridge and those tasked to try and save her life.
The plot takes you through the the roller coaster of emotions felt by the young woman on the bridge and those tasked to try and save her life.
December 30, 2023
Loved this book -Author is a retired Chief Superintendent in The Met . Its main characters are the police negotiator and a junior employee in the Police ministers office. Its about corruption and letting of contracts to mates-very relevant to whats happening today in UK
January 27, 2025
This book was good, but a little predictable. Reading the author was retired Police, it made sense he painted a government minister in a bad light. The story was ok, but it felt too simple a story. I will probable read the other books in the series, but don’t feel I would rush to get them.
August 20, 2023
It was ok . Not anywhere as good as the debut novel the seige
October 29, 2023
Couldn’t put it down. Read it in one afternoon. Highly recommended. Just brilliant.
November 17, 2023
Enjoyed this - nice mix of police and politics
February 10, 2024
Thought the end got a bit fantastical
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2024
3.5 ....
June 18, 2025
Another one that I couldn't put down!
December 12, 2023
Good insight into how the police work when negotiating to save someone trying to commit suicide.
The book tells a believable story of how a corrupt politician gets caught. A good policeman catches a bad MP and minister of police at that—a great, well-written book.
The book tells a believable story of how a corrupt politician gets caught. A good policeman catches a bad MP and minister of police at that—a great, well-written book.
February 9, 2025
Goodreads is suffering some confusion with this: the more up-to-date cover omits the reassuring 'former Metropolitan Police negotiator' and instead, via a different John Sutherland, awards him an emeritis professor status which the writing of this does not really support, What, more scarily, Sutherland's genuine experience does give us is an authoritative insight into the frictions between police and politics, which drives the action within this tale - the corruption hampering the would be efficiency to back up ihe compassion, the battle between the two becoming personal and painful.
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