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Deadly Election
Buried treasure. A corrupt politician. A man in the wrong place at just the right time…
The Philippines. Former US Marine Paul McCain has traded in his rifle for a camera as a wildlife photographer. When he spies young villagers unearthing lost WWII gold, he happily captures their cries of delight. But their joyous shouts are silenced when they’re abducted and brutally murdered by a ruthless presidential candidate.
Desperate for any allies outside the politician’s deadly grip, McCain will do whatever it takes to bring the powerful leader down. But with his quarry poised to win the election, the clock ticks down on his quest for justice. And taking on a man this connected puts the hardened veteran right in the killer’s crosshairs…
Can McCain survive long enough to prevent a murderer from ascending to the Philippines’ highest office?
Deadly Election is the first book in the engrossing Asian Intrigue thriller series. If you like tenacious heroes, political scandal, and no-holds-barred action, then you’ll love Arthur Crandon’s fast-paced adventure.
Buy Deadly Election to restore law and order today!
The Philippines. Former US Marine Paul McCain has traded in his rifle for a camera as a wildlife photographer. When he spies young villagers unearthing lost WWII gold, he happily captures their cries of delight. But their joyous shouts are silenced when they’re abducted and brutally murdered by a ruthless presidential candidate.
Desperate for any allies outside the politician’s deadly grip, McCain will do whatever it takes to bring the powerful leader down. But with his quarry poised to win the election, the clock ticks down on his quest for justice. And taking on a man this connected puts the hardened veteran right in the killer’s crosshairs…
Can McCain survive long enough to prevent a murderer from ascending to the Philippines’ highest office?
Deadly Election is the first book in the engrossing Asian Intrigue thriller series. If you like tenacious heroes, political scandal, and no-holds-barred action, then you’ll love Arthur Crandon’s fast-paced adventure.
Buy Deadly Election to restore law and order today!
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2012
33 people are currently reading
743 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Crandon
148 books645 followersArthur Crandon has been writing for many years and has four books under his belt, with a fifth to be released in March of 2021. He has received many accolades for his writing including more than 100 five star reviews and he has been voted No. 1 by Goodreads readers in their poll – ‘Little known authors worth reading’. His debut novel, Deadly Election, also topped the Amazon Best Seller list for Murder and Political for free books.
He writes thrillers, suspense and intrigue novels mainly set in South-East Asia. He also writes a blog where he comments on Asian politics and social matters – and his own work. Arthur is a former lawyer who worked in the UK, Hong Kong and the Philippines specializing in visas and immigration – a great source of
inspiration for his stories. His time as a warden for the British Embassy in Manila also provided insight for his writing.
In between writing and blogging, Arthur has gained an M. A. in creative writing and plans further study. In his spare time he enjoys music (he is a keyboards player) and cooking. Arthur is married with five children. He and his wife, Lynnie, divide their time between the UK and Asia.
He writes thrillers, suspense and intrigue novels mainly set in South-East Asia. He also writes a blog where he comments on Asian politics and social matters – and his own work. Arthur is a former lawyer who worked in the UK, Hong Kong and the Philippines specializing in visas and immigration – a great source of
inspiration for his stories. His time as a warden for the British Embassy in Manila also provided insight for his writing.
In between writing and blogging, Arthur has gained an M. A. in creative writing and plans further study. In his spare time he enjoys music (he is a keyboards player) and cooking. Arthur is married with five children. He and his wife, Lynnie, divide their time between the UK and Asia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 11, 2016
Written by Arthur Crandon about the political environment in the Philippines, “Deadly Election” is a “can’t put it down” read. It captures your interest immediately, somewhat surprisingly with a story about World War II as the Japanese are losing control of the Philippines. The book then brings you back to the modern day Philippines and follows the last few days in the Presidential elections.
The reader soon finds the reason for the introductory WWII story when three young boys find a cave filled with villagers killed by the Japanese and a multimillion dollar horde of gold coins hidden by the Japanese. The boys decide to go to the Senator for help, mistakenly believing he is the one person they can trust.
Starting with Senator Consuelo, the leading candidate for the Presidency, Crandon develops his character in amazing details. He leads us through the systemic corruption of government officials at every level, including the bribery, prostitution, infidelity and the attitudes of anything and anyone can be bought for a price, and you do whatever is necessary to win an election, including murder.
The story is complex with many characters, but Crandon keeps it all flowing by weaving the different characters and their lives together as their stories intersect. He keeps the drama moving at break neck speed.
The author’s knowledge of the Philippines and its people makes the story totally believable. This book has the potential to be a New York Times bestseller. A must read, entertaining book.
The reader soon finds the reason for the introductory WWII story when three young boys find a cave filled with villagers killed by the Japanese and a multimillion dollar horde of gold coins hidden by the Japanese. The boys decide to go to the Senator for help, mistakenly believing he is the one person they can trust.
Starting with Senator Consuelo, the leading candidate for the Presidency, Crandon develops his character in amazing details. He leads us through the systemic corruption of government officials at every level, including the bribery, prostitution, infidelity and the attitudes of anything and anyone can be bought for a price, and you do whatever is necessary to win an election, including murder.
The story is complex with many characters, but Crandon keeps it all flowing by weaving the different characters and their lives together as their stories intersect. He keeps the drama moving at break neck speed.
The author’s knowledge of the Philippines and its people makes the story totally believable. This book has the potential to be a New York Times bestseller. A must read, entertaining book.
June 28, 2013
Gripping political thriller
Arthur Crandon’s Deadly Election is a gripping political thriller that I had trouble putting down. I really enjoyed this fast-paced book, which is a real page turner chock-full of surprising and interesting plot twists. The author doesn’t hold back on his descriptions of violence and other action scenes, so this book isn’t for the faint of heart. I really enjoyed how seamlessly real-world history was worked into the plot.
The descriptions of various places in the Philippines, where this novel is set, adds to the realism of the book. The political corruption is chilling in that it could be describing a real election. Instead of long-winded speeches, the author focuses on the people and individuals involved in the election, which is refreshing.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to anybody who enjoys a good political thriller. I’m looking forward to the next books in the Asian Intrigue series. 4/5
Arthur Crandon’s Deadly Election is a gripping political thriller that I had trouble putting down. I really enjoyed this fast-paced book, which is a real page turner chock-full of surprising and interesting plot twists. The author doesn’t hold back on his descriptions of violence and other action scenes, so this book isn’t for the faint of heart. I really enjoyed how seamlessly real-world history was worked into the plot.
The descriptions of various places in the Philippines, where this novel is set, adds to the realism of the book. The political corruption is chilling in that it could be describing a real election. Instead of long-winded speeches, the author focuses on the people and individuals involved in the election, which is refreshing.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to anybody who enjoys a good political thriller. I’m looking forward to the next books in the Asian Intrigue series. 4/5
October 6, 2013
This book was amazing.
I spent the last 2 days reading the book with hardly any time to stop. It was not that I was pushed for time or something, it was just that I was hooked.
Deadly Election opens the real yet ruthless politician world, where a man running for President can go to extraordinary lengths to get what he wants. I cannot tell you the plot for fear of spoiling this book, you have to grab and read it to experience it yourself. What I can say, though, is that Arthur Crandon excelled in depicting the characters, bringing to readers vivid yet shocking images. The story has a strong pace, too, always keeping reader up and unable to take their eyes off the book.
Overall, it's an intriguing work for anyone who's looking for a tight and freshly-plotted book.
I spent the last 2 days reading the book with hardly any time to stop. It was not that I was pushed for time or something, it was just that I was hooked.
Deadly Election opens the real yet ruthless politician world, where a man running for President can go to extraordinary lengths to get what he wants. I cannot tell you the plot for fear of spoiling this book, you have to grab and read it to experience it yourself. What I can say, though, is that Arthur Crandon excelled in depicting the characters, bringing to readers vivid yet shocking images. The story has a strong pace, too, always keeping reader up and unable to take their eyes off the book.
Overall, it's an intriguing work for anyone who's looking for a tight and freshly-plotted book.
July 26, 2020
Arthur Crandon uses his personal experience of living in the Philippines to bring credibility to a tale involving millions in gold, those who would murder for it, political corruption in a presidential campaign, and duplicitous men and women scheming in a corrupt country where no one can be trusted. A complex tale with many subplots and characters (almost everyone was a baddy of sorts) that require a reader’s attention as the story unfolds. A good read
July 2, 2013
Crandon has given us a vicious world of corruption and politics- not that we haven't seen it before, but here, we are given a look inside what political corruption is like in the Philippines.
You have your usual cronies, beautiful women who want power, and loyal servants. Added to the mix is also lots of action and behind the scenes views of what goes on behind closed doors with politicians.
I did get distracted now and then from some grammar mistakes that the editor should have caught. They were simple things that would have been an easy fix, however, this did not stop me from liking the book.
If you enjoy thrillers and political intrigue, this would be a good read for you.
You have your usual cronies, beautiful women who want power, and loyal servants. Added to the mix is also lots of action and behind the scenes views of what goes on behind closed doors with politicians.
I did get distracted now and then from some grammar mistakes that the editor should have caught. They were simple things that would have been an easy fix, however, this did not stop me from liking the book.
If you enjoy thrillers and political intrigue, this would be a good read for you.
July 2, 2013
A fast paced, easy to read, action thriller set in the Philippines. The narrative is tight and the action relentless as Crandon's morally ambiguous characters run through a well plotted tale, staged in a country portrayed as fatally infected with endemic corruption. Although the characters, and the story generally, lack depth, and the language is light on metaphorical flair, Deadly Election, contains plenty of thrills, spills and surprises. I recommend it as both entertainment, and as a disturbing insight into corruption in the political system, and in the human heart.
August 22, 2013
Political Intrigue in the Philippines – NY Times Are You Listening?
Rating: 5 Stars
Author: Arthur Crandon
Deadly Election is Arthur’s debut novel. It’s a twisted tale of political intrigue, mystery, murder, and double dealing in the Philippines. I have many Filipino friends and I have often thought of visiting that island nation. So I was hoping for an insightful tale involving the Philippines and I was not disappointed.
From the very first page, the story grabs the reader. The novel opens with a serious rape scene during World War II. Japanese soldiers brutally rape a Filipino teen in front of her dying father. Afterwards they massacre the villagers and hide the evidence of their crimes along with a treasure. The treasure left behind by the Japanese serves as the McGuffin.
After the Americans take out the Japanese, Arthur jumps forward to the present. Greed for the treasure leads to murder, mayhem and betrayal. Arthur hardly pauses to catch his breath before racing to the conclusion.
Deadly Election is highly creative, and yet it strikes one as utterly plausible. Deadly Election has all the makings for the inspiration of an Urban Legend.
Call me cynical, but I was surprised at the number of high officials who risked their lives to bring justice home I wonder if this is Arthur’s chivalry and good nature, or if these reflect real persons of fortitude, character, and integrity. Certainly, I know my share of extraordinarily decent, kind, and generous Filipinos.
Buy Deadly Election:
Amazon US
Amazon UK - Kindle eBook
Ranking:
The pace is almost relentless and the scene selection, characterization, and style show raw, natural talent.
Deadly Election would make an awesome screenplay. It’s got Alfred Hitchcock written all over it. Hollywood would love Deadly Election if they gave it a chance. Albeit some characters are not portrayed in the manner so common in major films, they behave realistically. Plus, none of the characters are choir boys. Characters who are not pure at heart think about the consequences of their actions and some actually decide to do the right thing despite the risk. And others don’t. What a concept?
Format and Writing:
Deadly Election is in third person and generally, chronological order. There are a few, short flashbacks.
Generally, I concur with the other reviewers, but I would suggest that Deadly Election is Better-Than-Self-Published, and it should be a NY Times Best-Seller. On that basis, I have to expand my comments on the writing.
Deadly Election is a first novel, and it shows in small ways. For example, I noticed an abrupt viewpoint shift in the middle of Chapter 1. We jump from the Japanese to the Americans, which is fine, but then, in the middle of Chapter 1, we jump to the present. This is very minor. Another such shift occurs in the middle of Chapter 8. There are also some very minor ‘typos.’ None of this justifies taking away a star.
Ordinarily, I overlook these small details, but I really think Arthur should approach Actual Publishing Insiders whoever or whatever they are. Deadly Election should fly off the shelf at Barnes & Noble and put Arthur on the map. He needs to ‘go for it’ and find someone in the business who will talk to him.
But to do so, he also needs to prepare the book for approaching Publishing Insiders. This means polishing the manuscript until it’s as sharp as glass and as tight as a diamond. Again, for instance, I would smooth out the transitions and find all the typos. Viewpoint shifts should be separated into chapters or subsections. For example, I would also put all of the initial WWII stuff in the Prologue, and begin Chapter 1 in the present.
Traditional publishing may not be the Indie Author thing, but if Arthur can write more work like Deadly Election, he should be a Brand-Name Author in a few years.
Recommendation:
As always my ranking takes the target audience into account.
Deadly Election may be a bit raw, but Arthur Crandon has talent on par with Brand-Name Authors of the likes of Patterson, Fleming, or Koontz. If the Gentle Reader enjoys mysteries, spy novels, legal thrillers, thrillers, or political intrigues, she will enjoy Deadly Election. I strongly recommend the book. Anyone thinking of traveling, working, or living in the Philippines should read the book if they like mysteries or are thinking of doing anything more than a quick sight-seeing tour.
Deadly Election would probably be rated ‘R’ in an American movie house for violence and inappropriate behavior. Nonetheless, the content is consistent with the story, the characters, and none of it is particularly gratuitous. Given the horrific crimes involved, the author displays considerable self-restraint.
About the authors:
According to Arthur, the story is a composite of actual experiences and reading the novel, it felt real. The tale is too convoluted to make up and yet not outlandish enough to feel like fiction. If Arthur vanishes, he might have left us a clue in Deadly Election.
Reviewed by:
Dan Knight
Author of
Cretaceous Clay and the Black Dwarf and
Cretaceous Clay and the Ninth Ring
This is a review of a PDF version.
Rating: 5 Stars
Author: Arthur Crandon
Deadly Election is Arthur’s debut novel. It’s a twisted tale of political intrigue, mystery, murder, and double dealing in the Philippines. I have many Filipino friends and I have often thought of visiting that island nation. So I was hoping for an insightful tale involving the Philippines and I was not disappointed.
From the very first page, the story grabs the reader. The novel opens with a serious rape scene during World War II. Japanese soldiers brutally rape a Filipino teen in front of her dying father. Afterwards they massacre the villagers and hide the evidence of their crimes along with a treasure. The treasure left behind by the Japanese serves as the McGuffin.After the Americans take out the Japanese, Arthur jumps forward to the present. Greed for the treasure leads to murder, mayhem and betrayal. Arthur hardly pauses to catch his breath before racing to the conclusion.
Deadly Election is highly creative, and yet it strikes one as utterly plausible. Deadly Election has all the makings for the inspiration of an Urban Legend.
Call me cynical, but I was surprised at the number of high officials who risked their lives to bring justice home I wonder if this is Arthur’s chivalry and good nature, or if these reflect real persons of fortitude, character, and integrity. Certainly, I know my share of extraordinarily decent, kind, and generous Filipinos.
Buy Deadly Election:
Amazon US
Amazon UK - Kindle eBook
Ranking:
The pace is almost relentless and the scene selection, characterization, and style show raw, natural talent.
Deadly Election would make an awesome screenplay. It’s got Alfred Hitchcock written all over it. Hollywood would love Deadly Election if they gave it a chance. Albeit some characters are not portrayed in the manner so common in major films, they behave realistically. Plus, none of the characters are choir boys. Characters who are not pure at heart think about the consequences of their actions and some actually decide to do the right thing despite the risk. And others don’t. What a concept?
Format and Writing:
Deadly Election is in third person and generally, chronological order. There are a few, short flashbacks.
Generally, I concur with the other reviewers, but I would suggest that Deadly Election is Better-Than-Self-Published, and it should be a NY Times Best-Seller. On that basis, I have to expand my comments on the writing.
Deadly Election is a first novel, and it shows in small ways. For example, I noticed an abrupt viewpoint shift in the middle of Chapter 1. We jump from the Japanese to the Americans, which is fine, but then, in the middle of Chapter 1, we jump to the present. This is very minor. Another such shift occurs in the middle of Chapter 8. There are also some very minor ‘typos.’ None of this justifies taking away a star.
Ordinarily, I overlook these small details, but I really think Arthur should approach Actual Publishing Insiders whoever or whatever they are. Deadly Election should fly off the shelf at Barnes & Noble and put Arthur on the map. He needs to ‘go for it’ and find someone in the business who will talk to him.
But to do so, he also needs to prepare the book for approaching Publishing Insiders. This means polishing the manuscript until it’s as sharp as glass and as tight as a diamond. Again, for instance, I would smooth out the transitions and find all the typos. Viewpoint shifts should be separated into chapters or subsections. For example, I would also put all of the initial WWII stuff in the Prologue, and begin Chapter 1 in the present.
Traditional publishing may not be the Indie Author thing, but if Arthur can write more work like Deadly Election, he should be a Brand-Name Author in a few years.
Recommendation:
As always my ranking takes the target audience into account.
Deadly Election may be a bit raw, but Arthur Crandon has talent on par with Brand-Name Authors of the likes of Patterson, Fleming, or Koontz. If the Gentle Reader enjoys mysteries, spy novels, legal thrillers, thrillers, or political intrigues, she will enjoy Deadly Election. I strongly recommend the book. Anyone thinking of traveling, working, or living in the Philippines should read the book if they like mysteries or are thinking of doing anything more than a quick sight-seeing tour.
Deadly Election would probably be rated ‘R’ in an American movie house for violence and inappropriate behavior. Nonetheless, the content is consistent with the story, the characters, and none of it is particularly gratuitous. Given the horrific crimes involved, the author displays considerable self-restraint.
About the authors:
According to Arthur, the story is a composite of actual experiences and reading the novel, it felt real. The tale is too convoluted to make up and yet not outlandish enough to feel like fiction. If Arthur vanishes, he might have left us a clue in Deadly Election.
Reviewed by:
Dan Knight
Author of
Cretaceous Clay and the Black Dwarf and
Cretaceous Clay and the Ninth Ring
This is a review of a PDF version.
June 14, 2020
A thoroughly engrossing read! Twists and turns aplenty with some nice retribution being dished out in the end.
I read a pre-release version of the book and there were some continuity problems which I’m sure Arthur and his editors will fix in the final version. Also - that’s not how you spell whisky lol.
The story is a timely reminder of corruption in the political realm, set in the Phillipines but it could easily be set in many other countries around the world.
The writing is crisp and the narrative arc is well defined.
There’s some disturbing violence mixed with a few raunchier scenes that help the reader to get a full feeling of the people involved in the story as three dimensional characters.
Solid four stars from me!
I read a pre-release version of the book and there were some continuity problems which I’m sure Arthur and his editors will fix in the final version. Also - that’s not how you spell whisky lol.
The story is a timely reminder of corruption in the political realm, set in the Phillipines but it could easily be set in many other countries around the world.
The writing is crisp and the narrative arc is well defined.
There’s some disturbing violence mixed with a few raunchier scenes that help the reader to get a full feeling of the people involved in the story as three dimensional characters.
Solid four stars from me!
May 13, 2020
Spanish gold buried in a cave. Years later three teenage boys discover the gold and go to a man they can trust to help them with the gold. A senator who aspires to become the President of the
Philippines. All come together to begin the story of betrayal, murder, sex and politics. This is a story
of the inner sanctum of power and greed and what a man will do to rule his world.
Well written and Highly Recommended.
Philippines. All come together to begin the story of betrayal, murder, sex and politics. This is a story
of the inner sanctum of power and greed and what a man will do to rule his world.
Well written and Highly Recommended.
June 2, 2020
Deadly Election is a story of corruption and greed. There is also a mix of flawed characters, none of whom are particularly trustworthy. Revolving around an election, stolen gold and murder, Arthur Crandon weaves an intricate tale of human failings with exciting twists and turns. The layers of intrigue are peeled away to an satisfying conclusion. Recommended for those who like page-turning suspense.
April 20, 2020
It's a twisted, fast-paced, easy-to-read tale of political intrigue, mystery, murder, and competition in the Philippines.
Packed in an intense narrative, the action in this book is constant as the characters of questionable morals push themselves through this well-plotted story staged in a corrupt country. The story is good, the characters are genuine. I could hardly put the book down.
Packed in an intense narrative, the action in this book is constant as the characters of questionable morals push themselves through this well-plotted story staged in a corrupt country. The story is good, the characters are genuine. I could hardly put the book down.
April 29, 2020
This is an intriguing story which held my attention. There is plenty of intrigue, and many characters, but they were all believable. There's lots of corruption, and no loyalty anywhere!. As it turns out, with enough money, no one is loyal. It's a great read if you like thrillers with twists and turns.
April 7, 2018
Good book
Good story and believable characters. First you root for the good guy, then feel sorry for him and finally the ending is unexpected. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes twists and turns
Good story and believable characters. First you root for the good guy, then feel sorry for him and finally the ending is unexpected. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes twists and turns
December 25, 2020
Story about greed, avarice and depths evil people will descend to in pursuit of wealth in any form. Corruption in politics. Relationships based on personal interests in lieu of love. This is a great story with a talented author holding the reins.
October 8, 2022
I thought that this was an okay read. The eBook did have some formatting issues and the editing leaves a little to be desired. The tale is a good if familiar tale with a narrative that seemed a little documentary like. Pace is good and the story is engaging.
September 5, 2017
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
January 21, 2014
What can we say about politics? Let me rephrase that question by asking; what can we say about American politics? Let me rephrase that question again by asking; what can't we say about American politics? Before I go any further, let me just assure you all that I am not here to discuss the current events in Government. Anyway, I believe that we ( Conservatives, Liberals, Libertarians and Progressives) can agree that politics is a dangerous career to pursue. I don't think I have to explain the details to my claim. However, politics can serve many goods. One field that it serves well in is the entertainment field.
I'm not just talking about Comedy movies or "Saturday Night Live", I'm also including all genres and the different forms of entertainment. One of those different forms of entertainment is a book called "Deadly Election" by Arthur Crandon. His story actually doesn't cover American politics. His story is set in the political field of the Philippine Islands. But the battles of American politics are very similar. The story begins with three young men meeting with their Senator; Enrique Consuelo who is also running for President. They meet with him because they discovered Spanish doubloons in a cave where politically related crimes occurred many years ago. Consuelo, being a typical politician ( in other words, fully corrupted) orders his "staff" to kill the men so he can keep the treasure for himself. But Consuelo just might meet karma when an eyewitness to the murders threatens to expose Consuelo for who he really is. Consuelo thinks that he can have his "staff" easily take him down but once he escapes their grasp and takes them through a beyond wild goose chase, Consuelo realizes that he is probably facing a greater enemy that his political opponent.
"Deadly Election" is the story of a truly deadly election where people not only die but where people go through many mental stages that can easily hurt them physically. Had it just been for the typical political atmosphere in the story, it would probably just be a fictional repeat of what we see on the news. But Arthur Crandon added his own tone to the story. He made it into a political thriller. As I said before, politics serves entertainment well and that combining with Arthur Crandon's talent of entertainment giving, this book is a must read from beginning to end. Not only is it entertaining but it's also informative. I don't know if that was Crandon's intention to inform us a little but here's why I think it's informative; it's a wake up call. It's a wake up call to all of those people who thinks that politicians are one-hundred percent clean and have no skeletons in the closest. In other words, read this book and you'll be entertained while being given the harsh reality of a typical politician.
I'm not just talking about Comedy movies or "Saturday Night Live", I'm also including all genres and the different forms of entertainment. One of those different forms of entertainment is a book called "Deadly Election" by Arthur Crandon. His story actually doesn't cover American politics. His story is set in the political field of the Philippine Islands. But the battles of American politics are very similar. The story begins with three young men meeting with their Senator; Enrique Consuelo who is also running for President. They meet with him because they discovered Spanish doubloons in a cave where politically related crimes occurred many years ago. Consuelo, being a typical politician ( in other words, fully corrupted) orders his "staff" to kill the men so he can keep the treasure for himself. But Consuelo just might meet karma when an eyewitness to the murders threatens to expose Consuelo for who he really is. Consuelo thinks that he can have his "staff" easily take him down but once he escapes their grasp and takes them through a beyond wild goose chase, Consuelo realizes that he is probably facing a greater enemy that his political opponent.
"Deadly Election" is the story of a truly deadly election where people not only die but where people go through many mental stages that can easily hurt them physically. Had it just been for the typical political atmosphere in the story, it would probably just be a fictional repeat of what we see on the news. But Arthur Crandon added his own tone to the story. He made it into a political thriller. As I said before, politics serves entertainment well and that combining with Arthur Crandon's talent of entertainment giving, this book is a must read from beginning to end. Not only is it entertaining but it's also informative. I don't know if that was Crandon's intention to inform us a little but here's why I think it's informative; it's a wake up call. It's a wake up call to all of those people who thinks that politicians are one-hundred percent clean and have no skeletons in the closest. In other words, read this book and you'll be entertained while being given the harsh reality of a typical politician.
July 20, 2013
It takes a lot of hard work and a bit of luck to have a truly authentic voice as a novelist. When the story is one of intrigue and mayhem this is even harder because there are so many authors trying to make their name writing such books. In Deadly Election Arthur Crandon succeeds brilliantly where many other people have failed. He has direct and dire experience of living in the Philippines that he had to leave after living there for eight years. He warns us that the reality in that country is worse than the story he has written. Prepared for a grisly tale, we get it full blast immediately in a cave where a massive treasure, in gold coins is being hidden. The local people knew the secret location of the cave so they must not live to tell the story. They are all dispatched but not before the graphic rape of a girl. All this happens sixty years before the main story, when the cave is rediscovered by adventuresome boys. At a loss to know how to keep some of the hidden treasure for themselves, they go to the local warlord Senator Enrique Consuelo. This mistake costs them dearly because the senator, who is running for election as the President of the Philippines, has no scruples and will stop at nothing to advance his interests. Surrounded by hard men who know how to use a knife, he controls people with bribes, threats, and violence. I began to ask if there is a hero who can stop him from gaining control of the country. Paul, a flawed character with a tough background is drawn into the mess and is on the point of losing his life to Consuelo’s henchmen when he wakes up to the reality of his situation and takes positive action in a complex situation. This story is very well written with a good strong pace. Crandon uses sex, violence, the huge treasure, and conspiracy in an authentic way. It satisfied my need to read a book with a good plot that deserves to be counted among the really successful novels of this kind.
May 8, 2014
In the early 21st century, three young men find a hidden hoard of Spanish doubloons in a cave in the depths of a Filipino jungle amongst the skeletons of raped and murdered World War II victims. Telling of their find to Senator Enrique Consuelo, who looks assured to win the Presidency of the Philippines via the corrupt election process, unleashes a series of consequences. The young men’s naivety, combined with the greed of the Senator, plus an unseen witness to murderous events, the Australian ex-pat Paul, who wishes to secure his own financial future, leads to a major change in the Filipino political arena. As we follow the plot, and sub plots, we see how members of the Filipino Armed Services, Police, Prison Service, Catholic Church, Legal System, Media, private security services and even ‘ordinary’ men and women throughout the land are in someone’s pocket and / or lining their own. Corruption is endemic.
This instantly absorbing, tense political / criminal thriller is packed with bribery, betrayal, blackmail, cheating, conspiracy, corruption, deceit, deception, duplicity, extortion, greed, infidelity, lies, murder and revenge. As I have lived in South East Asia, I was excited to be sent a copy of this book by Goodreads to review. My pleasure in reading was slightly marred by the errors that should have been picked up and corrected at proofreading stage, but the strength of the writing is such that I have still awarded it a 5-star rating. Vaguely John Grisham-like, Arthur Crandon’s style is to-the-point with a fast pace. I simply could not put it down and I am very keen to read the next in this ‘Asian Intrigue’ series.
This instantly absorbing, tense political / criminal thriller is packed with bribery, betrayal, blackmail, cheating, conspiracy, corruption, deceit, deception, duplicity, extortion, greed, infidelity, lies, murder and revenge. As I have lived in South East Asia, I was excited to be sent a copy of this book by Goodreads to review. My pleasure in reading was slightly marred by the errors that should have been picked up and corrected at proofreading stage, but the strength of the writing is such that I have still awarded it a 5-star rating. Vaguely John Grisham-like, Arthur Crandon’s style is to-the-point with a fast pace. I simply could not put it down and I am very keen to read the next in this ‘Asian Intrigue’ series.
July 24, 2013
Greed kills.
Three boys found boxes of gold doubloons, as well as many skeletons guarding them. Although peasant boys, and very poor, they knew the value of what they had found. They knew they couldn't go to anyone in their village, or no gold would be left for them. So they went to the only person they felt they could trust, Senator Enrique Consuelo, a man with a kind face and known to be generous to his friends.
Consuelo examined the coins the boys found, understanding at once what he was seeing. He was running for President, and needed a bounty like this to further his campaign and his coffers. “Have you told anyone else about this?” he asked them. They had not.
Good. The secret was safe. So he ordered the boys murdered and thrown in the ravine behind where the cave was found.
Unfortunately for Consuelo, on a ridge above the cave, one person witnessed the event after all, and so began a murderous cover-up and intrigue so that Consuelo could be elected President.
The book is very good, full of action, adventure and steamy sex. Everyone in the book has liaisons outside of their marriages, it seems. The book does an excellent job in not letting the reader know if Consuelo will get by with murder. He has many friends and followers, and many he has bribed to follow him, promising great rewards if he wins the election.
Unfortunately, the book is told from so many points of view, it is hard to find someone to cheer for. There is no clear protagonist.
Still, the book warrants four out of five stars for being a very good read.
Three boys found boxes of gold doubloons, as well as many skeletons guarding them. Although peasant boys, and very poor, they knew the value of what they had found. They knew they couldn't go to anyone in their village, or no gold would be left for them. So they went to the only person they felt they could trust, Senator Enrique Consuelo, a man with a kind face and known to be generous to his friends.
Consuelo examined the coins the boys found, understanding at once what he was seeing. He was running for President, and needed a bounty like this to further his campaign and his coffers. “Have you told anyone else about this?” he asked them. They had not.
Good. The secret was safe. So he ordered the boys murdered and thrown in the ravine behind where the cave was found.
Unfortunately for Consuelo, on a ridge above the cave, one person witnessed the event after all, and so began a murderous cover-up and intrigue so that Consuelo could be elected President.
The book is very good, full of action, adventure and steamy sex. Everyone in the book has liaisons outside of their marriages, it seems. The book does an excellent job in not letting the reader know if Consuelo will get by with murder. He has many friends and followers, and many he has bribed to follow him, promising great rewards if he wins the election.
Unfortunately, the book is told from so many points of view, it is hard to find someone to cheer for. There is no clear protagonist.
Still, the book warrants four out of five stars for being a very good read.
December 2, 2013
*Exceptional*!!
Is how much I enjoyed this book by Author, "Arthur Crandon" "Deadly Election"! Well, I do have a few confessions. I need to "Apologize" to Arthur for taking so long to get this fabulous read done.
Another is, I'm not usually a reader of Political Satire, I'm more a "Nora Roberts" romance junkie!
But I have to be honest, this book reminds me of two of my past favorite authors, "Harold Robbins, and Tom Clancy"......Arthur's Pen & writing style, and his storyline of insight into the world of "Dirty Politics" in the Philippines is exceptional. As Robbins & Clancy did well, Arthur also weaves a tale of sex, love affairs, mystery, thrills abound, and adventure with dead bodies and a treasure found, the story takes "Flight."
I was also pleasantly surprised with all the "Thrilling Happenings" in his book, it was easy to read and follow the storyline. This book grabs you from beginning to end. It is well worth read.
It's no mystery that there police force is corrupt in REAL LIFE, with all the news stories of the sex trade there, but Art gives us a "Lived" personal experience in his book of just how far the corruption goes down the chain, from the Senator who wants the Presidency, down through the Police & Armed Forces, to the Justice and Court systems. "Greed" can drive to Murder and Mayhem.
Excellent Job Arthur Crandon with "Deadly Election" and I look forward to the next installment!
I "RATE" it a 5 STARS!
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon
July 24, 2013
When greed and war become fused and the human condition is tested, most people will most likely choose the path of fortune built upon a foundation of corpses. Deadly Election by Arthur Crandon, displays the absolute path and, oftentimes, failure of mankind.
A rumor exists within the Philippines. A story told from one generation to the next, giving birth to a fantastic legend. It is one of untold riches hidden away within the Philippine jungle, by Japanese soldiers who had committed shockingly deplorable acts of violence and murder during the war.
As more than sixty years pass, the legend suddenly becomes a tangible reality.
Drawing the attention of a decadent and immoral warlord, Senator Enrique Consuelo, a treacherous plan is hatched; murder any witnesses and steal the treasure.
Crandon writes with marvelous aplomb and has devised an intricate tale of the cruel veracity of the human soul. From the beginning, the reader will be drawn into a simple and beguiling narrative. Deadly Election has proved to be a powerful story of lust, betrayal, and political deception.
Read the entire review here:
Bookend Chronicles
A rumor exists within the Philippines. A story told from one generation to the next, giving birth to a fantastic legend. It is one of untold riches hidden away within the Philippine jungle, by Japanese soldiers who had committed shockingly deplorable acts of violence and murder during the war.
As more than sixty years pass, the legend suddenly becomes a tangible reality.
Drawing the attention of a decadent and immoral warlord, Senator Enrique Consuelo, a treacherous plan is hatched; murder any witnesses and steal the treasure.
Crandon writes with marvelous aplomb and has devised an intricate tale of the cruel veracity of the human soul. From the beginning, the reader will be drawn into a simple and beguiling narrative. Deadly Election has proved to be a powerful story of lust, betrayal, and political deception.
Read the entire review here:
Bookend Chronicles
September 11, 2013
This is a perfect example of how a good rewrite can greatly improve a book.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The first time through, however, I noticed very significant grammar errors and weaknesses in the plot. I informed the author of my concerns. To his credit, he said he'd heard similar critiques from others. He let me know he was in contact with an editor and would be reworking the novel.I told him I would reserve my review until after reading the new edition.
I'm glad I did.
Deadly Election, in its current form, is a strong novel. It is based on real events and reads like non-fiction. That means it is very believable.
In the rewrite, the character of Chloe was greatly enhanced. She gives us a very human and relatively untainted view of this crime-filled, seedy world.
A word of caution: this is a very adult novel. There are graphic depictions of violence and violations.
IN CONCLUSION
I feel very privileged to have seen the novel in both iterations. If Arthur Crandon continues to grow like this, we can expect very good things from him in the future.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The first time through, however, I noticed very significant grammar errors and weaknesses in the plot. I informed the author of my concerns. To his credit, he said he'd heard similar critiques from others. He let me know he was in contact with an editor and would be reworking the novel.I told him I would reserve my review until after reading the new edition.
I'm glad I did.
Deadly Election, in its current form, is a strong novel. It is based on real events and reads like non-fiction. That means it is very believable.
In the rewrite, the character of Chloe was greatly enhanced. She gives us a very human and relatively untainted view of this crime-filled, seedy world.
A word of caution: this is a very adult novel. There are graphic depictions of violence and violations.
IN CONCLUSION
I feel very privileged to have seen the novel in both iterations. If Arthur Crandon continues to grow like this, we can expect very good things from him in the future.
July 17, 2013
Deadly Election (by Arthur Crandon) is an interesting and intriguing read, a complex thriller that traverses several genres en route to its satisfying denouement. It is variously a novel of corruption and intrigue in at the highest level of Philippine politics; a caper novel; a discovered treasure thriller; and a study of the banality of evil, and the inevitable (we hope!) consequences thereof. Crandon displays a compelling knowledge of what happens in back rooms and in the corridors of power; how deals are done and elections won or lost; and how to follow the money. Crandon's "old guy" Aussie hero, "Phil," endlessly resourceful if badly flawed, makes a belated, yet perfectly timed entrance. A David vs. Goliath story unfolds thereafter, with the reader hoping that Phil won't lose his nerve and his life facing the impossible odds and the machinations against him. A thoroughly well told tale, unpredictable, convincingly textured with an insider's knowledge of politics and power, and, I have to say, a good bit of sex sprinkled in for seasoning. Quite a fiction debut for Mr. Crandon. Let's have another.
November 10, 2013
I’ve just finished reading Deadly Election and I really enjoyed it. It’s a very interesting and intriguing book.
The action is settled in Philippine, where the life is at danger at any time, especially before the election.
The discovery of an ancient Japanese treasure is starting a chain of shocking incidents that will change many lives. Some murders and disappearances will take place very fast. The Senator Enrique Consuelo, who thinks his destiny is to become President of Philippines, got involved in many troubles. Strange events will happen around him before and after the Election Day. Because the enormous amount of money is very tempting, nobody can be trusted, even the family members.
This book is about political corruption, violence, murders, money, power, lies and life changes.
I like this book because it’s very intense and real facts are related through the work of fiction. As the author said, the reality is far worse. I appreciate that he let us imagine the real life in this exotic and dangerous country.
I wish to read more in this “Asian Intrigue” series.
August 6, 2013
Deadly Election starts as it means to go on. Gritty, shocking and enthralling. From page one I found it hard to put down. Deadly Election tells the pitfalls of discovering an incredible treasure trove as a corrupt Senator Consuelo, the leading presidential candidate in the upcoming election, displays pretty much every despicable human trait to secure the treasure (which was left by a retreating troop of Japanese soldiers some 70 years earlier who certainly left their mark). The scenes were well crafted and the characters believable.
Crandon’s approach is simple yet effective. His writing style is very much direct and to the point. I did find a couple of parts particularly shocking; the start of the book is graphic and very much no-holds-barred. This is certainly not for kids!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be keeping an eye out for Arthur Crandon’s future works.
Crandon’s approach is simple yet effective. His writing style is very much direct and to the point. I did find a couple of parts particularly shocking; the start of the book is graphic and very much no-holds-barred. This is certainly not for kids!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be keeping an eye out for Arthur Crandon’s future works.
July 16, 2013
Deadly Election by Arthur Crandon sends you through a deadly story of murder, political corruption, lies, betrayal, and morality issues starting with a greedy and needy politician.
Consuelo is running for the office of President and is willing to take down all opposition to him. He is running low on money so when three young children find the missing treasure all thought to be a legend; he offers to share the gold with them but found their trust was misplaced! Thinking that the coast was clear, his men take the gold back to the Senator not knowing that a retired army officer was taking note and pictures. With blackmail the officer thinks to fund his retirement but…
You need to read this book filled with shocking episodes of deception and opportunistic plans will keep you in your chair until the very end.
Consuelo is running for the office of President and is willing to take down all opposition to him. He is running low on money so when three young children find the missing treasure all thought to be a legend; he offers to share the gold with them but found their trust was misplaced! Thinking that the coast was clear, his men take the gold back to the Senator not knowing that a retired army officer was taking note and pictures. With blackmail the officer thinks to fund his retirement but…
You need to read this book filled with shocking episodes of deception and opportunistic plans will keep you in your chair until the very end.
October 2, 2013
The ebook book version needed to editing. Theres was poor formatting without breaks to indicated scene shifts that made following the action very difficult. Scene shifts at the beginning spanned decades without warning. Later in the book the shifts were geographic. There were errors in references. In chapter 8 a paragraoh refered to arriving at the Governor's estate when it should have been the Senator's estate. There were so many references to characters by their titles and too many characters with the same title to be able to keep track of just which ones were in the scene. Sentences had extraneous carriage returns resulting in unnecessary paragraphs. I might have been able to overlook all of those problems if the story hadn't ended so abruptly with too many questions unanswered
And what exactly is a Returning Officer?
And what exactly is a Returning Officer?
September 1, 2013
"Deadly Election" is a fast-paced, hard-hitting novel about political corruption in the Philippines. It's the first in Arthur Crandon's "Asian Intrigue" series.
Although this is not a genre I normally read, the story of the ruthlessness of men in political power and the lengths they pursue in order to keep that power is absorbing and, sometimes, disturbing. Mr. Crandon has penned a page-turner that hurtles along at a rapid pace.
While the sex scenes are graphic, they serve to illustrate the depravity and moral void that Paul, an Australian ex-Special Forces officer, must combat when two young boys are murdered after finding a fortune in old coins deep in a mountain cave.
As Mr. Crandon states in his foreword, "The events in this book are fictional - the reality is worse."
Although this is not a genre I normally read, the story of the ruthlessness of men in political power and the lengths they pursue in order to keep that power is absorbing and, sometimes, disturbing. Mr. Crandon has penned a page-turner that hurtles along at a rapid pace.
While the sex scenes are graphic, they serve to illustrate the depravity and moral void that Paul, an Australian ex-Special Forces officer, must combat when two young boys are murdered after finding a fortune in old coins deep in a mountain cave.
As Mr. Crandon states in his foreword, "The events in this book are fictional - the reality is worse."
July 30, 2013
A thriller with a difference
There is no time to catch your breath with this debut novel by Arthur Crandon. He starts out as he means to go on - there is action on every page. The characters are convincing and captivating - from the evil Senator, to the well meaning, but thoughtless old soldier, Paul. The story sweeps you through the jungles of the Philippines to it's capital, Manila, where the drama increases. There is something for all thriller lovers here - Intrigue, betrayal, corruption, murder, sex, politics - you name it - this book has it.
Surprising twists result in a surprising ending, hinting that we have not heard the last of these characters - I look forward to the next in the series. I highly recommend this book. Keep them coming, Arthur.
There is no time to catch your breath with this debut novel by Arthur Crandon. He starts out as he means to go on - there is action on every page. The characters are convincing and captivating - from the evil Senator, to the well meaning, but thoughtless old soldier, Paul. The story sweeps you through the jungles of the Philippines to it's capital, Manila, where the drama increases. There is something for all thriller lovers here - Intrigue, betrayal, corruption, murder, sex, politics - you name it - this book has it.
Surprising twists result in a surprising ending, hinting that we have not heard the last of these characters - I look forward to the next in the series. I highly recommend this book. Keep them coming, Arthur.
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