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Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet
What do you get if you cross a French sex addict hitman, a self righteous left wing blogger with a spam problem, a racist bar room regular and his penchant for porn, an American gangster with a lot of reflecting to do, a small time journalist who dreams of the big time, a weak-willed loner with a Victorian lion hunter alter-ego, a flamboyant PR guru and his devilish plans, a very recently unemployed call centre drone, an old man with a hell of a grudge, and A LOT, of dead bodies? You get this.
The naked corpse of a young man is discovered with his throat sliced open on a cool autumn morning in a park in Sheffield, northern England. By an elderly dog-walker, as usual. He is the first of a rapidly increasing number of seemingly random killings in the city, all in that same way. This leads to a frenzy of media and public speculation, where everybody is a suspect, and everybody has an opinion. Daisy is pointing the finger at the media, rookie journalist David is dreaming of future awards for his coverage of the whole thing, and Terry blames the Asians. What's actually happening is a far more sinister affair which threatens to spiral out of control. Across the city Tom, call centre outlaw, cast out for his lack of respect for faceless voices, is drinking and snorting himself into a collision course with some very very bad people indeed, how it will end, well that depends on how much of an outlaw Tom's prepared to be.
Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet is a funny, satirical, sexy, and very violent tale of poverty, addiction, the fickle finger of fame, love and questionable mental health. Next time, you'll want to look that gift horse in the mouth.
The naked corpse of a young man is discovered with his throat sliced open on a cool autumn morning in a park in Sheffield, northern England. By an elderly dog-walker, as usual. He is the first of a rapidly increasing number of seemingly random killings in the city, all in that same way. This leads to a frenzy of media and public speculation, where everybody is a suspect, and everybody has an opinion. Daisy is pointing the finger at the media, rookie journalist David is dreaming of future awards for his coverage of the whole thing, and Terry blames the Asians. What's actually happening is a far more sinister affair which threatens to spiral out of control. Across the city Tom, call centre outlaw, cast out for his lack of respect for faceless voices, is drinking and snorting himself into a collision course with some very very bad people indeed, how it will end, well that depends on how much of an outlaw Tom's prepared to be.
Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet is a funny, satirical, sexy, and very violent tale of poverty, addiction, the fickle finger of fame, love and questionable mental health. Next time, you'll want to look that gift horse in the mouth.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2012
5 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Bracha
33 books36 followersRyan Bracha is the Amazon-bestselling author of eleven novels, a novella, and a collection of short stories. In his early twenties, he made a brief foray into independent filmmaking. At 24, he wrote and directed his debut feature Tales From Nowhere, a limited-release cult oddity he once described as “Pulp Fiction meets Kes.” Though the film’s lifespan was short, it ignited a passion for bold, unorthodox storytelling.
Ryan spent the next several years honing his voice as a novelist. His debut, Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven’t Killed Yet, took nearly four years to complete, and was followed by a relentless output of raw, genre-defying fiction. Over the course of his writing career, he’s self-published eleven novels, a novella, and a short story collection — each one taking risks and refusing to play it safe.
Though no longer writing fiction intensively, Ryan remains creatively active. He continues to write across other forms and channels his energy as frontman and lyricist for the electronic punk band Misery Prize, bringing the same edge and attitude to the stage as he did to the page. He lives and works in South Yorkshire, where the ideas never quite stop coming.
Visit www.miseryprizeband.co.uk to follow his musical endeavours.
Ryan spent the next several years honing his voice as a novelist. His debut, Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven’t Killed Yet, took nearly four years to complete, and was followed by a relentless output of raw, genre-defying fiction. Over the course of his writing career, he’s self-published eleven novels, a novella, and a short story collection — each one taking risks and refusing to play it safe.
Though no longer writing fiction intensively, Ryan remains creatively active. He continues to write across other forms and channels his energy as frontman and lyricist for the electronic punk band Misery Prize, bringing the same edge and attitude to the stage as he did to the page. He lives and works in South Yorkshire, where the ideas never quite stop coming.
Visit www.miseryprizeband.co.uk to follow his musical endeavours.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 23, 2015
"What do you get if you cross a French sex addict hitman, a self righteous left wing blogger with a spam problem, a racist bar room regular and his penchant for porn, an American gangster with a lot of reflecting to do, a small time journalist who dreams of the big time, a weak-willed loner with a Victorian lion hunter alter-ego, a flamboyant PR guru and his devilish plans, a very recently unemployed call centre drone, an old man with a hell of a grudge, and A LOT, of dead bodies? You get this.
The naked corpse of a young man is discovered with his throat sliced open on a cool autumn morning in a park in Sheffield, northern England. By an elderly dog-walker, as usual. He is the first of a rapidly increasing number of seemingly random killings in the city, all in that same way. This leads to a frenzy of media and public speculation, where everybody is a suspect, and everybody has an opinion. Daisy is pointing the finger at the media, rookie journalist David is dreaming of future awards for his coverage of the whole thing, and Terry blames the Asians.
What's actually happening is a far more sinister affair which threatens to spiral out of control. Across the city Tom, call centre outlaw, cast out for his lack of respect for faceless voices, is drinking and snorting himself into a collision course with some very very bad people indeed, how it will end, well that depends on how much of an outlaw Tom's prepared to be.”
Welcome to the bizarrely twisted world of Ryan Bracha. His writing is uncensored, bold, defiantly brave and hugely entertaining, often covering a variety of subjects and moral issues that most authors would perhaps shy away from. With this novel, Ryan takes the reader on a dark journey into the minds and personalities of some of societies biggest misfits, who find themselves drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse, all in the hope of a financial reward should they outlive their fellow participants. Kind of a modern day ‘Running Man’ but so much better and a hell of a lot funnier.
This is the second novel of Ryan’s that I’ve read and what is abundantly clear throughout his writing is his ability to bring his characters so vividly to life. This particular novel often switches from the points of views of the various characters involved and through their dialogue and their accents, we’re introduced to a colourful bunch of people, all of who are flawed in some way or other. Their flaws become more apparent as the story develops; through time we learn why they were so carefully selected to take part in the exclusive ‘game’ which the story centres around. The author is extremely adept at portraying each of his characters, whether it be through their dialogue and mannerisms or their actions. Character development is clearly a strength of Ryan’s and even though many of the players in this novel have only a chapter or two to tell their own story, we get a strong sense of who they are, and what their unique story is in a very short space of time. The constant switch in narrative keeps the pace of this novel alive, and it is good to be able to see the events that occur through a variety of different and very often, messed up, mindsets.
The story comes together very well towards the end. At some points throughout the novel, especially at the start, you may question where it’s all leading. My advice would be to stick with it and enjoy the ride. Whilst Ryan clearly writes for the fun and enjoyment of being able to create a damn fine story, his intelligence is vividly apparent in his ability to weave many different strands in a novel, bringing them all neatly together at the end.
Bad words and bloody violence aside, I loved this novel. This is a novel that is full of dark humour, very bad language and which addresses some of the darker sides of life. There is absolutely no point reading it if you are in any way offended by expletives and lots of them. The very title of the novel should also suggest that there will be violence throughout, and whilst it isn’t overrun with needless and gratuitous violence, the violence - when it kicks off - is graphic but is also a central theme of the novel. You’ll love it. You have been warned.
The naked corpse of a young man is discovered with his throat sliced open on a cool autumn morning in a park in Sheffield, northern England. By an elderly dog-walker, as usual. He is the first of a rapidly increasing number of seemingly random killings in the city, all in that same way. This leads to a frenzy of media and public speculation, where everybody is a suspect, and everybody has an opinion. Daisy is pointing the finger at the media, rookie journalist David is dreaming of future awards for his coverage of the whole thing, and Terry blames the Asians.
What's actually happening is a far more sinister affair which threatens to spiral out of control. Across the city Tom, call centre outlaw, cast out for his lack of respect for faceless voices, is drinking and snorting himself into a collision course with some very very bad people indeed, how it will end, well that depends on how much of an outlaw Tom's prepared to be.”
Welcome to the bizarrely twisted world of Ryan Bracha. His writing is uncensored, bold, defiantly brave and hugely entertaining, often covering a variety of subjects and moral issues that most authors would perhaps shy away from. With this novel, Ryan takes the reader on a dark journey into the minds and personalities of some of societies biggest misfits, who find themselves drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse, all in the hope of a financial reward should they outlive their fellow participants. Kind of a modern day ‘Running Man’ but so much better and a hell of a lot funnier.
This is the second novel of Ryan’s that I’ve read and what is abundantly clear throughout his writing is his ability to bring his characters so vividly to life. This particular novel often switches from the points of views of the various characters involved and through their dialogue and their accents, we’re introduced to a colourful bunch of people, all of who are flawed in some way or other. Their flaws become more apparent as the story develops; through time we learn why they were so carefully selected to take part in the exclusive ‘game’ which the story centres around. The author is extremely adept at portraying each of his characters, whether it be through their dialogue and mannerisms or their actions. Character development is clearly a strength of Ryan’s and even though many of the players in this novel have only a chapter or two to tell their own story, we get a strong sense of who they are, and what their unique story is in a very short space of time. The constant switch in narrative keeps the pace of this novel alive, and it is good to be able to see the events that occur through a variety of different and very often, messed up, mindsets.
The story comes together very well towards the end. At some points throughout the novel, especially at the start, you may question where it’s all leading. My advice would be to stick with it and enjoy the ride. Whilst Ryan clearly writes for the fun and enjoyment of being able to create a damn fine story, his intelligence is vividly apparent in his ability to weave many different strands in a novel, bringing them all neatly together at the end.
Bad words and bloody violence aside, I loved this novel. This is a novel that is full of dark humour, very bad language and which addresses some of the darker sides of life. There is absolutely no point reading it if you are in any way offended by expletives and lots of them. The very title of the novel should also suggest that there will be violence throughout, and whilst it isn’t overrun with needless and gratuitous violence, the violence - when it kicks off - is graphic but is also a central theme of the novel. You’ll love it. You have been warned.
June 27, 2013
I'm on page 49 and can't read any longer. I find the writing uninteresting. The characters are far too many which make the story really confusing. Fifty pages in and I still haven't got the foggiest what's going on. There's a vague hint at a serial killer on the loose, but the writing is far from my favourite and I'm going to move on to another book.
December 11, 2013
I like ambition in a novel. It suggests that the writer gives a damn about their work and, more importantly, suggests that the writer wants to create something that will one day match their ambition. Most writers write within themselves, working with structures that have been in place for a long time, dealing with character tropes that are audience-friendly, narrative experiments are verboten, narrative and plotting are easy to decipher, and language is as reader friendly as possible. Very few make their audience work for it. In truth, even though many writers say they write to please themselves and not their audience, the opposite is often true. They want the audience to love them.
So congratulations must go to Ryan Bracha for attempting something ambitious with his first novel Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet (now referred to for brevity's sake as SAJFYHKY). It's a multi-multi-character novel that weaves first person, third person, and other forms of narrative into a story that I'll do my best not to give away too much of.
The story involves people putting themselves forward to potentially receive ten grand for doing something that is initially a mystery to them. When these people start turning up murdered with their throats cut and their clothes removed, it is immediately obvious that something beyond plain old murder is afoot. But, not being in possession of the full facts, the newspapers, the media, and the bloggers tag the murders as the work of the Sheffield Ripper. But as things progress, and the full game is revealed, the killings start to mount up and things start to get really crazy and the story encompasses strange gambling syndicates, millions of pounds worth of money, shady media manipulators, insanity, and a couple of people drawn into all this madness by a French sex addict who follows his dick just once too often.
SAJFYHKY tells its story through numerous narrative devices in numerous narrative voices. As the story progresses, voices chime in for a chapter or so and disappear as death or relevance to the story takes them out of the narrative. Of course, this makes it difficult at times to remember who is who occasionally, especially if you are quite a slow reader, but the whole thing is well written and tries to impale a considerable portion of modern society with its satire. It doesn't always succeed in its ambition; some chapters feel like they could be shortened, some characters don't always work; but when it does succeed, and everything is firing, it is incredibly funny and bitter and in places sad. Bracha is a genuinely talented writer. I hope he doesn't curtail his ambition and continues to stretch himself with broad narratives and experiments with character and voice.
If you are a reader who is prepared to work for it, and can stomach strong violence, language and some sexual content, SAJFYHKY will give you some real moments of pleasure and it comes recommended by this particular reader.
So congratulations must go to Ryan Bracha for attempting something ambitious with his first novel Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet (now referred to for brevity's sake as SAJFYHKY). It's a multi-multi-character novel that weaves first person, third person, and other forms of narrative into a story that I'll do my best not to give away too much of.
The story involves people putting themselves forward to potentially receive ten grand for doing something that is initially a mystery to them. When these people start turning up murdered with their throats cut and their clothes removed, it is immediately obvious that something beyond plain old murder is afoot. But, not being in possession of the full facts, the newspapers, the media, and the bloggers tag the murders as the work of the Sheffield Ripper. But as things progress, and the full game is revealed, the killings start to mount up and things start to get really crazy and the story encompasses strange gambling syndicates, millions of pounds worth of money, shady media manipulators, insanity, and a couple of people drawn into all this madness by a French sex addict who follows his dick just once too often.
SAJFYHKY tells its story through numerous narrative devices in numerous narrative voices. As the story progresses, voices chime in for a chapter or so and disappear as death or relevance to the story takes them out of the narrative. Of course, this makes it difficult at times to remember who is who occasionally, especially if you are quite a slow reader, but the whole thing is well written and tries to impale a considerable portion of modern society with its satire. It doesn't always succeed in its ambition; some chapters feel like they could be shortened, some characters don't always work; but when it does succeed, and everything is firing, it is incredibly funny and bitter and in places sad. Bracha is a genuinely talented writer. I hope he doesn't curtail his ambition and continues to stretch himself with broad narratives and experiments with character and voice.
If you are a reader who is prepared to work for it, and can stomach strong violence, language and some sexual content, SAJFYHKY will give you some real moments of pleasure and it comes recommended by this particular reader.
January 25, 2013
Bodies are being found in Sheffield, England. The victims seem entirely unconnected except for the cause of death and their lack of clothes. The media are frantic, the population worried. But it’s really a deadly game of cat and mouse with terminal consequences for the losers.
Strangers… is not your typical thriller by any stretch of the imagination. It’s unlike any other book of it’s type I’ve read. The general premise of a group of desperate people selected by a calculating, underhand process to play a game whilst the dubious wealthy place bets is in itself unusual. However, what really sets Strangers… apart is the method by which the author portrays the action - via a multitude of characters. A highly unusual approach to storytelling that works very well.
The cast in the novel is large, from the game players to the manipulators, gamblers, by-standers and reporters to name a few. All of the players are damaged in their own way, all make decisions for personal gain.
As well as the perspective switch. there’s also a use of time to unfold the story elements in an intelligent fashion, adding tension and intrigue. However what really underlies Strangers… is a story of relationships. Two of the more main characters, Tom and Ada, find each other in the most difficult of circumstances. Just when I thought the story had been satisfactorily wrapped up Bracha opens an entirely new, but related episode to ensure everyone gets their just desserts.
The characters are well drawn, despite there being so many, and the multiple switches handled smoothly. The dialogue is sharp and gritty with the local accents and behaviours coming through strongly for colour. The location, Sheffield, is tack sharp in its definition. The writing style is in your face and uncompromising. An example of the ‘milder’ writing:
The mumbled hush of the room continued. Little Miss Impatient was pacing, her nicotine addiction grabbing her by the throat and not letting go, until a crackle then a hiss broke the suspense.
Overall a great read and entirely different.
**Originally reviewed for Books & Pals Blog. May have received free review copy.**
Strangers… is not your typical thriller by any stretch of the imagination. It’s unlike any other book of it’s type I’ve read. The general premise of a group of desperate people selected by a calculating, underhand process to play a game whilst the dubious wealthy place bets is in itself unusual. However, what really sets Strangers… apart is the method by which the author portrays the action - via a multitude of characters. A highly unusual approach to storytelling that works very well.
The cast in the novel is large, from the game players to the manipulators, gamblers, by-standers and reporters to name a few. All of the players are damaged in their own way, all make decisions for personal gain.
As well as the perspective switch. there’s also a use of time to unfold the story elements in an intelligent fashion, adding tension and intrigue. However what really underlies Strangers… is a story of relationships. Two of the more main characters, Tom and Ada, find each other in the most difficult of circumstances. Just when I thought the story had been satisfactorily wrapped up Bracha opens an entirely new, but related episode to ensure everyone gets their just desserts.
The characters are well drawn, despite there being so many, and the multiple switches handled smoothly. The dialogue is sharp and gritty with the local accents and behaviours coming through strongly for colour. The location, Sheffield, is tack sharp in its definition. The writing style is in your face and uncompromising. An example of the ‘milder’ writing:
The mumbled hush of the room continued. Little Miss Impatient was pacing, her nicotine addiction grabbing her by the throat and not letting go, until a crackle then a hiss broke the suspense.
Overall a great read and entirely different.
**Originally reviewed for Books & Pals Blog. May have received free review copy.**
July 21, 2013
Strangers are Just Friends you Haven't Killed Yet by Ryan Bracha is one hell of a book to review.
At some points this book had me frustrated, at others delighted. Ryan has a unique 'voice' and utilises the written words with bravery, imagination, originality and barely any regard for the conventional techniques for forming a compelling narrative, and it doesn't half work for him.
Mixing narrative styles and using a variety of methods to show, rather than tell, Bracha picks away at the world he's created, gradually exposing the reader to a piece at a time. Whilst Ryan's book is not perfect, it meanders a bit too much for me at times and could do with a little editorial tightening up throughout, his enthusiasm, insightful characterisation and understanding of what motivates flawed people drives his story forward with force and pulls you into his world. And what a world it is.
I rarely read work as original as Bracha's and whilst this book has some minor flaws, Bracha's later novels show a writer who is improving with each word he writes but who is maintaining those exciting quirks that make his writing so fresh and engaging.
Ryan is the literary equivalent of Jack White. A force of personality, passion and talent, who can't stop being productive. Often with White, some puzzling work emerges, but in the sheer torrent of productivity, both White and Bracha are the kind of talent who stretch themselves and take minds and their art to places that less brave creatives wouldn't dare. In this regard Bracha excels and seems to me in his creative storm and unrelenting development as a writer to be a bastard offspring of said Mr White, Irvine Welsh and Chuck Palahniuk.
Ryan is a great advert for why the Indie-Author route is so valuable foursome writers. A book like this one and a writer like Bracha would struggle to be anything but ignored by mainstream publishers, consigned to the 'not-marketable' pile simply for being so daring, non-conformist and for dancing to his own literary tune.
What a shame that would be.
I'm looking forward to watching this very talented writer continue to develop his literary muscles and continue to write great stories the way he wants to.
At some points this book had me frustrated, at others delighted. Ryan has a unique 'voice' and utilises the written words with bravery, imagination, originality and barely any regard for the conventional techniques for forming a compelling narrative, and it doesn't half work for him.
Mixing narrative styles and using a variety of methods to show, rather than tell, Bracha picks away at the world he's created, gradually exposing the reader to a piece at a time. Whilst Ryan's book is not perfect, it meanders a bit too much for me at times and could do with a little editorial tightening up throughout, his enthusiasm, insightful characterisation and understanding of what motivates flawed people drives his story forward with force and pulls you into his world. And what a world it is.
I rarely read work as original as Bracha's and whilst this book has some minor flaws, Bracha's later novels show a writer who is improving with each word he writes but who is maintaining those exciting quirks that make his writing so fresh and engaging.
Ryan is the literary equivalent of Jack White. A force of personality, passion and talent, who can't stop being productive. Often with White, some puzzling work emerges, but in the sheer torrent of productivity, both White and Bracha are the kind of talent who stretch themselves and take minds and their art to places that less brave creatives wouldn't dare. In this regard Bracha excels and seems to me in his creative storm and unrelenting development as a writer to be a bastard offspring of said Mr White, Irvine Welsh and Chuck Palahniuk.
Ryan is a great advert for why the Indie-Author route is so valuable foursome writers. A book like this one and a writer like Bracha would struggle to be anything but ignored by mainstream publishers, consigned to the 'not-marketable' pile simply for being so daring, non-conformist and for dancing to his own literary tune.
What a shame that would be.
I'm looking forward to watching this very talented writer continue to develop his literary muscles and continue to write great stories the way he wants to.
June 4, 2014
Another great read from Ryan Bracha !
Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet is the first book in a 2 part dark story about a sinister group who coerce groups of people (whose secrets make it impossible to say no) to perform grisly murders in a do or die competition....a twisted adult Hunger Games for Bracha's twisted followers. There's the usual dark humour, mad characters and twists and turns a plenty..I'd have give it a 5 star rating but I found I enjoyed Bracha's latest outing Paul Carter Is A Dead Manslightly better so didn't want to give it a 5..to recognise that Mr. Bracha's writing is improving with time and experience..(he reminds me of Tim Dorsey crossed with a Yorkshire version of Ian Welsh)! ..That said..I might change the rating after I've finished part 2 Tomorrow's Chip Paper
...isn't it great when you discover a refreshing new writer! nice one goodreads!
Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven't Killed Yet is the first book in a 2 part dark story about a sinister group who coerce groups of people (whose secrets make it impossible to say no) to perform grisly murders in a do or die competition....a twisted adult Hunger Games for Bracha's twisted followers. There's the usual dark humour, mad characters and twists and turns a plenty..I'd have give it a 5 star rating but I found I enjoyed Bracha's latest outing Paul Carter Is A Dead Manslightly better so didn't want to give it a 5..to recognise that Mr. Bracha's writing is improving with time and experience..(he reminds me of Tim Dorsey crossed with a Yorkshire version of Ian Welsh)! ..That said..I might change the rating after I've finished part 2 Tomorrow's Chip Paper
...isn't it great when you discover a refreshing new writer! nice one goodreads!
March 17, 2013
I quite enjoyed this. It was a little predictable - a group of strangers get offered the opportunity to win £10,000...and guess what they're expected to do to win it!
There were a few tangent strands thrown in, such as "interviews" with peripheral characters, who didn't really have anything to do with the main story, but did add quite a bit of background detail.
As expected, something derails the predicted outcome to the "game", and it then trundles off in a slightly unexpected direction, and also seems to indicate that there is a sequel...which is a little intriguing!
Worth a read, if you like your stories dark and a little twisted.
There were a few tangent strands thrown in, such as "interviews" with peripheral characters, who didn't really have anything to do with the main story, but did add quite a bit of background detail.
As expected, something derails the predicted outcome to the "game", and it then trundles off in a slightly unexpected direction, and also seems to indicate that there is a sequel...which is a little intriguing!
Worth a read, if you like your stories dark and a little twisted.
September 3, 2017
It was a bit of slow starter for me and lots of different characters to adjust to but once I had it was a great read.
I loved how it was completely different to the normal books I read and how nothing much was given away until about halfway through the book where it all comes together and begins to make sense.
I wasn't hooked from the first page but it definintely had me gripped the more I got into it.
Not an easy read as it's quite gruesome & dark in places and I wouldn't recommend for anyone who suffers with triggers but if your looking to try an indie author who writes fantastically but differently then Ryan is definitely worth a try. You will not regret it.
I loved how it was completely different to the normal books I read and how nothing much was given away until about halfway through the book where it all comes together and begins to make sense.
I wasn't hooked from the first page but it definintely had me gripped the more I got into it.
Not an easy read as it's quite gruesome & dark in places and I wouldn't recommend for anyone who suffers with triggers but if your looking to try an indie author who writes fantastically but differently then Ryan is definitely worth a try. You will not regret it.
May 24, 2017
Twice as long as needed
Didn't enjoy this. An ok story with average characters and by half way the story was done. Second half was full of dull ramblings of various character, which added nothing.
Didn't enjoy this. An ok story with average characters and by half way the story was done. Second half was full of dull ramblings of various character, which added nothing.
January 14, 2014
It is a rare experience to read a book that is as original, both in the style(s) in which it was written, as well as in the telling of its story, as this one. Reading the clever title of this book, I expected a bit of a darkly humourous send-up of the many serial killer novels out on the market, but this was so much more than that. While it contains its share of dark satire, there is also lots of social commentary and the story even comes across as a morality tale at times.
The book opens with a group of strangers who show up at an office after answering a mysterious ad promising them the chance to win 10,000 pounds. They are all misfits and losers, and are about to be forced into a twisted game of hide and seek in the city of Sheffield, where their naked, bled-dry bodies will soon start showing up. The story jumps from the point of view of one character to another, sometimes told in the first person (with a variety of Cockney and other accents), sometimes in the third. At times, the tale is told in the form of news reports, blogs, witness statements to the police, monologues, dialogues and sometimes plain old narrative. The weakness of this is that there are so many characters that it is a chore keeping up with who is who, especially as there is very little exposition to put the reader into context, and we are left to catch up on the fly. Also, some of these conversations and statements are meandering and touch on the parts of the story only in passing, so that there is some frustration, especially in reading the first half of the book when there seems to be no clear point to the story.
But, if you stick with it, as I did, you will be richly rewarded. The story does come together very well, and the reader begins to appreciate why it was important to see what was happening through so many people's eyes. Even if most characters are not fully formed, the characterizations, where these people come from, how they speak, work and even talk and think about the world around them, is precise and incisive. Eventually, as the story rolls along, there are a handful of characters who are fully fleshed out, and we become caught up in their fates, which are rarely predictable. The author does a good job taking the tale in unexpected directions, surprising me at times when I thought I had a clear grasp of what was going on. He also does a fine job of delving into the minds of this wide variety of people, at times telling a scene from the point of view of a killer, at times of a victim, other times of a casual witness, letting each one express his thoughts in the scene in a specific way.
There isn't a lot of sex in the book, but what there is is extremely explicit, as is the pervasive foul language and brutal violence. However none of it comes across as gratuitous or inappropriate to what's happening. It's all part of the over-the-top story line, the sometimes wild characters and the often hedonistic lifestyles that some of them lead. Over-all, a very entertaining book.
The book opens with a group of strangers who show up at an office after answering a mysterious ad promising them the chance to win 10,000 pounds. They are all misfits and losers, and are about to be forced into a twisted game of hide and seek in the city of Sheffield, where their naked, bled-dry bodies will soon start showing up. The story jumps from the point of view of one character to another, sometimes told in the first person (with a variety of Cockney and other accents), sometimes in the third. At times, the tale is told in the form of news reports, blogs, witness statements to the police, monologues, dialogues and sometimes plain old narrative. The weakness of this is that there are so many characters that it is a chore keeping up with who is who, especially as there is very little exposition to put the reader into context, and we are left to catch up on the fly. Also, some of these conversations and statements are meandering and touch on the parts of the story only in passing, so that there is some frustration, especially in reading the first half of the book when there seems to be no clear point to the story.
But, if you stick with it, as I did, you will be richly rewarded. The story does come together very well, and the reader begins to appreciate why it was important to see what was happening through so many people's eyes. Even if most characters are not fully formed, the characterizations, where these people come from, how they speak, work and even talk and think about the world around them, is precise and incisive. Eventually, as the story rolls along, there are a handful of characters who are fully fleshed out, and we become caught up in their fates, which are rarely predictable. The author does a good job taking the tale in unexpected directions, surprising me at times when I thought I had a clear grasp of what was going on. He also does a fine job of delving into the minds of this wide variety of people, at times telling a scene from the point of view of a killer, at times of a victim, other times of a casual witness, letting each one express his thoughts in the scene in a specific way.
There isn't a lot of sex in the book, but what there is is extremely explicit, as is the pervasive foul language and brutal violence. However none of it comes across as gratuitous or inappropriate to what's happening. It's all part of the over-the-top story line, the sometimes wild characters and the often hedonistic lifestyles that some of them lead. Over-all, a very entertaining book.
October 31, 2013
Where do I begin? Reading this book was like watching a flake of snow, slowly rolling down a hillside. Before you realize what is happening it bets bigger and bigger until it slams you in the chest. You are carried along by the weight and brilliance of it, gladly allowing it to carry you off into oblivion. this book was a drug that I could not quit once I got a taste.
If Chuck Palahniuk and Bret Easton Ellis had a baby, the product of that undoubtedly sordid and violent coupling would be Ryan Bracha. I mean this in the most positive and complimentary way. This guy is good, dam good. My favorite author that I have encountered this year. Probably in the top ten of my all time faves as well.
The ever changing style of narratives and the in your face realism that Strangers possesses are refreshing. The plot revolves around an intense version of age old game is brilliant. I was constantly left wondering how willing each player actually was, how far they would actually go and who would be left breathing. The local jargon and knee-jerk method in which the book was crafted just adds to the charm.
I highly suggest getting a copy of this book for yourself. you will not be disappointing
If Chuck Palahniuk and Bret Easton Ellis had a baby, the product of that undoubtedly sordid and violent coupling would be Ryan Bracha. I mean this in the most positive and complimentary way. This guy is good, dam good. My favorite author that I have encountered this year. Probably in the top ten of my all time faves as well.
The ever changing style of narratives and the in your face realism that Strangers possesses are refreshing. The plot revolves around an intense version of age old game is brilliant. I was constantly left wondering how willing each player actually was, how far they would actually go and who would be left breathing. The local jargon and knee-jerk method in which the book was crafted just adds to the charm.
I highly suggest getting a copy of this book for yourself. you will not be disappointing
March 17, 2014
An interesting novel that I enjoyed reading. It's clear that Ryan Bracha isn't afraid to take risks with his writing. The basic premise of the story is that a number of desperate people answer an ad in the paper. The advert promises them financial reward, all they have to do is submit their details and wait for the call. Of course, like all of the spam emails we get, it isn't quite so simple. Those chosen are coerced into taking part in a deadly game of cat and mouse where losing means death.
The story takes a while to develop but it's worth staying with it. There are acts of violence that are quite graphically described. However, don't let this put you off, you'll see much worse on TV.
The narrative comes at you from several angles: The participants of the game, those controlling the game and the media. This leads to the novel being a bit of a slow burner but also refreshing and different.
Ryan Bracha, for all of his boldness and the unafraid gratuitous nature of some scenes asks a number of moral questions throughout the novel and it's clear he's not out to shock but to make the reader think. On the whole a great read from a bold author whose progress I'll be keen to follow.
The story takes a while to develop but it's worth staying with it. There are acts of violence that are quite graphically described. However, don't let this put you off, you'll see much worse on TV.
The narrative comes at you from several angles: The participants of the game, those controlling the game and the media. This leads to the novel being a bit of a slow burner but also refreshing and different.
Ryan Bracha, for all of his boldness and the unafraid gratuitous nature of some scenes asks a number of moral questions throughout the novel and it's clear he's not out to shock but to make the reader think. On the whole a great read from a bold author whose progress I'll be keen to follow.
January 19, 2017
I had high expectations because of the reviews and maybe that's my fault that I felt let down. Reading it was a bit tedious and though it wasn't bad enough for me to abort mission, I really wanted it to be over. Maybe I kept reading because I was hopeful that the book would redeem itself in the end. It didn't. Also, I have never read a book with so many typos.
March 29, 2013
Totally bizarre and unique. The Hunger Games, but in real life and set in Sheffield. Just want Danny Boyle to go back to his 'Trainspotting/Shallow Grave' roots and make it as a slick black comedy. Well worth a read.
January 16, 2014
Review to follow shortly
September 30, 2017
There's a lot to like about this book. There are some really interesting characters, the concept is fantastic (and I think would be great TV) and the style is ambitious. The ease at which people find themselves trapped into "the game" alongside the morality questions being posed, make for some challenging situations for the characters. I think my rating is possibly more to do with my reading style that the book itself - I just couldn't get into the flow and it too me ages to get a reading rhythm - this made things a big disjointed and I found myself struggling to link it all together. Saying that, this book made me want to read more from Ryan Bracha so maybe 3 stars is a bit harsh.
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December 24, 2019Please see blog facebook page for *L*'s review: https://www.facebook.com/thepturnersb...
February 12, 2023
A meandering, untidy novel full of unpleasant characters with some painful use of english.
December 30, 2016
Sometimes it is difficult to leave reviews for anything by this author, because it seems like nothing I can say will do his writing justice. Or even come close. No matter how hard I try, how can I explain his greatness adequately? How can I prove to you that he only keeps getting better? Here's what I have - read it. Do it. Quit making excuses and avoiding what you need to do. Sack up and read a good book for a change.
Truly skilled in his craft, nothing compares to the thrill of getting a Bracha book in your hands. So, do it. Pick it up and check it out yourself.
Another beauty from one of my favorite authors, this tale wraps its fingers around your throat and squeezes from the start, then gains pace throughout and keeps the reader guessing until the very end. I like the use of so many well-written characters, each a little tilted in their own way. As usual, the characterization impresses and takes you deep into a twisted world not too far off from reality, standing shoulder to shoulder with people you will love, hate, envy, pity, and despise.
Like you know them. I mean, really know them.
Cheer for your favorite in this crazy game and see not only who comes out on top, but the brilliance used to overcome their opponents. The ease with which the author switches perspective helps keep you entertained and sitting on the edge of your seat as the story unfolds and your heart finally beats again.
I have said before that his work continues to get better, which it does, yet this was from a couple years back. Not too far into his career and already kicking ass and building an army of fans. Readability is always phenomenal with this author, anything you choose helps the real world melt away as it carries you through an exciting and thrilling plot. The hardest part about reading one of his stories is choosing the next one you want to experience.
Why are you still here?
You have read this much from me when you should just be reading the book and seeing for yourself. Over 18 thousand characters left and I cannot give this man enough praise, so quit listening to me and get on to this story. Spend your time with his characters, his game, his world, his creation.
Let Bracha entertain you and then think about which of his stories you will try on next.
Truly skilled in his craft, nothing compares to the thrill of getting a Bracha book in your hands. So, do it. Pick it up and check it out yourself.
Another beauty from one of my favorite authors, this tale wraps its fingers around your throat and squeezes from the start, then gains pace throughout and keeps the reader guessing until the very end. I like the use of so many well-written characters, each a little tilted in their own way. As usual, the characterization impresses and takes you deep into a twisted world not too far off from reality, standing shoulder to shoulder with people you will love, hate, envy, pity, and despise.
Like you know them. I mean, really know them.
Cheer for your favorite in this crazy game and see not only who comes out on top, but the brilliance used to overcome their opponents. The ease with which the author switches perspective helps keep you entertained and sitting on the edge of your seat as the story unfolds and your heart finally beats again.
I have said before that his work continues to get better, which it does, yet this was from a couple years back. Not too far into his career and already kicking ass and building an army of fans. Readability is always phenomenal with this author, anything you choose helps the real world melt away as it carries you through an exciting and thrilling plot. The hardest part about reading one of his stories is choosing the next one you want to experience.
Why are you still here?
You have read this much from me when you should just be reading the book and seeing for yourself. Over 18 thousand characters left and I cannot give this man enough praise, so quit listening to me and get on to this story. Spend your time with his characters, his game, his world, his creation.
Let Bracha entertain you and then think about which of his stories you will try on next.
September 6, 2018
Close but no cigar.
Well written, terse and detailed but no real story to keep me reading. there was a conflict which ultimately detached me from the book, in so far as the likeable characters died and the author's enthusiasm for the accidental wide boy freed from his call centre cage derailed what could have been a tight and vicious thriller. Instead of this, we got a Tarantino pastiche. Shame as this shows craft and ability.
Well written, terse and detailed but no real story to keep me reading. there was a conflict which ultimately detached me from the book, in so far as the likeable characters died and the author's enthusiasm for the accidental wide boy freed from his call centre cage derailed what could have been a tight and vicious thriller. Instead of this, we got a Tarantino pastiche. Shame as this shows craft and ability.
June 3, 2015
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