What do you think?
Rate this book
Ada & Eddie: A Novel
Finding the body of a young woman on the North York Moors creates a dilemma for Eddie, a reclusive homeless man who would rather commune with wildlife than tolerate humans. Ada, a feisty widow living nearby with a secret past, comes to the rescue. Together they embark on a mission to discover the identity of the young woman - a pursuit that unwittingly brings them towards a collision course with political corruption, murder, and betrayal. Written from Eddie’s point of view, the many conflicts are seen through his naive and simplistic view of the world around him. In contrast, Ada brings a more realistic, assertive approach to the perilous twists and turns they encounter while the presence of a deeply entrenched mole within their group of confidants keeps the reader guessing his identity. Ultimately, Ada, Eddie, and their cohorts successfully bring down an unscrupulous British government official, and in a shocking finale, the enemy’s unthinkable retribution is disclosed
232 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2025
1 person is currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Barry Harden
7 booksBarry Harden is the author of a memoir, five novels, two books of poetry and a collection of short stories in the genres of political thriller, satire, Gothic fantasy poetry, and allegorical short stories. An animal rights, environmental protection, and civil rights proponent, he often injects his affinity for such in his writings.
Some of Mr. Harden’s poetry can be viewed in video format on YouTube: Dark Gothic Poetry and Stories.
Born in North Harrow, London, he has been living in the south of France for over two decades and hosts a sanctuary for wayward cats. He is an avid enthusiast of Black jazz and blues from the 1920s and 30s.
Some of Mr. Harden’s poetry can be viewed in video format on YouTube: Dark Gothic Poetry and Stories.
Born in North Harrow, London, he has been living in the south of France for over two decades and hosts a sanctuary for wayward cats. He is an avid enthusiast of Black jazz and blues from the 1920s and 30s.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 26, 2025
The following is an abridged version of my review. The full length version can be found on my site www.readinghasruinedmylife.com
Thank you to Collective Ink and Roundfire Books for sending me a copy of Ada & Eddie. They aren't paying me for my review, they jut sent me the book for free.
A content warning for this read, Ada & Eddie has mentions of physical and mental abuse. Please be aware of these topics before hopping into the read.
Also, there are multiple dogs mentioned in this book, and they all die; one suffers a very violent death. I am upset. I am not pleased. If this was any other book, I would be giving it a one-star review and calling it a day, but as I was sent this read and asked to review it then I must properly review it. Ada & Eddie is on thin ice with me.
I did not have a fun time with this book. I found this read to be tedious and full of characters I couldn’t differentiate between. Ada & Eddie suffers from Too Many Characters Syndrome made even worse by the fact that most characters are poorly introduced. Aside from the titular characters, I had no idea who anyone else was. The final reveal of the double agent did absolutely nothing for me because I had no idea who they were or what they did at any point in the novel.
Events and plot points happen one right after the other without giving the characters, and readers for that matter, the time to breathe and digest what just occurred. I don’t think this is something that I’ve ever said before, but Ada & Eddie has too much going on too fast. It’s incident after incident without worldbuilding or the main characters researching/sleuthing; seriously, the characters outsource all of their research.
I did not like this book, plain and simple, I’m not a fan of this read. Ada & Eddie could have been expanded upon so, so much. The book is only 217 pages long when it easily could have been a 400+ page thriller. The characters, the world, the government secrets, the double agent plotline, the fact that this is a political thriller; it all could, and should, have been expanded upon.
Ada & Eddie has good bones. The main plot being a family murdered over a parcel of land full of rare minerals and an extremist environmental group fighting back is stellar. The writing itself is poor though and it drags the book down a lot. I would love to see Ada & Eddie reworked, expanded, and made to look like a finished novel and not a first draft.
Thank you once again to Collective Ink and Roundfire Books for sending me a copy of Ada & Eddie. It really means a lot to me every time someone sends me books. Thank you!
Again, the full length version of my review can be found on www.readinghasruinedmylife.com. I post new books reviews every Wednesday at noon EST.
Thank you to Collective Ink and Roundfire Books for sending me a copy of Ada & Eddie. They aren't paying me for my review, they jut sent me the book for free.
A content warning for this read, Ada & Eddie has mentions of physical and mental abuse. Please be aware of these topics before hopping into the read.
Also, there are multiple dogs mentioned in this book, and they all die; one suffers a very violent death. I am upset. I am not pleased. If this was any other book, I would be giving it a one-star review and calling it a day, but as I was sent this read and asked to review it then I must properly review it. Ada & Eddie is on thin ice with me.
I did not have a fun time with this book. I found this read to be tedious and full of characters I couldn’t differentiate between. Ada & Eddie suffers from Too Many Characters Syndrome made even worse by the fact that most characters are poorly introduced. Aside from the titular characters, I had no idea who anyone else was. The final reveal of the double agent did absolutely nothing for me because I had no idea who they were or what they did at any point in the novel.
Events and plot points happen one right after the other without giving the characters, and readers for that matter, the time to breathe and digest what just occurred. I don’t think this is something that I’ve ever said before, but Ada & Eddie has too much going on too fast. It’s incident after incident without worldbuilding or the main characters researching/sleuthing; seriously, the characters outsource all of their research.
I did not like this book, plain and simple, I’m not a fan of this read. Ada & Eddie could have been expanded upon so, so much. The book is only 217 pages long when it easily could have been a 400+ page thriller. The characters, the world, the government secrets, the double agent plotline, the fact that this is a political thriller; it all could, and should, have been expanded upon.
Ada & Eddie has good bones. The main plot being a family murdered over a parcel of land full of rare minerals and an extremist environmental group fighting back is stellar. The writing itself is poor though and it drags the book down a lot. I would love to see Ada & Eddie reworked, expanded, and made to look like a finished novel and not a first draft.
Thank you once again to Collective Ink and Roundfire Books for sending me a copy of Ada & Eddie. It really means a lot to me every time someone sends me books. Thank you!
Again, the full length version of my review can be found on www.readinghasruinedmylife.com. I post new books reviews every Wednesday at noon EST.
January 24, 2025
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/01/24/4-...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
Ada and Eddie by Barry Harden is a mystery with several layers and unexpected connections.
A multitude of characters from all walks of life are involved in different scenarios and activities. There are more bad guys than good, but so many show a different face to those whose paths they cross.
The story starts unexpectedly with a murdered body found by Eddie, who experiences a deep connection with the victim even though he doesn’t know her. Ada and Eddie meet unexpectedly on her property, although she’s been watching him for a while while he forages the land, cares for animals and birds, and thinks he’s off the grid.
Eddie is wary of Ada initially, but then he comes to care for her and follows her lead and instincts when situations come to light that will affect his life in more ways than he ever imagined. He and Ada seem to have nothing in common, but things change the more time they spend together.
The story held my interest throughout and moved at a quick pace. But there are so many details to keep track of that I often had to look back to refresh my memory. Many of the characters appear to be different from what they seem, and there are more layers to the story and characters than seems possible. A land grab is part of the plot, and things aren’t going to plan, especially for those trying to do so.
Some of the bad guys get what they deserve, but not all. Eddie and Ada meet a surprising end, but there are definitely loose ends and bad guys still in power. Will there be another book to continue the story?
Ada and Eddie is set in Scotland on the moors with murders, crimes, bad cops, and those in influential positions as well as people on the take. Eddie’s life takes an unexpected turn on many fronts, but will he be better off than when he lived incognito?
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/01/24/4-...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
Ada and Eddie by Barry Harden is a mystery with several layers and unexpected connections.
A multitude of characters from all walks of life are involved in different scenarios and activities. There are more bad guys than good, but so many show a different face to those whose paths they cross.
The story starts unexpectedly with a murdered body found by Eddie, who experiences a deep connection with the victim even though he doesn’t know her. Ada and Eddie meet unexpectedly on her property, although she’s been watching him for a while while he forages the land, cares for animals and birds, and thinks he’s off the grid.
Eddie is wary of Ada initially, but then he comes to care for her and follows her lead and instincts when situations come to light that will affect his life in more ways than he ever imagined. He and Ada seem to have nothing in common, but things change the more time they spend together.
The story held my interest throughout and moved at a quick pace. But there are so many details to keep track of that I often had to look back to refresh my memory. Many of the characters appear to be different from what they seem, and there are more layers to the story and characters than seems possible. A land grab is part of the plot, and things aren’t going to plan, especially for those trying to do so.
Some of the bad guys get what they deserve, but not all. Eddie and Ada meet a surprising end, but there are definitely loose ends and bad guys still in power. Will there be another book to continue the story?
Ada and Eddie is set in Scotland on the moors with murders, crimes, bad cops, and those in influential positions as well as people on the take. Eddie’s life takes an unexpected turn on many fronts, but will he be better off than when he lived incognito?
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
June 10, 2025
The Review
This was a fascinating and shocking crime thriller meets mystery novel. The story is filled with twists and turns galore, with a fast and engaging pace. The development of Ada, Eddie, and their supporting cast felt realistic and allowed the reader to invest in their journey. The use of imagery in the author’s writing style made the entire book feel cinematic, as if this were a limited series playing out on TV.
The themes of this novel matched the mystery of the story. While honing in on the murder from the first page and keeping readers engaged from the start, the author also hones in on themes such as the homelessness crisis and how debilitating isolation can be for some, as well as the power of corruption and how it impacts the world around us on a daily basis, allowing readers to become immersed in this crime-filled world the author has brought to life on the page.
The Verdict
Twisted, enthralling, and heartfelt in its delivery, author Barry Harden’s “Ada & Eddie” is a must-read crime thriller meets drama. The mystery and suspense of the narrative will stay with readers, and the pulse-pounding, at times emotional, and shocking final twists will stay with readers long after the book ends.
This was a fascinating and shocking crime thriller meets mystery novel. The story is filled with twists and turns galore, with a fast and engaging pace. The development of Ada, Eddie, and their supporting cast felt realistic and allowed the reader to invest in their journey. The use of imagery in the author’s writing style made the entire book feel cinematic, as if this were a limited series playing out on TV.
The themes of this novel matched the mystery of the story. While honing in on the murder from the first page and keeping readers engaged from the start, the author also hones in on themes such as the homelessness crisis and how debilitating isolation can be for some, as well as the power of corruption and how it impacts the world around us on a daily basis, allowing readers to become immersed in this crime-filled world the author has brought to life on the page.
The Verdict
Twisted, enthralling, and heartfelt in its delivery, author Barry Harden’s “Ada & Eddie” is a must-read crime thriller meets drama. The mystery and suspense of the narrative will stay with readers, and the pulse-pounding, at times emotional, and shocking final twists will stay with readers long after the book ends.
April 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book, however, I think there was a bit of lost potential here. The story started off well, it had me fully intrigued, and I liked the two MCs (Ada and Eddie). The plot was quite unique, especially considering the addition of economic/governmental aspects, which were quite thrilling. As the story went on, there were a lot of people involved. You don't know enough about any of them to care about them. The parts that were probably intended to be the "thrilling" parts (shootouts, etc.) became confusing, and the last bit with Ada and Eddie felt so rushed that it seemed wrong, like it wasn't the right ending...and then it kept going, which, by that point, I had lost interest. Then, there's the reveal, and my first thought was "wait, who was that?" All that to say, the first half-ish had me, then I felt like I had started reading a different book that I didn't like as much.
May 22, 2025
This is a clever thriller set in the North York Moors. It follows Eddie, a homeless drifter, who discovers a young woman's body and is then unexpectedly drawn into a dangerous conspiracy involving political corruption, murder, and betrayal.
Ada, a strong-willed woman with a secret past, joins Eddie in uncovering the mystery, leading them into a web of deceit and power struggles. The bond that develops between them is touching and real, and shows the depths of the characters.
Good editing helped the story flow well. The story definitely gained momentum as the book went on, holding my attention the whole way. Fans of mysteries, thrillers, and books that have surprising moments will definitely enjoy this one!
My review is based on an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) which I received free of charge. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ada, a strong-willed woman with a secret past, joins Eddie in uncovering the mystery, leading them into a web of deceit and power struggles. The bond that develops between them is touching and real, and shows the depths of the characters.
Good editing helped the story flow well. The story definitely gained momentum as the book went on, holding my attention the whole way. Fans of mysteries, thrillers, and books that have surprising moments will definitely enjoy this one!
My review is based on an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) which I received free of charge. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 10, 2025
This was a delightful read. The book is full of odd, interesting, and wonderful characters. Ada and Eddie are unique and it was fun to discover more about them as the story developed. It was also enjoyable to watch their relationship develop.
I won't discuss the plot as it is readily available. I will say that while there is plenty of amusement, there is plenty of mystery, suspense, and danger.
I highly recommend this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I won't discuss the plot as it is readily available. I will say that while there is plenty of amusement, there is plenty of mystery, suspense, and danger.
I highly recommend this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2025
I received a free ARC of this book and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review. Eddie has been rough sleeping for years after a traumatic childhood, when he stumbles across the body of a young woman. He makes an unlikely aly in Ada, a widow who takes pitty on him. But there's more to Eddie's past than he realises and a dangerous game begins. This story started well, but I feel there was a lot of wasted potential. The story got muddled with too many characters and stories that felt incomplete. This felt more like a work in progress to me, which was a shame.
May 2, 2025
Man… I knew it! I knew that dude was shady! I knew he was the mole! Everything was off about him from the start. Gah, this was intense. So very good. I was so sad by the ending too. I wanted so much better for them. I'm hoping Merry and Joseph will make things better. I love Merry. She is the absolute best. I really hope there will be another book after this. There's so much that needs done still. A great book
March 24, 2025
I received a free preview copy of this British political thriller which I read in three days---it was that engrossing. Eddie is a homeless drifter who chooses to live among nature and animals in the English North York Moors rather than endure the cruelty of humans. When he stumbles upon a woman’s body on the moors, he has no idea he's about to be thrust into a deadly conspiracy reaching the highest levels of British politics. While searching for tools in a nearby farmhouse, he runs into Ada, a feisty widow who convinces him to report it to the authorities.
Their search for answers soon uncovers a hidden connection to a valuable piece of land, drawing the attention of Blatherley, a shady government official with his own agenda. As truths are revealed, Ada, Eddie, and their allies find themselves in a perilous struggle against powerful forces willing to do anything to protect their secrets. What follows is a fast-paced, adrenaline-charged cat-and-mouse game with unexpected twists and deadly consequences. The presence of a potential traitor within their circle keeps the reader guessing until the shocking finale.
The characters are three dimensional---realistic, complex, and relatable. I totally fell in love with Eddie, who narrates the story in his humble, simplistic view of the world. Ada and Eddie develop an unbreakable bond despite their vastly different backgrounds, but Harden pulls this off seamlessly, giving us two affecting, unforgettable characters.
While it’s an exciting political thriller full of twists and danger, the story also touches on important social issues—the struggles of the homeless, the difficulty of emotionally connecting across social lines, the reckless use of natural resources and destruction of wildlife, and the erosion of public trust in government officials. Somehow, Harden makes it work, delivering a riveting thriller with a powerful message.
Their search for answers soon uncovers a hidden connection to a valuable piece of land, drawing the attention of Blatherley, a shady government official with his own agenda. As truths are revealed, Ada, Eddie, and their allies find themselves in a perilous struggle against powerful forces willing to do anything to protect their secrets. What follows is a fast-paced, adrenaline-charged cat-and-mouse game with unexpected twists and deadly consequences. The presence of a potential traitor within their circle keeps the reader guessing until the shocking finale.
The characters are three dimensional---realistic, complex, and relatable. I totally fell in love with Eddie, who narrates the story in his humble, simplistic view of the world. Ada and Eddie develop an unbreakable bond despite their vastly different backgrounds, but Harden pulls this off seamlessly, giving us two affecting, unforgettable characters.
While it’s an exciting political thriller full of twists and danger, the story also touches on important social issues—the struggles of the homeless, the difficulty of emotionally connecting across social lines, the reckless use of natural resources and destruction of wildlife, and the erosion of public trust in government officials. Somehow, Harden makes it work, delivering a riveting thriller with a powerful message.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews