U

by Jim Nicklin

A Gripping Psychological Thriller of Science, Crime, and Desire

Dr. Rachel Rossi is a brilliant organic chemist with a dangerous creation—U, a groundbreaking recreational drug that promises to change the world. Backed by the ruthless businessman Massey Mancuso, Rachel is thrust into a high-stakes world of power and corruption.

But as U begins to reveal its darker side, Rachel finds herself entangled in a web of ambition, betrayal, and deadly consequences. She is forced to confront just how far she’s willing to cross the line to protect her creation—and herself.

Set against the gritty backdrop of Brisbane, U is a fast-paced medical and psychological thriller where morality blurs and survival demands impossible choices. Perfect for fans of Breaking Bad and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, this addictive crime novel will keep you turning pages until its shocking finale.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 2, 2024

Reviews

[Sharni Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful read. Touched on so many interesting themes and kept me wanting to know what was coming next. Loved the intricacies of the chemistry details but not too in-depth that we didn’t understand (in fact I learned a few things). Excellent mix of crime, mystery, romance and science! Being a Brisbane local I loved the details and felt like I could immerse myself into the story with the familiarity of the various locations. Amazingly well written Jim, congrats on your first novel. Looking forward to the next one.

[Fiona Tetsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rollicking read that will have you wide eyed, gripped and laughing. It’ll give you all the feels while having a lovely time wandering around Brisbane. A read U won’t regret.

[KSpoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of the best books I've read lately are by authors hailing from my hometown of Brisbane and I therefore couldn't pass up the opportunity to read this debut novel by a renowned local Gynaecological Oncologist. The storyline was unique. Rachel, a brilliant chemist working for a large pharmaceutical company, is coerced into sacrificing her professional integrity and applying her expertise into the secret development of the perfect recreational drug to pay off astronomical gambling debts run up by her husband Sam. The book was immediately engaging and as the plot evolved it provided education and insights into the seductive power of science, gambling addiction, ambition, domestic violence, drug development and the criminal underworld. A thoroughly entertaining read, face paced, well written and researched.

[Cate Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching on numerous contemporary themes such as addiction, diversity, underworld crime and domestic violence U is an exceptional debut novel. The novel’s characters are well portrayed as they navigate the moral and ethical challenges of connections and coincidence in the pharmacological industry and society in general. Depictions of Australian architecture, culinary offerings, weather and social scene are a terrific backdrop to the story. U is an action packed novel and overall a great read!

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

"U is an exceptionally engaging novel right from the opening page. The writing is polished, featuring well-crafted and believable characters alongside a thought-provoking plot. The Australian backdrop and the incorporation of local colloquialisms are delightful. I particularly enjoyed the escalating tension and pacing throughout the story. Overall, it's a remarkable debut novel that is sure to resonate with a diverse readership."

[Jill Nicklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced drama that hooks you in from the first page. Set in Brisbane so very familiar and really gets you thinking about lots of issues- won’t give too much away!

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Such an interesting story that grabs you from the very beginning! I loved all of the Brisbane references but this is also such an applicable story all over the world.

[Steven Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book - easy read - interesting subplots - a standout for a first timer. Very well done. Now onto the second !

[Anna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this read! It had me hooked from the first page and I just wanted to keep reading. Loved the character development and depth. A great book - highly recommend.

[Wendy Dent · Rating 5 out of 5]

U was an excellent summer read! Great characters to like and loathe, and it makes you think about the the use of, and the fine line between, legal and illegal pharmaceuticals.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most captivating fiction novels I’ve ever read! It explores fascinating themes that will appeal to a diverse range of readers. I loved the action and suspense—it will be a great movie!

[Meg Pinc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jim Nicklin’s U is a fast-paced crime thriller that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go.

At its heart, U is more than just a thriller—it’s an exploration of human nature and its relationship with drugs, alcohol, and sexuality.

The characters really enjoyable. Massy and Rachel in particular bring warmth and relatability to the gritty story, keeping the reader emotionally invested.

Highly recommended for anyone who loves a page-turning crime story.