Borderline

by Graeme Cumming

When the system isn’t working, work outside the system.

A search for a missing man thrusts Rand Scott into the dark realms of homelessness, drug dealing and sex clubs.

Kirsty Moore wants to find her brother Johnny, a one-time rock star.

The police also want him – for murder.

And there are others looking who don’t play nicely.

A simple job turns deadly as Rand uncovers a world where money talks louder than the screams of innocent bystanders.



'Thirty years ago the dominant voice in PI fiction was Robert B. Parker.
His ‘Spenser’ novels are probably the best thing since sliced Chandler. Ever since I first read a Spenser novel I’ve wondered about an English Spenser to no particular conclusion, but in Graeme Cumming’s ‘Rand’ Scott (yes, that really is his name) I think we have a contender. Rand is the Spenser mix of borderline criminal and white knight, the hard-case with a heart of gold. That said, Cumming doesn’t pretend to copy Parker’s style, his voice is his own, his dialogue crisp, his sense of place superb … and he doesn’t give a flying F about food (sorry, Robert B.)
Borderline is the first book in what I hope becomes a regular series.’
John Lawton, best-selling author of the Inspector Troy and the Joe Wilderness series

Genres: Thriller

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 9, 2025

About the author

Graeme Cumming lives in Robin Hood country, and has spent most of his life immersed in fiction – books, TV, movies – turning to writing his own during his early teens.

With his interests in story-telling sparked by an excessive amount of time sitting in front of a black and white television, his tastes are varied. Influences ranged from the Irwin Allen shows (Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, Lost in Space, etc.) to ITC series (The Saint, The Champions, Randall and Hopkirk (deceased) and so many more), so the common theme was action and adventure, but crossed into territories including horror, fantasy and science fiction as well as crime and espionage.

This diverse interest in fiction continued with his reading and his discovery of the magical world of cinema. As a result, his stories don’t always fall into a specific genre, but will always maintain the style of a thriller.

When not writing, Graeme is an enthusiastic sailor (and, by default, swimmer), and enjoys off-road cycling and walking. He is past President and Education Director at Sheffield Speakers Club. Oh yes, and he reads (a lot) and loves the cinema.

Reviews

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new author to me and a really good find

We meet Rand Scott who seems to be a disgruntled ex Policeman who now does ‘jobs on the side’ and has taken on the task of finding ex pop star ( ish ) ‘Johnny’ at his Sisters request, ‘Johnny’ is on the run after apparently shooting dead a security officer in a botched robbery ( there is a lot lot more to it than that ) HOWEVER it soon becomes clear Rand is not the normal disgruntled etc, he is a very unexpected and got to say very likeable character, a vegan Thin Lizzy fan who secretly runs a refuge for people more than down on their luck, he has humour, knowledge, self depreciation, a love of shower gel and a keen eye ( for many things! ) he really is a legend. Oh and his best mate is a lady called Hazard

There was so much in this book that was different to any crime book read before, I loved the chatty writing and the ‘talking’ to the reader plus the twisty nature of the story/ book

More than appealing, really good

[Joanne Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you look up gritty in the dictionary I’d be very surprised if it didn’t list Borderline as its meaning because this crime thriller debut is the epitome of that description! I’ve read books by Graeme before and so appreciate that his writing style is always gripping and involving but with this new direction, the narrative suits that style perfectly!
For me Rand is an interesting and complex protagonist. He isn’t afraid to confront topical issues and wrong doings- not in a “whiter than white” hero way, but with a deeper understanding and sense of justice. I was gripped immediately by his character and his actions as he searched for the ex rock star Johnny Moore who is also wanted by the police.
I’m so glad this is going to be a series as I definitely need more Rand! Borderline is an unpredictable, dark and gritty thriller that is totally worth locking yourself away with as you won’t want to be disturbed by anyone once you start reading. Role on book 2!

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Graeme Cumming is an author I have known for a while now. I have both his previous books and knew Borderline was a change in genre for him. I truly didn't have a clue what to expect!!
It's a truly gripping and gritty story. I believe it is the first in a series and I am so glad. Rand Scott is a man who finds himself thrust into an investigation for a missing man. Rand operates under the radar, the further under it the better for him. The biggest issue is he seems to be being noticed by the wrong people as he investigates.
I don't want to give to much away about the plot so if you need more, read it! Graeme Cumming deals with a lot of sensitive and relevant issues in todays world and he does it very well.
Rand Scott is a character I invested in, he is a man who is pretty complex, with hidden depths for sure. He surprised me at times as the story unfolded.
A cracker of a thriller that has the perfect ingredients for a great read!! Gritty, dark and twists that are perfectly placed.

[Nicola Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what did I just read here? This book was excellent!! I loved the story, and it kept me hooked the entire time. I'm really pleased that this is going to be the first in the series. Rand has so much more to give us! The cover is good, and the location at the docks is very fitting. I liked the colours - they're very striking and visually pleasing. The cover was designed perfectly. The book is extremely well written and flows nicely. The writing kept me guessing, which was fun! Also, there were so many twists and turns that made this a page turner. I think I may have missed the name of the city it's based in, but it's definitely north-east of England. I liked the setting a lot. I loved the characters, and they fit into the story perfectly. Rand Scott is brilliant. He's definitely an ideal MMC in this genre. Rand is one of the best morally grey men I've read about! He's not afraid to blur lines and do what's needed! I recommend this book so much! I think I'm going to put my dad onto it too!

[dianas_books_cars_coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rand Scott, aka Cowboy, is called upon by Kristy Moore to find her missing brother, Johnny, who was once a famous rockstar. The search leads Rand into the seedy world of drug dealing, sex clubs, and homelessness. But it seems Rand isn't the only one looking for Johnny. The police want him to, for murder and there are other individuals looking to keep him quiet. The stakes are high and Rand's life is on the line. Can he find Johnny before the others?

This was an engrossing read with a very interesting main character. I was definitely invested. It was action-packed, dark, gritty, and had great pacing. The mystery was compelling and there were twists I didn't see coming. This book gave me a peek into Britain's seedy underworld, and it was thrilling. I absolutely loved all the music references and the MC, Rand Scott. He's flawed and morally gray but there is a soft side to him. He funds a homeless refuge and really does try to help people, even if it's in an unorthodox way. His backstory was most certainly intriguing. This is the start of a new series, and I'm excited to see where it goes. This crime thriller with it's twist and turns was a great one and I would highly recommend it.🩷

[Donna Morfett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Graeme's I've read, and I was thrilled to see in the closing notes there will be more.
This is a truly fantastic read. Ive enjoyed every second and I've basically read it cover to cover since this morning.
It opens with Rand doing a favour for someone that gives you an idea of what hes about. He then meets Kirsty and enjoys a night with her. Unfortunately, this leads to quite a journey.
Taking Rand from one criminal element to another.
However Rand clearly has a heart. He helps out at a homeless refuge, with Hazard, a former homeless person. He fully accepts he's just the financier, and its Hazard doing all the hard work. But its a wonderful idea and I hope something like it really exists. I know people like Hazard will, true angels of our society.
The characters are all brilliant and you are never sure who you can trust. The way Graeme writes means you need to be prepared to have the rug pulled from under you.
The scenery, the musical jokes and atmosphere make this a really immersive read. The plotting and story are tight and not a word is wasted.
I really really cannot wait for book 2.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not quite sure how I would describe Rand Scott, the protagonist and narrator at the heart of Graeme Cumming's new series. Former Police Officer? Yes. Friend to the homeless? Without question - a task he and his partner in a local refuge, Hazard, take very seriously. Justice seeker ...? Well, that is perhaps closer to the truth, although that is not an official title, more a role he seems to take on quite readily. But only for the right client and, often, the right price. He lives not a vigilante life, but then again, he doesn't exactly operate within the law either. Which makes him exactly the right person for Kirsty Moore who is desperate to trace her missing brother. There is reason to believe he has been living amongst the homeless, a community Rand knows well. But Kirsty is not the only person looking for Johnny Moore, and that means trouble for Rand and a whole book load of action, excitement and tension for us readers - just how I like it. Wanted for the murder of a security guard during a botched robbery, being found by the police is the least of Johnny's problems, as Rand will find out to his own cost, with numerous, sometimes painful, run ins with Johnny's pursuers.

I really liked Rand. He's not your run of the mill character, not a former copper gone rogue, nor an unbelievably undentable action hero, with seemingly superhuman abilities to best the bad guys at every turn. He is decidedly human, but just happens to know a few tricks. Perhaps the biggest surprise of all is the moral code by which he lives. Some might call it a touch ambiguous - vegan, the roots of which are explained throughout the course of the action, and defender of those who he feels need his protection, and yet willing to operate on the wrong side of the law when it will achieve whatever aim he has in mind, be that protecting Johnny, or seeking the funds to keep the refuge he has set up running, and helping helping the homeless find a new place in society. He runs in unusual circles, from Army Veteran, Hazard, who will definitely not be what you are expecting, to drug dealer to the slightly more elite Will, and he has someone on speed dial who will happily dispose of vehicles, no questions asked, and yet, everything he does seems to be for the greater good. Graeme Cumming has created a really compelling character with a really authentic voice whose company I thoroughly enjoyed and I'm glad this is the start of a series.

The story itself is perfectly paced and packed with tension. There are many characters of the dubious variety that Rand comes into contact with, each with personality and behaviours that felt believable. Each new interaction brings about a new layer of conflict and jeopardy, but I like how the author has turned convention in its head, with the biggest threat coming from the kinds of people you might not expect. Put it this way, Rand is lucky that Hazard is on his side. I would not want to cross paths with them in a bad mood. The strong silent type, I really liked them too and look forward to seeing more in the future books. As for some of the other characters, the antagonists, the come from all walks of life but the most chilling come with the understated feeling of menace that just leeches off the page perfectly. The kind you know will prove to be the biggest thorn in Rand's side. Graeme Cumming gets the balance between the overt danger and the quiet danger just right, which meant the story just flies along and I found myself completely glued to the action, wondering just what it would mean for Rand and, by extension, Kirsty and Johnny.

The ending might not be quite what you expect, but it is perhaps the perfect way for this particular story thread to conclude, and to set us all up for what might come next. There is ongoing conflict between Rand and the police, particularly one character who had significant impact on his past which I can't help but feel will escalate in the future. And with such a compelling narrative voice, that gritty noir style favoured in many private detective novels, with dry but astute observations by the central character, I can definitely say this is a book that really hit the spot. If you like your novels on the darker side, packed with tension, with brilliantly observed, intriguing, characters, give this a whirl. You won't regret it.

[P.A. Rudders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a cracker of a book. Given the descriptive blurb didn’t really give too much away, I wasn’t sure at first what direction the story was taking, but the dramatic opening, gritty, crisp, and authentic dialogue, and ‘show-not-tell’ scene setting and descriptive style was enough to keep me hooked.

The lead character, Rand, is basically a decent man with a social conscience, someone who ‘likes to do the right thing,’ though the ‘robust’ means and unorthodox methods he uses to achieve that are often anything but … not exactly a vigilante, but more someone who can ‘get things done,’ someone who hovers between legal and ‘not-so-legal’ avenues for convenience, but more than able and far from adverse to getting his hands dirty if needs be. That said, Rand doesn’t fit the usual stereotype of a justice-seeking-vigilante, but more that of a social justice warrior, albeit one with a ruthless streak, so not exactly fitting that stereotype either, so definitely a man it’s better to have on your side than not.

Written from a first-person perspective – which worked really well I have to say – what starts off as request from a woman he’s recently struck up a relationship with to help find her missing former rockstar brother soon drags Rand deep into a world he’s already more than familiar with, namely the wrong side of the streets, drugs, and all the unsavoury elements that go with it. Although well equipped to deal with whatever’s thrown his way, Rand finds himself having to navigate a fine line between the unwanted attention of some very nasty and well-connected criminals and thugs and then, the parallel investigations of the police, both sides having good but very different reasons to find the said missing former rockstar. That said, Rand has another motivation for getting and staying involved, namely a spot of payback and revenge for something that happened long before in his life.

From the opening page, the author takes the reader on a journey into criminal, seedy, and often violent corners of society that most of us are fortunate enough never to experience outside the pages of a book. Similarly, Borderline also incorporates and addresses some very real and unpleasant social issues that inevitably sit alongside the greed and criminality that festers beneath the surface of any major town or city, but not in a preachy way that ever detracts from the narrative of the story.

Just when you think the story is winding up to its natural conclusion and tying up all the loose ends so to speak, the author throws a couple more curveballs to keep the reader guessing – and leaving the door wide open for a sequel I’m happy to say. Although a departure from the author’s more usual horror writing, this really was as good a crime thriller as I’ve read in years, immediately setting the tone and pace with consummate skill like he’s been writing in the genre for years, which I certainly hope will eventually prove to be the case … can’t wait for the next one, so an easy and well-deserved five stars from me!

[Robbie Cheadle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't read a lot of thrillers as I find the plotlines tend towards being repetitive. I am really glad I gave Borderline a chance as it is not the run of the mill thriller. Using the dark scene of sex clubs as a spring board, this book delves into the world of organised crime in Britain that reaches right up into the top echelons of the police force. It stretches into the murky waters of fear of job losses and reprisal being used as a tool to keep police colleagues from taking action against the corruption. The main character, Rand, is a victim of such manipulative reprisal and his unjust treatment has helped mould his attitudes and character. There is a great deal going on in this novel which also sends tendrils into the world of hard core environmentalists who will cross legal lines in pursuit of their cause.

There are two areas, in my mind, that differentiate this book from its peer group. Firstly, the excellent characterisation. The author has depicted various characters with a clear and brutal honesty that cuts to the bone of human nature and fallibility. Rand, a man whom the system has failed and even savaged, has a deep understanding and sympathy for the homeless and is driven to try and make a difference. The homeless are not invisible to him, as they are to many of the well fed workers of the world, he sees them clearly and understands the hopelessness of their situations. He tries to make a difference. His assistant, Hazard, a war veteran who has experienced homelessness, is one of the people Rand has helped and it has changed her life and turned her into his best friend.

Kirsty, a woman with whom Rand has a fleeting relationship and who asks for his help leading into the plot of the book, is also depicted with fearless accuracy. The author has delved deeply into human nature and effectively depicted the reality of conflicting emotion and manipulated trust. Even Elizabeth, who only makes a few sporadic appearances in the book, is very human in the eyes of the reader. You really hope these women can find a way out of the mess they've made of their lives and can find a better path.

The second differentiating factor for me with this book, was the number of topical political and social issues the author seamlessly wove into this story. It was not overwhelming, it was gratifying to see such topics given a good airing. After all, life does not come in separate little boxes and we are all confronted daily with all of these overwhelmingly appalling factors of modern life.

In summary, this is a fast paced and multifaceted book with excellent characterisations. I highly recommend it.

[Alyson Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

We first meet Rand Scott as he deals with an unsavoury stalker, hired by the even less desirable owner of a strip club. At least his fee does some good, as it goes into funding the refuge he runs with ex-military and former homeless person Chris Hazard. Together they take deserving cases off the streets and give them hope for the future. Little bits of information drip through as the story progresses, indicating that Rand was once a police officer and still has both contacts and enemies from those days. One of the club girls, Kirsty, engages him to find her missing brother, a washed-up drug addicted pop star. Of course, there’s a catch – the man, Johnny Moore, is wanted for killing a security guard during a botched and very strange raid on a foreign bank. Kirsty wants him found, but definitely not by the police, and she’s not the only one searching for him. Finding Johnny is one thing, keeping him safe whilst staying out of danger himself is something else entirely for Rand to do.
I liked the writing style, in the first person, as Rand talks the reader through his life, his friends and the case. The plot is gritty and twisty, with plenty to keep the reader guessing and glued to the pages. There are lots of vividly portrayed characters, including some very grubby and sleazy ones and some others who are very commendable. When I picked up this book, I wasn’t entirely sure who or indeed what Rand was, but soon found I really liked and admired him despite the dubious acts he has to perform at times. The title is very apt since he often does bad things in order to be able to do good things. Rand makes a great protagonist in this first story and I am pleased to hear it will be part of a series. Looking forward to reading more.

[Karolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is my review for Borderline by Graeme Cummings

This was an intriguing story to read which I found really easy to get into right from the start of the book. I liked Rand Scott who was firm on criminals or ones who needed it but kind to ladies and made sure they got home safe. Rand met Kirsty one night when he went to pick up his money for a job he’d done. She wanted him to find her brother, Johnny, before the police did. The story was really well written with a great plot. The writing is very descriptive and Rand is very watchful of the space around him. I was drawn to reading this book by the synopsis and I found it well worth reading. Anything to do with murder and I’m in! I liked the author’s writing style which was very easy to read. The characters were an interesting bunch. I haven’t read this author before but it seems he writes in an array of genres some of which I enjoy reading so I would like to read some of his books in the future.

Blurb :

When the system isn’t working, work outside the system.

A search for a missing man thrusts Rand Scott into the dark realms of homelessness, drug dealing and sex clubs.

Kirsty Moore wants to find her brother Johnny, a one-time rock star.

The police also want him – for murder.

And there are others looking who don’t play nicely.

A simple job turns deadly as Rand uncovers a world where money talks louder than the screams of innocent bystanders.

[Alis Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

Borderline by Graeme Cumming is a mystery thriller that hooked me straight away with the way it’s written. The whole story is told in the first person, so you’re right there in the head of Rand, the main character. And wow—what a voice he has. He doesn’t sound like someone polished by books, but rather like a man who’s learned the hard way, shaped by tough streets and tougher experiences.
The writing is blunt and to the point, but still manages to be descriptive. There’s this gritty edge to it that makes you feel Rand has seen more than his fair share of scrapes and close calls. It really pulls you into his world and gives you a sense of who he is without needing to spell it out.
What I loved most is how real Rand feels. He’s grounded, no-nonsense, and absolutely believable as someone living life on the edge. That rawness makes the story even more compelling and kept me turning the pages.
In short, if you like your thrillers gritty, immersive, and character-driven, Borderline is well worth picking up.

[Lovetoread2023 · Rating 5 out of 5]

🚨 Book Tour – Borderline by Graeme Cumming 🚨

Graeme Cumming is a new author for me, but after reading the introduction to Borderline, I jumped at the chance to join this tour — and I’m so glad I did!

This crime thriller debut takes you deep into the darkness of the streets, and it’s done with such raw energy and atmosphere that you can feel the tension building with every chapter.

Rand Scott is a true standout — unique, flawed, and impossible to ignore. His band of helpers are a brilliant bunch, but I was especially drawn to Hazard, who really brought an extra edge to the story. Together, they create a dynamic that’s gritty, authentic, and seriously addictive.

I also loved the music references sprinkled throughout — a clever touch.

I understand the author usually writes in a different genre, but with Borderline, it feels like he’s found his new niche — and I’m thrilled there’s going to be a follow-up.

If you love atmospheric crime thrillers that pull you right into the story, Borderline is one to add straight to your TBR

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rand Scott is a man to know. He knows how to get things done, people found, using slightly unorthodox methods. But his heart is in the right place.

He’s been talked in to finding a missing rock star accused of a heinous crime. Can Scott find this man? He’s renowned for disappearing for months in end so is this an impossible task?! But a disappearing rock star isn’t the main problem. There are others wanting this bounty for less honourable reasons than finding the truth and they see Scott is on a trail.

I rather liked Scott despite his operating standards. In my little world of imagination I had not-so-clean-cut Richard Armitage playing him to get the job done. I’m really hoping I can see more from Rand Scott. He’s the sort of “detective” I like.

I hadn’t read any of Graeme Cumming’s books before despite hearing excellent stuff from trusted friends. I really am kicking myself for not venturing into his worlds before. Borderline is a cracking crime thriller, it’s dark, there is violence, there is intrigue and I was hooked!!

[Alan Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s a reason why Christopher Reeve will never be my Superman. Trust me, there is a point to this. He’s just so bloody nice that I can’t relate to him. I love protagonists like Rand from Graeme Cumming’s most excellent new book Borderline. A man who uses his heart as a compass, treading the tightrope between the moral and immoral and not always get it right. Rand is hired to find one album wonder rock star Johnny Moore who is living homeless on the streets by his sister Kirsty. Sounds simple right? Errr no. If you like wise cracking, tough as nail main characters trying to find their way through the dense fog of the criminal underworld then Borderline is definitely for you. My four word review is, “Dad’s birthday present sorted”.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.

This is a gritty, edgy thriller, and it suited my mood at the time of reading. I enjoyed the author's writing style; from the beginning, I felt as though the author wanted me to know all about the characters and go on a journey with them. I liked Rand as a protagonist; I liked the way he talked about himself and other characters, and I felt able to connect with him.

The individual chapters were short, but that was something I enjoyed, as it felt like a motivation to keep reading. This made it difficult to put down, and I had to read it all in one sitting.

Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.

[Lisa reads alot Hamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now this read was right up my street, think of a gritty crime drama and this book is everything that springs to mind.
As soon as I started reading I was hooked and couldn’t put it down, I’m not sure what I can say about Rand, not a hero or maybe he is, a dark hero perhaps 🤷‍♀️ but I enjoyed every bit of this book and cannot wait to read more, I was really excited to read there would be another book.
Great writing with a great storyline to boot wants not to love, highly recommend this book a definite 5⭐️ read.

[Esther Chilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

f you're looking for a pacy read, with compelling characters and revelations you're not expecting, then read Borderline. The author pulls you in from the very first scene and keeps you hooked until the last. You're never quite sure who to trust or what's going to happen next. An excellent crime debut from this author - and you're left with the feeling that the series is only going to get better and better.

[Faye Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Borderline by Graeme Cumming
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This book has everything a crime reader needs. So well written. Fast paced, you won't pit it down!!

Rand is a chap you love to hate, but he is so unique! The story follows Rand who helps Kirsty try and find her brother before the police do. We enter a gritty storyline and I couldn't have loved it more!!

A new author for me, but can't wait to read more! Love this book! A must for all Crime thrillers!

[David Caunce · Rating 5 out of 5]

A skillfully crafted crime thriller full of twists and turns. I was hooked from start to finish by the compelling character Rand and the way he navigates his own unique path through a dangerous criminal underworld. I sped through the book in no time. A great read.

[C.L. Peache · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast-paced character driven thriller with plenty of twists and turns! I find it difficult to write reviews without spoilers but if you love page turning thrillers then you need to read Borderline. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

[Sarah Dobing · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this was slightly longer than I would normally read (264 pages on my iPad) it definitely didn’t feel like it was longer. It’s very fast paced, with short snappy chapters meaning I kept on thinking “just one more chapter”. I usually take notes while reading books so I can remember points I want to talk about and for this one, I was so engrossed I actually forgot to take any notes 😂😂

Rand works outside the law and gets caught in the crossfire of the police and other not so nice people looking for Johnny Moore, who’s been accused of killing a security guard during a bank robbery. We follow Rand as he goes from pillar to post trying to find Johnny and keep him alive and out of harms way.

I really enjoyed this. It’s very descriptive, you feel like you are actually there. I’ll definitely be reading more of Graeme’s novels 💁🏻‍♀️💁🏻‍♀️💁🏻‍♀️

[MoMo Book Diary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the kind of crime thriller that isn’t afraid to get its hands dirty. Borderline drags the reader into a world most of us would rather look away from—homelessness, drugs, and violence—and forces us to confront the people who survive in those shadows. It’s not comfortable, but it is compelling.

I found myself completely drawn to Rand Scott, a character who doesn’t fit the mould of your typical crime hero. He’s flawed, stubborn, and often treads that thin line between right and wrong, but that’s what makes him so believable. Kirsty’s desperate search for her brother adds real emotional weight, balancing out the grit with something tender and human.

What really stood out to me was how atmospheric this book is. The writing is sharp and immersive, painting scenes that made me feel as though I was standing right there—whether in a grim back alley or a room filled with tension ready to snap. It’s not a story that just entertains; it lingers, leaving you to mull over the choices people make when pushed to the edge.

For me, there were moments when the pace dipped, but the strong character work and thought-provoking undercurrents pulled me straight back in. Borderline doesn’t just tell a crime story—it asks what happens when the system fails and how far people will go for justice, loyalty, or survival.