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The Debt Collector
After Nancy Richards is sent to prison, her daughter Jeanie is placed in the care of Edna Baker, a respected figure in London’s East End. Under Edna’s roof, Jeanie should be safe.
That changes when a corrupt copper threatens to send her to Laxville Children’s Home.
Edna, fully aware of the brutal reputation of Laxville, must fight to keep Jeanie out, knowing that the evil place would destroy her. As it had done to all those children before.
In a bid to protect Jeanie, Edna calls on two of Soho’s bosses, Ganni Cassar and Vic Menzie.
But lurking in the background is someone far more sinister. Buster Reynolds isn’t after money to settle the family’s debt. He wants Nancy, and if he can’t have her, her daughter will do.
With Ganni Cassar looking out for her, Jeanie begins to see for herself how dark the underworld is. Thrust into rivalries she doesn’t quite grasp and into secrets that are fiercely protected, she must adapt fast if she wants to come out alive.
A bent copper, a ruthless creditor, and Soho’s underworld closing ranks.
That changes when a corrupt copper threatens to send her to Laxville Children’s Home.
Edna, fully aware of the brutal reputation of Laxville, must fight to keep Jeanie out, knowing that the evil place would destroy her. As it had done to all those children before.
In a bid to protect Jeanie, Edna calls on two of Soho’s bosses, Ganni Cassar and Vic Menzie.
But lurking in the background is someone far more sinister. Buster Reynolds isn’t after money to settle the family’s debt. He wants Nancy, and if he can’t have her, her daughter will do.
With Ganni Cassar looking out for her, Jeanie begins to see for herself how dark the underworld is. Thrust into rivalries she doesn’t quite grasp and into secrets that are fiercely protected, she must adapt fast if she wants to come out alive.
A bent copper, a ruthless creditor, and Soho’s underworld closing ranks.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2025
About the author
Kerry Barnes
26 books221 followersKerry Barnes: The Voice of British Gangland Fiction.
Kerry Barnes is a bestselling British gangland and crime thriller author, known for writing gritty, hard-hitting stories rooted in the darker side of organised crime. Her novels are packed with tension, betrayal, revenge, and morally complex characters — often driven by fierce, uncompromising women who refuse to back down.
Widely recognised for her raw, fast-paced style, Kerry’s books explore the realities of loyalty, power, family, and survival within the criminal underworld. Her stories pull no punches and aren’t afraid to venture into uncomfortable territory, making her a firm favourite with readers who enjoy dark, authentic British crime fiction.
With multiple chart-topping and number one bestselling titles, Kerry Barnes has built a loyal readership among fans of gangland fiction and crime thrillers. Her work is frequently compared to leading voices in the genre such as Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers, while maintaining a distinctive edge and voice of her own.
Kerry is the author of several popular series, including the Dolly Vincent Trilogy, Carrie Verne Series, Nemesis Trilogy, Harper Kane Trilogy, and The Hunted Trilogy, alongside a growing list of standalone novels and dark psychological thrillers.
Her latest work continues to push boundaries, delivering intense storytelling with sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and relentless pace — perfect for readers who like their crime fiction bold, brutal, and unforgettable.
Kerry Barnes is a bestselling British gangland and crime thriller author, known for writing gritty, hard-hitting stories rooted in the darker side of organised crime. Her novels are packed with tension, betrayal, revenge, and morally complex characters — often driven by fierce, uncompromising women who refuse to back down.
Widely recognised for her raw, fast-paced style, Kerry’s books explore the realities of loyalty, power, family, and survival within the criminal underworld. Her stories pull no punches and aren’t afraid to venture into uncomfortable territory, making her a firm favourite with readers who enjoy dark, authentic British crime fiction.
With multiple chart-topping and number one bestselling titles, Kerry Barnes has built a loyal readership among fans of gangland fiction and crime thrillers. Her work is frequently compared to leading voices in the genre such as Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers, while maintaining a distinctive edge and voice of her own.
Kerry is the author of several popular series, including the Dolly Vincent Trilogy, Carrie Verne Series, Nemesis Trilogy, Harper Kane Trilogy, and The Hunted Trilogy, alongside a growing list of standalone novels and dark psychological thrillers.
Her latest work continues to push boundaries, delivering intense storytelling with sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and relentless pace — perfect for readers who like their crime fiction bold, brutal, and unforgettable.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 22, 2025
Kerry Barnes is back and with probably her most ruthless, dark and powerful book yet
We meet Jeanie, young, headstrong and determined but once her Mum is thrown into prison for murder she faces ( with her siblings ) a life in Lasville Childrens Home…thankfully there are a whole host of characters who are intent on stopping this and the horrors they would face there
My fav character was Edna ( Jeanie’s neighbour ) a real force to be reckoned with, a true icon and not to be messed with
Buster Reynolds was my least liked character, evil and deranged with equally monstrous parents who stop at nothing to get what they presume to be theirs, be prepared to loathe them
The book is in parts shocking, then fast action thrilling mixed with emotive storytelling and at all times gangland family perfection, it takes a lot to top one of the authors previous books but this has done it
Raw, real and emotive, brilliant
We meet Jeanie, young, headstrong and determined but once her Mum is thrown into prison for murder she faces ( with her siblings ) a life in Lasville Childrens Home…thankfully there are a whole host of characters who are intent on stopping this and the horrors they would face there
My fav character was Edna ( Jeanie’s neighbour ) a real force to be reckoned with, a true icon and not to be messed with
Buster Reynolds was my least liked character, evil and deranged with equally monstrous parents who stop at nothing to get what they presume to be theirs, be prepared to loathe them
The book is in parts shocking, then fast action thrilling mixed with emotive storytelling and at all times gangland family perfection, it takes a lot to top one of the authors previous books but this has done it
Raw, real and emotive, brilliant
November 30, 2025
Kerry Barnes amazes us once again with her latest book. She is an accomplished writer and storyteller.
Her vivid descriptions allow you to visualize the scenes, making you feel like a part of the story. Set in and around Soho and the East End, the narrative revolves around corrupt police officers and underworld gangs. The intense and violent events will keep your hands sweating as you turn each page. Additionally, the story features a children’s home where dark and illegal activities are conducted involving the children.
If you are a lover of crime books, this is the winner for 2025. I thoroughly recomend it.
Her vivid descriptions allow you to visualize the scenes, making you feel like a part of the story. Set in and around Soho and the East End, the narrative revolves around corrupt police officers and underworld gangs. The intense and violent events will keep your hands sweating as you turn each page. Additionally, the story features a children’s home where dark and illegal activities are conducted involving the children.
If you are a lover of crime books, this is the winner for 2025. I thoroughly recomend it.
December 12, 2025
Gripping and hard to leave aside, Kerry Barnes writes the type of book that makes the reader forget that while reading, real life gets pushed aside while the reader is brought along a tale of heartstopping moments for the characters and where revenge is dealt out accordingly, this is a standalone story but I hope we get to go back as i don't think Jeanie's story is quite finished
March 9, 2026
Just gets better and better!
Ah Kerry .... Your books just get better and better! I think I went through all emotions reading this one. Such talent! I'm hoping there will be a book two?!
Such great characters also.
Ah Kerry .... Your books just get better and better! I think I went through all emotions reading this one. Such talent! I'm hoping there will be a book two?!
Such great characters also.
January 13, 2026
This book was raw, and gritty and bloody brilliant, literally! It was written so that you read it with fear as to what was coming next, I couldn’t put it down! As usual there were twists and surprises right to the end! Brilliant Kerry!
November 21, 2025
What I think
Great book as always loved the characters all backing each other great read next one please can't wait thank you Kerry for making my day complete xxx
Great book as always loved the characters all backing each other great read next one please can't wait thank you Kerry for making my day complete xxx
November 23, 2025
Can't fault her books.
November 25, 2025
I think this may be her best one yet, although it's hard to say as I have loved all her books, but this was truly fantastic
November 27, 2025
Brilliant
Fantastic read, I was on the edge of my seat. Can't wait until the story continue with another book, I couldn't put it down
Fantastic read, I was on the edge of my seat. Can't wait until the story continue with another book, I couldn't put it down
December 5, 2025
Kerry Barnes has done it again. Another late night reading.
Gangster, Karma
Evil Buster and his family
Corrupted police
This story has everything.
Gangster, Karma
Evil Buster and his family
Corrupted police
This story has everything.
February 21, 2026
Another absolute cracker!
This book has got the lot. Without spoilers for those who’ve not read it yet… What are you waiting for!
Poor Nancy, worn down to the heel by a beast of man who can’t keep his hands to himself, or in his pockets for that matter.. Nancy doesn’t have two pennies to rub together but what she does have, is a beautiful face and a kind soft soul.. The beast of husband, being a gambler and a hopeless one at that, gambles away the one thing Buster can’t have…Jeannie.. Buster is ugly, nasty, violent and doesn’t care about anyone but himself.
Nancys good friend & neighbour Edna, steps in to help out n looks out for Nancy’s 3 kids when Nancy is sent down for murder.. Edna has a heart of gold, her own secrets and a dodgy side hustle that keeps her in ££. Until it goes pear shaped and a certain bent copper is set out to nick her..
The story then spirals and deep dives back down the decades of misery, torture and wicked suffering that brought Vic Edna & Elsie together in first place at the hands of a truly evil family who run the notorious children’s home. You go in but you never come out.
The ghosts of the past come calling with their sights firmly set on Jeannie,Nancys oldest girl. Jeannie is forced to take actions of her own to save her own life & finds herself in a desperate situation along with Edna’s daughter Shirley.. No love lost between them at this point but bound together by fate and very dark secret that ties them, they have no choice! It was him or them…
This book will have you feeling pity n heartfelt sorry one minute, to so enraged the next, you’ll be wanting revenge yourself..
It’s full of love/ hate, loathing, greed, jealousy, viscious acts that will make your blood boil and your toes curl at the same time.
The one thing you will feel, is admiration for Nancy & Jeannie and a secret wish for the happy ever after..
I have read every single KB book and long may these continue. Gripping, compelling and a really inappropriate lack of respect for sleep! You’ll pick it up, and struggle to put it down, even into the small hours..
I totally recommend & can’t wait for the next one!
This book has got the lot. Without spoilers for those who’ve not read it yet… What are you waiting for!
Poor Nancy, worn down to the heel by a beast of man who can’t keep his hands to himself, or in his pockets for that matter.. Nancy doesn’t have two pennies to rub together but what she does have, is a beautiful face and a kind soft soul.. The beast of husband, being a gambler and a hopeless one at that, gambles away the one thing Buster can’t have…Jeannie.. Buster is ugly, nasty, violent and doesn’t care about anyone but himself.
Nancys good friend & neighbour Edna, steps in to help out n looks out for Nancy’s 3 kids when Nancy is sent down for murder.. Edna has a heart of gold, her own secrets and a dodgy side hustle that keeps her in ££. Until it goes pear shaped and a certain bent copper is set out to nick her..
The story then spirals and deep dives back down the decades of misery, torture and wicked suffering that brought Vic Edna & Elsie together in first place at the hands of a truly evil family who run the notorious children’s home. You go in but you never come out.
The ghosts of the past come calling with their sights firmly set on Jeannie,Nancys oldest girl. Jeannie is forced to take actions of her own to save her own life & finds herself in a desperate situation along with Edna’s daughter Shirley.. No love lost between them at this point but bound together by fate and very dark secret that ties them, they have no choice! It was him or them…
This book will have you feeling pity n heartfelt sorry one minute, to so enraged the next, you’ll be wanting revenge yourself..
It’s full of love/ hate, loathing, greed, jealousy, viscious acts that will make your blood boil and your toes curl at the same time.
The one thing you will feel, is admiration for Nancy & Jeannie and a secret wish for the happy ever after..
I have read every single KB book and long may these continue. Gripping, compelling and a really inappropriate lack of respect for sleep! You’ll pick it up, and struggle to put it down, even into the small hours..
I totally recommend & can’t wait for the next one!
May 18, 2026
The novel is set in the east End of London in the 1960s and follows young Jeanie, who is placed in the care of Edna Baker, a respected East End character, after her mother Nancy is sent to prison . When Jeannie’s safety is threatened by a corrupt copper, Edna looks to a couple of underworld bosses to help her out. I liked that it really captured the place and the period and that many of the conversations seemed authentic. I felt, however, that its presentation of a group of ever so good gangsters versus a group of ever so evil gangster just didn’t feel real at all. It’s a just about OK read, but one that lacked any bite. It had the feel of a young adult story with lots of swearing.
April 25, 2026
I can honestly say I love all Kerry Barnes books and this one is no exception. Jeanie is a character who soon makes her mark on your heart and I honestly couldn’t put this book down. I love starting a new series and can’t wait for book 2 to see what’s in store for Jeanie next.
December 10, 2025
Brilliant
February 6, 2026
Wow what story
As usual, great characters. It was a page turner and was reading at any available moment. Absolutely brilliant!!! Hope there will be a sequel.
As usual, great characters. It was a page turner and was reading at any available moment. Absolutely brilliant!!! Hope there will be a sequel.
February 14, 2026
Easy read but hard to put down
I really enjoyed this book a good read and a happy ending
It helped me through the nights I can't sleep
I really enjoyed this book a good read and a happy ending
It helped me through the nights I can't sleep
February 22, 2026
Brilliant
I absolutely loved it. Could not put it down. Definitely one to add to your library. Im sad it had to end.
I absolutely loved it. Could not put it down. Definitely one to add to your library. Im sad it had to end.
March 23, 2026
Great read
Couldn't stop reading it's great really enjoyed it. Can't wait for the next one, well done Kerry Barnes please write another book 😀
Couldn't stop reading it's great really enjoyed it. Can't wait for the next one, well done Kerry Barnes please write another book 😀
March 28, 2026
Outstanding
Absolutely gripping from start to finish. One of my best gangland reads to date, I loved it!! Kerry Barnes is exceptional!!
Absolutely gripping from start to finish. One of my best gangland reads to date, I loved it!! Kerry Barnes is exceptional!!
April 24, 2026
Absolutely love all Kerry’s books. They are so gripping from the start. Sadly I have to wait for the next one which cannot come quick enough. I’ve read all her books now and am totally up to date and hooked. I’m so desperate to read them. Thanks Kerry for keeping me so entertained x
May 3, 2026
Wow .!!! Lots going on , Definitely a page turner !
May 6, 2026
One I'll remember
I loved this book, the story, the characters and the way it moved me to tears which I didn't expect.
I loved this book, the story, the characters and the way it moved me to tears which I didn't expect.
May 17, 2026
Great read
Is there going to be a follow up of this book please.
Enjoyed it immensely.
Different characters were good too.
Definitely a follow on please .
Is there going to be a follow up of this book please.
Enjoyed it immensely.
Different characters were good too.
Definitely a follow on please .
May 19, 2026
Happiness
The best book I have read for quite a few weeks.I couldn't put it down.Can't wait to read the next one.
The best book I have read for quite a few weeks.I couldn't put it down.Can't wait to read the next one.
May 23, 2026
Brilliant
This book is absolutely amazing, I was hooked right from the beginning to the very end. I'd recommend everyone should read this
This book is absolutely amazing, I was hooked right from the beginning to the very end. I'd recommend everyone should read this
May 24, 2026
sensational
Fantastically written
Really loved this and was addictive and fast paced
Another fabulous book by Kerry Barnes
Can’t wait for more
Fantastically written
Really loved this and was addictive and fast paced
Another fabulous book by Kerry Barnes
Can’t wait for more
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews