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A Decent Man: A Gripping Psychological Thriller for Fans of Gone Girl — His Wife Wants Him Dead, but Discovering Why Might Kill Him Faster
His wife wants him dead. Discovering why might kill him faster.
Cold and calculating, insurance executive Michael Azodo has built a life on refusing mercy to others. Then he meets Rebecca, a compassionate nurse with shadows behind her smile who breaks through his carefully constructed walls. Their intense romance leads to a happy marriage—until Michael collapses.
Hospital tests reveal someone is poisoning him. Evidence points to his beloved wife, but Michael, refusing the police, seeks her hidden motives alone. His investigation uncovers a devastating Rebecca’s true identity is tied to a tragedy he caused but cannot remember—one his psychologist mother made him forget. As his health deteriorates alongside his crumbling marriage, Michael confronts who he’s been and who he could become.
In a race against his failing body, Michael faces the ultimate what price is too high for redemption?
Cold and calculating, insurance executive Michael Azodo has built a life on refusing mercy to others. Then he meets Rebecca, a compassionate nurse with shadows behind her smile who breaks through his carefully constructed walls. Their intense romance leads to a happy marriage—until Michael collapses.
Hospital tests reveal someone is poisoning him. Evidence points to his beloved wife, but Michael, refusing the police, seeks her hidden motives alone. His investigation uncovers a devastating Rebecca’s true identity is tied to a tragedy he caused but cannot remember—one his psychologist mother made him forget. As his health deteriorates alongside his crumbling marriage, Michael confronts who he’s been and who he could become.
In a race against his failing body, Michael faces the ultimate what price is too high for redemption?
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
January 12, 2026
This is officially my first 5⭐️read of the year, and honestly, I didn’t see it coming. When I picked up A Decent Man, I just thought, “Oh, cool, a thriller.” I mean, the cover literally says:
“His wife wants him dead. Discovering why might kill him faster.”
So I was ready for mystery, betrayal, maybe even a little chaos. But what I got? Way deeper.
Yes, it’s a thriller, but that’s not even the point. The real story is Michael — a man facing the consequences of his past, trying to do right in a world that doesn’t make it easy. His wife wants him dead, and as the story unfolds, we find out exactly why. But underneath all that, there’s so much pain, regret, and humanity in this man.
Then there’s Oruamen, a 15-year-old boy whose lungs are failing. His friendship with Michael completely broke me. There’s a scene where he says, “I don’t want to die. I’ve not had my first kiss, my first blunt…” and I just sat there crying. Because there’s something about knowing you’re dying and still choosing to smile and that hits differently🥺
Michael isn’t a good man or a bad man — he’s a decent man. And someone in the book says it perfectly:
“Not a perfect man, not a saint or hero, but just decent. And being decent was perhaps the hardest thing to be in a world that rewarded cruelty and selfishness.”
That line has lived rent-free in my head since I closed the book.
The ending was bittersweet, heartbreaking, and so beautiful. Michael proves, in the end, that decency still matters and that even the most flawed people can choose to do what’s right.
Then there’s the part about a mother’s love — how much she was willing to do for her son. Michael’s mother carried the biggest secret of his life for 17 years, just to protect him. And when I saw the part where she said, “I’m a mother,” it just clicked. You could feel the pain, the sacrifice, and the love in those words.
When I finished the book, I just sat staring at the sky for five minutes, thinking, What masterpiece did I just read? How do authors come up with something this layered, emotional, and hauntingly real?
Because that’s what A Decent Man is — not just a thriller, but a mirror. It reminds you that the choices you make, the kindness you show (or don’t), they all come back eventually.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — a deeply human story about mistakes, redemption, and the quiet power of simply being decent.
“His wife wants him dead. Discovering why might kill him faster.”
So I was ready for mystery, betrayal, maybe even a little chaos. But what I got? Way deeper.
Yes, it’s a thriller, but that’s not even the point. The real story is Michael — a man facing the consequences of his past, trying to do right in a world that doesn’t make it easy. His wife wants him dead, and as the story unfolds, we find out exactly why. But underneath all that, there’s so much pain, regret, and humanity in this man.
Then there’s Oruamen, a 15-year-old boy whose lungs are failing. His friendship with Michael completely broke me. There’s a scene where he says, “I don’t want to die. I’ve not had my first kiss, my first blunt…” and I just sat there crying. Because there’s something about knowing you’re dying and still choosing to smile and that hits differently🥺
Michael isn’t a good man or a bad man — he’s a decent man. And someone in the book says it perfectly:
“Not a perfect man, not a saint or hero, but just decent. And being decent was perhaps the hardest thing to be in a world that rewarded cruelty and selfishness.”
That line has lived rent-free in my head since I closed the book.
The ending was bittersweet, heartbreaking, and so beautiful. Michael proves, in the end, that decency still matters and that even the most flawed people can choose to do what’s right.
Then there’s the part about a mother’s love — how much she was willing to do for her son. Michael’s mother carried the biggest secret of his life for 17 years, just to protect him. And when I saw the part where she said, “I’m a mother,” it just clicked. You could feel the pain, the sacrifice, and the love in those words.
When I finished the book, I just sat staring at the sky for five minutes, thinking, What masterpiece did I just read? How do authors come up with something this layered, emotional, and hauntingly real?
Because that’s what A Decent Man is — not just a thriller, but a mirror. It reminds you that the choices you make, the kindness you show (or don’t), they all come back eventually.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — a deeply human story about mistakes, redemption, and the quiet power of simply being decent.
January 22, 2026
Warning ⚠️
A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey pulled me in fast, and then slowly let me go.
The story follows Michael, a wealthy, highly calculated man who lives his life without the thought of others except maybe Rebecca his wife, Lydia his mother and Amaka his assistant. He is blunt, often rude, and at times outright mean, but not without reason. Sometimes.
the way he has learned to survive the world have shaped him into someone stoic, emotionally repressed, and borderline narcissistic (though I’m still not sure that label fully fits him completely).
The first few chapters genuinely had me giggling. I was intrigued, invested, and curious about where Michael’s character was headed. Unfortunately, somewhere in the middle, the story lost momentum for me. By the time I reached the ending, I was honestly pissed. I kept thinking, Wait… what? How did we get here? I was expecting some form of resolution,(there was one I just didn’t feel happy about it) maybe even a proper happy ending, but instead, I was left unsettled.
That said, I finished this book in one sitting (from around 1 p.m. to 8:33 p.m.), so it is a compelling and fast read.
Characters I Loved (and Didn’t) ps don’t hate me I’m a little shocked at myself too.
My favourite characters were Oruamen and Amaka… without question.
I also grew to appreciate Michael’s mother, who initially seemed complicated but ultimately felt painfully human. You begin to understand how far a parent might go for their child… even when that child has done something unforgivable (yes—murder).
Speaking of which, I figured out very early on that Michael killed his Rebecca’s brother. The hints were everywhere in the first five or six chapters. It wasn’t shocking, just annoyed that it was so fast to predict. But with how fast paced the book was. It made sense.
Rebecca, however, was my least favorite character. I understood her pain, her anger, and even her intention to kill micheal. But what I couldn’t understand was her silence—especially not telling Michael she was pregnant. That choice frustrated me deeply. Still, it reflects real human behavior: we don’t always make logical decisions when we’re hurt. Especially when that hurt is the death of your brother.
I did feel conflicted about Rebecca’s father. But that’s all I have to say about him.
One of my biggest disappointments was the couple in itself.
I truly believe Michael had more chemistry with Amaka than with Rebecca. Amaka feared him, yes, but she also loved him honestly and clearly. Their connection felt more natural.
With Rebecca, I wanted more depth. I wanted to understand why Michael loved her so much. We’re told she made him want to be “a decent man,” but I needed more scenes, more dates, more shared history, more emotional buildup. Especially since she originally came into his life intending to kill him, their love-hate dynamic deserved deeper
This book is ultimately about consequences, how the choices we bury, ignore, or rationalise eventually resurface. Michael’s life felt painfully realistic. You find yourself relating to him in uncomfortable ways, even when you don’t want to. He was Guam and everyone makes mistakes not that kind. It still. He’s character development was by far the best, I have ever read in a character.
If you’re looking for a short, thought-provoking read with little to no romance, moral complexities, and flawed characters, this book is worth picking up. Just don’t go in expecting a clean sweep cause karma somehow comes back to bite, Micheal in the ass… no wait… buttocks. Pardon my language.
Ps the ending is 😩😩😩😩😩
A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey pulled me in fast, and then slowly let me go.
The story follows Michael, a wealthy, highly calculated man who lives his life without the thought of others except maybe Rebecca his wife, Lydia his mother and Amaka his assistant. He is blunt, often rude, and at times outright mean, but not without reason. Sometimes.
the way he has learned to survive the world have shaped him into someone stoic, emotionally repressed, and borderline narcissistic (though I’m still not sure that label fully fits him completely).
The first few chapters genuinely had me giggling. I was intrigued, invested, and curious about where Michael’s character was headed. Unfortunately, somewhere in the middle, the story lost momentum for me. By the time I reached the ending, I was honestly pissed. I kept thinking, Wait… what? How did we get here? I was expecting some form of resolution,(there was one I just didn’t feel happy about it) maybe even a proper happy ending, but instead, I was left unsettled.
That said, I finished this book in one sitting (from around 1 p.m. to 8:33 p.m.), so it is a compelling and fast read.
Characters I Loved (and Didn’t) ps don’t hate me I’m a little shocked at myself too.
My favourite characters were Oruamen and Amaka… without question.
I also grew to appreciate Michael’s mother, who initially seemed complicated but ultimately felt painfully human. You begin to understand how far a parent might go for their child… even when that child has done something unforgivable (yes—murder).
Speaking of which, I figured out very early on that Michael killed his Rebecca’s brother. The hints were everywhere in the first five or six chapters. It wasn’t shocking, just annoyed that it was so fast to predict. But with how fast paced the book was. It made sense.
Rebecca, however, was my least favorite character. I understood her pain, her anger, and even her intention to kill micheal. But what I couldn’t understand was her silence—especially not telling Michael she was pregnant. That choice frustrated me deeply. Still, it reflects real human behavior: we don’t always make logical decisions when we’re hurt. Especially when that hurt is the death of your brother.
I did feel conflicted about Rebecca’s father. But that’s all I have to say about him.
One of my biggest disappointments was the couple in itself.
I truly believe Michael had more chemistry with Amaka than with Rebecca. Amaka feared him, yes, but she also loved him honestly and clearly. Their connection felt more natural.
With Rebecca, I wanted more depth. I wanted to understand why Michael loved her so much. We’re told she made him want to be “a decent man,” but I needed more scenes, more dates, more shared history, more emotional buildup. Especially since she originally came into his life intending to kill him, their love-hate dynamic deserved deeper
This book is ultimately about consequences, how the choices we bury, ignore, or rationalise eventually resurface. Michael’s life felt painfully realistic. You find yourself relating to him in uncomfortable ways, even when you don’t want to. He was Guam and everyone makes mistakes not that kind. It still. He’s character development was by far the best, I have ever read in a character.
If you’re looking for a short, thought-provoking read with little to no romance, moral complexities, and flawed characters, this book is worth picking up. Just don’t go in expecting a clean sweep cause karma somehow comes back to bite, Micheal in the ass… no wait… buttocks. Pardon my language.
Ps the ending is 😩😩😩😩😩
April 6, 2026
As a sucker for psychological thrillers, i got into this book expecting to uncover a massive, mind boggling plot twist that would leave me bewildered. As in shock me, so much so that i'd have to take a pause and stare at nothing in particular for a moment to connect the dots, just like the other psychological thrillers i have read.😅
But... that was'nt exactly what happend with this one.
Yes, there was a twist, but it was not the type you'd find in other crime, murder, imaginative thrillers or see in movies.
It was more of a moral twist, almost unsettling in its simplicity, one you could relate to as a human capable of making choices, and taking responsibility for those choices.
It challenges you to reconsider what it truly means to be a “decent” person. Is decency defined by our intentions, our actions, or our willingness to confront the consequences of our mistakes? Or a combinition of all three?
What exactly does it mean to be decent in a world that rewards cruelty and selfishness?
This is truly the kind of book that sticks with you after you finish, more for its ideas than its execution.
But... that was'nt exactly what happend with this one.
Yes, there was a twist, but it was not the type you'd find in other crime, murder, imaginative thrillers or see in movies.
It was more of a moral twist, almost unsettling in its simplicity, one you could relate to as a human capable of making choices, and taking responsibility for those choices.
It challenges you to reconsider what it truly means to be a “decent” person. Is decency defined by our intentions, our actions, or our willingness to confront the consequences of our mistakes? Or a combinition of all three?
What exactly does it mean to be decent in a world that rewards cruelty and selfishness?
This is truly the kind of book that sticks with you after you finish, more for its ideas than its execution.
January 14, 2026
Rating 4.5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
From the title of this book, A Decent Man, I knew he wasn't decent😂. And then you have the book cover very beautiful by the way I just knew something was about to go down.
Micheal Azodo, a ruthless man who does whatever pleases him without a care in the world, didn't know that his life was about to change forever. His past mistakes in life returned with a vengeance. The question remains, why does his wife want him dead?
The addition of Oruamen into the story took a different turn to the story, I would say it was fate.
Michael Azodo
A Decent Man
Not a perfect man. Not a saint or hero. Just decent.
This book was filled with different emotions for me, from curiosity, anger to sadness, and then tears
I cried yall 😭 😢
Chapters 41 broke me from this chapter to the very end. It was different. I didn't expect the end at all. I knew that might be a possibility, but for it to really happen was a different ball game entirely
Why I liked this book 👍📖
Firstly, the story is so different from any book I have read. It was very interesting and entertaining. I wasn't bored. I was happy reading this book.
secondly, the multiple pov's was actually interesting to read, The writing was easy to raed and straight to the point.
Thridly, the short chapters, each chapter, reveal a new twist to the book.
I urge you all to read this book if you haven't already, but be prepared to cry, and also to be shocked at the mystery that will unrival as the story goes on.
Favourite quote in the book
“This one time, when my mom and I were both crying, she told me, ‘Life goes on. We’re going to bed in tears tonight, but tomorrow we’ll wake up and try to smile. If we cry again tomorrow, we’ll try again the next day, and the day after that, until we finally do smile. Because life doesn’t stop for anyone, and neither should we.’”
From the title of this book, A Decent Man, I knew he wasn't decent😂. And then you have the book cover very beautiful by the way I just knew something was about to go down.
Micheal Azodo, a ruthless man who does whatever pleases him without a care in the world, didn't know that his life was about to change forever. His past mistakes in life returned with a vengeance. The question remains, why does his wife want him dead?
The addition of Oruamen into the story took a different turn to the story, I would say it was fate.
Michael Azodo
A Decent Man
Not a perfect man. Not a saint or hero. Just decent.
This book was filled with different emotions for me, from curiosity, anger to sadness, and then tears
I cried yall 😭 😢
Chapters 41 broke me from this chapter to the very end. It was different. I didn't expect the end at all. I knew that might be a possibility, but for it to really happen was a different ball game entirely
Why I liked this book 👍📖
Firstly, the story is so different from any book I have read. It was very interesting and entertaining. I wasn't bored. I was happy reading this book.
secondly, the multiple pov's was actually interesting to read, The writing was easy to raed and straight to the point.
Thridly, the short chapters, each chapter, reveal a new twist to the book.
I urge you all to read this book if you haven't already, but be prepared to cry, and also to be shocked at the mystery that will unrival as the story goes on.
Favourite quote in the book
“This one time, when my mom and I were both crying, she told me, ‘Life goes on. We’re going to bed in tears tonight, but tomorrow we’ll wake up and try to smile. If we cry again tomorrow, we’ll try again the next day, and the day after that, until we finally do smile. Because life doesn’t stop for anyone, and neither should we.’”
January 20, 2026
A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey is a painful but honest read. Lydia shows what true motherhood looks like, loving even when her son was wrong. Michael was cruel, yet his death still hurt because his change came too late. Amaka and Oruamen prove how much good friends can shape a broken life. This book made one thing clear. Revenge destroys peace. Forgiveness matters, and delay costs memories. Worth reading.
April 7, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this book, a decent man is worth the read, it had a twist I did not see coming, so many emotions and then the mystery of life .....
I must say it's a good book , well done Gilbert Bassey it was worth the wait
I must say it's a good book , well done Gilbert Bassey it was worth the wait
April 11, 2026
This book is an absolute page turner
A riveting read!
Pulled me in, held me tight and left me in tears, A DECENT MAN did that!
A riveting read!
Pulled me in, held me tight and left me in tears, A DECENT MAN did that!
March 27, 2026
'it's the people we love that destroy us"
A Decent Man is one of those books that’s not loud or overly dramatic, but it really makes you think. It’s more about the character and his choices than big plot twists, and I actually liked that about it.
The main character feels very real—like someone you could actually meet. He’s not perfect, but not terrible either, just… human. And that’s what makes the story interesting. You keep questioning whether he’s truly “decent” or just convincing himself that he is.
The pacing is kind of slow, I won’t lie, but it fits the vibe of the book. It’s more reflective than action-packed, so you have to be in the mood for that. Some parts dragged a little for me, but overall it still kept my attention because of the moral questions it raises.
What I liked most is that it doesn’t try to give you clear answers. It leaves you thinking about what being a good person actually means, which I found pretty impactful.
Not the most exciting read, but definitely one that sticks with you after you finish it.
A Decent Man is one of those books that’s not loud or overly dramatic, but it really makes you think. It’s more about the character and his choices than big plot twists, and I actually liked that about it.
The main character feels very real—like someone you could actually meet. He’s not perfect, but not terrible either, just… human. And that’s what makes the story interesting. You keep questioning whether he’s truly “decent” or just convincing himself that he is.
The pacing is kind of slow, I won’t lie, but it fits the vibe of the book. It’s more reflective than action-packed, so you have to be in the mood for that. Some parts dragged a little for me, but overall it still kept my attention because of the moral questions it raises.
What I liked most is that it doesn’t try to give you clear answers. It leaves you thinking about what being a good person actually means, which I found pretty impactful.
Not the most exciting read, but definitely one that sticks with you after you finish it.
May 13, 2026
Thank you to Gilbert Bassey for the physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
Mr Michael Azodo is not a perfect man. He is not a good man. He is a decent man. This domestic thriller is one that will keep you glued to your pages!! I breezed through this book, at the very beginning when Michael met his wife, Rebecca for the very first time, and he said she was going to be his wife, I laughed and said 'A for audacity', but Rebecca also said you Mr Michael Azodo will be my husband, a scorned woman never forgets!
I was hooked to the words on the pages, I wanted to know what next will happen to Micheal and the way the author didn't try to make us fall in love with his main character but only tried to make us understand that character and life is not black and white, there are areas in the grey, you can neither say Mr Michael is a good man and you can't also say he is a bad man. He made poor choices, choices that shaped his life .
For a debut novel this is really good, thank you so much for the physical copy.
Mr Michael Azodo is not a perfect man. He is not a good man. He is a decent man. This domestic thriller is one that will keep you glued to your pages!! I breezed through this book, at the very beginning when Michael met his wife, Rebecca for the very first time, and he said she was going to be his wife, I laughed and said 'A for audacity', but Rebecca also said you Mr Michael Azodo will be my husband, a scorned woman never forgets!
I was hooked to the words on the pages, I wanted to know what next will happen to Micheal and the way the author didn't try to make us fall in love with his main character but only tried to make us understand that character and life is not black and white, there are areas in the grey, you can neither say Mr Michael is a good man and you can't also say he is a bad man. He made poor choices, choices that shaped his life .
For a debut novel this is really good, thank you so much for the physical copy.
April 26, 2026
His wife wants him dead, discovering why might kill him faster (if you know you know🥺)
Rating 4.7/5
Okay I need everyone to sit down for this one because this book did not come to play. It came to emotionally damage me in chapters, confuse me in between, and then shatter my heart by the end 😭
It starts with a prologue that basically whispers: “Two meetings that day would change Michael’s life forever…”
And I said, cool. Normal sentence. Lies. Absolute lies.
First impressions of Michael:
This man introduces himself like:
“My name is Michael Azodo, and you will be my wife.”
Sir? Who starts romance like a hostile takeover 😭🤣
He’s strict, intense, emotionally allergic to softness, and somehow still ends up being the most tragic man in the entire book💔
Also yes, he has nightmares. Of course he does, This book would not let anyone sleep peacefully😭
The confusion phase (aka my brain melting era):
At some point I was asking:
Who is Rebecca really?
Is Sarah her fake identity or her real one?
Why does “bastard” trigger him?👀
Wait did Michael kill someone or is going to kill someone?
Emotional damage slowly loading:
Then things start unraveling:
A boy in a hospital (Oruamen 😭)
A man trying to “fix” his mistakes by literally bleeding redemption into the world🥺
A mother that will do anything for her child
Amaka holding everyone together like emotional duct tape
A woman (Rebecca/Sarah) balancing revenge, grief, and confusion like it’s a full-time job
The betrayal + truth era:
This is where the author said: “let’s make you cry”
Michael’s past catches up in the worst way possible
Rebecca is tied to a death he caused 😭
A child (Oruamen) becomes his only real light
And suddenly everyone is connected through pain, love, and consequences nobody can escape
And Amaka? That woman was literally solving Michael’s emotional disasters like a full-time therapist with no salary. (I was actually shipping her and Michael at the beginning 🤣)
Oruamen supremacy (my emotional downfall):
This boy said:
“My friends are nurses and doctors.”
Excuse me? Who gave him the right to break mr like this?😭
And the hospital intercom message? I had to close the book and cry because my screen looked blurry 😭
He was:
funny
wise in the most heartbreaking way
loyal beyond logic
and somehow the purest soul in this entire chaos
“Life is like a video game","But someone else picked my character and gave me really bad stats.” (💔)
Plot twist factory (this book is dangerous)
This book kept dropping bombs like:
Michael might die
Rebecca is pregnant
Someone gets a donor match and I already started crying before it was confirmed😭
I took a break but still cried when I continued the book😭
The ending (I am still recovering)
Michael’s sacrifice?
Everyone grieving moments 💔
And then this line came and ended me completely:
“A man who had learned, eventually and at great cost, how to be decent.” 😭
Memorable line:
"Life goes on. We're going to bed in tears tonight, but tomorrow we'll wake up and try to smile. If we cry again tomorrow, we'll try again the next day, and the day after that, until we finally do smile. Because life doesn't stop for anyone and neither should we".
Final thoughts:
This book is:
emotionally devastating (in a good way)
confusing in a “you’ll understand later and cry” way
And full of characters who love too much, sacrifice alot and survive too little
Would I recommend it?
Yes.
Would I survive reading it again?
Absolutely not.
P.S: There's no Captian America without Bucky.
Rating 4.7/5
Okay I need everyone to sit down for this one because this book did not come to play. It came to emotionally damage me in chapters, confuse me in between, and then shatter my heart by the end 😭
It starts with a prologue that basically whispers: “Two meetings that day would change Michael’s life forever…”
And I said, cool. Normal sentence. Lies. Absolute lies.
First impressions of Michael:
This man introduces himself like:
“My name is Michael Azodo, and you will be my wife.”
Sir? Who starts romance like a hostile takeover 😭🤣
He’s strict, intense, emotionally allergic to softness, and somehow still ends up being the most tragic man in the entire book💔
Also yes, he has nightmares. Of course he does, This book would not let anyone sleep peacefully😭
The confusion phase (aka my brain melting era):
At some point I was asking:
Who is Rebecca really?
Is Sarah her fake identity or her real one?
Why does “bastard” trigger him?👀
Wait did Michael kill someone or is going to kill someone?
Emotional damage slowly loading:
Then things start unraveling:
A boy in a hospital (Oruamen 😭)
A man trying to “fix” his mistakes by literally bleeding redemption into the world🥺
A mother that will do anything for her child
Amaka holding everyone together like emotional duct tape
A woman (Rebecca/Sarah) balancing revenge, grief, and confusion like it’s a full-time job
The betrayal + truth era:
This is where the author said: “let’s make you cry”
Michael’s past catches up in the worst way possible
Rebecca is tied to a death he caused 😭
A child (Oruamen) becomes his only real light
And suddenly everyone is connected through pain, love, and consequences nobody can escape
And Amaka? That woman was literally solving Michael’s emotional disasters like a full-time therapist with no salary. (I was actually shipping her and Michael at the beginning 🤣)
Oruamen supremacy (my emotional downfall):
This boy said:
“My friends are nurses and doctors.”
Excuse me? Who gave him the right to break mr like this?😭
And the hospital intercom message? I had to close the book and cry because my screen looked blurry 😭
He was:
funny
wise in the most heartbreaking way
loyal beyond logic
and somehow the purest soul in this entire chaos
“Life is like a video game","But someone else picked my character and gave me really bad stats.” (💔)
Plot twist factory (this book is dangerous)
This book kept dropping bombs like:
Michael might die
Rebecca is pregnant
Someone gets a donor match and I already started crying before it was confirmed😭
I took a break but still cried when I continued the book😭
The ending (I am still recovering)
Michael’s sacrifice?
Everyone grieving moments 💔
And then this line came and ended me completely:
“A man who had learned, eventually and at great cost, how to be decent.” 😭
Memorable line:
"Life goes on. We're going to bed in tears tonight, but tomorrow we'll wake up and try to smile. If we cry again tomorrow, we'll try again the next day, and the day after that, until we finally do smile. Because life doesn't stop for anyone and neither should we".
Final thoughts:
This book is:
emotionally devastating (in a good way)
confusing in a “you’ll understand later and cry” way
And full of characters who love too much, sacrifice alot and survive too little
Would I recommend it?
Yes.
Would I survive reading it again?
Absolutely not.
P.S: There's no Captian America without Bucky.
February 20, 2026
I'm only a few chapters into this book, but I already have a lot of thoughts. I didn’t expect the first few chapters to feel this tense this quickly.
Going in, I thought it would start slowly, maybe spend time setting up characters and the world. Instead, the opening chapters immediately create this feeling that something is wrong beneath the surface of Michael’s life. Not dramatic in a loud way, but in that quiet, unsettling way where you know the story is building toward something serious.
Michael Azodo, at least from these first chapters, comes across as a man who is used to control — emotionally distant, disciplined, and very sure of himself. But the nightmare in the beginning and the hints about his past make it clear that he’s carrying something unresolved. It’s interesting because the book doesn’t tell you everything at once; it lets that guilt sit there quietly, which makes you curious about what really happened.
What stood out to me in these first chapters is how the story already starts exploring consequences. Not just the kind that happen immediately, but the kind that stay with people for years. You get the sense that this isn’t just going to be about danger or mystery; it’s about the emotional aftermath of choices people make.
The relationships introduced early on also feel layered. There’s tension in how the characters interact, like people who are connected but also slightly distant from each other. It makes you wonder how much of their lives are built on things they haven’t said out loud.
One thing I noticed is that the story reads almost like scenes unfolding in a film. The pacing moves fairly quickly, and sometimes it jumps into major moments without spending too long on them. I didn’t mind it too much because it kept the story engaging, but a few moments made me wish the book slowed down just a little to sit longer with the emotions.
Still, by the time I got to chapter five, I had this feeling that the book is quietly setting up a chain of events that’s going to unravel a lot of lives. The suspense isn’t just about what might happen next, but about what has already happened and hasn’t been fully confronted yet.
So far, the tension in the story isn’t coming only from external danger. It’s coming from the characters themselves, their guilt, their memories, and the things they’re trying not to face.
And that’s what makes the beginning interesting. It feels like the book is asking a question early on:
How long can someone live with the consequences of something they never truly dealt with?
I’m only five chapters in, but it already feels like this story is less about a single mystery and more about how people slowly become strangers to themselves when they carry too much for too long.
Going in, I thought it would start slowly, maybe spend time setting up characters and the world. Instead, the opening chapters immediately create this feeling that something is wrong beneath the surface of Michael’s life. Not dramatic in a loud way, but in that quiet, unsettling way where you know the story is building toward something serious.
Michael Azodo, at least from these first chapters, comes across as a man who is used to control — emotionally distant, disciplined, and very sure of himself. But the nightmare in the beginning and the hints about his past make it clear that he’s carrying something unresolved. It’s interesting because the book doesn’t tell you everything at once; it lets that guilt sit there quietly, which makes you curious about what really happened.
What stood out to me in these first chapters is how the story already starts exploring consequences. Not just the kind that happen immediately, but the kind that stay with people for years. You get the sense that this isn’t just going to be about danger or mystery; it’s about the emotional aftermath of choices people make.
The relationships introduced early on also feel layered. There’s tension in how the characters interact, like people who are connected but also slightly distant from each other. It makes you wonder how much of their lives are built on things they haven’t said out loud.
One thing I noticed is that the story reads almost like scenes unfolding in a film. The pacing moves fairly quickly, and sometimes it jumps into major moments without spending too long on them. I didn’t mind it too much because it kept the story engaging, but a few moments made me wish the book slowed down just a little to sit longer with the emotions.
Still, by the time I got to chapter five, I had this feeling that the book is quietly setting up a chain of events that’s going to unravel a lot of lives. The suspense isn’t just about what might happen next, but about what has already happened and hasn’t been fully confronted yet.
So far, the tension in the story isn’t coming only from external danger. It’s coming from the characters themselves, their guilt, their memories, and the things they’re trying not to face.
And that’s what makes the beginning interesting. It feels like the book is asking a question early on:
How long can someone live with the consequences of something they never truly dealt with?
I’m only five chapters in, but it already feels like this story is less about a single mystery and more about how people slowly become strangers to themselves when they carry too much for too long.
February 12, 2026
Review: A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"It’s the people we love that destroy us... It is the people who love us that save us."
This quote from the book has been playing on a loop in my head since I finished. This is a haunting, high velocity look at a man trying to outrun a lifetime of moral debt.
Brief Synopsis
Michael Azodo is a man at the end of his rope. A successful insurance executive by trade, but also the architect of his own moral ruin. Having grown up under the indulgence of an estranged father and a mother who shielded him from every consequence, Michael became a man who viewed power as his birthright and cruelty as a tool for success.
Now, with time running out, he is a man "grasping at straws" for redemption. Standing in his way—or perhaps standing as his final mirror—is his wife and soulmate, Rebecca. The story asks a chilling question: when you have built your life on a foundation of broken people, can you ever truly be a "decent" man?
Character & Plot Analysis
Michael is a fascinatingly complex protagonist. He is not exactly "likable," but he is deeply human. Bassey does an incredible job showing how Michael’s parents—Martin and Lydia—essentially "loved" him into becoming a monster. It is a tragic take on the nature-vs-nurture debate.
The pacing is where this book really shines. Gilbert Bassey uses incredibly short chapters that feel like a ticking clock. You don't just read this book; you breathe it. Each chapter is a mini climax that keeps you hooked, making it a perfect "just one more page" read.
The Vibe
The tone is tense, philosophical, and urgent. It feels like a psychological thriller mixed with a classic tragedy. Despite the heavy themes, the physical layout (generous font size and short chapters) makes the "weight" of the story move quickly.
Personal Connection
I have read many stories about redemption, but few that acknowledge how the people who love us most can also be our greatest enablers. Seeing Michael grapple with the "whims and caprices" of his childhood while facing his wife, Rebecca, was gut-wrenching.
Spoiler Warning: The moment Michael realizes that Rebecca is not just his nemesis but the only person willing to let him face his own consequences was the turning point for me.
Recommendation
I highly recommend this for fans of psychological dramas and fast-paced thrillers.
#MorallyGreyProtagonist
#FamilyDrama
#RaceAgainstTime
#RedemptionArc
#PsychologicalThriller
#ADecentMan
#GilbertBassey
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"It’s the people we love that destroy us... It is the people who love us that save us."
This quote from the book has been playing on a loop in my head since I finished. This is a haunting, high velocity look at a man trying to outrun a lifetime of moral debt.
Brief Synopsis
Michael Azodo is a man at the end of his rope. A successful insurance executive by trade, but also the architect of his own moral ruin. Having grown up under the indulgence of an estranged father and a mother who shielded him from every consequence, Michael became a man who viewed power as his birthright and cruelty as a tool for success.
Now, with time running out, he is a man "grasping at straws" for redemption. Standing in his way—or perhaps standing as his final mirror—is his wife and soulmate, Rebecca. The story asks a chilling question: when you have built your life on a foundation of broken people, can you ever truly be a "decent" man?
Character & Plot Analysis
Michael is a fascinatingly complex protagonist. He is not exactly "likable," but he is deeply human. Bassey does an incredible job showing how Michael’s parents—Martin and Lydia—essentially "loved" him into becoming a monster. It is a tragic take on the nature-vs-nurture debate.
The pacing is where this book really shines. Gilbert Bassey uses incredibly short chapters that feel like a ticking clock. You don't just read this book; you breathe it. Each chapter is a mini climax that keeps you hooked, making it a perfect "just one more page" read.
The Vibe
The tone is tense, philosophical, and urgent. It feels like a psychological thriller mixed with a classic tragedy. Despite the heavy themes, the physical layout (generous font size and short chapters) makes the "weight" of the story move quickly.
Personal Connection
I have read many stories about redemption, but few that acknowledge how the people who love us most can also be our greatest enablers. Seeing Michael grapple with the "whims and caprices" of his childhood while facing his wife, Rebecca, was gut-wrenching.
Spoiler Warning: The moment Michael realizes that Rebecca is not just his nemesis but the only person willing to let him face his own consequences was the turning point for me.
Recommendation
I highly recommend this for fans of psychological dramas and fast-paced thrillers.
#MorallyGreyProtagonist
#FamilyDrama
#RaceAgainstTime
#RedemptionArc
#PsychologicalThriller
#ADecentMan
#GilbertBassey
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
I didn’t expect A Decent Man to sit with me the way it did.
I picked it up thinking I was getting a thriller, and yes, there’s suspense, danger, and tension, but what I actually got was a story about people carrying things they never really put down. Grief. Guilt. Promises made in anger. Love that survives in uncomfortable shapes.
Michael Azodo is an insurance executive known for his cold, unmerciful approach to life. He's successful, disciplined, and emotionally distant; he prides himself on control. Michael collapsed, and the Doctors confirmed he's being poisoned. All signs first point to his wife, Rebecca. Without involving the police, he decided to find out why his wife wanted him dead.
The women in this book are what really unsettled me.
Rebecca’s grief is heavy. Death stole from her multiple times, and that broke her beyond recognition. Her pain was more cumulative rather than theatrical. When she said, "You grow to hate someone so much that you can't imagine a life of liking them," The resentment she had lived inside for years. Life played her an unfair card.
Lydia’s point of view is chilling because she isn’t confused about what she did; she’s certain. Her love as a mother is fierce enough to justify anything. When she said, “I am a mother! I protect my own... You are an extension of me. It didn't matter that I lost the love of my life in the process. If I had to do it all over again, I would, without a moment's hesitation… and if that makes me a terrible person, then so be it."
I was going to judge her character, but I thought to myself, who wouldn’t protect their own? Not after millions of years of natural selection has conditioned you to.
Frank’s counsel to Sarah, when he framed forgiveness as an exhausting act of re-vision, learning to see someone not as who they once were at their worst, but as who they insist they are now. In his words, "To forgive him, you have to break free from the chains of your promise. And every time you look at him, you have to see the man who claims to love you, not the boy who killed your brother.”
I love the tension in each character. The suspense builds not only from the threat to Michael’s life, but from the gradual unmasking of his moral blind spots. Memory, guilt, and mercy run in the plot, giving the story emotional weight beyond its thriller framework.
The writing is intentional. By the end, I wasn’t thinking about who was right or wrong. I was thinking about how easily any of us could become someone we don’t recognize under the weight of love and loss.
I picked it up thinking I was getting a thriller, and yes, there’s suspense, danger, and tension, but what I actually got was a story about people carrying things they never really put down. Grief. Guilt. Promises made in anger. Love that survives in uncomfortable shapes.
Michael Azodo is an insurance executive known for his cold, unmerciful approach to life. He's successful, disciplined, and emotionally distant; he prides himself on control. Michael collapsed, and the Doctors confirmed he's being poisoned. All signs first point to his wife, Rebecca. Without involving the police, he decided to find out why his wife wanted him dead.
The women in this book are what really unsettled me.
Rebecca’s grief is heavy. Death stole from her multiple times, and that broke her beyond recognition. Her pain was more cumulative rather than theatrical. When she said, "You grow to hate someone so much that you can't imagine a life of liking them," The resentment she had lived inside for years. Life played her an unfair card.
Lydia’s point of view is chilling because she isn’t confused about what she did; she’s certain. Her love as a mother is fierce enough to justify anything. When she said, “I am a mother! I protect my own... You are an extension of me. It didn't matter that I lost the love of my life in the process. If I had to do it all over again, I would, without a moment's hesitation… and if that makes me a terrible person, then so be it."
I was going to judge her character, but I thought to myself, who wouldn’t protect their own? Not after millions of years of natural selection has conditioned you to.
Frank’s counsel to Sarah, when he framed forgiveness as an exhausting act of re-vision, learning to see someone not as who they once were at their worst, but as who they insist they are now. In his words, "To forgive him, you have to break free from the chains of your promise. And every time you look at him, you have to see the man who claims to love you, not the boy who killed your brother.”
I love the tension in each character. The suspense builds not only from the threat to Michael’s life, but from the gradual unmasking of his moral blind spots. Memory, guilt, and mercy run in the plot, giving the story emotional weight beyond its thriller framework.
The writing is intentional. By the end, I wasn’t thinking about who was right or wrong. I was thinking about how easily any of us could become someone we don’t recognize under the weight of love and loss.
April 7, 2026
Is there a better way to scream this: THIS BOOK WRECKED ME!
Oh my goodness, the twists! 🤯 Had me staring at the wall to recalibrate my senses.
The story follows Michael, a successful but ruthless man who discovers a terrifying secret: his seemingly perfect wife is slowly trying to kill him! 😱 But why? The way the plot unravels to connect their present-day drama to a dark, forgotten childhood tragedy is pure genius. It is an absolute masterclass in suspense, guilt, and the crazy lengths a mother will go to protect her child. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time!
The character growth in this book is phenomenal! 📈 Michael starts off as the ultimate arrogant, cold-hearted guy, but his journey toward redemption will literally break your heart. Then there is his wife, Rebecca (or is that her real name?👀) whose deep grief and desire for revenge make her so complex and terrifyingly real. And we absolutely cannot forget Oruamen, the sweetest, Marvel-loving teenager battling a terminal illness who completely steals the show and melts your heart! 🥺❤️
Because the author originally developed this idea as a screenplay, the pacing is incredibly cinematic! 🎬 It literally feels like you are watching a high-stakes psychological thriller unfold on the big screen. The emotional depth is so raw, and the psychological elements (like how the brain hides traumatic memories) are woven in seamlessly. You won't be able to put it down! 🏃🏾♀️💨
My favourite quote:
This one had me weeping actual tears.
“'It’s the people we love that destroy us.'... But these last months taught me something else: it’s the people who love us that save us.” 😭💔
If you love psychological thrillers, deeply emotional family dramas, intense redemption arcs, or just a story with enough twists to give you actual whiplash, this is absolutely for YOU! 🍿✨
You can grab a free ebook download on the author's website, on Amazon and the paperback is available in bookstores across Nigeria! 🇳🇬🛍️
Oh my goodness, the twists! 🤯 Had me staring at the wall to recalibrate my senses.
The story follows Michael, a successful but ruthless man who discovers a terrifying secret: his seemingly perfect wife is slowly trying to kill him! 😱 But why? The way the plot unravels to connect their present-day drama to a dark, forgotten childhood tragedy is pure genius. It is an absolute masterclass in suspense, guilt, and the crazy lengths a mother will go to protect her child. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time!
The character growth in this book is phenomenal! 📈 Michael starts off as the ultimate arrogant, cold-hearted guy, but his journey toward redemption will literally break your heart. Then there is his wife, Rebecca (or is that her real name?👀) whose deep grief and desire for revenge make her so complex and terrifyingly real. And we absolutely cannot forget Oruamen, the sweetest, Marvel-loving teenager battling a terminal illness who completely steals the show and melts your heart! 🥺❤️
Because the author originally developed this idea as a screenplay, the pacing is incredibly cinematic! 🎬 It literally feels like you are watching a high-stakes psychological thriller unfold on the big screen. The emotional depth is so raw, and the psychological elements (like how the brain hides traumatic memories) are woven in seamlessly. You won't be able to put it down! 🏃🏾♀️💨
My favourite quote:
This one had me weeping actual tears.
“'It’s the people we love that destroy us.'... But these last months taught me something else: it’s the people who love us that save us.” 😭💔
If you love psychological thrillers, deeply emotional family dramas, intense redemption arcs, or just a story with enough twists to give you actual whiplash, this is absolutely for YOU! 🍿✨
You can grab a free ebook download on the author's website, on Amazon and the paperback is available in bookstores across Nigeria! 🇳🇬🛍️
January 19, 2026
You know when you pick up a book thinking it’ll be a simple domestic story, and then you suddenly realise you’re in way deeper than you expected? That was my experience with A Decent Man.
At its core, this book follows Michael, a man who has built a life he thinks is stable, but the cracks start showing faster than he can understand. There’s an unsettling feeling that something in his marriage isn’t right, and even he can’t fully explain why. That confusion? It’s intentional, you feel it with him.
The story digs into how the past chases people, even when they’ve tried to move on. The author doesn’t make anyone a villain or a saint. Everyone carries something, and Michael’s past decisions quietly linger, with consequences creeping back into his life long before he realises.
Reading this wasn’t a smooth ride, at times the pacing felt slow, almost too quiet, but that’s what built the tension. This isn’t a thriller that throws twists at you every chapter. It’s a slow tightening of a rope around your chest, and you don’t realise how much pressure has built until certain scenes hit you.
One part that really got me was the emotional connection Michael forms later, it added warmth to a story that could have been bleak and made the weight of his earlier choices hit harder. The book doesn’t force you to feel sorry for him, it lets you decide for yourself.
By the end, I didn’t close the book feeling mind-blown or shaken, I closed it thinking....about accountability, about the quiet ways people hurt each other, and how the past never truly disappears.
If you’re looking for a loud, twist-every-chapter thriller, this isn’t it. But if you want a slow, unsettling story that quietly digs under your skin and makes you think… this is one to try. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely thought-provoking.
At its core, this book follows Michael, a man who has built a life he thinks is stable, but the cracks start showing faster than he can understand. There’s an unsettling feeling that something in his marriage isn’t right, and even he can’t fully explain why. That confusion? It’s intentional, you feel it with him.
The story digs into how the past chases people, even when they’ve tried to move on. The author doesn’t make anyone a villain or a saint. Everyone carries something, and Michael’s past decisions quietly linger, with consequences creeping back into his life long before he realises.
Reading this wasn’t a smooth ride, at times the pacing felt slow, almost too quiet, but that’s what built the tension. This isn’t a thriller that throws twists at you every chapter. It’s a slow tightening of a rope around your chest, and you don’t realise how much pressure has built until certain scenes hit you.
One part that really got me was the emotional connection Michael forms later, it added warmth to a story that could have been bleak and made the weight of his earlier choices hit harder. The book doesn’t force you to feel sorry for him, it lets you decide for yourself.
By the end, I didn’t close the book feeling mind-blown or shaken, I closed it thinking....about accountability, about the quiet ways people hurt each other, and how the past never truly disappears.
If you’re looking for a loud, twist-every-chapter thriller, this isn’t it. But if you want a slow, unsettling story that quietly digs under your skin and makes you think… this is one to try. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely thought-provoking.
January 20, 2026
~ The story follows Michael, whose teenage mistake that caused pain to others is not in his memory. An unexpected visit to the hospital makes him question his marriage but a sudden revelation from a visit to his secondary school now makes him question himself and the one who sacrificed to protect him. Has his marriage been all a lie or will Love bring about forgiveness?
~ I saw how Lydia, a mother whose love driven by the need to protect, led her into morally questionable choices. What was meant to shield her child from reliving a mistake only deepened the consequences. Protection turned into a quiet nightmare, and when the truth finally surfaced, facing it became an unexpected path to what I'm calling 'character growth!
~ Love, in its many forms, can push people to extreme lengths. Through sibling love and loss, the story asks how far someone can go in secret revenge for a life taken too soon. It quietly but powerfully examines how love can drive both healing and destruction. I understand Rebecca (Sarah) I actually do
~I understood everyone's choices. (From Lydia, Frank, Patience, Sarah even Martin) Love, grief, and responsibility drove them, and even when some actions were difficult to accept, their reasons felt painfully human
~ Oruamen's part to this story made me tear up a bit especially after I read the plot! I still wonder if there was any chance for a happy ending for both him and Micheal? Like another option?
~ "A Decent Man" questions morality, love, and the price of becoming better. I am here reflecting on my actions (I no do reach Micheal sha o) and the idea that some mistakes may never be forgiven, yet choosing to become better matters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Link to My IG in my bio to check out my other reviews🤍
~ I saw how Lydia, a mother whose love driven by the need to protect, led her into morally questionable choices. What was meant to shield her child from reliving a mistake only deepened the consequences. Protection turned into a quiet nightmare, and when the truth finally surfaced, facing it became an unexpected path to what I'm calling 'character growth!
~ Love, in its many forms, can push people to extreme lengths. Through sibling love and loss, the story asks how far someone can go in secret revenge for a life taken too soon. It quietly but powerfully examines how love can drive both healing and destruction. I understand Rebecca (Sarah) I actually do
~I understood everyone's choices. (From Lydia, Frank, Patience, Sarah even Martin) Love, grief, and responsibility drove them, and even when some actions were difficult to accept, their reasons felt painfully human
~ Oruamen's part to this story made me tear up a bit especially after I read the plot! I still wonder if there was any chance for a happy ending for both him and Micheal? Like another option?
~ "A Decent Man" questions morality, love, and the price of becoming better. I am here reflecting on my actions (I no do reach Micheal sha o) and the idea that some mistakes may never be forgiven, yet choosing to become better matters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Link to My IG in my bio to check out my other reviews🤍
June 14, 2026
A Decent Man is the story of professional asshole and insurance executive, Michael Azodo. His new wife, Rebecca, hates him because of a loss she suffered many years prior. A loss HE was responsible for. A loss he couldn’t even remember causing. At this point, it’s very evident that she’s taking revenge in a very simple yet unassuming way — poison.
Michael discovers this after a health scare ends up with him in the hospital but does not want to report it to the police so he begins his own investigation, which leads him to discovering the source of her hatred while concurrently breaking him. Imagine an asshole heartbroken?
While in the hospital, he becomes acquainted with a terminally ill teenage boy and soon after, they become the best of friends, with this boy charming Michael, steering his life in a better and kinder direction and riding it out for him till the very end.
This might be the first book I’ve read with a hero arc. How many times do we see the bad guy becoming good at the end of the story? This may sound cliche, I know, but I was brought to ugly tears seeing Michael’s relationship with Oruamen evolve into what it ended up being. I also love a good superhero reference sneak and their relationship being based on Captain America and Bucky’s (IYKYK) was too cute.
Initially, I found the revelation of Rebecca’s reason for wanting her husband dead a little too premature but reading more made me understand that it wasn’t a story about vengeance at all. It’s described as a psychological thriller but what it really is is a touching tale of forgiveness, unexpected friendship and sacrifice – things that the Michael Azodo introduced to us at the beginning of the book could have never fathomed had he not gone through everything he did.
Michael discovers this after a health scare ends up with him in the hospital but does not want to report it to the police so he begins his own investigation, which leads him to discovering the source of her hatred while concurrently breaking him. Imagine an asshole heartbroken?
While in the hospital, he becomes acquainted with a terminally ill teenage boy and soon after, they become the best of friends, with this boy charming Michael, steering his life in a better and kinder direction and riding it out for him till the very end.
This might be the first book I’ve read with a hero arc. How many times do we see the bad guy becoming good at the end of the story? This may sound cliche, I know, but I was brought to ugly tears seeing Michael’s relationship with Oruamen evolve into what it ended up being. I also love a good superhero reference sneak and their relationship being based on Captain America and Bucky’s (IYKYK) was too cute.
Initially, I found the revelation of Rebecca’s reason for wanting her husband dead a little too premature but reading more made me understand that it wasn’t a story about vengeance at all. It’s described as a psychological thriller but what it really is is a touching tale of forgiveness, unexpected friendship and sacrifice – things that the Michael Azodo introduced to us at the beginning of the book could have never fathomed had he not gone through everything he did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2026
A Haunting Exploration of Morality and Redemption
A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey is a thrilling ride with a hint of mystery. To say it as just a simple family drama would be a disservice. The author has crafted a deeply moving and surprisingly profound story about Michael, a man unknowingly haunted by his past and desperately seeking redemption even as his present crumbles around him.
This isn't a tale of heroes or villains, but of a flawled man, unlikeable at times, but seeking to become a decent man, while descening to a health and psychological crisis. Bassey brilliantly depicts how upbringing and unchecked privilege can warp a person, and the consequences that follow. The story explore the weight of past actions and the aching desire to make amends. Beyond the central mystery, the story delves into the painful complexities of familial love, particularly the sacrifices a mother will make for her child. Also, layered with themes of revenge and romance. A Decent Man truly is not a decent book at all, it is a masterpiece for discussion.
Bassey masterfully builds tension with short, impactful chapters, creating a breathless pace that keeps you engrossed. Plot twists and surprise reveals, unfolding the forgotten truth about the Micheal. But it’s the lingering questions about decency, morality, and the choices we make that will stay with the readers long after they turn the final page.
If you enjoyed the emotionally resonant storytelling and complex characters of "Where the Crawdads Sing," then you will love "A Decent Man." It deserves all the praise it receives.
A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey is a thrilling ride with a hint of mystery. To say it as just a simple family drama would be a disservice. The author has crafted a deeply moving and surprisingly profound story about Michael, a man unknowingly haunted by his past and desperately seeking redemption even as his present crumbles around him.
This isn't a tale of heroes or villains, but of a flawled man, unlikeable at times, but seeking to become a decent man, while descening to a health and psychological crisis. Bassey brilliantly depicts how upbringing and unchecked privilege can warp a person, and the consequences that follow. The story explore the weight of past actions and the aching desire to make amends. Beyond the central mystery, the story delves into the painful complexities of familial love, particularly the sacrifices a mother will make for her child. Also, layered with themes of revenge and romance. A Decent Man truly is not a decent book at all, it is a masterpiece for discussion.
Bassey masterfully builds tension with short, impactful chapters, creating a breathless pace that keeps you engrossed. Plot twists and surprise reveals, unfolding the forgotten truth about the Micheal. But it’s the lingering questions about decency, morality, and the choices we make that will stay with the readers long after they turn the final page.
If you enjoyed the emotionally resonant storytelling and complex characters of "Where the Crawdads Sing," then you will love "A Decent Man." It deserves all the praise it receives.
May 12, 2026
“There’s no Captain America without Bucky.” 🥹
This book honestly caught me off guard. I never expected a story like this to have me crying the way it did, but the ending? Oh, I was fully bawling 😭
Michael Azodo is far from a perfect man. He’s cold, ruthless, and takes pride in being a feared insurance executive.
What really got me was the emotional depth of the story. Michael spent years being haunted by strange dreams, only to later discover they were fragments of a buried truth. Once those memories resurfaced, they opened the door to shocking family secrets, betrayal, and truths about his wife, Rebecca, that changed everything.
Even though Michael had done something terrible in the past, I couldn’t help but feel for him. He was genuinely trying to change and become a better man, which made the ending even more painful for me. I kept asking myself: if he was truly repentant, did he really deserve the tragedy that befell him?
The book also highlights how sometimes the people closest to you can hurt you the most. While Michael became consumed with uncovering the truth, his health slowly deteriorated, yet he barely paid attention to it.
And can we talk about Oruamen? 🥹 Such a sweet soul. He brought so much warmth and humor into the story, and I loved how the author used him to balance the heavier moments. The Marvel references, especially the Captain America and Bucky comparison, made their friendship even more special. Oruamen came into Michael’s life at the exact moment he needed someone the most, and he played such a huge role in Michael’s transformation journey.
This was such an emotional and thought-provoking read for me.
A must Read!
January 9, 2026
A Decent Man is a gripping psychological novel that explores the uncomfortable gap between appearance and character. Through the life of Michael Azodo, a successful, confident, and outwardly respectable man, Gilbert Bassey asks a powerful question: what does decency really mean?
The story is layered with tension, emotional complexity, and moral ambiguity. Michael is not written to be liked easily, and that is one of the book’s strengths. His relationships with his wife, his colleagues, and his mother reveal how unhealed trauma, entitlement, and emotional repression can quietly shape a man’s choices and harm others.
The female characters are especially well written and exist as more than supporting roles. They challenge, confront, and expose the limits of Michael’s self perception, making the novel as much about accountability as it is about identity.
Bassey’s writing is cinematic and confident, with strong dialogue and steady pacing that keeps the reader engaged. The novel tackles themes of masculinity, power, guilt, love, and responsibility without preaching, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.
A Decent Man is not a feel good story, but it is an honest one. It will appeal to readers who enjoy character driven fiction, psychological depth, contemporary African literature, and stories that linger long after the final page.
The story is layered with tension, emotional complexity, and moral ambiguity. Michael is not written to be liked easily, and that is one of the book’s strengths. His relationships with his wife, his colleagues, and his mother reveal how unhealed trauma, entitlement, and emotional repression can quietly shape a man’s choices and harm others.
The female characters are especially well written and exist as more than supporting roles. They challenge, confront, and expose the limits of Michael’s self perception, making the novel as much about accountability as it is about identity.
Bassey’s writing is cinematic and confident, with strong dialogue and steady pacing that keeps the reader engaged. The novel tackles themes of masculinity, power, guilt, love, and responsibility without preaching, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.
A Decent Man is not a feel good story, but it is an honest one. It will appeal to readers who enjoy character driven fiction, psychological depth, contemporary African literature, and stories that linger long after the final page.
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January 21, 2026MY REVIEW: A DECENT MAN BY GILBERT BASSEY
When I picked up this book, I had no idea I would experience such a range of emotions, but that was exactly what happened. I felt anger, shock, sadness, and even happiness while reading it.
A Decent Man is a thriller that explores themes such as the depth of a mother’s love, family dynamics, grief, love, hatred, sacrifice, and betrayal.
The story follows Michael Azodo, a teenage bully who grows into a ruthless adult. Michael is living happily with his wife until one day he suddenly collapses and is rushed to the hospital. There, it is discovered that he has been poisoned with small quantities of mercury added to his food over time. Since he eats only meals prepared by his wife, Michael finds it extremely difficult to believe that his loving partner could be trying to kill him. He sets out to uncover the truth behind her actions, but what he discovers may send him to his grave faster than the poison itself.
I loved how deeply riveting this book is. I could barely focus on my chores until I finished reading because I was eager to find out how everything would end.
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of thrillers, second-chance stories, and redemption arcs.
Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Rating: 4.5⭐
When I picked up this book, I had no idea I would experience such a range of emotions, but that was exactly what happened. I felt anger, shock, sadness, and even happiness while reading it.
A Decent Man is a thriller that explores themes such as the depth of a mother’s love, family dynamics, grief, love, hatred, sacrifice, and betrayal.
The story follows Michael Azodo, a teenage bully who grows into a ruthless adult. Michael is living happily with his wife until one day he suddenly collapses and is rushed to the hospital. There, it is discovered that he has been poisoned with small quantities of mercury added to his food over time. Since he eats only meals prepared by his wife, Michael finds it extremely difficult to believe that his loving partner could be trying to kill him. He sets out to uncover the truth behind her actions, but what he discovers may send him to his grave faster than the poison itself.
I loved how deeply riveting this book is. I could barely focus on my chores until I finished reading because I was eager to find out how everything would end.
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of thrillers, second-chance stories, and redemption arcs.
Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Rating: 4.5⭐
January 26, 2026
A Decent Man is a thoroughly rewarding story.
One of my favorite parts of the novel was witnessing his wife, Rebecca's, dilemma after discovering her pregnancy. That internal conflict felt raw and complicated. Watching her wrestle with the consequences of her choices added emotional weight to the story, and it became one of the most compelling threads for me.
My least favorite part was probably not being shown the full scene of Isaac’s death. The absence of the sequence of events that led to the fall (or push?), left a gap I’ve found difficult to reconcile. While the ambiguity may be intentional, I personally wanted to see what actually happened.
In terms of writing style, the narrative often felt as though the text didn’t fully trust the reader to connect the dots independently. This approach will likely work well for readers who appreciate a strong guiding hand, but it isn’t my personal preference.
That said, once I adjusted to the narrative style, the story gained momentum. I already trust the author’s ability to create well-developed characters, strong story progression, layered meaning, and satisfying arcs, and all of that came through clearly as the novel moved forward 😌. By the third act, that trust paid off. I was fully engaged, and the emotional and thematic payoff felt earned.
One of my favorite parts of the novel was witnessing his wife, Rebecca's, dilemma after discovering her pregnancy. That internal conflict felt raw and complicated. Watching her wrestle with the consequences of her choices added emotional weight to the story, and it became one of the most compelling threads for me.
My least favorite part was probably not being shown the full scene of Isaac’s death. The absence of the sequence of events that led to the fall (or push?), left a gap I’ve found difficult to reconcile. While the ambiguity may be intentional, I personally wanted to see what actually happened.
In terms of writing style, the narrative often felt as though the text didn’t fully trust the reader to connect the dots independently. This approach will likely work well for readers who appreciate a strong guiding hand, but it isn’t my personal preference.
That said, once I adjusted to the narrative style, the story gained momentum. I already trust the author’s ability to create well-developed characters, strong story progression, layered meaning, and satisfying arcs, and all of that came through clearly as the novel moved forward 😌. By the third act, that trust paid off. I was fully engaged, and the emotional and thematic payoff felt earned.
February 21, 2026
I received a free copy of this book about a month ago and it has just remained in my mail till yesterday when I decided to read. What took me so long to read it? I don't know but I'm glad I did.
I read the book in one sitting within 5 hours I think. The story was captivating and my impression about Michael went from he was callous to he needs help and finally, pity.
Hummm, Rebecca or rather , I should say Sarah. I felt for her. From the moment her brother died, she loved her life with hatred and vengeance. I feel anyone shouldn't live like that, it's a burdened life.
Then to Amaka, I think she my favourite character. No, she definitely is. Everyone should have a friend like her.
Oh, I love Oruamen and Lydia was a mother indeed. Life is not fair, that's one of the harsh realities this novel pointed out. All of the characters are present in our everyday life.
To Gilbert Bassey, the author of ' A decent man' , this novel was inspiring and a thriller. The twist, plot and climax; I love it. Honestly, at some point, I guessed Michael was going to donate his lungs. That guess vanished and I anticipated an happy ending. I was disappointed or should I say, my guess was confirmed. I can't wait to see what other novels you have for us because 'A decent man' was a work of art.
I read the book in one sitting within 5 hours I think. The story was captivating and my impression about Michael went from he was callous to he needs help and finally, pity.
Hummm, Rebecca or rather , I should say Sarah. I felt for her. From the moment her brother died, she loved her life with hatred and vengeance. I feel anyone shouldn't live like that, it's a burdened life.
Then to Amaka, I think she my favourite character. No, she definitely is. Everyone should have a friend like her.
Oh, I love Oruamen and Lydia was a mother indeed. Life is not fair, that's one of the harsh realities this novel pointed out. All of the characters are present in our everyday life.
To Gilbert Bassey, the author of ' A decent man' , this novel was inspiring and a thriller. The twist, plot and climax; I love it. Honestly, at some point, I guessed Michael was going to donate his lungs. That guess vanished and I anticipated an happy ending. I was disappointed or should I say, my guess was confirmed. I can't wait to see what other novels you have for us because 'A decent man' was a work of art.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2026
A decent man focuses on the life choices of Michael Azodo - though logical, he stays perpetually on the extreme of it. Cold, unfeeling and a narcissist until his choices finally begins to consume him.
He ‘s dying, his wife wants him dead and we find out why in his journey for truth. In the midst of this he becomes friend with a sick teenager who shows him to look for the silver lining in everything. Oruamen teaches him to let go and be human, to show mercy and compassion, something his best friend (in my own point of view), Amaka couldn’t achieve.
His relationship with his wife felt rushed to me - too little details on their love life - it is somewhat expected as it is a thriller and not romance. Like someone said, I wanted to know how he became decent for her and not just saying it on their first meeting.
His mum, Lydia was one of my favourites aside Oruamen. She showed a mother’s love - one with zero pride, pain, love and just raw emotion for her only child.
The ending had me teary and it begged the question, In a dog-eat-dog world, how much kindness is enough to be called good? And how do you act compassionately without becoming complicit in the very systems you condemn?
All in all, it was a fast read and I enjoyed reading it. The book depicted how far people go for who they love and the consequences of every action.
He ‘s dying, his wife wants him dead and we find out why in his journey for truth. In the midst of this he becomes friend with a sick teenager who shows him to look for the silver lining in everything. Oruamen teaches him to let go and be human, to show mercy and compassion, something his best friend (in my own point of view), Amaka couldn’t achieve.
His relationship with his wife felt rushed to me - too little details on their love life - it is somewhat expected as it is a thriller and not romance. Like someone said, I wanted to know how he became decent for her and not just saying it on their first meeting.
His mum, Lydia was one of my favourites aside Oruamen. She showed a mother’s love - one with zero pride, pain, love and just raw emotion for her only child.
The ending had me teary and it begged the question, In a dog-eat-dog world, how much kindness is enough to be called good? And how do you act compassionately without becoming complicit in the very systems you condemn?
All in all, it was a fast read and I enjoyed reading it. The book depicted how far people go for who they love and the consequences of every action.
April 27, 2026
Riveting!
Gilbert Bassey's 'A Decent Man' is a masterpiece. Michael, the protagonist, is a deeply compromised protagonist whose buried history breaks through his life' realities and subconscious to poison his present, even as he fumbles towards some version of grace. Bassey achieves a rare feat; a character who is difficult to like, yet impossible to abandon as he unravels physically and mentally while clinging to the hope of personal transformation.
Bassey writes with surgical precision, examining how the environment that shapes us, and the entitlements we're never made to question, can corrupt, leaving devastation in their wake. We navigate, with the characters, the heaviness of old wounds and the human compulsion to repair what we've broken.
The tapestry of the tale weaves threads of maternal devotion, vengeance, and unexpected tenderness, giving the narrative a heady richness.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book; it's extraordinary. Bassey employs tight, punchy paragraphs and chapters to sustain a relentless momentum, drawing us forward through revelation after revelation as the buried reality of Michael's story slowly surfaces.
What lingers isn't just the riveting plot, but the deeper interrogation of conscience, integrity, and human accountability.
This book richly deserves its acclaim.
Gilbert Bassey's 'A Decent Man' is a masterpiece. Michael, the protagonist, is a deeply compromised protagonist whose buried history breaks through his life' realities and subconscious to poison his present, even as he fumbles towards some version of grace. Bassey achieves a rare feat; a character who is difficult to like, yet impossible to abandon as he unravels physically and mentally while clinging to the hope of personal transformation.
Bassey writes with surgical precision, examining how the environment that shapes us, and the entitlements we're never made to question, can corrupt, leaving devastation in their wake. We navigate, with the characters, the heaviness of old wounds and the human compulsion to repair what we've broken.
The tapestry of the tale weaves threads of maternal devotion, vengeance, and unexpected tenderness, giving the narrative a heady richness.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book; it's extraordinary. Bassey employs tight, punchy paragraphs and chapters to sustain a relentless momentum, drawing us forward through revelation after revelation as the buried reality of Michael's story slowly surfaces.
What lingers isn't just the riveting plot, but the deeper interrogation of conscience, integrity, and human accountability.
This book richly deserves its acclaim.
January 26, 2026
A Decent Man is a deeply engaging novel that explores the uncomfortable spaces between power, morality, love, and trauma. It tells a story about ambition and control, but also about the quiet emotional damage people carry and how it shapes the way they treat others. The book doesn’t rush its ideas; it allows moments to breathe, making the emotional weight feel earned rather than forced.
What gives the story its power is how real it feels. The relationships are layered, messy, and believable, and the emotional conflicts unfold in ways that mirror real life. There’s tension not just in the big moments, but in conversations, silences, and choices that seem small at first but grow heavier with time.
The writing itself is creative and confident.
Gilbert Bassey uses subtlety rather than excess, allowing atmosphere, dialogue, and inner conflict to carry the book. His creativity shows in how he builds emotion, how he lets scenes speak without over explaining, and how he trusts the reader to connect the dots.
This is a thoughtful, wellcrafted novel that asks difficult questions about what it really means to be “decent.” It stays with you not because it shocks you, but because it feels honest and human. Highly Recommend 😌
What gives the story its power is how real it feels. The relationships are layered, messy, and believable, and the emotional conflicts unfold in ways that mirror real life. There’s tension not just in the big moments, but in conversations, silences, and choices that seem small at first but grow heavier with time.
The writing itself is creative and confident.
Gilbert Bassey uses subtlety rather than excess, allowing atmosphere, dialogue, and inner conflict to carry the book. His creativity shows in how he builds emotion, how he lets scenes speak without over explaining, and how he trusts the reader to connect the dots.
This is a thoughtful, wellcrafted novel that asks difficult questions about what it really means to be “decent.” It stays with you not because it shocks you, but because it feels honest and human. Highly Recommend 😌
February 13, 2026
Hmmm, a decent man indeed.
I totally enjoyed every chapter and lines of this book.
So captivating.
Full of lessons.
Just like Michael Azido whose past came calling, we should be careful of what we do today because tomorrow will be pregnant.
We shouldn't used our privilege and high profile to oppress others.
Our decisions can make it mar us now or in the future
He penned down words that will remain evergreen in my heart in this book.
Love his throw in of words in Nigerian pidgin English giving it some Nigerianess
Michael trying to right his wrong with his life. That was humanity at its peak .
His mother did what most if not every mother could have done by shielding and protecting her only child.
Oruamen, Oruamen my young brave hero.
I learnt to remain joyful even in the midst of chaos from this character
Rebecca (Sarah) , carried a huge burden of unforgiveness and bitter revenge for years. Thereby, poisoning her husband/enemy slowly.
But at the very end, love still conquered even though it was too late.
If you didn't cry like me while reading this book , you got to read it again digesting every single word.
Gilbert Bassey is a great writer.
I totally enjoyed every chapter and lines of this book.
So captivating.
Full of lessons.
Just like Michael Azido whose past came calling, we should be careful of what we do today because tomorrow will be pregnant.
We shouldn't used our privilege and high profile to oppress others.
Our decisions can make it mar us now or in the future
He penned down words that will remain evergreen in my heart in this book.
Love his throw in of words in Nigerian pidgin English giving it some Nigerianess
Michael trying to right his wrong with his life. That was humanity at its peak .
His mother did what most if not every mother could have done by shielding and protecting her only child.
Oruamen, Oruamen my young brave hero.
I learnt to remain joyful even in the midst of chaos from this character
Rebecca (Sarah) , carried a huge burden of unforgiveness and bitter revenge for years. Thereby, poisoning her husband/enemy slowly.
But at the very end, love still conquered even though it was too late.
If you didn't cry like me while reading this book , you got to read it again digesting every single word.
Gilbert Bassey is a great writer.
January 18, 2026
This book took me completely by surprise.
When I started it, I was genuinely excited because it’s a Nigerian psychological thriller, and that’s one of my favourite genres. I love trying to guess twists in thrillers, and I honestly thought I knew where the story was headed at the beginning. I really did. But this book had other plans.
Without giving spoilers, there’s a moment early on that hit me hard emotionally. I told myself I wouldn’t cry while reading, but I did. And by the end of the book, I wasn’t even fighting it anymore.
What stood out the most for me is the writing. This does not read like a debut novel at all. It’s emotionally driven, thoughtful, and incredibly well-crafted. Every character feels real. There are no unnecessary or flat side characters, no caricatures just to move the plot along. Everyone matters, and you feel it.
The story is heavy, painful, and beautiful in the way it explores human flaws and consequences. It’s the kind of book that sits with you even after you’ve closed it.
This is an easy five stars for me and my first five-star read of the year. Superb, heartbreaking, and unforgettable.
When I started it, I was genuinely excited because it’s a Nigerian psychological thriller, and that’s one of my favourite genres. I love trying to guess twists in thrillers, and I honestly thought I knew where the story was headed at the beginning. I really did. But this book had other plans.
Without giving spoilers, there’s a moment early on that hit me hard emotionally. I told myself I wouldn’t cry while reading, but I did. And by the end of the book, I wasn’t even fighting it anymore.
What stood out the most for me is the writing. This does not read like a debut novel at all. It’s emotionally driven, thoughtful, and incredibly well-crafted. Every character feels real. There are no unnecessary or flat side characters, no caricatures just to move the plot along. Everyone matters, and you feel it.
The story is heavy, painful, and beautiful in the way it explores human flaws and consequences. It’s the kind of book that sits with you even after you’ve closed it.
This is an easy five stars for me and my first five-star read of the year. Superb, heartbreaking, and unforgettable.
February 19, 2026
The first thing I will commend about this book is how easy it is to read, the fonts, the story, the characters, everything made it so easy.
Reading this book, it didn’t feel fictional, it felt so real, like real people came together and penned down their stories for others to read. It felt like a mother was telling me how far she will go to protect her child, a woman was telling me as much as she wants to fulfill her promise, she’s also a human capable of feelings, a teenager was telling me that he knows he doesn’t have much time, he wants to be optimistic about it but he’s a just a boy who wishes to live, a friend was telling me she knows her friend is imperfect but she’s ready to stand by him through thick and thin and above all a man was telling me he knows he had made mistakes, he had hurt people and created so much chaos, he knows he’s not perfect but he will do all he can to right his wrongs and be a decent man.
This story is heavy, I fought so hard not to cry but guess what? The book won and I cried my eyes out, it’s such a beautiful story and everyone needs to read it. I heard this is a debut book but it doesn’t feel like that at all, kudos to the author
Reading this book, it didn’t feel fictional, it felt so real, like real people came together and penned down their stories for others to read. It felt like a mother was telling me how far she will go to protect her child, a woman was telling me as much as she wants to fulfill her promise, she’s also a human capable of feelings, a teenager was telling me that he knows he doesn’t have much time, he wants to be optimistic about it but he’s a just a boy who wishes to live, a friend was telling me she knows her friend is imperfect but she’s ready to stand by him through thick and thin and above all a man was telling me he knows he had made mistakes, he had hurt people and created so much chaos, he knows he’s not perfect but he will do all he can to right his wrongs and be a decent man.
This story is heavy, I fought so hard not to cry but guess what? The book won and I cried my eyes out, it’s such a beautiful story and everyone needs to read it. I heard this is a debut book but it doesn’t feel like that at all, kudos to the author
February 10, 2026
Some books entertain you. Some books disturb you. A Decent Man by Gilbert Bassey quietly does both, and then leaves you questioning yourself.
What struck me most about this book is not just the suspense or the plot twists, it’s how it forces you to rethink what it truly means to be decent. The story pulls you into the life of a man who seems successful, structured, and emotionally controlled, until life begins to strip him layer by layer.
The storytelling feels intense but deeply human. At some point, I found myself judging characters, then understanding them, and then questioning my own judgments. That emotional back and forth is what makes this book powerful.
Without giving spoilers, I’ll just say this; the book explores how past actions, even the ones we convince ourselves to forget have a way of demanding accountability.
If you enjoy stories that mix psychological tension with real emotional dept, stories that stay in your mind long after you close the book, then A Decent Man is definitely worth reading. It’s not just a thriller. It’s a mirror.
What struck me most about this book is not just the suspense or the plot twists, it’s how it forces you to rethink what it truly means to be decent. The story pulls you into the life of a man who seems successful, structured, and emotionally controlled, until life begins to strip him layer by layer.
The storytelling feels intense but deeply human. At some point, I found myself judging characters, then understanding them, and then questioning my own judgments. That emotional back and forth is what makes this book powerful.
Without giving spoilers, I’ll just say this; the book explores how past actions, even the ones we convince ourselves to forget have a way of demanding accountability.
If you enjoy stories that mix psychological tension with real emotional dept, stories that stay in your mind long after you close the book, then A Decent Man is definitely worth reading. It’s not just a thriller. It’s a mirror.
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