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Octagon: A whiplash spy thriller for fans of I Am Pilgrim
Not yet published
Expected 28 May 26Pre-order the whiplash-inducing spy thriller, for fans of Scott Mariani and Black Doves.
'Octagon bleeds authenticity from the first page to the last. Read it today!' JACK CARR, #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF CRY HAVOC
'An espionage novel that moves fast and hits hard' M.W. CRAVEN
'A blistering thrill ride' VASEEM KHAN, author of the Q Mysteries
'A smart, slick, adrenaline-fuelled adventure for fans of Ludlum and Fleming' CHARLES CUMMING
'A gritty, well-paced page-turner' THE CRITIC
A DYING RUSSIAN SCIENTIST
confesses to his children what he did as a young man.
A MURDERED SPY
shares vital intelligence before he’s ruthlessly assassinated in the English countryside.
A RITUAL KILLING
hidden in a forest clearing in Sweden hints at something much worse.
FORMER MI6 AGENT RUNNER
Stella McCrae is the only person who can be trusted to investigate now her former employer has been compromised.
EX-SAS OPERATOR
Tommy Kane has always had Stella’s back, but as the threats against them escalate, will his formidable skills be enough this time?
OCTAGON
A devastating plot against the West is already in train. Only Stella and Tommy stand in its way. And time is running out...
Praise for C.J.
‘A writer to put on your reading list!’ – David Baldacci
‘A first-class blend of intrigue, suspense, and action… as propulsive as a Bourne movie.’ – Charles Cumming, CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger winner
‘Very well done’ – Anthony Horowitz
‘A tight, compelling thriller that never misses a beat.’ – Lou Berney, CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger winner
‘Gripping’ – Peter James
'Octagon bleeds authenticity from the first page to the last. Read it today!' JACK CARR, #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF CRY HAVOC
'An espionage novel that moves fast and hits hard' M.W. CRAVEN
'A blistering thrill ride' VASEEM KHAN, author of the Q Mysteries
'A smart, slick, adrenaline-fuelled adventure for fans of Ludlum and Fleming' CHARLES CUMMING
'A gritty, well-paced page-turner' THE CRITIC
A DYING RUSSIAN SCIENTIST
confesses to his children what he did as a young man.
A MURDERED SPY
shares vital intelligence before he’s ruthlessly assassinated in the English countryside.
A RITUAL KILLING
hidden in a forest clearing in Sweden hints at something much worse.
FORMER MI6 AGENT RUNNER
Stella McCrae is the only person who can be trusted to investigate now her former employer has been compromised.
EX-SAS OPERATOR
Tommy Kane has always had Stella’s back, but as the threats against them escalate, will his formidable skills be enough this time?
OCTAGON
A devastating plot against the West is already in train. Only Stella and Tommy stand in its way. And time is running out...
Praise for C.J.
‘A writer to put on your reading list!’ – David Baldacci
‘A first-class blend of intrigue, suspense, and action… as propulsive as a Bourne movie.’ – Charles Cumming, CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger winner
‘Very well done’ – Anthony Horowitz
‘A tight, compelling thriller that never misses a beat.’ – Lou Berney, CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger winner
‘Gripping’ – Peter James
- GenresMystery
435 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 28, 2026
1 person is currently reading
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4-5 stars
Uranium makes its circuitous way from its original USSR stock pile to the Turkish port of Trabzon, from here it would make its way to Tehran. However, before that can happen, gunfire erupts into the warm Turkish night and the Chechen mafia smugglers are killed.…
A month later, Stella McRae ex MI6, and now the owner of a private intelligence company, receives a duress code from her former head of Station which takes her to his Norfolk home. His behaviour is odd, he’s not making much sense, he gives cryptic clues but stresses that what he’s hinting at is very serious, that it has it its origins in Sweden and that Stella must trust no one. Shortly after their encounter, he’s found dead and so Stella knows she has no choice other than to head to Sweden taking the only man she knows will protect her, Tommy Kane, ex SAS. The clues lead them to Grånmyran Forest where they discover a sight so shocking it’s the stuff of nightmares and pure evil. It’s soon becomes clear there’s a devastating plot about to be unleashed in Europe and it’s a race against the time. This is Octagon.
I love a good exciting political thriller and this is precisely that. The plot is gripping, it’s very compelling and told at a fast pace with little breathing space for Stella and Tommy as they pursue ruthless plotters across Europe. The multiple locations are used very effectively in a slick, believable, authentic, well connected complex and intelligent plot. There truly is never a dull moment and the danger levels start high and reach acute, life-threatening situations. Kudos to both Stella, Tommy and Hoss back at Stella’s office for their bravery and intuition. Although the plot is complex, it’s not hard to follow as it barrels and twists its way to an exciting and all too believable conclusion.
This is a very well written thriller, I like the way the author adapts the writing style to different situations which results in the increase of suspense and tension.
Overall, this is a very good, credible political thriller and I hope to ‘meet’ these characters again as I look forward to reading more from this author.
Great cover too - which isn’t visible on GR??!!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Michael Joseph for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Uranium makes its circuitous way from its original USSR stock pile to the Turkish port of Trabzon, from here it would make its way to Tehran. However, before that can happen, gunfire erupts into the warm Turkish night and the Chechen mafia smugglers are killed.…
A month later, Stella McRae ex MI6, and now the owner of a private intelligence company, receives a duress code from her former head of Station which takes her to his Norfolk home. His behaviour is odd, he’s not making much sense, he gives cryptic clues but stresses that what he’s hinting at is very serious, that it has it its origins in Sweden and that Stella must trust no one. Shortly after their encounter, he’s found dead and so Stella knows she has no choice other than to head to Sweden taking the only man she knows will protect her, Tommy Kane, ex SAS. The clues lead them to Grånmyran Forest where they discover a sight so shocking it’s the stuff of nightmares and pure evil. It’s soon becomes clear there’s a devastating plot about to be unleashed in Europe and it’s a race against the time. This is Octagon.
I love a good exciting political thriller and this is precisely that. The plot is gripping, it’s very compelling and told at a fast pace with little breathing space for Stella and Tommy as they pursue ruthless plotters across Europe. The multiple locations are used very effectively in a slick, believable, authentic, well connected complex and intelligent plot. There truly is never a dull moment and the danger levels start high and reach acute, life-threatening situations. Kudos to both Stella, Tommy and Hoss back at Stella’s office for their bravery and intuition. Although the plot is complex, it’s not hard to follow as it barrels and twists its way to an exciting and all too believable conclusion.
This is a very well written thriller, I like the way the author adapts the writing style to different situations which results in the increase of suspense and tension.
Overall, this is a very good, credible political thriller and I hope to ‘meet’ these characters again as I look forward to reading more from this author.
Great cover too - which isn’t visible on GR??!!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Michael Joseph for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Stella McRae left MI6 under a cloud and has set up her own investigative company along with her only employee, Hoss. As with any new business, it’s struggling to get off the ground. After a call from an old colleague, Stella finds herself with a mystery to solve that could have devastating affects. She soon recruits Tommy Kane who is struggling with his own demons but has the skills she needs.
The story pretty much hits the ground running. The only thing Stella has is a cryptic clue to point her in the right direction. She is not prepared for what she uncovers, as is the reader. The one thing we can be sure of is that danger lurks around every corner and the closer that Stella and her team are to discovering the truth, the more serious it gets. We are transported to different countries across Europe which in any other circumstances would be great, sadly for Stella and Tommy they find themselves in strange countries running for their lives.
The three make a formidable team with each playing a very important part. Stella has the brains, Tommy the muscle and Hoss is a computer whiz. I was hooked with the way they work and how discovering small clues, turned into something bigger and scarier. It ends up not only being their own lives they need to worry about but for many others and it’s a race against time to whether they can solve it in time and not only save themselves but others as well.
Octagon is a fast paced, action packed read. There are plenty of thrills and chills in store for it’s reader. I literally could not put it down as there were so many twists and turns and the story just kept getting darker as well as more urgent. It would make a brilliant movie with all the action and espionage. It’s very much a story of power and corruption with Stella and Tommy being the underdogs with you rooting them on. There are so many hair raising moments and it is truly an unputdownable read. An addictive page turner that will send your pulse soaring!
The story pretty much hits the ground running. The only thing Stella has is a cryptic clue to point her in the right direction. She is not prepared for what she uncovers, as is the reader. The one thing we can be sure of is that danger lurks around every corner and the closer that Stella and her team are to discovering the truth, the more serious it gets. We are transported to different countries across Europe which in any other circumstances would be great, sadly for Stella and Tommy they find themselves in strange countries running for their lives.
The three make a formidable team with each playing a very important part. Stella has the brains, Tommy the muscle and Hoss is a computer whiz. I was hooked with the way they work and how discovering small clues, turned into something bigger and scarier. It ends up not only being their own lives they need to worry about but for many others and it’s a race against time to whether they can solve it in time and not only save themselves but others as well.
Octagon is a fast paced, action packed read. There are plenty of thrills and chills in store for it’s reader. I literally could not put it down as there were so many twists and turns and the story just kept getting darker as well as more urgent. It would make a brilliant movie with all the action and espionage. It’s very much a story of power and corruption with Stella and Tommy being the underdogs with you rooting them on. There are so many hair raising moments and it is truly an unputdownable read. An addictive page turner that will send your pulse soaring!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Stella McRae, an ex-MI6 agent now running her own private intelligence company, is contacted by an old friend from the Secret Service about an imminent terrorist plot to destroy the lives of innocent people across Europe. Before Stella can establish the exact nature of the plot and its protagonists, her friend gets brutally murdered.
With few clues to work with, Stella embarks on a wild race against the clock to uncover the truth and unmask those responsible. She is assisted by Tommy Kane, an ex-SAS soldier in charge of her protection, and by Hoss, a young computer genius who can access any relevant information on line. Together, they form a formidable team but the people they are chasing are not only powerful but also determined to not let anything or anyone get in their way.
I found this novel to be fast paced, tense and action packed. The story line is well constructed and keeps you on your toes from beginning to end. The threats at the core of the book are also very credible in today’s world. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Octagon and am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the advanced copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
With few clues to work with, Stella embarks on a wild race against the clock to uncover the truth and unmask those responsible. She is assisted by Tommy Kane, an ex-SAS soldier in charge of her protection, and by Hoss, a young computer genius who can access any relevant information on line. Together, they form a formidable team but the people they are chasing are not only powerful but also determined to not let anything or anyone get in their way.
I found this novel to be fast paced, tense and action packed. The story line is well constructed and keeps you on your toes from beginning to end. The threats at the core of the book are also very credible in today’s world. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Octagon and am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the advanced copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Stella McRae previously worked for SIS/MI6, and how now set up her own private investigation agency.
When an ex- operative friend warns her that an event has been set in motion, worldwide, which will result in thousands of deaths, and the then said agent is murdered, Stella contacts a trusted ex SAS friend, Tommy, to help her find the killer and discover what the threat is.
This quest to prevent the planned destruction in eight major world cities, leads them to an “” end of days “ cult with echoes of far right politics.
Tommy and Stella find that taking care of vulnerable and innocent bystanders is dangerous work and needs must prevail in order to protect. These do include descriptions of torture and inventive methods of killing enemies, the nervous reader may not get much sleep!!
Their methods may be questionable, but both these characters are very relatable and likeable, with a real zest for life, considering their life style choices.
This novel is graphic, gory, visceral, inventive, highly topical and utterly believable in these fast changing times of political turmoil, and a general lack of trust in politicians and the agencies of law and order.
An intriguing and disturbing thriller, a quite wonderful and engaging read. Buckle up for an exciting ride!
When an ex- operative friend warns her that an event has been set in motion, worldwide, which will result in thousands of deaths, and the then said agent is murdered, Stella contacts a trusted ex SAS friend, Tommy, to help her find the killer and discover what the threat is.
This quest to prevent the planned destruction in eight major world cities, leads them to an “” end of days “ cult with echoes of far right politics.
Tommy and Stella find that taking care of vulnerable and innocent bystanders is dangerous work and needs must prevail in order to protect. These do include descriptions of torture and inventive methods of killing enemies, the nervous reader may not get much sleep!!
Their methods may be questionable, but both these characters are very relatable and likeable, with a real zest for life, considering their life style choices.
This novel is graphic, gory, visceral, inventive, highly topical and utterly believable in these fast changing times of political turmoil, and a general lack of trust in politicians and the agencies of law and order.
An intriguing and disturbing thriller, a quite wonderful and engaging read. Buckle up for an exciting ride!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Octagon is exactly my kind of read. It has everything I like - good writing, an all to believeable plot line in todays world and plenty of action, thrills and suspense. Stella McRae, an ex MI6 officer meets Peter, a former colleague who hints of a terrorist plot by an unknown organisation who are everywhere and to trust no-one. When he is found dead shortly afterwards Stella decides to look further into his claims helped by Tommy Kane, ex SAS and her assistant Hoss. Stella and Tommy travel to Sweden and find a ritual killing in a clearing and with Hoss helping from home they follow all the leads he uncovers. This is a great read, the story flows easily and I loved the different country settings and multi layered threads woven into the story that really increase the tension and suspense. The cliff hanger chapter endings just made me want to know what would come next. I really liked Stella, Tommy and Hoss. I hope the author has plans for a second book with these characters as I'd definitely want to read it. If you like spy thrillers then this is for you and I'd recommend it.
4 stars
4 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was really excited to get my hands on this book, being a big fan of spy thrillers, especially those involving international plots. And that cover. So good!
This started very well, with a very engaging first third as the conspiracy unfolded. The characters were likeable enough but I soon found myself finding some of the dialogue a bit forced. The plot itself is strong, with clear motivations on both sides, and the jumps from country to country were well handled. The underlying theme of the rising right-wing and disgruntled young men felt topical, but the action wasn't quite what I was hoping for. The story was, on the whole though, nicely paced and easy to read.
Overall, this fell a bit flat for me and the ending was far too anti-climatic given the stakes, with it feeling a little rushed. The epilogue was great though but as a spy thriller, I didn't feel as thrilled as I should've felt and I came away feeling a little disappointed.
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Penguin Randomhouse and Michael Joseph for the ARC
This started very well, with a very engaging first third as the conspiracy unfolded. The characters were likeable enough but I soon found myself finding some of the dialogue a bit forced. The plot itself is strong, with clear motivations on both sides, and the jumps from country to country were well handled. The underlying theme of the rising right-wing and disgruntled young men felt topical, but the action wasn't quite what I was hoping for. The story was, on the whole though, nicely paced and easy to read.
Overall, this fell a bit flat for me and the ending was far too anti-climatic given the stakes, with it feeling a little rushed. The epilogue was great though but as a spy thriller, I didn't feel as thrilled as I should've felt and I came away feeling a little disappointed.
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Penguin Randomhouse and Michael Joseph for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Topical, fast paced thriller with strong main characters up against the clock as they seek to prevent a series of terrorist attacks in Europe.
Recalls Robert Ludlum at his peak, with the dry humour and espionage background of Mick Herron's Slough House novels.
Roll on the next book!
Recalls Robert Ludlum at his peak, with the dry humour and espionage background of Mick Herron's Slough House novels.
Roll on the next book!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews