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A Gangster's Grip
When Rita returns to Manchester after a few years away, she doesn’t expect to find a spliff smoking, beer swilling thug called Leroy firmly ensconced on her parents’ sofa. Rita is horrified to discover he is her sister Jenny’s new boyfriend, and she senses trouble.
The more Rita finds out about Leroy, the more she mistrusts him. As she uncovers the truth about his shady dealings, she becomes anxious about Jenny’s safety and is desperate to lure her away from him. Rita’s mettle is tested as she tries to protect her sister while battling with personal health concerns.
But it’s worse than Rita could ever have suspected. Through her association with Leroy, Jenny is about to become embroiled in the most dangerous phase in Manchester’s recent history.
The more Rita finds out about Leroy, the more she mistrusts him. As she uncovers the truth about his shady dealings, she becomes anxious about Jenny’s safety and is desperate to lure her away from him. Rita’s mettle is tested as she tries to protect her sister while battling with personal health concerns.
But it’s worse than Rita could ever have suspected. Through her association with Leroy, Jenny is about to become embroiled in the most dangerous phase in Manchester’s recent history.
Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2015
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About the author
Heather Burnside
29 books121 followersHeather Burnside is a Manchester based author whose novels are set in her home city. She has published fifteen gritty urban crime novels to date most of which have become Amazon Category Bestsellers.
More recently Heather has written two psychological thrillers, which will be published in 2026. She is currently working on her third psychological thriller.
Before writing novels, Heather completed a creative writing course. During that time, she had various articles published in well-known UK magazines and went on to run a writing services business.
Her novels include: The Riverhill Trilogy, The Manchester Trilogy, The Working Girls Series of five novels, and four standalone novels.
You can find out more about Heather’s books by signing up to her mailing list at: http://eepurl.com/CP6YP to receive regular updates, or by viewing her website: www.heatherburnside.com.
More recently Heather has written two psychological thrillers, which will be published in 2026. She is currently working on her third psychological thriller.
Before writing novels, Heather completed a creative writing course. During that time, she had various articles published in well-known UK magazines and went on to run a writing services business.
Her novels include: The Riverhill Trilogy, The Manchester Trilogy, The Working Girls Series of five novels, and four standalone novels.
You can find out more about Heather’s books by signing up to her mailing list at: http://eepurl.com/CP6YP to receive regular updates, or by viewing her website: www.heatherburnside.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 17, 2015
A Gangster’s Grip by Heather Burnside is the second in a series of mysteries set in Manchester, England. Rita, several years older and more mature than when we last saw her in Slur, returns to her parents’ home to find her sister Jenny sitting on the sofa with a pot-smoking, beer-chugging bloke called Leroy. Right off the bat, Rita sees red flags. When she learns that he is her sister’s boyfriend, Rita knows there is trouble brewing.
Rita, of course, has to investigate. And the more she looks into the life of Leroy, the more worried she becomes. With husband Yansis by her side supporting her, Rita goes out on a limb to try to protect her pregnant sister from her potentially dangerous boyfriend. Ms. Burnside brings back Rita’s friend Julie from the first book also, although she has a more limited role in this one, while Rita takes the lead. I found these characters to be likable and believable. There is plenty of dialogue, and as in Slur, that is one of the main strengths of this book, because Burnside has a great ear for speech and what people actually say. My only negative thought in that regard is that she is perhaps too conservative in her concern about foul language, as she seems to go out of her way to avoid it, especially with the hoods who populate this novel.
The other criticism I have is that the gang members seem a bit stereotyped. I noted that in the United States, “Leroy” has been a negative stereotype name for African-American in the past, although perhaps that is not the case in the UK. The gang was multi-racial, but I did feel that Leroy was cast in a more negative light.
Overall, although the story moves a bit slowly in parts, it is an above average read. For those who enjoyed Slur, I would recommend A Gangster’s Grip as a followup.
My thanks to Heather Burnside for allowing me to be a beta reader for this novel, and I wish to apologize for the delay is posting my review.
3-1/2 stars
Rita, of course, has to investigate. And the more she looks into the life of Leroy, the more worried she becomes. With husband Yansis by her side supporting her, Rita goes out on a limb to try to protect her pregnant sister from her potentially dangerous boyfriend. Ms. Burnside brings back Rita’s friend Julie from the first book also, although she has a more limited role in this one, while Rita takes the lead. I found these characters to be likable and believable. There is plenty of dialogue, and as in Slur, that is one of the main strengths of this book, because Burnside has a great ear for speech and what people actually say. My only negative thought in that regard is that she is perhaps too conservative in her concern about foul language, as she seems to go out of her way to avoid it, especially with the hoods who populate this novel.
The other criticism I have is that the gang members seem a bit stereotyped. I noted that in the United States, “Leroy” has been a negative stereotype name for African-American in the past, although perhaps that is not the case in the UK. The gang was multi-racial, but I did feel that Leroy was cast in a more negative light.
Overall, although the story moves a bit slowly in parts, it is an above average read. For those who enjoyed Slur, I would recommend A Gangster’s Grip as a followup.
My thanks to Heather Burnside for allowing me to be a beta reader for this novel, and I wish to apologize for the delay is posting my review.
3-1/2 stars
August 25, 2016
Anyone who enjoyed Slur, book one of this series, will certainly enjoy A Gangster's grip. Heather Burnside's easy flowing style of writing allows the narrative to stream towards an exciting conclusion. My personal preference leans towards a more descriptive narrative, but I know not all readers desire such a thing and will feel this more worthy of a five star rating. Overall, an enjoyable read that kept me turning the pages more quickly as the story progressed.
October 7, 2015
I enjoyed Slur, the first book in this series, not least because it is set in the part of Manchester where I was born. The action in A Gangster’s Grip takes place four years later and the girls have matured considerably. Rita and her husband Yansis return from his native Greece for a protracted stay in Manchester for a reason we discover later. She finds things at home are not as cosy as she’d come to believe from letters and phone calls. Her sister Jenny is visibly pregnant to a dodgy and bullying partner. When Rita and her friend Julie try to help Jenny to get her life back, they find she isn’t the only person under this man’s influence.
The characters here are believable and I wanted things to work out well for Rita, Julie and their families. It’s easy for the reader to become involved in this story and there’s plenty of action and excitement. I was drawn into it and read it quickly and I eagerly await Part Three of the trilogy.
I received an advance copy for review.
The characters here are believable and I wanted things to work out well for Rita, Julie and their families. It’s easy for the reader to become involved in this story and there’s plenty of action and excitement. I was drawn into it and read it quickly and I eagerly await Part Three of the trilogy.
I received an advance copy for review.
October 25, 2015
While I was thinking about what to write for my own review of 'A Gangster's Grip', a fabulous five star reader review came in from someone who doesn't normally post reviews to Goodreads. It's very comprehensive and eloquent so I've decided to quote it in its entirety:
"Rita, an emigre to Greece, returns home to the Manchester council estate where she was born, only to discover her elfin younger sister has been impregnated by Leroy, a notorious thug and pathologically violent gangster, with whom she is besotted.
Determined to make her see sense, Rita sets out to discover the truth about Leroy and to expose him. Naturally, Leroy isn't best pleased at her intervention and Rita (and her affable Greek husband, Yanis) soon find themselves in danger.
It took me four sittings to read and as a novel it doesn't outstay its welcome. Set in the council estates of Manchester (Longsight, Moss Side), with landmarks you can probably visit and chart, the story is gritty, earthy, with realistic language (that will offend some), and with relationships that are accurately drawn. I particularly like Carl, Leroy's henchman and embittered, envious, street Heroin dealer; a wife beater and lowlife of some considerable magnitude, and his wife Debby - heroin addicted, forlorn, trapped in a council flat with the almost Dickensian urchins and powerless to withstand her partner's boorish, controlling behaviour - is a suitably tragic figure who somehow finds the strength to challenge him.
There is a lot to recommend the paperback version of this book. It's attractive, beautifully formatted and typeset, well balanced, with a lovely cover. The chapters are bookmark-friendly (you can always read one more if you feel like it), and the writing is unfussy, in keeping with the modern idiom, written for the busy time-challenged reader. I was minded of Martina Cole at times, except, obviously, in the North. There are some entertaining set-pieces, including when Carl and Leroy finally have a little talk about their business, as it were. The ending is suitably violent and worth waiting for,
Weaknesses? I don't think Heather quite gets to grips with how BAD people like Leroy are and the limits they go to, particularly in one pub scene, where he comes across quite meek and mild. The novel is slow to begin - I would have added a scene where Leroy demonstrates his propensity for evil much earlier in the book. Jenny is a pain in the a**e who needs locking up in a room somewhere to detox from her addiction to bad boys, and the Epilogic conclusion is too neat for my tastes.
But in the end, its a terrific, easy, absorbing read for fans of modern gangster "beach" fiction. Readers of this genre will really enjoy it. as I did."
Marky the Wizard
"Rita, an emigre to Greece, returns home to the Manchester council estate where she was born, only to discover her elfin younger sister has been impregnated by Leroy, a notorious thug and pathologically violent gangster, with whom she is besotted.
Determined to make her see sense, Rita sets out to discover the truth about Leroy and to expose him. Naturally, Leroy isn't best pleased at her intervention and Rita (and her affable Greek husband, Yanis) soon find themselves in danger.
It took me four sittings to read and as a novel it doesn't outstay its welcome. Set in the council estates of Manchester (Longsight, Moss Side), with landmarks you can probably visit and chart, the story is gritty, earthy, with realistic language (that will offend some), and with relationships that are accurately drawn. I particularly like Carl, Leroy's henchman and embittered, envious, street Heroin dealer; a wife beater and lowlife of some considerable magnitude, and his wife Debby - heroin addicted, forlorn, trapped in a council flat with the almost Dickensian urchins and powerless to withstand her partner's boorish, controlling behaviour - is a suitably tragic figure who somehow finds the strength to challenge him.
There is a lot to recommend the paperback version of this book. It's attractive, beautifully formatted and typeset, well balanced, with a lovely cover. The chapters are bookmark-friendly (you can always read one more if you feel like it), and the writing is unfussy, in keeping with the modern idiom, written for the busy time-challenged reader. I was minded of Martina Cole at times, except, obviously, in the North. There are some entertaining set-pieces, including when Carl and Leroy finally have a little talk about their business, as it were. The ending is suitably violent and worth waiting for,
Weaknesses? I don't think Heather quite gets to grips with how BAD people like Leroy are and the limits they go to, particularly in one pub scene, where he comes across quite meek and mild. The novel is slow to begin - I would have added a scene where Leroy demonstrates his propensity for evil much earlier in the book. Jenny is a pain in the a**e who needs locking up in a room somewhere to detox from her addiction to bad boys, and the Epilogic conclusion is too neat for my tastes.
But in the end, its a terrific, easy, absorbing read for fans of modern gangster "beach" fiction. Readers of this genre will really enjoy it. as I did."
Marky the Wizard
December 22, 2015
Rita has been living in Greece, where she has been running a restaurant with her husband Yansis. She has just returned to her hometown of Manchester for a visit. On arrival at her parents’ home she finds a surly stranger ensconced on the settee, smoking marijuana. Moments later Rita discovers that her younger sister Jenny is pregnant by this man. His name is Leroy.
Rita is immediately suspicious of Leroy. Concerned for her sister’s welfare she makes enquiries about him in the local area. These enquiries only exacerbate her concerns. Soon Rita is thrust into a world of stolen goods, drugs and the omnipresent threat of gang violence. Here the divisions between victim and perpetrator are often blurred.
A Gangster’s Grip is the sequel to Slur and Part 2 in a proposed Manchester-based crime trilogy. This instalment sees the return not only of the vibrant and vivacious Rita, but also her dependable friend, the now matured protagonist of Slur, Julie. The book boasts an array of colourful and contrasting characters, including sinister Leroy and conscientious Yansis, as well as the gang-affiliated miscreant Carl and his heroin-addicted wife Debby.
Author Heather Burnside adeptly utilises pathos in this atmospheric, fast-moving, plot-driven and eminently readable crime novel, which is set in the early 90s, in what was a dark chapter in Manchester’s illustrious history.
Rita is immediately suspicious of Leroy. Concerned for her sister’s welfare she makes enquiries about him in the local area. These enquiries only exacerbate her concerns. Soon Rita is thrust into a world of stolen goods, drugs and the omnipresent threat of gang violence. Here the divisions between victim and perpetrator are often blurred.
A Gangster’s Grip is the sequel to Slur and Part 2 in a proposed Manchester-based crime trilogy. This instalment sees the return not only of the vibrant and vivacious Rita, but also her dependable friend, the now matured protagonist of Slur, Julie. The book boasts an array of colourful and contrasting characters, including sinister Leroy and conscientious Yansis, as well as the gang-affiliated miscreant Carl and his heroin-addicted wife Debby.
Author Heather Burnside adeptly utilises pathos in this atmospheric, fast-moving, plot-driven and eminently readable crime novel, which is set in the early 90s, in what was a dark chapter in Manchester’s illustrious history.
November 7, 2017
Areally good trilogy
I really enjoyed this trilogy and what a shame it was too finish our time with Rita and the gang. I was totally hooked I couldn't put them down and read all 3 in a day each book ,boo boo. They was the first of Heather Burnside books I have read but won't be the last,always a Joy to discover new authors and Heathers books are just up my street. And she squeezes in true facts into her vivid imagination! If your looking for a good read then you have stumbled along them here. Than you heather Burnside
I really enjoyed this trilogy and what a shame it was too finish our time with Rita and the gang. I was totally hooked I couldn't put them down and read all 3 in a day each book ,boo boo. They was the first of Heather Burnside books I have read but won't be the last,always a Joy to discover new authors and Heathers books are just up my street. And she squeezes in true facts into her vivid imagination! If your looking for a good read then you have stumbled along them here. Than you heather Burnside
October 26, 2017
Excellent read
Another extremely good book by a very talented writer. Very down to earth .it brings an insight to how gangs can get hold of someone and not let go.
Another extremely good book by a very talented writer. Very down to earth .it brings an insight to how gangs can get hold of someone and not let go.
December 2, 2015
A Gangster’s Grip is a sequel to Slur though four years have passed and Rita (one of my favourite characters from Slur) has settled down with Yansis and is living in Greece. They come back to Manchester to sort out some personal issues and are surprised to find that Rita’s sister Jenny is going out with local bad boy, Leroy, and is heavily pregnant. There is no room for them to stay with Rita’s parents, Joan and Ged, so they go to stay with Rita’s best friend Julie, her husband Vinny and daughter Emily.
Very early in the story it is apparent to Rita that Leroy is up to no good and worried for her sister she wants to warn her off him but with her father also involved in Leroy’s shady world and her sister seeming to be besotted with the man it’s not going to be easy.
I’ll say straight away that this book gets better and better as it progresses. The start for me was a little slow, with sometimes too much description and we didn’t get to see a great deal of Leroy’s bad side until much later on. However Burnside really picks up the pace in the second half, along with the crime, violence and death.
The characters that I thought were particularly well written were Carl, who sells drugs for Leroy, and his wife, Debby. Their lives were dismal, their filthy house and desperate kids horribly realistic. Debby is hooked on heroin the supply of which Carl controls along with beating her; presumably because that is the only way he feels he has power over anything. You can sense his frustration at working for Leroy, having to work the less lucrative pitches because Leroy is getting Winston (oh and there’s a twist there which I won’t share!) to work those and Carl is also having to run around picking up drugs as well which adds to his discontent.
There’s a terrific ‘discussion’ between Leroy and Carl in which Leroy’s aggressive dog Tyson plays a part and as the book builds towards its violent end here’s a snippet.
‘Within moments of setting off, Rita realised they had acted rashly, fuelled by impulse. They should have rung Jenny and warned her, maybe rung the police. But what would they tell them? There might not be any crime to report yet. It was too late now; if they doubled back it would waste more valuable time. Besides, what if Debby was wrong? Rita hoped she was.’
There is language in this novel which might offend some but if you’ve picked up a book set in the gang culture of Manchester then that’s only to be expected. I’m looking forward to what comes next from Ms Burnside and highly recommend this to those who like a little grit in their reads.
Very early in the story it is apparent to Rita that Leroy is up to no good and worried for her sister she wants to warn her off him but with her father also involved in Leroy’s shady world and her sister seeming to be besotted with the man it’s not going to be easy.
I’ll say straight away that this book gets better and better as it progresses. The start for me was a little slow, with sometimes too much description and we didn’t get to see a great deal of Leroy’s bad side until much later on. However Burnside really picks up the pace in the second half, along with the crime, violence and death.
The characters that I thought were particularly well written were Carl, who sells drugs for Leroy, and his wife, Debby. Their lives were dismal, their filthy house and desperate kids horribly realistic. Debby is hooked on heroin the supply of which Carl controls along with beating her; presumably because that is the only way he feels he has power over anything. You can sense his frustration at working for Leroy, having to work the less lucrative pitches because Leroy is getting Winston (oh and there’s a twist there which I won’t share!) to work those and Carl is also having to run around picking up drugs as well which adds to his discontent.
There’s a terrific ‘discussion’ between Leroy and Carl in which Leroy’s aggressive dog Tyson plays a part and as the book builds towards its violent end here’s a snippet.
‘Within moments of setting off, Rita realised they had acted rashly, fuelled by impulse. They should have rung Jenny and warned her, maybe rung the police. But what would they tell them? There might not be any crime to report yet. It was too late now; if they doubled back it would waste more valuable time. Besides, what if Debby was wrong? Rita hoped she was.’
There is language in this novel which might offend some but if you’ve picked up a book set in the gang culture of Manchester then that’s only to be expected. I’m looking forward to what comes next from Ms Burnside and highly recommend this to those who like a little grit in their reads.
June 24, 2016
I’ve puzzled over writing this review for Danger by Association as it’s tricky to write without giving spoilers, both to this story and to those that have come before in the series. So, bearing that in mind, and treading carefully, here we go.
Danger by Association is set 5 years on from A Gangster’s Grip. Rita, her husband Yansis and son Daniel have returned to Manchester to celebrate her brother John’s wedding to Paula.
Rita is keen to keep away from the Riverhill Estate not wanting some that live there to hear of her return or, more particularly, to know that Daniel is back.
However, after a major incident in the city centre Daniel is hospitalised and separated from his parents. No longer able to protect him, he disappears.
John, a policeman, gets involved in the case, managing to put his career on the line in the process and there are red herrings to lead all astray.
I particularly liked the parts written about Daniel and Maurice, an unsavoury character, and Burnside depicts their plights well. She even managed to make me feel sympathy towards someone I really shouldn’t feel any towards at all.
I couldn’t help feel that there would have been a lot more action about the disappearance of a child by way of media coverage and more interaction with the police but as this was set in 1996 perhaps not.
All in all this is a well told tale, tidily written and very well presented. I should also add that the eye-catching cover is excellent and suits the contents very well.
Danger by Association is set 5 years on from A Gangster’s Grip. Rita, her husband Yansis and son Daniel have returned to Manchester to celebrate her brother John’s wedding to Paula.
Rita is keen to keep away from the Riverhill Estate not wanting some that live there to hear of her return or, more particularly, to know that Daniel is back.
However, after a major incident in the city centre Daniel is hospitalised and separated from his parents. No longer able to protect him, he disappears.
John, a policeman, gets involved in the case, managing to put his career on the line in the process and there are red herrings to lead all astray.
I particularly liked the parts written about Daniel and Maurice, an unsavoury character, and Burnside depicts their plights well. She even managed to make me feel sympathy towards someone I really shouldn’t feel any towards at all.
I couldn’t help feel that there would have been a lot more action about the disappearance of a child by way of media coverage and more interaction with the police but as this was set in 1996 perhaps not.
All in all this is a well told tale, tidily written and very well presented. I should also add that the eye-catching cover is excellent and suits the contents very well.
October 18, 2015
To begin with, I'll admit that I wasn't sure about this book. I had given Slur, the first book in this series, a four star review, so I knew that this book had a lot to live up to. I'm incredibly glad that I read this book as I enjoyed it immensely - even more than the first book!
I loved the characters and how much they had grown and matured from the first book, which I felt made the story a lot more engaging. They were believable and interesting, and it was impossible not to care about them. I even found myself tearing up at times due to the situations that they had got themselves in!
This book was fast-paced and full of action, and there was plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged (I don't want to give anything away, but I definitely didn't see the ending coming!). I felt that there was just the right amount of description to make it effective and without detracting from the pace of the story. I was also glad that the descriptions weren't too gore-y, which allowed me to create a vivid picture in my mind.
Some very clever writing and I eagerly await the next instalment in the trilogy.
I loved the characters and how much they had grown and matured from the first book, which I felt made the story a lot more engaging. They were believable and interesting, and it was impossible not to care about them. I even found myself tearing up at times due to the situations that they had got themselves in!
This book was fast-paced and full of action, and there was plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged (I don't want to give anything away, but I definitely didn't see the ending coming!). I felt that there was just the right amount of description to make it effective and without detracting from the pace of the story. I was also glad that the descriptions weren't too gore-y, which allowed me to create a vivid picture in my mind.
Some very clever writing and I eagerly await the next instalment in the trilogy.
August 8, 2016
For the past five years Rita has been living in Greece with her husband Yansis and young son Daniel. But now her brother John is getting married, and Rita has reluctantly returned to Manchester for the event. She is determined to enjoy the trip, and above all to steer clear of the city’s Riverhill Estate where the tumultuous events of the prequel, A Gangster’s Grip, took place.
However, when Daniel faces mortal danger, she has no choice but to return to the area and confront her past. Will Rita be able to save her son in time? Sources of potential salvation include John, but there is a conflict of interest as he is in law enforcement.
Danger by Association is the final part of a Manchester-based crime trilogy. Fast-paced, realistic and compelling, it effortlessly captures the zeitgeist of the 1990s. In addition to vibrant and vivacious protagonist Rita and her dependable friend Julie, the book boasts an array of new colourful, contrasting and convincing characters.
By skilfully blurring the divisions between victim and perpetrator the author, as in the first two instalments, successfully elicits sympathy for several of the book’s more unsavoury specimens.
However, when Daniel faces mortal danger, she has no choice but to return to the area and confront her past. Will Rita be able to save her son in time? Sources of potential salvation include John, but there is a conflict of interest as he is in law enforcement.
Danger by Association is the final part of a Manchester-based crime trilogy. Fast-paced, realistic and compelling, it effortlessly captures the zeitgeist of the 1990s. In addition to vibrant and vivacious protagonist Rita and her dependable friend Julie, the book boasts an array of new colourful, contrasting and convincing characters.
By skilfully blurring the divisions between victim and perpetrator the author, as in the first two instalments, successfully elicits sympathy for several of the book’s more unsavoury specimens.
December 18, 2015
I enjoyed Slur, the first in the trilogy, particularly the bits about Rita, and was delighted to see her take centre stage in A Gangster’s Grip.
The backdrop to the action is Manchester in 1991 and again, the sense of place and historical details are spot on.
Rita’s matured in the years that she’s been away, but she’s still the same feisty girl, desperate to protect her sister Jenny from Leroy and his thugs. The other characters are well-drawn too – you even get a sense of what makes the bad guys tick. I particularly liked all the dog-eat-dog gang politics and double-dealing, plus the sense of menace that the author creates so well.
As with Slur, I loved the authentic Northern dialogue. Yes there is some bad language, but does anyone really expect gang members to speak in the Queen’s English?
The plot is gripping and picks up pace nicely. The ending is satisfying, with all the subplots coming together.
All in all a great read, especially recommended to fans of Martina Cole.
The backdrop to the action is Manchester in 1991 and again, the sense of place and historical details are spot on.
Rita’s matured in the years that she’s been away, but she’s still the same feisty girl, desperate to protect her sister Jenny from Leroy and his thugs. The other characters are well-drawn too – you even get a sense of what makes the bad guys tick. I particularly liked all the dog-eat-dog gang politics and double-dealing, plus the sense of menace that the author creates so well.
As with Slur, I loved the authentic Northern dialogue. Yes there is some bad language, but does anyone really expect gang members to speak in the Queen’s English?
The plot is gripping and picks up pace nicely. The ending is satisfying, with all the subplots coming together.
All in all a great read, especially recommended to fans of Martina Cole.
March 31, 2016
I’ve read pretty much everything Burnside has written; her short stories collection Crime, Conflict and Consequences, and the first book in the trilogy Slur, and it’s safe to say I’m a fan. I love well-rounded characters and clever interactions in books. Burnside is so good at this, and is so skilled in creating relatable characters and believable dialogue. Another thing to love is that her books are so readable, it’s easy to get lost in them. When I first read Slur, I was so absorbed that I more than once almost missed my tube stop. Good news, Gangster’s Grip is no exception; the tense and heavy plot doesn’t stop you wanting to plough on to the shocking yet inevitable ending.
I've reviewed it in full here
I've reviewed it in full here
October 10, 2016
Brilliant
I have loved reading the Riverhill Trilogy! Such twists + turns, I've been totally gripped! Having grown up in Longsight i was very familiar with the "real" places which made the story so much more real to me. The Characters were true Mancunians strong, funny & very feisty
I have loved reading the Riverhill Trilogy! Such twists + turns, I've been totally gripped! Having grown up in Longsight i was very familiar with the "real" places which made the story so much more real to me. The Characters were true Mancunians strong, funny & very feisty
December 19, 2015
This was a great follow on book from Slur . A gangster type book in the style of Martina Cole and I'm guessing she could be just as good . I particularly liked Rita's Bolshie attitude and there is sad parts in the book too . I give this book 5 stars
January 2, 2016
I won this book through good reads and got so engrossed I read it in a day. It was exciting and gripping following Rita and how she may or may not help her family who had got involved in a gangsters grip.
August 13, 2016
Tnehis is a Goodreads win review. This book is part of a trilogy. From what I can gather the lady Rita needs to come back to a painful town but events happen that make her get involved again because she and her family are in danger.
October 24, 2017
Brilliant story a must read ,i couldnt put it down. Love this lsdies books
Really true to life,can't wait to read the next one in the series.a definite must for crime enthusiasts . brilliant
Really true to life,can't wait to read the next one in the series.a definite must for crime enthusiasts . brilliant
January 5, 2016
Didn't realise it followed on from Slur but it was a while since I read it, again an easy read, enjoyed it.
July 1, 2016
A belter of a book . The pages just flew by . Full of twists and turns . Loved it
October 1, 2016
Very good read
Read all three books now
Would definitely recommend them to a friend
No down points to the story
Read all three books now
Would definitely recommend them to a friend
No down points to the story
July 18, 2018
Kept you on tender hooks
This novel was was a good read I have read the last two novels but this one kept me hooked with the not knowing who took Daniel and hid him for a week so their was suspicion between every body . It didn't quite make it to 5 stars but it was a good read and would recommend this novel .
This novel was was a good read I have read the last two novels but this one kept me hooked with the not knowing who took Daniel and hid him for a week so their was suspicion between every body . It didn't quite make it to 5 stars but it was a good read and would recommend this novel .
June 5, 2022
Loved this book
Loved all three books in this trilogy. Rita, yanis and Daniel return to Manchester from Greece for rita's brother 's wedding.Someone kidnaps Daniel and it's a guessing game as to who it could be.
Loved all three books in this trilogy. Rita, yanis and Daniel return to Manchester from Greece for rita's brother 's wedding.Someone kidnaps Daniel and it's a guessing game as to who it could be.
June 9, 2021
Great read
Really good ending to a great trilogy, Heather holds your attention with her writing always making me read just another chapter
Really good ending to a great trilogy, Heather holds your attention with her writing always making me read just another chapter
June 3, 2021
Excellent storyline, good strong characters
Highly Recommend
Highly Recommend
July 11, 2016
After the saddening and shocking end of the last book, Gangster's Grip it was difficult to see where the series could go next. The end of the second book seemed to have things wrapped up tragically yet neatly, so it must have been with devilish glee that the author pulled those threads loose again and sent the characters into yet another misadventure.
Set 5 years after the second book, party girls Rita and Julie, who we were introduced to in book one are all grown up, and are contented wives and mothers. Rita, after the events in the last book has returned to Manchester with mixed feelings, saddened by the memories of 5 years ago, but happy to reconnect with her brother and his new wife. Unfortunately for Rita, the past associations of what went down before come back to threaten Rita and her family.
Like all Burnside's books, this one was easy reading, addictive and entertaining. The central mystery to the plot was a real grabber, with many a red herring and twists that Burnside is known for. Another thing that I have commented on before is the expert use of character. Over the three books the characters have become more and more well rounded. Burnside seems to know her characters really well and has portrayed them perfectly each time.
This consistency means that every person we have met before in the series behaves exactly as the reader would expect, a skill which is vital when writing a series with the same characters in each book. Of course you want your characters to grow and adapt with new events but anything too out of character would still be a shock; the change needs to be organic. The Rita and Julie we are introduced to in Slur are not the same Rita and Julie in Danger by Association, but after 10 years and so many life altering events it wouldn't be realistic if they were. But the change and the people they are now is perfectly natural as we have seen the growth throughout the series.
Alongside the old faces there are a couple of new people brought in to this story. The introduction of new characters to a trilogy at the last minute is usually a cause for complaint, as they usually bring along with them unnecessary plot deviations and very little depth. Happily, this is an exception as some of the characters introduced here have been the most intriguing and complex yet. New additions Maurice and Raeni were introduced perfectly, and their character arcs, particularly Maurice's, handled with real skill. It takes some serious talent to not fully vilify unsympathetic characters, or characters that act in an unsympathetic way, and it is impressive the way these characters were portrayed.
While the ending of the book, and by extension the trilogy, seemed a little unrealistically perfect, with everything tied up, all relationships mended and everyone happy, I'm glad that it seems at last the girls have found some peace which will be permanent this time. Although if not, and Burnside decides to wreak havoc on their lives once again with one last book, I for one won't complain!
See my other reviews of The Riverhill Trilogy at http://thebookonmydesk.uk
Set 5 years after the second book, party girls Rita and Julie, who we were introduced to in book one are all grown up, and are contented wives and mothers. Rita, after the events in the last book has returned to Manchester with mixed feelings, saddened by the memories of 5 years ago, but happy to reconnect with her brother and his new wife. Unfortunately for Rita, the past associations of what went down before come back to threaten Rita and her family.
Like all Burnside's books, this one was easy reading, addictive and entertaining. The central mystery to the plot was a real grabber, with many a red herring and twists that Burnside is known for. Another thing that I have commented on before is the expert use of character. Over the three books the characters have become more and more well rounded. Burnside seems to know her characters really well and has portrayed them perfectly each time.
This consistency means that every person we have met before in the series behaves exactly as the reader would expect, a skill which is vital when writing a series with the same characters in each book. Of course you want your characters to grow and adapt with new events but anything too out of character would still be a shock; the change needs to be organic. The Rita and Julie we are introduced to in Slur are not the same Rita and Julie in Danger by Association, but after 10 years and so many life altering events it wouldn't be realistic if they were. But the change and the people they are now is perfectly natural as we have seen the growth throughout the series.
Alongside the old faces there are a couple of new people brought in to this story. The introduction of new characters to a trilogy at the last minute is usually a cause for complaint, as they usually bring along with them unnecessary plot deviations and very little depth. Happily, this is an exception as some of the characters introduced here have been the most intriguing and complex yet. New additions Maurice and Raeni were introduced perfectly, and their character arcs, particularly Maurice's, handled with real skill. It takes some serious talent to not fully vilify unsympathetic characters, or characters that act in an unsympathetic way, and it is impressive the way these characters were portrayed.
While the ending of the book, and by extension the trilogy, seemed a little unrealistically perfect, with everything tied up, all relationships mended and everyone happy, I'm glad that it seems at last the girls have found some peace which will be permanent this time. Although if not, and Burnside decides to wreak havoc on their lives once again with one last book, I for one won't complain!
See my other reviews of The Riverhill Trilogy at http://thebookonmydesk.uk
December 31, 2015
Rita returns to her native Manchester from Greece, with husband Yansis as she requires medical treatment she would have to pay for in Greece. it's been four years since she emigrated and once back at her family home she is mugged and meets aggressive and unfriendly Leroy, her sister, Jenny's boyfriend. Other surprises for Rita include her sister's five month pregnancy and her father Ged's fondness for Leroy and the business he brings.
With red flags waving from her initial impression of Leroy, Rita hazardously undertakes her own research that does nothing to qualm her concerns for her sister and her future baby. In a mission to do what she can to preserve her family's safety will Rita be able to prevent her worst nightmares?
A gritty novel about the underbelly of crime in Moss Side and gang warfare. We are given a realistic and unglamourised view of living in rough council areas, and how people get by to survive. This book picks up pace and adrenaline as you get further into bit and the author brings a sense of serious malicious consequences alive on the page. I enjoyed reading about the characters and learning more about them. I have not read the first book in the trilogy, Slur, but found that it didn't at all detract from my enjoyment of this novel.
As gritty, violent and realistic as the book seemed I expect the language has been toned down from the true swearing and slang I would expect to hear on Moss Side, but I still was taken away with the world and characters created in this gritty thriller, which builds to quite a crescendo.
A heart-racing read of gangs and crime and their effect on a family in Manchester.
With red flags waving from her initial impression of Leroy, Rita hazardously undertakes her own research that does nothing to qualm her concerns for her sister and her future baby. In a mission to do what she can to preserve her family's safety will Rita be able to prevent her worst nightmares?
A gritty novel about the underbelly of crime in Moss Side and gang warfare. We are given a realistic and unglamourised view of living in rough council areas, and how people get by to survive. This book picks up pace and adrenaline as you get further into bit and the author brings a sense of serious malicious consequences alive on the page. I enjoyed reading about the characters and learning more about them. I have not read the first book in the trilogy, Slur, but found that it didn't at all detract from my enjoyment of this novel.
As gritty, violent and realistic as the book seemed I expect the language has been toned down from the true swearing and slang I would expect to hear on Moss Side, but I still was taken away with the world and characters created in this gritty thriller, which builds to quite a crescendo.
A heart-racing read of gangs and crime and their effect on a family in Manchester.
June 27, 2016
This is the third part of the Riverhill Trilogy and I found the story very compelling. Rita returns with her husband, Yansis, and her son, her sister Jenny’s little boy, for a family wedding. Her brother John, formerly in the forces, has come home to join the police, and it’s his wedding she’s attending. Rita is determined not to have anything to do with the Riverhill Estate but events pull her back. Her brother, after a heavy night of drinking, makes an unfortunate statement to a member of the public which has terrible consequences. Once again, Rita and those she loves are in danger.
I read a lot of crime books and some of them, to be honest, feel a little far-fetched. This one feels like it really could happen, to ordinary people living straight-forward lives. Rita seems like a ball of hot anger, but after what happens to her family, you can understand it. A very good read – but you do need to know the background. If you haven’t already, go and read the other two first.
I read a lot of crime books and some of them, to be honest, feel a little far-fetched. This one feels like it really could happen, to ordinary people living straight-forward lives. Rita seems like a ball of hot anger, but after what happens to her family, you can understand it. A very good read – but you do need to know the background. If you haven’t already, go and read the other two first.
November 16, 2016
Too Brutal!
The whole crazy likeness to reality and brutal way of life in the society of gangs is astronomical. However, the devotion of a sister's love to desperately try and get her little sister out of danger is so sad. But, fortunately she had the love and support of her husband through the entire situation, regardless of the strain it put on their relationship, they'd stuck together. Unfortunately, this is all I know to write without spoiling the book. However, these sorts of situations are everywhereis everywhere and that's faced almost daily.
The whole crazy likeness to reality and brutal way of life in the society of gangs is astronomical. However, the devotion of a sister's love to desperately try and get her little sister out of danger is so sad. But, fortunately she had the love and support of her husband through the entire situation, regardless of the strain it put on their relationship, they'd stuck together. Unfortunately, this is all I know to write without spoiling the book. However, these sorts of situations are everywhereis everywhere and that's faced almost daily.
January 21, 2020
Rita returns to Manchester - she is not happy with her sisters boyfriend Leroy
Rita fines out all she can about Leroy and tries to save her sister
Leroy is very generous to her parents & she has her work cut out
Rita fines out all she can about Leroy and tries to save her sister
Leroy is very generous to her parents & she has her work cut out
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