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Rina Walker #2
Threat
London, 1961: George Preston is in control of crime in West London, and Rina Walker is his favored contract killer. Now 21, she is living next door to her lover Lizzie, now a fearsome dominatrix whose clients include a senior member of the government. Rina is approached by Tony Farina, one of the Maltese brothers who control vice in Soho. Seven girls have disappeared, and Rina discovers they are being killed and supplied to a member of the English aristocracy for the gratification of his macabre sexual tastes. Rina’s pursuit of the girls’ murderer become increasingly desperate as she grapples with corruption and betrayal, and heads towards a final confrontation with depravity.
304 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2016
24 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 27, 2017
It was 1974 when we last met Rina Walker in "Harm" and we now see her in this her second book "Threat" back in time to 1961 where we learn more about her activities and how she continued to become the impressive paid assassin she is in "Harm".
I just love Rina and continue to be fascinated by her and I have to say that these two books will be definite contenders for my top ten favourite reads of 2017.
In this book, dynamic and hardened Rina is hired by Soho vice king Tony Farina to find out what's happening to his girls who are disappearing from his clubs. Her efforts to find and save the girls lead her into a dangerous web of betrayal and corruption in the deep, dark, depraved world of the aristocracy, taking her even further into the world of MI6 and espionage! This is a fabulously well plotted book full of tension, violence and intrigue. Although definitely an adult book with its content, I personally found nothing offensive but can appreciate that some people may find some of the scenes at Ringwood Hall disturbing. (I'm not too sure if Hugh just suffers from a very overactive imagination or whether he's done some very interesting research when it comes to Lizzie's activities in the book!!!)
This is the second book in the series by the very talented author Hugh Fraser who's writing style I have fast become a huge fan of. We learn enough about Rina's past in this book for it to be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend you read them both as they are exceptionally good. There's a third one out this year called "Malice" and I truly can't wait to read it, I really like Rina and her no nonsense attitude and I know she is just going to continue to be the terrific sexy kick-ass she has become. 5 huge stars!
I just love Rina and continue to be fascinated by her and I have to say that these two books will be definite contenders for my top ten favourite reads of 2017.
In this book, dynamic and hardened Rina is hired by Soho vice king Tony Farina to find out what's happening to his girls who are disappearing from his clubs. Her efforts to find and save the girls lead her into a dangerous web of betrayal and corruption in the deep, dark, depraved world of the aristocracy, taking her even further into the world of MI6 and espionage! This is a fabulously well plotted book full of tension, violence and intrigue. Although definitely an adult book with its content, I personally found nothing offensive but can appreciate that some people may find some of the scenes at Ringwood Hall disturbing. (I'm not too sure if Hugh just suffers from a very overactive imagination or whether he's done some very interesting research when it comes to Lizzie's activities in the book!!!)
This is the second book in the series by the very talented author Hugh Fraser who's writing style I have fast become a huge fan of. We learn enough about Rina's past in this book for it to be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend you read them both as they are exceptionally good. There's a third one out this year called "Malice" and I truly can't wait to read it, I really like Rina and her no nonsense attitude and I know she is just going to continue to be the terrific sexy kick-ass she has become. 5 huge stars!
August 11, 2017
BLURB
London 1961. In the dying days of the Macmillan government, George Preston is in control of crime in West London and Rina Walker is his favoured contract killer. When Rina is hired by Soho vice king Tony Farina to investigate the disappearance of girls from his clubs she discovers that they are being supplied to a member of the English aristocracy for the gratification of his macabre sexual tastes. Rina's pursuit of the missing girls and her efforts to save the innocent from slaughter become increasingly perilous as she grapples with interwoven layers of corruption and betrayal and makes her way, via the louche nightclubs of Berlin, towards a final confrontation with depravity.
MY THOUGHTS
This is a cracking thriller. Moving on from, Harm, this character, Rina Walker has moved leaps and bounds. Set in the early sixties, you really get a feel for the setting and environment. She has moved on from her previous escapades, and now she delves deeper into a nasty underworld.
Her character is amazing, I do love her to bits. Her Strength, versatility, and tenacity. You get drawn into this story - even venturing into international espionage - just brilliant. She uses her charms, grit, and sexuality to the full, and she can give a right hook!
Fast-actioned, hard and warming novel. Big 5*
London 1961. In the dying days of the Macmillan government, George Preston is in control of crime in West London and Rina Walker is his favoured contract killer. When Rina is hired by Soho vice king Tony Farina to investigate the disappearance of girls from his clubs she discovers that they are being supplied to a member of the English aristocracy for the gratification of his macabre sexual tastes. Rina's pursuit of the missing girls and her efforts to save the innocent from slaughter become increasingly perilous as she grapples with interwoven layers of corruption and betrayal and makes her way, via the louche nightclubs of Berlin, towards a final confrontation with depravity.
MY THOUGHTS
This is a cracking thriller. Moving on from, Harm, this character, Rina Walker has moved leaps and bounds. Set in the early sixties, you really get a feel for the setting and environment. She has moved on from her previous escapades, and now she delves deeper into a nasty underworld.
Her character is amazing, I do love her to bits. Her Strength, versatility, and tenacity. You get drawn into this story - even venturing into international espionage - just brilliant. She uses her charms, grit, and sexuality to the full, and she can give a right hook!
Fast-actioned, hard and warming novel. Big 5*
May 13, 2018
Threat is the second novel in the Rina Walker series. I really enjoyed Harm, which is the first, so couldn’t wait to see what was in store for Rina in Threat. Whilst the author does give some background, I still think readers would benefit from knowing more of Rina’s past in Harm so would suggest reading them in order.
Rina is now living in a flat with her younger sister Georgie. It was really touching to see the older sister still looking out for her. Certainly can’t be easy in her line of work. I have to admit at smiling when reading of Rina’s culinary skills at the meals she provides for Georgie, it made me feel better about my efforts when it comes to the kitchen.
The author really packs some punches in this thrilling read. There is plenty of action with Rina finding herself over worked trying to get to the bottom of the case of the missing girls as well as being sent to Russia. There is certainly plenty to shock and surprise the reader and in some cases even horrify!
Rina lives her life on the edge with danger at every corner. This ensures a nail biting read that had me racing through the pages. Threat is without a doubt an adrenaline fuelled read that will leave you on a high that you wont want to come down from. Can’t wait for the next in the series.
Rina is now living in a flat with her younger sister Georgie. It was really touching to see the older sister still looking out for her. Certainly can’t be easy in her line of work. I have to admit at smiling when reading of Rina’s culinary skills at the meals she provides for Georgie, it made me feel better about my efforts when it comes to the kitchen.
The author really packs some punches in this thrilling read. There is plenty of action with Rina finding herself over worked trying to get to the bottom of the case of the missing girls as well as being sent to Russia. There is certainly plenty to shock and surprise the reader and in some cases even horrify!
Rina lives her life on the edge with danger at every corner. This ensures a nail biting read that had me racing through the pages. Threat is without a doubt an adrenaline fuelled read that will leave you on a high that you wont want to come down from. Can’t wait for the next in the series.
June 14, 2016
I always find it a bit scary reading book two of a series when book one was one of the best debut books I've read for a while so I was initially a little apprehensive about reading this. Shouldn't have been, it more than met my expectations.
Having first met Rina in Harm in 1974, that first book went back to the 60s to explain some of her background that made her what she became. This is a series and usual series rules apply but there is enough of the background from Rina's past included in this book so it makes sense. I am not sure however if missing book one would mean you miss out on the 70s stuff. Either way, it's a cracking read and not overly long, so why not?
This book was just as well written as his previous. Just as gripping and absorbing and kept my attention nicely throughout. As well as Rina, we also revisit Lizzie, now a rather intriguing dominatrix with a bit of an interesting and eclectic client list and Rina's sister Georgie who is getting on well with her studies. As we saw from the end of Harm, Rina has got herself involved with gangland London and this continues throughout this book although she does get herself in a bit of a pickle a couple of times with "assignments" and personal clashes, she is a very clever and astute woman of means and manages to get out of jail admirably.
In this book, she is embroiled into the seedy sordid world of vice and corruption. Coming against the establishment as she fights for the good. Will she manage to expose those doing wrong and bring the whole house down in time?
I said in my review for Harm that I had got to know Rina enough to consider her as a friend. So, it was lovely to be able to reconnect with her in this book. Even though she walks a bit on the dark side, she still maintains that ethos of right and for that, she will always be, to me, a loveable anti-hero. That and I still want her in my corner in a fight!
I was nearly not going to mention the whole celebrity author thing as Mr Fraser more than proved himself as an author to me in Harm, but there are those out there that may well start on book 2 (yes - there are such people!) and so it is worth repeating here. It is also worth mentioning that both his books are hard hitting, close to the knuckle, adrenaline filled rides that are not sweet little cosy mysteries. There is language, there is violence, set in a seedy world. Captain Hastings this is not!
So, all in all, a brilliant follow up and I really can't wait for book three. Hope it's soon...
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Having first met Rina in Harm in 1974, that first book went back to the 60s to explain some of her background that made her what she became. This is a series and usual series rules apply but there is enough of the background from Rina's past included in this book so it makes sense. I am not sure however if missing book one would mean you miss out on the 70s stuff. Either way, it's a cracking read and not overly long, so why not?
This book was just as well written as his previous. Just as gripping and absorbing and kept my attention nicely throughout. As well as Rina, we also revisit Lizzie, now a rather intriguing dominatrix with a bit of an interesting and eclectic client list and Rina's sister Georgie who is getting on well with her studies. As we saw from the end of Harm, Rina has got herself involved with gangland London and this continues throughout this book although she does get herself in a bit of a pickle a couple of times with "assignments" and personal clashes, she is a very clever and astute woman of means and manages to get out of jail admirably.
In this book, she is embroiled into the seedy sordid world of vice and corruption. Coming against the establishment as she fights for the good. Will she manage to expose those doing wrong and bring the whole house down in time?
I said in my review for Harm that I had got to know Rina enough to consider her as a friend. So, it was lovely to be able to reconnect with her in this book. Even though she walks a bit on the dark side, she still maintains that ethos of right and for that, she will always be, to me, a loveable anti-hero. That and I still want her in my corner in a fight!
I was nearly not going to mention the whole celebrity author thing as Mr Fraser more than proved himself as an author to me in Harm, but there are those out there that may well start on book 2 (yes - there are such people!) and so it is worth repeating here. It is also worth mentioning that both his books are hard hitting, close to the knuckle, adrenaline filled rides that are not sweet little cosy mysteries. There is language, there is violence, set in a seedy world. Captain Hastings this is not!
So, all in all, a brilliant follow up and I really can't wait for book three. Hope it's soon...
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 31, 2017
Absolutely bloody gripping!! I loved it.
Seriously can't wait for book 3 to be on Audible :)
Seriously can't wait for book 3 to be on Audible :)
August 24, 2025
I continue the great TBR project with this thriller from Hugh Fraser, the great period drama stalwart thanks to Poirot and Sharpe (in which he played Hastings and Wellington, repsectively), and more recently author.
Ring Walker is a young, attractive woman living in 1961 London. She looks after her younger sister Georgie, she has a thing with her dominatrix neighbour Lizzie, and she's a contract killer.
Told entirely from Rina's point of view in spare first person present tense prose, Rina investigates the disappearance of some young prostitutes and discovers all sorts of corruption and unpleasantness.
Fraser tells a great story at breakneck pace, and it's a perfect evocation of the period and its seamy underside. The characters are all great fun too.
Ultimately, the book suffers slightly from one unlikely coincidence too many, but it's a fun thriller and I'd be interested to read the rest of the series.
Ring Walker is a young, attractive woman living in 1961 London. She looks after her younger sister Georgie, she has a thing with her dominatrix neighbour Lizzie, and she's a contract killer.
Told entirely from Rina's point of view in spare first person present tense prose, Rina investigates the disappearance of some young prostitutes and discovers all sorts of corruption and unpleasantness.
Fraser tells a great story at breakneck pace, and it's a perfect evocation of the period and its seamy underside. The characters are all great fun too.
Ultimately, the book suffers slightly from one unlikely coincidence too many, but it's a fun thriller and I'd be interested to read the rest of the series.
December 29, 2016
This Book Contains Adult Content and possibly a spoiler
Review
Having read “Harm” the first in this series, I couldn’t wait to get stuck in to this second book.
It is 1961 Rina and her young sister Georgie are living together in their flat. Rina is a successful contract killer but when Tony Farina asks her to take on a more investigative role to help find these girls she reluctantly agrees. His girls are disappearing and he wants to know why.
Nobody could have guessed at their appalling and macabre fate.
Lizzie, Rina’s lover, is given a more prominent role in this book, she runs her own sex business from her home and seems to specialise in providing the more unusual sex acts for her clients. Some of these acts are described, but are not overly detailed.
Lizzie and Rina meet up with some well to do chaps at a nightclub and end up joining them to spend the weekend at a rather stately home. Believe me, what follows is a highly complex series of very dangerous events that eventually lead Rina to the perpetrator of the most heinous of sex crimes.
I continue to be fascinated by the character of Rina who, on the one hand is a killer without conscience, yet on the other is a protector of the vulnerable. She uses self inflicted pain to relieve her feelings during moments of intense stress.
I particularly appreciate how the author writes without bias, he presents Rina just as she is, he justifies nothing any judgement is up to the reader. The most despicable of acts are described in a detached manner, which, I must say, did make them a little easier to tolerate.
Nevertheless, I did not like the inclusion of necrophilia, I found it shocking and disturbing which of course affected my enjoyment - hence 4 stars and not 5.
This is but a matter of personal opinion and, according to reviews, many readers are quite comfortable with the subject matter. However, before buying the next book I shall read the blurb more carefully!
Narrator
Another fabulous narration by Annie Aldington who gets everything so right. She is the perfect match for the writing style of the author as she knows exactly when to allow Rina emotion and when to leave it out. Masterful work from a narrator who knows her craft.
-This audiobook is my own copy
Review
Having read “Harm” the first in this series, I couldn’t wait to get stuck in to this second book.
It is 1961 Rina and her young sister Georgie are living together in their flat. Rina is a successful contract killer but when Tony Farina asks her to take on a more investigative role to help find these girls she reluctantly agrees. His girls are disappearing and he wants to know why.
Nobody could have guessed at their appalling and macabre fate.
Lizzie, Rina’s lover, is given a more prominent role in this book, she runs her own sex business from her home and seems to specialise in providing the more unusual sex acts for her clients. Some of these acts are described, but are not overly detailed.
Lizzie and Rina meet up with some well to do chaps at a nightclub and end up joining them to spend the weekend at a rather stately home. Believe me, what follows is a highly complex series of very dangerous events that eventually lead Rina to the perpetrator of the most heinous of sex crimes.
I continue to be fascinated by the character of Rina who, on the one hand is a killer without conscience, yet on the other is a protector of the vulnerable. She uses self inflicted pain to relieve her feelings during moments of intense stress.
I particularly appreciate how the author writes without bias, he presents Rina just as she is, he justifies nothing any judgement is up to the reader. The most despicable of acts are described in a detached manner, which, I must say, did make them a little easier to tolerate.
Nevertheless, I did not like the inclusion of necrophilia, I found it shocking and disturbing which of course affected my enjoyment - hence 4 stars and not 5.
This is but a matter of personal opinion and, according to reviews, many readers are quite comfortable with the subject matter. However, before buying the next book I shall read the blurb more carefully!
Narrator
Another fabulous narration by Annie Aldington who gets everything so right. She is the perfect match for the writing style of the author as she knows exactly when to allow Rina emotion and when to leave it out. Masterful work from a narrator who knows her craft.
-This audiobook is my own copy
June 12, 2016
I received this from netgalley to review. London 1961: George Preston is in control of crime in west London, and Rina Walker is his favourite contract killer. Now 21, she is living next door to her lover Lizzie, now a fearsome dominatrix whose clients include a seniour member of the government. Absolutely fantastic read. Had me gripped from the start. read in less than 24 hours. Lots of action from the start. Thrilling fripping book with a clever storyline. Can't wait to read more from this author. Highly recommended. Definetley worth more than 5*.
April 5, 2018
If you're expecting a gentle murder as per Hercule Poirot, look away now. In Rina Walker, Hugh Fraser has created a compelling and most unusual hit-woman. Every bit of this novel reeks sixties London, including the music, making a convincing backdrop to the shenanigans Rina and her entourage get up to. And it's all very fast and very clever. Highly recommended.
June 14, 2016
A brilliantly written explosive thriller set in the 1960's. I chose this book on Netgalley as it looked very different to my usual reads and I was not wrong. Action from start to finish and more twists and turns than you can shake a stick at. I loved it.
January 9, 2021
I absolutely love these books and although they are far fetched the setting of London and Berlin in the 60’s does have a gritty realism.
Rina has to be one of the luckiest assassins ever for the amount of times she survives a car crash where everyone else is killed or where the ruthless killer takes her hostage while killing everyone else around. I also love the way she is usually rescued by another woman.
The only disappointment I have is that having read the first book and as this book is written in the first person you can work out Rina should make it through but apart from that I am a fan and have already downloaded the next book in the series.
Rina has to be one of the luckiest assassins ever for the amount of times she survives a car crash where everyone else is killed or where the ruthless killer takes her hostage while killing everyone else around. I also love the way she is usually rescued by another woman.
The only disappointment I have is that having read the first book and as this book is written in the first person you can work out Rina should make it through but apart from that I am a fan and have already downloaded the next book in the series.
May 9, 2017
Fresh and entertaining
Came as a real surprise! I really enjoyed this book. Great main character, writing is very crisp and fresh. Story develops at perfect pace. Probably not the best book ever but it is certainly a very bright writing. It does not sound proper to say that it is not best book ever but I certainly believe that seasoned readers will see it as a bright and very special star among the sky of average and of course mediocre books of thrillers and spy novels. Highly recommend! Looking forward to more books from Hugh Fraser
Came as a real surprise! I really enjoyed this book. Great main character, writing is very crisp and fresh. Story develops at perfect pace. Probably not the best book ever but it is certainly a very bright writing. It does not sound proper to say that it is not best book ever but I certainly believe that seasoned readers will see it as a bright and very special star among the sky of average and of course mediocre books of thrillers and spy novels. Highly recommend! Looking forward to more books from Hugh Fraser
December 2, 2017
Book two of this series is even better than the first. We get to know more about Rina and discover how her life in post war London changes so rapidly. I love the descriptions of the times the character developments, and the fast paced action . Lots of twists, and a heroine that you will be drawn to right from the start.t. A great series. Starting book three now.
February 22, 2025
Gripping & I couldn’t put it down (read in a day) some very dark & disturbing stuff which was difficult to read (which is why it got 4 stars) but overall a great read with plenty of tension & twists.
When I saw Hugh Fraser had written books I mistakenly assumed they’d be light hearted & much more like Agatha Christie. Instead they’re very gritty, graphic & certainly not whimsical!
When I saw Hugh Fraser had written books I mistakenly assumed they’d be light hearted & much more like Agatha Christie. Instead they’re very gritty, graphic & certainly not whimsical!
August 14, 2018
Rina, what a women, gritty sexy, strong, and a contract killer. Set in 1961 London, gangland bosses, dead prostitutes, and not forgetting MI16. What a great read loved it, would recommend.
August 21, 2018
Entertaining read
Clearly engages you in the world of the protagonist.Did not read the first book but was easy to get in to.
Clearly engages you in the world of the protagonist.Did not read the first book but was easy to get in to.
October 3, 2018
A bit faster than my usual reading fare, but brilliantly written. Mr. Fraser uses graphic detail that one can visualize the characters and their lo
Iives easily.
Iives easily.
April 9, 2021
Enjoyed this book, will look out for the other in the series.
March 31, 2023
One of the most disturbing reads I've had. Some scenes seriously got me so disgusted and angry. But this is another amazing read.
August 15, 2023
Ok read although a bit far fetched.
June 30, 2016
‘Threat’ by Hugh Fraser, is the second book to feature Rina Walker, a highly skilled assassin who is in demand from members of London’s gangland. Set in 1961, this story follows Rina as she becomes embroiled in the search for some missing working girls on behalf of Tony Farina. Seven girls have gone missing from the streets, the latest of which was found dead.
Rina’s investigations lead her into a tricky confrontation with a killer who has unexpected connections. When fulfilling her contract puts her sister’s safety at risk, Rina knows that she needs to get Georgie away from London and the deadly lifestyle she has created for herself. This forces Rina to accept an offer of work from an unexpected source in order to ensure that Georgie’s safety is guaranteed.
From undertaking a dangerous assignment for MI6 which puts Rina’s own life at risk, to exposing not only espionage but also the thoroughly depraved actions of a member of the aristocracy, this story is full of action and thrills. This is not a cozy mystery by any stretch and elements of the subject matter is quite dark, although very sensitively and carefully handled, neither glossing over nor over emphasising some of the more objectionable parts of the plot. With the scenes in the secret bunker, it would be easy to go for sensationalism here, but even without that, Fraser still manages to make the scenes disturbing enough, the implications of what is happening abundantly clear.
Rina is a very strong and likeable character. Influenced by her past but determined to make a good life for her sister, as well as bettering herself by reading all of the books that her sister is learning at school. You can easily be forgiven for forgetting that she is an anti-hero, essentially nothing more than a cold blooded killer. The character is not over written and there are no excuses made for what she does. She has a clear sense of right and wrong, but also a survival instinct which makes you root for her, in spite of her choice of career.
The setting of 1960’s London is also an interesting one. It allows the freedom of an alternative lifestyle for Rina, while removing some of the conventional trappings, such as mobile technology, which make setting up a modern crime thriller extremely tricky. I’m not old enough to know anything of the 60s, but the descriptions are so vivid you can really begin to experience the changes in the landscape of London at the time. From dancing in clubs, to carrying a gun on a plane (hard to imagine these days), Fraser writes the contrasts very well. And yet I had to remind myself of the setting at times when thinking about what Rina was preparing for dinner; pie and mash, cans of beans. So pedestrian and normal for an assassin and yet so natural for the time. I don’t know why I wouldn’t expect a killed to be sitting down to pie and mash and yet it did still make me smile.
The plot is dark, the action thrilling and the writing compelling. I really enjoyed this book, and it was a fast read which I got through in less than a day. Don’t be put off by Rina’s lifestyle; you’ll be rooting for her all the way. I was and I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
A thoroughly satisfied 5 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and publishers Urbane Publications for my copy of Threat in exchange for my honest review.
Rina’s investigations lead her into a tricky confrontation with a killer who has unexpected connections. When fulfilling her contract puts her sister’s safety at risk, Rina knows that she needs to get Georgie away from London and the deadly lifestyle she has created for herself. This forces Rina to accept an offer of work from an unexpected source in order to ensure that Georgie’s safety is guaranteed.
From undertaking a dangerous assignment for MI6 which puts Rina’s own life at risk, to exposing not only espionage but also the thoroughly depraved actions of a member of the aristocracy, this story is full of action and thrills. This is not a cozy mystery by any stretch and elements of the subject matter is quite dark, although very sensitively and carefully handled, neither glossing over nor over emphasising some of the more objectionable parts of the plot. With the scenes in the secret bunker, it would be easy to go for sensationalism here, but even without that, Fraser still manages to make the scenes disturbing enough, the implications of what is happening abundantly clear.
Rina is a very strong and likeable character. Influenced by her past but determined to make a good life for her sister, as well as bettering herself by reading all of the books that her sister is learning at school. You can easily be forgiven for forgetting that she is an anti-hero, essentially nothing more than a cold blooded killer. The character is not over written and there are no excuses made for what she does. She has a clear sense of right and wrong, but also a survival instinct which makes you root for her, in spite of her choice of career.
The setting of 1960’s London is also an interesting one. It allows the freedom of an alternative lifestyle for Rina, while removing some of the conventional trappings, such as mobile technology, which make setting up a modern crime thriller extremely tricky. I’m not old enough to know anything of the 60s, but the descriptions are so vivid you can really begin to experience the changes in the landscape of London at the time. From dancing in clubs, to carrying a gun on a plane (hard to imagine these days), Fraser writes the contrasts very well. And yet I had to remind myself of the setting at times when thinking about what Rina was preparing for dinner; pie and mash, cans of beans. So pedestrian and normal for an assassin and yet so natural for the time. I don’t know why I wouldn’t expect a killed to be sitting down to pie and mash and yet it did still make me smile.
The plot is dark, the action thrilling and the writing compelling. I really enjoyed this book, and it was a fast read which I got through in less than a day. Don’t be put off by Rina’s lifestyle; you’ll be rooting for her all the way. I was and I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
A thoroughly satisfied 5 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and publishers Urbane Publications for my copy of Threat in exchange for my honest review.
August 8, 2016
Fans of the Agatha Christie’s Poirot TV series will remember Hugh Fraser as Captain Hastings but did you know Hugh Fraser the author with his latest novel Threat this is his second novel and believe me this is pretty exceptional.
I have not yet read Hugh Fraser’s first novel Harm but his latest offering Threat is a sequel to this but don’t worry if you like me have not read his first novel as this reads like a standalone book.
The story set in London in 1961 and Rina Walker is a 20 - year-old hired assassin with a mission for hire. The story opens with quite an explosive start which really gets your attention. Rina is a young woman with attitude, a feisty fighter of a woman that you would not want to cross in any situation. Rina is hired by Tony Farina who is Soho’s vice king to track down missing girls that have been ‘working’ at some of his clubs. The one aspect of Fraser’s writing is how he describes London during this time, accurate and detailed from the sleazy back street clubs to the pubs were the furniture is nailed to the floor as could be some of their undesirable clients that frequent them.
Rina not only has her safety to look after but Georgie who is living with her and when she confronts a leading killer this puts Georgie in real danger. In Threat the tension is palpable and the body count rises with each chapter. This is a no holding back thriller gripping and taught from start to finish some the detail may be shocking but remember this is London in the early 1960’s and there is no hiding from what really went on then.
Rina really has a rather special skill set that sets her apart from most other young women who were enjoying the swinging 60’s at the time. She hides money in some rather interesting places for those moments when ready cash is needed. But now she is on collision course and there is more at stake then she realises. From here Rina has to deal with some the lowest form humanity that involves a member of the establishment throw in corruption, MI6 and the KGB as well as a Nazi war criminal and you have a recipe for an all action thriller that will leave you breathless. The leading characters will leave a mark on you and you will judge each one as they play their role.
This is my first Hugh Fraser novel and will not be the last. This is an exceptional and a well-crafted book. I highly recommend this for those who like their thrillers holding nothing back.
Thank you to Urbane Books for a review copy.
I have not yet read Hugh Fraser’s first novel Harm but his latest offering Threat is a sequel to this but don’t worry if you like me have not read his first novel as this reads like a standalone book.
The story set in London in 1961 and Rina Walker is a 20 - year-old hired assassin with a mission for hire. The story opens with quite an explosive start which really gets your attention. Rina is a young woman with attitude, a feisty fighter of a woman that you would not want to cross in any situation. Rina is hired by Tony Farina who is Soho’s vice king to track down missing girls that have been ‘working’ at some of his clubs. The one aspect of Fraser’s writing is how he describes London during this time, accurate and detailed from the sleazy back street clubs to the pubs were the furniture is nailed to the floor as could be some of their undesirable clients that frequent them.
Rina not only has her safety to look after but Georgie who is living with her and when she confronts a leading killer this puts Georgie in real danger. In Threat the tension is palpable and the body count rises with each chapter. This is a no holding back thriller gripping and taught from start to finish some the detail may be shocking but remember this is London in the early 1960’s and there is no hiding from what really went on then.
Rina really has a rather special skill set that sets her apart from most other young women who were enjoying the swinging 60’s at the time. She hides money in some rather interesting places for those moments when ready cash is needed. But now she is on collision course and there is more at stake then she realises. From here Rina has to deal with some the lowest form humanity that involves a member of the establishment throw in corruption, MI6 and the KGB as well as a Nazi war criminal and you have a recipe for an all action thriller that will leave you breathless. The leading characters will leave a mark on you and you will judge each one as they play their role.
This is my first Hugh Fraser novel and will not be the last. This is an exceptional and a well-crafted book. I highly recommend this for those who like their thrillers holding nothing back.
Thank you to Urbane Books for a review copy.
September 24, 2016
I would really recommend reading High Fraser's debut, Harm, first although you could read Threat as a standalone novel. Reading Harm first really helps you to understand Rina's background and why she makes some of her decisions.
Hugh Fraser has written a no holds barred account of a dark and depraved English aristocrat at the start of the swinging sixties. Only one woman is up to the task of revealing the macabre goings on at Ringwood Hall - our very own Rina Walker. Rina once again takes any risks necessary to complete her mission, once she knows her sister, Georgie, is safe in boarding school. Seeing this softer side to her really contrasts with the hardened assassin some people know her as. It was absolute genius to have her reading such a 'girly' book as Pride and Prejudice and I smiled each time she picked the book up.
I was completely absorbed in the story and I felt like I was hiding behind the sofa watching events unfold when Rina moved in to catch the culprit armed with her Polaroid, rather than a gun. Sometimes a photograph can be just as damaging as a gunshot.
Threat is another great British thriller by Hugh Fraser; it's so fast paced that I absolutely rocketed through it and have no doubt that we will be seeing Rina Walker again. I certainly look forward to it!
I received this e-book from the publisher, Urbane Publications, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Hugh Fraser has written a no holds barred account of a dark and depraved English aristocrat at the start of the swinging sixties. Only one woman is up to the task of revealing the macabre goings on at Ringwood Hall - our very own Rina Walker. Rina once again takes any risks necessary to complete her mission, once she knows her sister, Georgie, is safe in boarding school. Seeing this softer side to her really contrasts with the hardened assassin some people know her as. It was absolute genius to have her reading such a 'girly' book as Pride and Prejudice and I smiled each time she picked the book up.
I was completely absorbed in the story and I felt like I was hiding behind the sofa watching events unfold when Rina moved in to catch the culprit armed with her Polaroid, rather than a gun. Sometimes a photograph can be just as damaging as a gunshot.
Threat is another great British thriller by Hugh Fraser; it's so fast paced that I absolutely rocketed through it and have no doubt that we will be seeing Rina Walker again. I certainly look forward to it!
I received this e-book from the publisher, Urbane Publications, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2016
I must admit that I have a penchant for stories set within a historical context, but it is rare to find an author who so ably captures the sights, sound, smell, the very essence of the period. Threat is set in the early 1960s, a time when social structures were visibly being challenged in the pages of the print media. Anyone of the right age (I am but only just I hasten to add) will remember when the news was filled with stories about the outcomes of the upper class meeting the lower class. The Krays, Peter Rackman, Stephen Ward and John Profumo etc.
Into this world the author set the character of Rina. A girl from a poverty and crime stricken background who learns to survive by becoming a contract killer. The thing I particularly like about both Harm and Threat is that the author avoids falling into the trap on either trying to make her likeable or the classic anti-hero. Rina is a believable character, both good and bad, who leads you through her view of the world.
The story is essentially one about disappearing call girls. Rina is contracted to find out what is happening to them and this brings her into contact with the landed class, spies and gangland criminals. Each with its own views of what is important and who is expendable. The conclusion I will leave you to find out for yourself. Personally I thoroughly enjoyed reading both Harm and Threat and can definitely recommend them. Cheers.
Into this world the author set the character of Rina. A girl from a poverty and crime stricken background who learns to survive by becoming a contract killer. The thing I particularly like about both Harm and Threat is that the author avoids falling into the trap on either trying to make her likeable or the classic anti-hero. Rina is a believable character, both good and bad, who leads you through her view of the world.
The story is essentially one about disappearing call girls. Rina is contracted to find out what is happening to them and this brings her into contact with the landed class, spies and gangland criminals. Each with its own views of what is important and who is expendable. The conclusion I will leave you to find out for yourself. Personally I thoroughly enjoyed reading both Harm and Threat and can definitely recommend them. Cheers.
June 15, 2016
If you choose this book expecting a relatively gentle 1960's nostalgic crime book that plods along nicely, remove any preconceptions from your head now.
This is a fabulously well conceived book with a killer plot (literally) and although the topic is in truth grim and the sexual proclivities did make for uncomfortable reading in places, the clever writing and back stories kept me engrossed and I read in it a matter of hours.
Superb and I shall be recommending it.
Many thanks to Urbane Publications for allowing me to read in advance.
This is a fabulously well conceived book with a killer plot (literally) and although the topic is in truth grim and the sexual proclivities did make for uncomfortable reading in places, the clever writing and back stories kept me engrossed and I read in it a matter of hours.
Superb and I shall be recommending it.
Many thanks to Urbane Publications for allowing me to read in advance.
September 28, 2016
A great thriller!
Another excellent book featuring Rina Walker.
There are some really gruesome parts in this story,but they fit in with the world and people Rina finds herself involved with.
Rina is a killer with a conscience and compassion,finding herself in situations because she wants to better the lives of herself and her sister.
An excellent array of characters help this book move along at a great pace,full of tension and excitement.
Recommended.
I eagerly await further adventures with Rina.
Another excellent book featuring Rina Walker.
There are some really gruesome parts in this story,but they fit in with the world and people Rina finds herself involved with.
Rina is a killer with a conscience and compassion,finding herself in situations because she wants to better the lives of herself and her sister.
An excellent array of characters help this book move along at a great pace,full of tension and excitement.
Recommended.
I eagerly await further adventures with Rina.
June 28, 2016
Loved! Very original, and Rina's a badass! The story was intriguing and had me hooked from start to finish! Highly recommend!
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