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The Butlers #5
Backstabber
The No.1 Sunday Times bestseller
If you don't face your enemies – they'll stab you in the back.
One of them has a gun to his head. Who will pull the trigger?
When king of the underworld Vinny Butler goes into business with respected villain Eddie Mitchell, it's a match made in East End legend. Friends and family are treated like gold, enemies like rats – it's the life.
Then mysterious packages arrive, dead creatures and threats. Someone is out for revenge. Who the enemy is, nobody knows, anyone could be taking a pop. The gypsies who cursed Eddie, ghosts from Vinnie's past, enemies needing revenge. Even their own flesh and blood? There are some people you should never cross, some who can't forgive or forget.
Who is the backstabber?
If you don't face your enemies – they'll stab you in the back.
One of them has a gun to his head. Who will pull the trigger?
When king of the underworld Vinny Butler goes into business with respected villain Eddie Mitchell, it's a match made in East End legend. Friends and family are treated like gold, enemies like rats – it's the life.
Then mysterious packages arrive, dead creatures and threats. Someone is out for revenge. Who the enemy is, nobody knows, anyone could be taking a pop. The gypsies who cursed Eddie, ghosts from Vinnie's past, enemies needing revenge. Even their own flesh and blood? There are some people you should never cross, some who can't forgive or forget.
Who is the backstabber?
484 pages, Hardcover
First published February 9, 2017
481 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
March 16, 2017
I just jumped off the Butler/Mitchell crazy train and what a ride that was!!! I expected crazy from the Butlers but when you throw in the Mitchell’s, the crazy gets kicked up a notch!
I originally started reading Backstabber with only having read The Butlers Series and not the Mitchell’s & O’Hara’s series and it wasn’t working for me. While Kimberley Chambers was doing a pretty good job of giving you bits and pieces of the back stories, I still felt a little loss. So I set it aside and went off to read the series. I am so happy I did. I strongly suggest that you read both series before beginning Backstabber.
In Backstabber you get the Mitchells and Butlers story. Do secrets ever remain locked away? And what price is paid when they come out?
There is no escaping the evil that runs through the veins of Vinny Butler and his family. Eddie Mitchell knows this but being a villain himself he decides to go into business with the guy. He can handle Vinny and the likes of him but when the shit hits the fan Eddie wonders if it is all worth it. What the hell has he gotten himself into!
For me things were a bit sluggish in the beginning then BAM! Once we got to the thick of things I didn’t want to put it down. There was so much going on my head was spinning. In a good way that is. Be it Vinny, Little Vinny, Michael, Frankie, Queenie or even Georgie and Harry. There was never a dull moment. I had many OH MY GOD moments and one moment had me wincing.
I really enjoyed each series. And Backstabber was such a great book! Kimberley Chambers is an author you must check out if you haven't already.
I originally started reading Backstabber with only having read The Butlers Series and not the Mitchell’s & O’Hara’s series and it wasn’t working for me. While Kimberley Chambers was doing a pretty good job of giving you bits and pieces of the back stories, I still felt a little loss. So I set it aside and went off to read the series. I am so happy I did. I strongly suggest that you read both series before beginning Backstabber.
In Backstabber you get the Mitchells and Butlers story. Do secrets ever remain locked away? And what price is paid when they come out?
There is no escaping the evil that runs through the veins of Vinny Butler and his family. Eddie Mitchell knows this but being a villain himself he decides to go into business with the guy. He can handle Vinny and the likes of him but when the shit hits the fan Eddie wonders if it is all worth it. What the hell has he gotten himself into!
For me things were a bit sluggish in the beginning then BAM! Once we got to the thick of things I didn’t want to put it down. There was so much going on my head was spinning. In a good way that is. Be it Vinny, Little Vinny, Michael, Frankie, Queenie or even Georgie and Harry. There was never a dull moment. I had many OH MY GOD moments and one moment had me wincing.
I really enjoyed each series. And Backstabber was such a great book! Kimberley Chambers is an author you must check out if you haven't already.
February 13, 2017
5 Plus more Hold On To Your Hats Stars
6
for the series
What did I just read.......
Kimberley Chambers is one of those unique writers that can make dysfunctional families addictive reading.
Then to put not one but two families into one story was always going to be very interesting to say the least but wow did she pull it off.
Backstabber is the Mitchells and the Butlers story.
It pretty much follows through from Tainted Love, which was a big 6 Star read last year for me.
Vinny Butler and Eddie Mitchell have now gone into business together.
When strange packages start turning up neither are sure which one of them they are meant for.
But one thing is for sure the past is about to catch up with them.
Vinny oh Vinny ....... is over the moon to be working alongside Eddie. Vinny is now aged 56 and life is looking good and certainly on the up, new club and at last he has met the one woman who might just be someone he wants to settle down with.
But how long can secrets stay hidden from him.
Vinny Butler
Eddie Mitchell After his feud with the O'Hara's and his grandchildren safety home, life is looking up for him too, but could his partnership with Vinny put all that in jeopardy.
Eddie Mitchell
Michael Butler is Vinny's younger brother. Family is everything to the Butlers and Mitchells and Michael knows this. But he is starting to take another look at his life but then he witnesses something that will change everything regarding the family.
Michael Butler
And then there's Little Vinny
The Butlers and The Mitchells have come along way over the 40 year time span...
There are so many fantastic characters in this book all playing a huge part to bring this story to a conclusion and believe me I was on the edge of my seat trying to catch my breath at times.
Twist after twist, each chapter leaving you unable to put the book down.
It does have a darker tone coming through at times and
I did cringe at one part but I totally understand why, as we need to be reminded how dangerous these men are.
But there were still laugh out loud moments and by the way Queenie has a new friend.
Can this be read as a standalone?
She does recap on the other books throughout this book but I do believe you should read the series of the Butlers and the Mitchells to really enjoy the climax.
The Butlers
The Trap
Payback
The Wronged
Tainted Love
The Mitchells
The Feud
The Traitor
The Victim
As for the series of both the Mitchells and the Butlers it's been one of the best series I have read.
And as this series now comes to the end I can't wait to see what her next book will bring.
Any TV producers out there, pick this up asap please.
6
for the series
What did I just read.......
Kimberley Chambers is one of those unique writers that can make dysfunctional families addictive reading.
Then to put not one but two families into one story was always going to be very interesting to say the least but wow did she pull it off.
Backstabber is the Mitchells and the Butlers story.
It pretty much follows through from Tainted Love, which was a big 6 Star read last year for me.
Vinny Butler and Eddie Mitchell have now gone into business together.
When strange packages start turning up neither are sure which one of them they are meant for.
But one thing is for sure the past is about to catch up with them.
Vinny oh Vinny ....... is over the moon to be working alongside Eddie. Vinny is now aged 56 and life is looking good and certainly on the up, new club and at last he has met the one woman who might just be someone he wants to settle down with.
But how long can secrets stay hidden from him.
Vinny Butler
Eddie Mitchell After his feud with the O'Hara's and his grandchildren safety home, life is looking up for him too, but could his partnership with Vinny put all that in jeopardy.
Eddie Mitchell
Michael Butler is Vinny's younger brother. Family is everything to the Butlers and Mitchells and Michael knows this. But he is starting to take another look at his life but then he witnesses something that will change everything regarding the family.
Michael Butler
And then there's Little Vinny
The Butlers and The Mitchells have come along way over the 40 year time span...
There are so many fantastic characters in this book all playing a huge part to bring this story to a conclusion and believe me I was on the edge of my seat trying to catch my breath at times.
Twist after twist, each chapter leaving you unable to put the book down.
It does have a darker tone coming through at times and
I did cringe at one part but I totally understand why, as we need to be reminded how dangerous these men are.
But there were still laugh out loud moments and by the way Queenie has a new friend.
Can this be read as a standalone?
She does recap on the other books throughout this book but I do believe you should read the series of the Butlers and the Mitchells to really enjoy the climax.
The Butlers
The Trap
Payback
The Wronged
Tainted Love
The Mitchells
The Feud
The Traitor
The Victim
As for the series of both the Mitchells and the Butlers it's been one of the best series I have read.
And as this series now comes to the end I can't wait to see what her next book will bring.
Any TV producers out there, pick this up asap please.
February 10, 2017
4.5 but I'll bleedin' well round it up to five fucking stars.
Well, well, well. That was a bit of a roller coaster. We kinda knew it would be, didn't we? I mean the Butlers on their own were a force to be reckoned with but join them up with the Mitchells, it was bound to be a bit combustive!
The following was my quote when I finished the first Butler book ...
Did he redeem himself? You will just have to read the book and find out. I am saying nowt.
VINNY BUTLER
My review will be vague. I don't want to give anything away. I found the first part of the book a little slow. I suppose because it is the grand finale for a series of 7 books, I think. She had to build and sort of tell us what happened in the past. I guess this is so it can be read as a stand-alone (which I don't think it can or should - you need to experience the whole Butler/Mitchell/O'Hara story from the previous books)
MICHAEL BUTLER
EDDIE MITCHELL
FRANKIE MITCHELL
LITTLE VINNY
There were a host of other characters who played a big part in the book.
Of course, we have QUEENIE, the matriarch of the Butler clan. So proud of her sons. In the previous books I found most of her actions and words were real LOL moments. They were missing in this book. At least I thought so. It just came across as a darker book. Maybe the author intended it to be that way.
QUEENIE
It was a great conclusion to the series, even if I might have had one or two issues with it.
There were one or two scenes that were a bit too gratuitous, even for me! I suppose they are in there to fully portray what the character was really like, deep down.
And who could forget Fred?
FRED BUTLER
Talk about dysfunctional ... that is all I will say.
Well, well, well. That was a bit of a roller coaster. We kinda knew it would be, didn't we? I mean the Butlers on their own were a force to be reckoned with but join them up with the Mitchells, it was bound to be a bit combustive!
The following was my quote when I finished the first Butler book ...
"You know when you read a book or a series and the main character is horrible but you have hopes that he will turn the tables and have some redeeming features. Honestly, I cannot see how Ms Chambers can turn the tide for Vinny Butler. He is horrible. I fucking hated him. He is manipulative, violent, out for himself ... I did not like him one little bit. As they might say in the East End, he's a proper pig's bollocks!"
Did he redeem himself? You will just have to read the book and find out. I am saying nowt.
VINNY BUTLER
My review will be vague. I don't want to give anything away. I found the first part of the book a little slow. I suppose because it is the grand finale for a series of 7 books, I think. She had to build and sort of tell us what happened in the past. I guess this is so it can be read as a stand-alone (which I don't think it can or should - you need to experience the whole Butler/Mitchell/O'Hara story from the previous books)
MICHAEL BUTLER
EDDIE MITCHELL
FRANKIE MITCHELL
LITTLE VINNY
There were a host of other characters who played a big part in the book.
Of course, we have QUEENIE, the matriarch of the Butler clan. So proud of her sons. In the previous books I found most of her actions and words were real LOL moments. They were missing in this book. At least I thought so. It just came across as a darker book. Maybe the author intended it to be that way.
QUEENIE
It was a great conclusion to the series, even if I might have had one or two issues with it.
There were one or two scenes that were a bit too gratuitous, even for me! I suppose they are in there to fully portray what the character was really like, deep down.
"Revenge may be wicked, but it's natural."
And who could forget Fred?
Fred Butler, what a legend.
FRED BUTLER
Talk about dysfunctional ... that is all I will say.
February 10, 2017
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
OMFreaking god! I won’t beat about the bush, Kimberley Chambers has without doubt written another best seller, Backstabber has everything you would expect from one of my very favourite authors, death, destruction, violence and lies and so much more. Every time I write a review for this authors books I always end up writing “it’s the best one yet” and guess what? This really is the best book yet! When two of the biggest crime families the Butlers and Mitchell’s go into business you just know the two families are going to collide in the most spectacular fashion and Kimberly Chambers doesn’t disappoint.
I’m not going to say much about the plot as I would hate to spoil the read for others, but it’s a fabulous one, it involves treachery, evil doings and two very dangerous families. Kimberley has a natural gift for creating very colourful characters, that are larger than life, by the time you get to the end of Backstabber you feel like you know them all personally, flaws and all (and believe me they all have plenty of them!) they will make you laugh, cry, love and hate them, all in the space of a few minutes! The dialogue between the characters is authentic, some of Kimberley’s one liners are original in their content to say the least, but if you don’t like swearing then you should give BackStabber a wide berth, as there is plenty of it! For me I feel the swearing was in context with the plot and the characters. In this novel we meet so many characters from past books in the series I do wonder how the author manages to keep tabs on them all. But each and everyone has a part to play and love them or loathe each character is very original and highly entertaining.
The wonderful thing about reading Kimberley Chambers books is the sheer speed at which you are catapulted into the characters world, from the moment I read the prologue my heart was in my mouth, it’s a shocker of a prologue that will leave fans of this series reeling, yet eager to read more. Both the Butlers and the Mitchell’s have accumulated many enemies over the years and finally the past has caught up with them, and someone wants revenge to who and why? I’m not saying but believe me both families could suffocate under the number of skeletons that come tumbling out their closets! What follows is a fast paced and and thrilling read, as family ties are tested to the limit you can’t help but wonder if either of the two families will come out unscathed.
In my opinion Kimberly Chambers is the queen of the gritty, criminal tale she manages to take the reader on a dark and twisted journey deep into the criminal world. BackStabber is certainly authentic, disturbing, funny and at times very sad, which I wasn’t expecting, but the characters are so well developed you can’t help but invest in them, they almost feel like family (the black sheep side of the family of course!). This book has all the ingredients the authors legion of fans have come to love and I’m sure they won’t be disappointed, it has shocks and “OMG” moments galore, it’s another amazing page turner and one that will certainly be heading for the bestseller spot.
OMFreaking god! I won’t beat about the bush, Kimberley Chambers has without doubt written another best seller, Backstabber has everything you would expect from one of my very favourite authors, death, destruction, violence and lies and so much more. Every time I write a review for this authors books I always end up writing “it’s the best one yet” and guess what? This really is the best book yet! When two of the biggest crime families the Butlers and Mitchell’s go into business you just know the two families are going to collide in the most spectacular fashion and Kimberly Chambers doesn’t disappoint.
I’m not going to say much about the plot as I would hate to spoil the read for others, but it’s a fabulous one, it involves treachery, evil doings and two very dangerous families. Kimberley has a natural gift for creating very colourful characters, that are larger than life, by the time you get to the end of Backstabber you feel like you know them all personally, flaws and all (and believe me they all have plenty of them!) they will make you laugh, cry, love and hate them, all in the space of a few minutes! The dialogue between the characters is authentic, some of Kimberley’s one liners are original in their content to say the least, but if you don’t like swearing then you should give BackStabber a wide berth, as there is plenty of it! For me I feel the swearing was in context with the plot and the characters. In this novel we meet so many characters from past books in the series I do wonder how the author manages to keep tabs on them all. But each and everyone has a part to play and love them or loathe each character is very original and highly entertaining.
The wonderful thing about reading Kimberley Chambers books is the sheer speed at which you are catapulted into the characters world, from the moment I read the prologue my heart was in my mouth, it’s a shocker of a prologue that will leave fans of this series reeling, yet eager to read more. Both the Butlers and the Mitchell’s have accumulated many enemies over the years and finally the past has caught up with them, and someone wants revenge to who and why? I’m not saying but believe me both families could suffocate under the number of skeletons that come tumbling out their closets! What follows is a fast paced and and thrilling read, as family ties are tested to the limit you can’t help but wonder if either of the two families will come out unscathed.
In my opinion Kimberly Chambers is the queen of the gritty, criminal tale she manages to take the reader on a dark and twisted journey deep into the criminal world. BackStabber is certainly authentic, disturbing, funny and at times very sad, which I wasn’t expecting, but the characters are so well developed you can’t help but invest in them, they almost feel like family (the black sheep side of the family of course!). This book has all the ingredients the authors legion of fans have come to love and I’m sure they won’t be disappointed, it has shocks and “OMG” moments galore, it’s another amazing page turner and one that will certainly be heading for the bestseller spot.
February 7, 2017
Okay, as many of you know I am certainly a KC fan and LOVE her books BUT, I have to be honest and say this almost didn't get the full star rating from me, however after completing it there was just no way I could give it anything but 5/5. I know some people will think I am mad but the first quarter of the book I was questioning it. The reason I think is because this book is a culmination of two series all coming together for the big finale. However, it's been a long time (a year) since I read Tainted Love and the first quarter of the book was like a Butler/O'Hara overload. I struggled to get my head around everybody again and was trying to place names, faces and story lines. I also did something which I have NEVER done with a KC book which was to put it down and read something else before going back to it. The second time around it took me less time and it all seemed to slot back into place but took a lot longer for me than the previous books.
I won't go over where we are with these books as plenty can be found with the synopsis but I will tell you that I didn't think there could be any more drama, aggro or violence than had been shown in previous books. It seems I was totally wrong on all counts and if anything KC managed to out-do herself in terms of getting across just how evil Big Vinny really is. One particular scene had me cringing and my skin crawling and I couldn't help but admire just how talented she really is. Essentially Vinny Butler and Eddie O'Hara are now in business together but as many readers would have guessed that was never going to be an easy partnership, especially with the amount of skeletons still knocking around for both families!
I rejoiced at the return of the 'devils spawn' children Georgie and Harry and think this part of the story line was done particularly well. In fact all of it was done with flair, finesse and the Chambers touch (along with a few choice swear words thrown in). Once past the first quarter there was no let up and I rarely put the book down. It took me just a day and a half of solid reading which was pure bliss and in all honesty was finished exactly as it should have been. I have loved the O'Hara's and the Butlers and think combining the series was a genius move. However, I feel like it's ended at the right point and it's now time to meet some new wrong'uns and I can't wait to see what KC has up her sleeve next.
I won't go over where we are with these books as plenty can be found with the synopsis but I will tell you that I didn't think there could be any more drama, aggro or violence than had been shown in previous books. It seems I was totally wrong on all counts and if anything KC managed to out-do herself in terms of getting across just how evil Big Vinny really is. One particular scene had me cringing and my skin crawling and I couldn't help but admire just how talented she really is. Essentially Vinny Butler and Eddie O'Hara are now in business together but as many readers would have guessed that was never going to be an easy partnership, especially with the amount of skeletons still knocking around for both families!
I rejoiced at the return of the 'devils spawn' children Georgie and Harry and think this part of the story line was done particularly well. In fact all of it was done with flair, finesse and the Chambers touch (along with a few choice swear words thrown in). Once past the first quarter there was no let up and I rarely put the book down. It took me just a day and a half of solid reading which was pure bliss and in all honesty was finished exactly as it should have been. I have loved the O'Hara's and the Butlers and think combining the series was a genius move. However, I feel like it's ended at the right point and it's now time to meet some new wrong'uns and I can't wait to see what KC has up her sleeve next.
January 9, 2017
Time taken to read - 1 day
Pages - 480
Publisher - Harper Collins
Blurb from Goodreads
The final thrilling showdown between the Mitchells and the Butlers. This is Kimberley Chambers at her heart-stopping best!
There’s never a dull moment in the Butler family and when Vinny starts to receive mysterious packages containing dead creatures, it can only mean one thing… someone is out for blood.
For a long time, Vinny Butler and Eddie Mitchell ruled their manors from a respectful distance. Now they’re doing business together and their family has just been united in a way they never expected.
But after one murder too many things start to unravel. The past comes back to haunt both families, and it will be the downfall of one of them.
Will it be the Mitchells or the Butlers who get what’s coming to them?
Who is the backstabber?
My Review
The Butlers & The Mitchell's together in one book! Vinny Senior and Eddie are working together in a joint venture, business for both families is pretty sweet. Now they are receiving threatening quotes accompanied by some disgusting packages, someone wants revenge but who is their target?
As always, when I pick up a Chambers book I do so initially with trepidation, when you have loved the previous books you can't help but worry the new one won't be as gripping. Unfounded fears good people, two dangerous families teaming up together for one huge finale. Action packed from page one, I actually gasped at the opening scene, why just why?!?! There went my day and if I hadn't had things to do I would have devoured it in one straight sitting. Death, families, love, betrayal, relationships, terror, mental health, sex & violence are only some of the themes covered in this book, as always bad language features so if you are unfamiliar with Chambers work be prepared.
Both families have had many enemies over the years, questionable behavior and choices by our characters, deaths aplenty so who is after one of our main characters and why? The writing and for why will keeping you going page after page, Chambers weaves a web of terror, fierce loyalty and opens a world to readers that most average Joe's could never imagine experiencing let alone glimpsing. Fast paced, engaging and finally the chickens are coming home to roost, if you haven't read the previous Butler & Mitchell series you really must before reading this one. Two fantastic series coming together, fans will not be left disappointed an explosive 5/5 for me. Hats off to Chambers for pulling off yet another amazing page turner, my first 5 star of 2017. Thanks so much to Harper Collins and Fliss for sending me and ARC of this!
Pages - 480
Publisher - Harper Collins
Blurb from Goodreads
The final thrilling showdown between the Mitchells and the Butlers. This is Kimberley Chambers at her heart-stopping best!
There’s never a dull moment in the Butler family and when Vinny starts to receive mysterious packages containing dead creatures, it can only mean one thing… someone is out for blood.
For a long time, Vinny Butler and Eddie Mitchell ruled their manors from a respectful distance. Now they’re doing business together and their family has just been united in a way they never expected.
But after one murder too many things start to unravel. The past comes back to haunt both families, and it will be the downfall of one of them.
Will it be the Mitchells or the Butlers who get what’s coming to them?
Who is the backstabber?
My Review
The Butlers & The Mitchell's together in one book! Vinny Senior and Eddie are working together in a joint venture, business for both families is pretty sweet. Now they are receiving threatening quotes accompanied by some disgusting packages, someone wants revenge but who is their target?
As always, when I pick up a Chambers book I do so initially with trepidation, when you have loved the previous books you can't help but worry the new one won't be as gripping. Unfounded fears good people, two dangerous families teaming up together for one huge finale. Action packed from page one, I actually gasped at the opening scene, why just why?!?! There went my day and if I hadn't had things to do I would have devoured it in one straight sitting. Death, families, love, betrayal, relationships, terror, mental health, sex & violence are only some of the themes covered in this book, as always bad language features so if you are unfamiliar with Chambers work be prepared.
Both families have had many enemies over the years, questionable behavior and choices by our characters, deaths aplenty so who is after one of our main characters and why? The writing and for why will keeping you going page after page, Chambers weaves a web of terror, fierce loyalty and opens a world to readers that most average Joe's could never imagine experiencing let alone glimpsing. Fast paced, engaging and finally the chickens are coming home to roost, if you haven't read the previous Butler & Mitchell series you really must before reading this one. Two fantastic series coming together, fans will not be left disappointed an explosive 5/5 for me. Hats off to Chambers for pulling off yet another amazing page turner, my first 5 star of 2017. Thanks so much to Harper Collins and Fliss for sending me and ARC of this!
February 18, 2017
I can't remember the last time I was so excited for a book to be released as I was up until I got my hands on an early copy of Backstabber (and I was ecstatic when I then won a signed copy over on Facebook). Readers of my blog will know that I am one of Kimberley Chambers' biggest fans and I am constantly recommending her books all the time and they consistently make my Top 5 Books of the Year blog posts because they really are that good. Backstabber sees the return of the now notorious Butler family, and whereas the previous Butler book, Tainted Love, saw a brief return of Eddie Mitchell, Backstabber features both families with Eddie and Vinny going into business together.
Backstabber is the book that Kim has been building up to with everything that she has written about the Butler family so far. I (and probably every single one of her die hard fans) was ecstatic when I found out that she would be reintroducing Eddie Mitchell and his family because readers have been crying out for a return from them ever since Kim was signed to HarperCollins. Along with Vinny Butler, Eddie is one of the most recognisable and memorable faces within this genre and these two families are easily two of the best ever created. I'm glad that Kim didn't drag this series out as we've seen other authors do in the past, instead with Backstabber she has delivered one hell of a rollercoaster read with plenty of bloodshed, revenge and, as the title suggests, backstabbing. It left me open-mouthed on more than one occasion and I couldn't read quick enough to discover how the story was ultimately going to end.
It's incredibly difficult to discuss the plot, and after how many books have came before Backstabber there's no chance of even offering any kind of recap about where things are for the two families now. I follow Kim across her various social media accounts and always enjoy reading the updates that she offers about her writing processes for each book. It's not something that came easy and Kim has mentioned a lot about the struggles of merging these two families together, and making sure that nothing in their stories doesn't match up with what she has written in the past. I can say that reading this you wouldn't even know how difficult a book it was to write for Kim, everything just flows naturally and I very quickly remembered everything about the Mitchell's despite the fact it has been a few years since I read that brilliant trilogy of books. Merging these two families together was one of the best things I've read in fiction and it results in one epic and unforgettable showdown.
I feel very invested in the characters that Kim has created and so I was reading this constantly on edge wondering which of them would meet an untimely end this time around. Kim has made no secret of the fact that there's plenty of bloodshed within this novel and she wasn't wrong. Each book has featured a huge cast of characters, and two of the most intriguing have been Vinny Butler and his son, Little Vinny. Vinny to me hasn't been a character who has ever shown any kind of remorse or qualities where you could kind of see the good in him. He is evil through and through. Little Vinny on the other hand is a changed man, but previous readers will know just what he's done in the past and I couldn't read quick enough knowing that those secrets just had to come out in full before this book was over. Queenie Butler is another favourite character of mine, a proper East End character who has been forced out of her beloved Whitechapel, she's quite lost in the world as the book opens with the funeral of her much-loved sister, Vivian. Kim offers some light relief alongside the heavier stuff thanks to Queenie who is a larger than life character, even more so when she's introduced to Eddie Mitchell's mother-in-law, Joycie.
Backstabber was somewhat of a bittersweet read for me, and I actually felt genuine emotion as I read the story, fictional characters they may be, but Kim writes a gritty and believable read that you forget all about that as you turn the pages and these characters come alive in your mind and feel like real people. It felt like we were saying goodbye to the two families for good, with most things tied up quite nicely (or not so nicely for those that didn't survive) however I do think there's potential to see a return from both the Butler's and the Mitchell's in the future, if Kim could come up with a good enough storyline to warrant us seeing them again. She has mentioned about wanting to write a prologue to The Trap (the book that introduced us to the Butlers) and I think that would be fantastic. One thing I have always enjoyed most about Kim's books is how she incorporates music into the story, and how authentic it feels reading about 'old' London, a London that is unrecognisable now. Reading about the early days of the Butler family would just be amazing. I am though excited to see what Kimberley Chambers brings us next. Is Backstabber her best book? I want to scream that yes it is, but I also want to read each of them again now that the series has been brought to a (for now at least) close and then give it some real thought (she's my favourite living author I'm allowed to overthink it...) but what I can say with no hesitation is that it is one of her best books and is a worthy conclusion to what has been one of the best series of books I have ever read, across any genre and I now hope that the series is finally picked up by TV. I know that Kim almost has the perfect cast in her head (there's even a cheeky mention of some of the actors within Backstabber) and this series of books would make for some of the most gripping drama TV has ever seen and would introduce these two families to a whole new audience.
Backstabber is the book that Kim has been building up to with everything that she has written about the Butler family so far. I (and probably every single one of her die hard fans) was ecstatic when I found out that she would be reintroducing Eddie Mitchell and his family because readers have been crying out for a return from them ever since Kim was signed to HarperCollins. Along with Vinny Butler, Eddie is one of the most recognisable and memorable faces within this genre and these two families are easily two of the best ever created. I'm glad that Kim didn't drag this series out as we've seen other authors do in the past, instead with Backstabber she has delivered one hell of a rollercoaster read with plenty of bloodshed, revenge and, as the title suggests, backstabbing. It left me open-mouthed on more than one occasion and I couldn't read quick enough to discover how the story was ultimately going to end.
It's incredibly difficult to discuss the plot, and after how many books have came before Backstabber there's no chance of even offering any kind of recap about where things are for the two families now. I follow Kim across her various social media accounts and always enjoy reading the updates that she offers about her writing processes for each book. It's not something that came easy and Kim has mentioned a lot about the struggles of merging these two families together, and making sure that nothing in their stories doesn't match up with what she has written in the past. I can say that reading this you wouldn't even know how difficult a book it was to write for Kim, everything just flows naturally and I very quickly remembered everything about the Mitchell's despite the fact it has been a few years since I read that brilliant trilogy of books. Merging these two families together was one of the best things I've read in fiction and it results in one epic and unforgettable showdown.
I feel very invested in the characters that Kim has created and so I was reading this constantly on edge wondering which of them would meet an untimely end this time around. Kim has made no secret of the fact that there's plenty of bloodshed within this novel and she wasn't wrong. Each book has featured a huge cast of characters, and two of the most intriguing have been Vinny Butler and his son, Little Vinny. Vinny to me hasn't been a character who has ever shown any kind of remorse or qualities where you could kind of see the good in him. He is evil through and through. Little Vinny on the other hand is a changed man, but previous readers will know just what he's done in the past and I couldn't read quick enough knowing that those secrets just had to come out in full before this book was over. Queenie Butler is another favourite character of mine, a proper East End character who has been forced out of her beloved Whitechapel, she's quite lost in the world as the book opens with the funeral of her much-loved sister, Vivian. Kim offers some light relief alongside the heavier stuff thanks to Queenie who is a larger than life character, even more so when she's introduced to Eddie Mitchell's mother-in-law, Joycie.
Backstabber was somewhat of a bittersweet read for me, and I actually felt genuine emotion as I read the story, fictional characters they may be, but Kim writes a gritty and believable read that you forget all about that as you turn the pages and these characters come alive in your mind and feel like real people. It felt like we were saying goodbye to the two families for good, with most things tied up quite nicely (or not so nicely for those that didn't survive) however I do think there's potential to see a return from both the Butler's and the Mitchell's in the future, if Kim could come up with a good enough storyline to warrant us seeing them again. She has mentioned about wanting to write a prologue to The Trap (the book that introduced us to the Butlers) and I think that would be fantastic. One thing I have always enjoyed most about Kim's books is how she incorporates music into the story, and how authentic it feels reading about 'old' London, a London that is unrecognisable now. Reading about the early days of the Butler family would just be amazing. I am though excited to see what Kimberley Chambers brings us next. Is Backstabber her best book? I want to scream that yes it is, but I also want to read each of them again now that the series has been brought to a (for now at least) close and then give it some real thought (she's my favourite living author I'm allowed to overthink it...) but what I can say with no hesitation is that it is one of her best books and is a worthy conclusion to what has been one of the best series of books I have ever read, across any genre and I now hope that the series is finally picked up by TV. I know that Kim almost has the perfect cast in her head (there's even a cheeky mention of some of the actors within Backstabber) and this series of books would make for some of the most gripping drama TV has ever seen and would introduce these two families to a whole new audience.
February 13, 2017
Well OMFG! What a way to end a series! Kimberley Chambers has done a stellar job of wrapping things up in Backstabber! Set in the East End of London, the reader comes face-to-face with villians & violence, murder & mayhem, grief & loss and payback of the most heinous kind! Well come on…you didn’t really think it would end up well, did you?
Never one to let me down, the author reeled me in with a #KillerHook and fast-paced story-line that I did not want to put it down for even one moment! Death surrounds the Mitchell’s, Butler’s and O’Hara’s like an unforgiving shroud. Never in my life did I think I would see the Mitchell’s, Butler’s and O’Hara’s together…I mean FFS…what a menacing threesome – there is just no mercy for this mix!
Oh, and in case you have not read any other reviews from me….I am partial to a #BadBoy – the kind that makes your heart race, give you goosebumps and make you fear for your life….yeah, but only in books!! And there are plenty of these in Backstabber! I loved the alliances and friendships forged. I mean, the Mitchell’s and the Butler’s — that is never going to end up well, is it?
I adored the twins- Georgie and Harry O’Hara- what a pair! The character development of these two was awesome and goes to show what a fantastic writer, Kimberley Chambers really is! I despised these two at the start and really hoped someone…anyone…would slap them down to size….by the end, well….they grew on me!
Now Queenie….despite her twisted values and morals, you just got to love this woman! Some of the things she comes out with is unbelievable and absolutely class! Everything that is wrong about this character is just so right!
There are just so many characters I want to mention and despite it being a year or so since I read the last book, well it was not confusing at all. Everything you need to know is there in the story! And to sum it all up, I think Michael Butler says it best when he says: Death, destruction, arguments and violence – exactly what you get in Backstabber.
So for high octance, full throttle retribution at its finest, I highly recommend the book! Lovers of proper gangland crime fiction will not be disappointed. Links below….you know what to do!
Never one to let me down, the author reeled me in with a #KillerHook and fast-paced story-line that I did not want to put it down for even one moment! Death surrounds the Mitchell’s, Butler’s and O’Hara’s like an unforgiving shroud. Never in my life did I think I would see the Mitchell’s, Butler’s and O’Hara’s together…I mean FFS…what a menacing threesome – there is just no mercy for this mix!
Oh, and in case you have not read any other reviews from me….I am partial to a #BadBoy – the kind that makes your heart race, give you goosebumps and make you fear for your life….yeah, but only in books!! And there are plenty of these in Backstabber! I loved the alliances and friendships forged. I mean, the Mitchell’s and the Butler’s — that is never going to end up well, is it?
I adored the twins- Georgie and Harry O’Hara- what a pair! The character development of these two was awesome and goes to show what a fantastic writer, Kimberley Chambers really is! I despised these two at the start and really hoped someone…anyone…would slap them down to size….by the end, well….they grew on me!
Now Queenie….despite her twisted values and morals, you just got to love this woman! Some of the things she comes out with is unbelievable and absolutely class! Everything that is wrong about this character is just so right!
There are just so many characters I want to mention and despite it being a year or so since I read the last book, well it was not confusing at all. Everything you need to know is there in the story! And to sum it all up, I think Michael Butler says it best when he says: Death, destruction, arguments and violence – exactly what you get in Backstabber.
So for high octance, full throttle retribution at its finest, I highly recommend the book! Lovers of proper gangland crime fiction will not be disappointed. Links below….you know what to do!
February 15, 2017
Speechless, gobsmacked, lost for words!!!
Every Michell, Butler and O'Hara character mentioned in this book even the blooming Ratpig Fred the dog.
Going to really miss these guys.
How can KImberley ever top this?
A truly awesome thrilling series finale.
Every Michell, Butler and O'Hara character mentioned in this book even the blooming Ratpig Fred the dog.
Going to really miss these guys.
How can KImberley ever top this?
A truly awesome thrilling series finale.
February 25, 2017
This was everything I hoped it would be. Been a brilliant audiobook series, awesomely narrated *sighs* good times.
So happy to see this - can't wait for the audiobook (please, please, please have Annie Aldington narrate it)
So happy to see this - can't wait for the audiobook (please, please, please have Annie Aldington narrate it)
November 7, 2017
gave up
10% into the book and we are still introducing family members with more and more names and references to the history that has just gone in i assume a previous book or books. Really couldn't be bothered ploughing any further waiting for the author to stop setting the scene and get on with a story any story really. Sorry but not for me
10% into the book and we are still introducing family members with more and more names and references to the history that has just gone in i assume a previous book or books. Really couldn't be bothered ploughing any further waiting for the author to stop setting the scene and get on with a story any story really. Sorry but not for me
May 26, 2019
What a brilliant series. Make sure you read the books in order starting with the Mitchell and O'Hara then the Butlers and this book last of all. If you don't you will lose the plot of the story, once you start reading you won't be able to stop. In places they can be quite gruesome story lines and not for the fainthearted.
February 12, 2017
Superb!! A brilliant ending to a fantastic series! I have enjoyed reading all the books in the series, love both the Mitchells & O'Hara's.
Well done Kimberley Chambers.
A TV producer should definitely pick these books up and adapt into a TV mini series, would be amazing viewing.
Well done Kimberley Chambers.
A TV producer should definitely pick these books up and adapt into a TV mini series, would be amazing viewing.
November 21, 2019
Definitely a sting!
I can't believe it ended where it did.
I'm not sure Vinny is dead. The guy is too evil to die.
Desperately need another Instalment.
Great read. Excellent story.
Enjoy
I can't believe it ended where it did.
I'm not sure Vinny is dead. The guy is too evil to die.
Desperately need another Instalment.
Great read. Excellent story.
Enjoy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2017
So excited to read this book! I was lucky to win it in a recent giveaway it's the first book I have won from goodreads and written by one of my favourite authors.
Will be starting as soon as it arrives.
Will be starting as soon as it arrives.
February 11, 2021
The book was a grand finale to the Butlers and Mitchell's and what a grand finale it was....so much payback, gruesome details, pain, suffering and death, but yet so many questions left unanswered....leaving the way open for the next generation maybe????? I certainly hope so....Kimberley you never let your readers down.
Now, onto Queenie... can't wait to start reading.
Now, onto Queenie... can't wait to start reading.
November 1, 2023
Wasn't sure on this one as another family got a lot of page time but as the story pans out I got the reason why. The whole Butler family are awful...I would love to know their next story as I feel left in limbo with some of the characters.
November 14, 2018
Absolutely fantastic book. Love this author. Last book in the series and it didn't disappoint
April 25, 2017
This as been Kimberleys best book yet.
March 4, 2017
Great book, cannot wait to read kimberley chambers next book
March 4, 2017
Wow another great book from Kimberley finishing off the Butlers and the Mitchell's series sad but also good because this means the next book will be all new characters for us to fall in love with. Have enjoyed reading both these series's and will definitely miss Queenie and her antics. I recommend these books to anyone that likes this genre you won't be disappointed.
May 26, 2023
A spectacular end to a fantastic series! Loved every page.
February 6, 2017
Review to follow, if I can figure out how to put into words what I thought of this book, without giving anything away.
But WoWZeRz
But WoWZeRz
February 9, 2017
OMG what a brilliant ending to a fantastic series! Seriously you Kimberly Chambers fan are going to love Backstabber….I certainly did. And for those of you that haven't read it the series I cannot recommend it enough. Everyone that I have read I think wow this is the best one yet. But Backstabber really is. Kimberly Chambers has totally nailed it and when I say nailed it. I mean wow I am totally blown away.
Kimberly is also the author of the Mitchell trilogy which is also a must read. So in this story the two families merge together When king of the underworld Vinny Butler goes into business with respected villain Eddie Mitchell, and bring this action packed UNPUTDOWNABLE grand finale!! Holy freaking hell have I got a book hangover.
If you're a fan of gangster books this is definitely the book/series for you. The author takes you into the underground world of the unknown. With twisted people that you would not believe and they will do anything to get revenge. Kimberly is one natural talented writer that takes you on one roller coaster journey where you really get to know the characters and feel part of the story.
After winning a competition the Bakers became Queenie's neighbors in The Wronged. I would like say a massive thank you to Kimberly for giving Chester my moggy a mention after he sadly passed away last year. Words cannot describe how over the moon I was to read that.
Backstabber is Gritty and a capital G that's for sure and gets all the stars from me.
Thank you to Harper Collins for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kimberly is also the author of the Mitchell trilogy which is also a must read. So in this story the two families merge together When king of the underworld Vinny Butler goes into business with respected villain Eddie Mitchell, and bring this action packed UNPUTDOWNABLE grand finale!! Holy freaking hell have I got a book hangover.
If you're a fan of gangster books this is definitely the book/series for you. The author takes you into the underground world of the unknown. With twisted people that you would not believe and they will do anything to get revenge. Kimberly is one natural talented writer that takes you on one roller coaster journey where you really get to know the characters and feel part of the story.
After winning a competition the Bakers became Queenie's neighbors in The Wronged. I would like say a massive thank you to Kimberly for giving Chester my moggy a mention after he sadly passed away last year. Words cannot describe how over the moon I was to read that.
Backstabber is Gritty and a capital G that's for sure and gets all the stars from me.
Thank you to Harper Collins for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2017
I always look forward to Kimberley writing another book. This one did not disappoint. I didn't want it to end. Loved every page. It's the end of an era, I may have to start right from the beginning, again!!
April 3, 2019
My first Kimberley Chambers book and perhaps not a good one to start with. I spent most of the book trying to make sense of the plethora of shallow characters, none of them like-able, and how they were connected. There seemed to be every crime going thrown in, just for the shock value. Only two characters had any real depth and they were the two older mothers.
Then we come on to the gratuitous violence. Not just blood and guts - I don't mind a bit of that - this was drawn out torture and mutilation of a pregnant woman. Who, in their right mind, wants to read that?
Couldn't believe this book has so many 5 star reviews. I suggest you read all the 1 and 2 star reviews first, (here and on Amazon) before choosing, as they seem to be the only ones written with any thought.
Then we come on to the gratuitous violence. Not just blood and guts - I don't mind a bit of that - this was drawn out torture and mutilation of a pregnant woman. Who, in their right mind, wants to read that?
Couldn't believe this book has so many 5 star reviews. I suggest you read all the 1 and 2 star reviews first, (here and on Amazon) before choosing, as they seem to be the only ones written with any thought.
March 22, 2017
Kimberly chambers has done it again .
This book has got to be the best book of the year . Well done Kimberly better then Martina Cole,jessie Keane, Roberta kray . Hope this has another story line I just cannot wait a whole year for her next novel . From the first page it was gripping right through to the very last chapter . If I could give more stars then I would . You can always tell a good book when you think you are actually in the book yourself .
This book has got to be the best book of the year . Well done Kimberly better then Martina Cole,jessie Keane, Roberta kray . Hope this has another story line I just cannot wait a whole year for her next novel . From the first page it was gripping right through to the very last chapter . If I could give more stars then I would . You can always tell a good book when you think you are actually in the book yourself .
February 5, 2017
Wow amazing read,tried to take my time with this book but apart from work and family I couldn't help but read in any spare time I had,Kimberley absolutely smashed it with this book bringing the Mitchell's and the Butlers together wow.
The storyline was fantastic kept me hooked from start to finish brings all the books and characters together fantastic.
The storyline was fantastic kept me hooked from start to finish brings all the books and characters together fantastic.
January 13, 2019
This was a great book bringing together the Mitchell's and the Butlers and tying together all the loose ends from their previous series of books. The ending was explosive with a twist.
March 28, 2020
This book had me a little confused at the beginning. Mainly because of all the new characters being mentioned. Although Kimberley does give a little backstory of these Characters, I now feel that I should have read the Mitchells and O'haras Trilogy first before I had started the Butlers series and particularly this book.
If you have started to Read the Butlers series and not got this far yet I'd advise you to put the book down and pick up the first book in the Mitchells and O'haras and start that Trilogy before continuing with the Butlers.
Backstabber is the last book of the Butler series although a Prequel (Queenie) has now been written which I intend to read shortly.
This book is a real rollercoaster of a read with lots happening. Lots of twists and turns and you are left not really sure where or how the story will conclude. After the slightly slow and confusing start the book becomes a page turner and you will not want to put it down. Will secrets from the past be revealed or will they go to the grave? Will Vinny finally get what's coming to him or will he somehow manage to get out unscathed? I've a feeling this still won't be the last we hear of the Butler family in future books. There is still more I want to know about what happens to certain Characters. See them grow and develop and see even more mayhem unfold.
If you have started to Read the Butlers series and not got this far yet I'd advise you to put the book down and pick up the first book in the Mitchells and O'haras and start that Trilogy before continuing with the Butlers.
Backstabber is the last book of the Butler series although a Prequel (Queenie) has now been written which I intend to read shortly.
This book is a real rollercoaster of a read with lots happening. Lots of twists and turns and you are left not really sure where or how the story will conclude. After the slightly slow and confusing start the book becomes a page turner and you will not want to put it down. Will secrets from the past be revealed or will they go to the grave? Will Vinny finally get what's coming to him or will he somehow manage to get out unscathed? I've a feeling this still won't be the last we hear of the Butler family in future books. There is still more I want to know about what happens to certain Characters. See them grow and develop and see even more mayhem unfold.
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