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The Killing Game
Publicist JJ Johnson is having lunch when a masked, armed gunman walks in and takes everyone hostage – including Hollywood’s hottest stars. JJ can make any problem disappear and turn ordinary people into global superstars. But this is one situation way out of her control.
As word spreads of the siege, the hostage victims are bargaining for their lives against a twisted individual who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.
With the bomb designed to detonate if the gunman’s heart rate changes, killing him is not an option. But with only four hours to stop him, JJ will have to think fast to stop a terrifying nightmare becoming reality.
“James Carol is a non-American who has mastered the idiom of the US thriller.”
— Barry Forshaw, The Independant
As word spreads of the siege, the hostage victims are bargaining for their lives against a twisted individual who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.
With the bomb designed to detonate if the gunman’s heart rate changes, killing him is not an option. But with only four hours to stop him, JJ will have to think fast to stop a terrifying nightmare becoming reality.
“James Carol is a non-American who has mastered the idiom of the US thriller.”
— Barry Forshaw, The Independant
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2016
116 people are currently reading
709 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
January 14, 2017
The Killing Game by J.S. Carol is a 2016 Bookouture publication.
The book cover says it all: “A tense, gripping thriller you DON’T want to miss”
Alfie’s is an upscale restaurant in Los Angles catering to movie stars, agents and producers. But, when the clientele are taken hostage by masked gunman wearing explosives that will detonate if his heart rate gets too low, the media descend, determined to cash in on the situation.
JJ, a publicist, was at the restaurant to keep an eye on her client, but soon finds herself fighting for the lives of the hostages as she attempts to figure out what the gunman’s motives are and how to get them out in one piece.
Wow! Anytime a story is centered around a hostage situation, it’s always tense and suspenseful. What does the gunman want, who will make it out alive, and what will be the aftermath? It’s a formula that never fails to grab my attention.
However, when you add in the celebrity element, when the hostages are famous people, it makes the story even more interesting.
The thriller aspects of the book are top notch, with the gunman seemingly having way too much fun with the situation, proving himself to be one of the most ruthless bad guys I’ve read about in a long time.
But, what stood out for me was the scathing portrait of the media who covered the situation in typical fashion. Talking heads, experts, and misinformation from start to finish!!
The author was spot on with this wickedly dark parody of twenty -hour news stations, and how the media works. This is subject, of course, is a timely one as the media has come under a great deal of scrutiny and criticism as of late.
I thought the idea of putting spoiled celebrities who think they can talk or buy their way of anything, mixed with the soulless unconscionable media, facing down a terrorist attack was pure genius.
The feverish pacing, the moral dilemmas, the psychological mind games and the personal demons that surface made this a riveting and fast paced, white knuckle thrill ride.
A tense, gripping thriller, you DON’T want to miss? Correct! If you like thrillers and top notch suspense, this book is for you!
4.5 stars
The book cover says it all: “A tense, gripping thriller you DON’T want to miss”
Alfie’s is an upscale restaurant in Los Angles catering to movie stars, agents and producers. But, when the clientele are taken hostage by masked gunman wearing explosives that will detonate if his heart rate gets too low, the media descend, determined to cash in on the situation.
JJ, a publicist, was at the restaurant to keep an eye on her client, but soon finds herself fighting for the lives of the hostages as she attempts to figure out what the gunman’s motives are and how to get them out in one piece.
Wow! Anytime a story is centered around a hostage situation, it’s always tense and suspenseful. What does the gunman want, who will make it out alive, and what will be the aftermath? It’s a formula that never fails to grab my attention.
However, when you add in the celebrity element, when the hostages are famous people, it makes the story even more interesting.
The thriller aspects of the book are top notch, with the gunman seemingly having way too much fun with the situation, proving himself to be one of the most ruthless bad guys I’ve read about in a long time.
But, what stood out for me was the scathing portrait of the media who covered the situation in typical fashion. Talking heads, experts, and misinformation from start to finish!!
The author was spot on with this wickedly dark parody of twenty -hour news stations, and how the media works. This is subject, of course, is a timely one as the media has come under a great deal of scrutiny and criticism as of late.
I thought the idea of putting spoiled celebrities who think they can talk or buy their way of anything, mixed with the soulless unconscionable media, facing down a terrorist attack was pure genius.
The feverish pacing, the moral dilemmas, the psychological mind games and the personal demons that surface made this a riveting and fast paced, white knuckle thrill ride.
A tense, gripping thriller, you DON’T want to miss? Correct! If you like thrillers and top notch suspense, this book is for you!
4.5 stars
December 14, 2017
Traveling Sisters read with Kaceey
I read The Killing Game with Kaceey and we were lost in the traumatized dark murky coulee and not wanting to be found until we finished this chilling, fascinating yet disturbing killing game. At times we wanted to crawl on out as we became a little uncomfortable in all the grimy, muddy violence but we couldn’t bring ourselves to actually start crawling out. Instead, we were lost in this captivating and unsettling story. Our hearts were racing and I am sure at times we needed to be found as we thought we might stop breathing. We continued and felt ourselves being pulled more into the twisted game our tormenter had in store for us. There is no holding back here from our master of the killing game, creating the most uncomfortable tension like we never felt before.
The Killing Game is a brilliant and exciting paced story that is cleverly told in real time, minute by minute, drawing us right into the fear and terror of this fast action-packed story. The chapters are short with cliffhangers that left us dangling and gasping for air.
Carol does a fantastic job creating Hollywood’s finest of wealth, fame and fortune with these likable and not so likable characters. He cleverly pushes his characters, testing their limits with the twisted, disturbing games and in turn testing us and had us questioning human nature. He had us rooting for some and shamefully not for others, drawing us into this twisted, murky game. In the end, we were left shocked by these characters and our reaction to them and what was behind Hollywood’s fame and glamour in this story. That’s great writing.
Yes J.S. Carol, you have done your job well and succeeded in traumatizing us with your twisted Killing Game. We will gladly be searching out more books by you and keeping our eyes peeled for your new one.
We highly recommend with caution as there is a bit of violence to this one.
All of our Traveling Sisters Reviews can be found on our sister blog:
http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
I read The Killing Game with Kaceey and we were lost in the traumatized dark murky coulee and not wanting to be found until we finished this chilling, fascinating yet disturbing killing game. At times we wanted to crawl on out as we became a little uncomfortable in all the grimy, muddy violence but we couldn’t bring ourselves to actually start crawling out. Instead, we were lost in this captivating and unsettling story. Our hearts were racing and I am sure at times we needed to be found as we thought we might stop breathing. We continued and felt ourselves being pulled more into the twisted game our tormenter had in store for us. There is no holding back here from our master of the killing game, creating the most uncomfortable tension like we never felt before.
The Killing Game is a brilliant and exciting paced story that is cleverly told in real time, minute by minute, drawing us right into the fear and terror of this fast action-packed story. The chapters are short with cliffhangers that left us dangling and gasping for air.
Carol does a fantastic job creating Hollywood’s finest of wealth, fame and fortune with these likable and not so likable characters. He cleverly pushes his characters, testing their limits with the twisted, disturbing games and in turn testing us and had us questioning human nature. He had us rooting for some and shamefully not for others, drawing us into this twisted, murky game. In the end, we were left shocked by these characters and our reaction to them and what was behind Hollywood’s fame and glamour in this story. That’s great writing.
Yes J.S. Carol, you have done your job well and succeeded in traumatizing us with your twisted Killing Game. We will gladly be searching out more books by you and keeping our eyes peeled for your new one.
We highly recommend with caution as there is a bit of violence to this one.
All of our Traveling Sisters Reviews can be found on our sister blog:
http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
November 7, 2016
This is the first book I have read by author James Carol and I was impressed enough to want to read more of his work.
A great action packed read that is set in Alfie’s, a restaurant for the rich and famous. Publicist JJ Johnson is having lunch when a masked, armed gunman walks in and takes everyone hostage. The gunman has a bomb strapped to his chest and makes it clear that he must be obeyed by killing the first person who questions his authority.
The novel starts at pace and that is continued right to the end as the negotiations begin and added interest from the media coverage take this book to a frenzied finale.
There are lots of twists, turns and sub plots as the book progresses which make this novel a great read that you will find hard to put down. Some excellent characters that come to life in print and this would surely make an excellent Hollywood film.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
A great action packed read that is set in Alfie’s, a restaurant for the rich and famous. Publicist JJ Johnson is having lunch when a masked, armed gunman walks in and takes everyone hostage. The gunman has a bomb strapped to his chest and makes it clear that he must be obeyed by killing the first person who questions his authority.
The novel starts at pace and that is continued right to the end as the negotiations begin and added interest from the media coverage take this book to a frenzied finale.
There are lots of twists, turns and sub plots as the book progresses which make this novel a great read that you will find hard to put down. Some excellent characters that come to life in print and this would surely make an excellent Hollywood film.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
May 28, 2017
As Jody Johnson (her friends called her JJ) made her way to the luncheon she’d booked in Alfie’s, her favourite restaurant in Hollywood, she thought about what was ahead. Her lunch companion was an arrogant, egotistical man, but it wasn’t him she was going to observe. And once she was seated on the upper level she could see Alex and Simone seated down below her; things were going to plan.
But in a matter of seconds, everything changed. The masked gunman was wearing a vest and carrying a submachine gun – was he a suicide bomber? Was he a terrorist? JJ was terrified, and the same look of terror was on the faces of everyone around her. And so the siege began…
As the bomber began his sadistic games, the world outside watched and waited. And right there in Alfie’s parking lot were the SWAT teams, FBI, local law enforcement agencies – and the media. The throng of helicopters with the eye in the sky and the cameras on the ground kept the public informed. But for those inside, their world had shrunk to the small room they were being held hostage in and the crazy psychopath who was in control of what happened to them all. It was just a roll of the dice…
The Killing Game by J.S. Carol is an edge of the seat psychological thriller with an incredible amount of twists and turns overshadowed by horror and gruesome nightmares the characters wished they could wake up from. Gripping and intense, The Killing Game is one I have no hesitation in recommending.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
But in a matter of seconds, everything changed. The masked gunman was wearing a vest and carrying a submachine gun – was he a suicide bomber? Was he a terrorist? JJ was terrified, and the same look of terror was on the faces of everyone around her. And so the siege began…
As the bomber began his sadistic games, the world outside watched and waited. And right there in Alfie’s parking lot were the SWAT teams, FBI, local law enforcement agencies – and the media. The throng of helicopters with the eye in the sky and the cameras on the ground kept the public informed. But for those inside, their world had shrunk to the small room they were being held hostage in and the crazy psychopath who was in control of what happened to them all. It was just a roll of the dice…
The Killing Game by J.S. Carol is an edge of the seat psychological thriller with an incredible amount of twists and turns overshadowed by horror and gruesome nightmares the characters wished they could wake up from. Gripping and intense, The Killing Game is one I have no hesitation in recommending.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
March 15, 2017
When a suicide bomber enters a top LA restaurant and holds some of Hollywood’s top names hostage J.J., a highly sort after PR expert, realises this is one situation she can’t control.
Carol shows us the low side of humanity with people betting on which hostage will be killed. There is also a large focus on the media using underhanded tactics to get a story and the heartless way they think of the scoop more than a person’s life.
Overall the writing is impeccable however the attempts at backstory kept pulling me away from the current action, disrupting the flow of the story.
This book has many, many rave reviews so I am definitely in the minority here but I need more than cold-blooded murder. I need connection, empathy for the victims, for the killer. The sad story came but it was too late, I just didn’t care enough.
I received a review copy from Bookouture via Netgalley.
Carol shows us the low side of humanity with people betting on which hostage will be killed. There is also a large focus on the media using underhanded tactics to get a story and the heartless way they think of the scoop more than a person’s life.
Overall the writing is impeccable however the attempts at backstory kept pulling me away from the current action, disrupting the flow of the story.
This book has many, many rave reviews so I am definitely in the minority here but I need more than cold-blooded murder. I need connection, empathy for the victims, for the killer. The sad story came but it was too late, I just didn’t care enough.
I received a review copy from Bookouture via Netgalley.
October 21, 2016
I previously read James Carol's thriller Broken Dolls which featured Jefferson Winter, the son of a serial killer. So I was really happy to receive an ARC of this standalone. And it delivered on all aspects.
The setting is an exclusive restaurant in Los Angeles frequented by Hollywood's elite. The story covers the 4 hours during which a masked gunman holds a group of patrons hostage and starts playing terrifying games. Who is he? What does he want?
Intense, frightening, and very brutal in parts, this was a real edge-of-your-seat thriller with a very good mix of different characters. It was so addictive I was reading until 2am because I HAD to find out how it ended.
I also really enjoyed the media perspective of 'making news'. Very cleverly done.
You could easily imagine watching this on the big screen.
Reading this has reminded me that I really need to get back to Mr. Carol's Jefferson Winter series. Highly recommended if you enjoy fast-paced, heart-pounding thrillers. 4.5 stars.
The setting is an exclusive restaurant in Los Angeles frequented by Hollywood's elite. The story covers the 4 hours during which a masked gunman holds a group of patrons hostage and starts playing terrifying games. Who is he? What does he want?
Intense, frightening, and very brutal in parts, this was a real edge-of-your-seat thriller with a very good mix of different characters. It was so addictive I was reading until 2am because I HAD to find out how it ended.
I also really enjoyed the media perspective of 'making news'. Very cleverly done.
You could easily imagine watching this on the big screen.
Reading this has reminded me that I really need to get back to Mr. Carol's Jefferson Winter series. Highly recommended if you enjoy fast-paced, heart-pounding thrillers. 4.5 stars.
January 26, 2018
Well I read Broken Dolls & thought that was good but my goodness this one was so different that I was holding my breath right from beginning to end. J.S Carol had me turning the pages so fast my head was spinning such a dynamic plot that had my heart racing.
JJ was a publicist for the stars having lunch at a swish restaurant Alfie's in L.A when a gunman burst in & took everyone hostage, actors directors etc they were all fearing for their lives, JJ who was getting over the death of her husband Tom who drowned in their pool was now dealing with another situation she couldn't do anything about a suicide bomber with a balaclava & sub machine gun & an explosive vest.
Minutes seem like hours everyone was wondering if their time was up Even JJ who was usually cool in any situation was finding herself wondering if she was going to survive, its not until the gunman plays Russian roulette with the hostages that the tension really picks up my heart was in my mouth & even I was asking myself would I do it ( put a gun to my head & pull the trigger ) the answer is definitely not so I would be dead no worries about that.
So now its up to JJ to try & settle things down its a game of survival who wants to live & who wants to die.
I won't say anymore as I may give away spoilers I found this to be fast paced & the plot top notch J.S Carol takes you on a spell binding journey of murder & mayhem, this book had just about everything the reader would want.
Just one little irk I found the media in this novel to be a bit over the top & putting the bomber on a pedestal was a bit irritating seeing as he had no feeling for what he had done this does not change my 5 star rating.
JJ was a publicist for the stars having lunch at a swish restaurant Alfie's in L.A when a gunman burst in & took everyone hostage, actors directors etc they were all fearing for their lives, JJ who was getting over the death of her husband Tom who drowned in their pool was now dealing with another situation she couldn't do anything about a suicide bomber with a balaclava & sub machine gun & an explosive vest.
Minutes seem like hours everyone was wondering if their time was up Even JJ who was usually cool in any situation was finding herself wondering if she was going to survive, its not until the gunman plays Russian roulette with the hostages that the tension really picks up my heart was in my mouth & even I was asking myself would I do it ( put a gun to my head & pull the trigger ) the answer is definitely not so I would be dead no worries about that.
So now its up to JJ to try & settle things down its a game of survival who wants to live & who wants to die.
I won't say anymore as I may give away spoilers I found this to be fast paced & the plot top notch J.S Carol takes you on a spell binding journey of murder & mayhem, this book had just about everything the reader would want.
Just one little irk I found the media in this novel to be a bit over the top & putting the bomber on a pedestal was a bit irritating seeing as he had no feeling for what he had done this does not change my 5 star rating.
November 13, 2016
Excellent! Fantastic! Wow!
If you like edge of your seat thrillers then buckle your seatbelts people because this is one book you won't want to put down!
This is a seriously nail biting hostage situation in a very private and exclusive top notch Hollywood restaurant.
With a reputation for its privacy and discretion, and a waiting list that spans years, only a small number of the very elite can afford to dine here.
On this day there are a number of very important people, many of whom have had occasion to work together and most of whom are [at least] in some small way acquainted with each other.
None are spared the close scrutiny of the hostage taker as he corrals them all together on the upstairs level and one by one proceeds to break them down into terrified captives.
What he does next, and how he goes about his plan makes absolutely no sense to his hostages as he casually makes each one of them complicit in his terrifying and chilling demands.
From start to finish this book will have you spellbound.
Highly recommended, I will most certainly be looking for more from this author. 5★s
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture publishers for my copy to read and review.
October 31, 2016
J J Johnson is a publicist .. she's worked so long and so hard to become a success. Now she can make or break careers of the rich and famous.
Meeting a client at a very exclusive restaurant, she's pleased to see several famous people she either loves or hates.
But her life, as she knows it, is about to change.
He walks into the restaurant wearing fatigues, a face mask, a bomb jacket and carrying a really large assault rifle. He knows almost everyone in the restaurant .. who they are.. how much money they have ...
But it becomes clear that money is not what he wants.
This is a super-thriller filled with twists and turns and surprises that make you gasp. It is very well written. The characters are sharply drawn; kudos to the author for having characters that I absolutely did not like. My opinion wavered back and forth the more I read. There were times I felt more empathy for the bomber than for the others.
Lots of lives will be taken..most for the only reason that the bomber wanted them dead.
A secondary story weaves in and out of the action inside the restaurant. One young man has hidden in the men's room ... the bomber does not know he's there. There are reporters who have no problem paying for 'exclusive' information. The cops have zipped lips ... at least most of them do.
Who is he? What does he want? And what is his connection to two of the diners?
I stayed riveted through the entire book. The ending was 'explosive' and though I could guess the ending, it still took me by moment of surprise.
Highly recommended to anyone who likes a really good thriller!
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley who provided a digital copy. All opinions are my own.
Meeting a client at a very exclusive restaurant, she's pleased to see several famous people she either loves or hates.
But her life, as she knows it, is about to change.
He walks into the restaurant wearing fatigues, a face mask, a bomb jacket and carrying a really large assault rifle. He knows almost everyone in the restaurant .. who they are.. how much money they have ...
But it becomes clear that money is not what he wants.
This is a super-thriller filled with twists and turns and surprises that make you gasp. It is very well written. The characters are sharply drawn; kudos to the author for having characters that I absolutely did not like. My opinion wavered back and forth the more I read. There were times I felt more empathy for the bomber than for the others.
Lots of lives will be taken..most for the only reason that the bomber wanted them dead.
A secondary story weaves in and out of the action inside the restaurant. One young man has hidden in the men's room ... the bomber does not know he's there. There are reporters who have no problem paying for 'exclusive' information. The cops have zipped lips ... at least most of them do.
Who is he? What does he want? And what is his connection to two of the diners?
I stayed riveted through the entire book. The ending was 'explosive' and though I could guess the ending, it still took me by moment of surprise.
Highly recommended to anyone who likes a really good thriller!
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley who provided a digital copy. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2016
This is an excellent, heart stopping thriller! The drama starts when a suicide bomber bursts into Alfie's, a top end restaurant frequented by Hollywood's A list celebs. He's not a religious fanatic so why is he there and what does he want? He loves to play games and at some stage the hostages will all have to bargain with him for their lives. He thinks he's totally in control but there's a secret in Alfie's that he needs to find for his plan to work.
Such a good, high tension read, told from different points of view. Everyone has a story to tell but who will live and who will die? Read it and find out!
With thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for a digital copy to read and review
Such a good, high tension read, told from different points of view. Everyone has a story to tell but who will live and who will die? Read it and find out!
With thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for a digital copy to read and review
September 21, 2024
As Hollywood's elite are dining at an upscale restaurant a masked gunman walks into the restaurant taking everyone hostage. Now begins the fight for their lives as the gunman makes a game of their fear and the stakes are who will live and who will die. With a bomb strapped to his chest so that if he dies then everyone dies the games seems to be in the favor of the gunman so will anyone make it out of the restaurant alive??
The Killing Game was an incredibly fast paced thriller from start to finish. Told from alternating POVs of a few of those involved this book has you on the edge of your seat not knowing what to expect from one page to the next. Packed full of intensity the twists and turns in this twisted game had me hooked from the very beginning.
With a cast of characters that each have their own issues and a killer whose motive is completely unknown this book made for one interesting read. I would warn this one gets a bit brutal and graphic at times but that definitely added to the on the edge feel as you don't know who is going to survive from one page to the next.
Overall, yes I'd recommend this highly intense thrill ride, one great read from start to finish.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
The Killing Game was an incredibly fast paced thriller from start to finish. Told from alternating POVs of a few of those involved this book has you on the edge of your seat not knowing what to expect from one page to the next. Packed full of intensity the twists and turns in this twisted game had me hooked from the very beginning.
With a cast of characters that each have their own issues and a killer whose motive is completely unknown this book made for one interesting read. I would warn this one gets a bit brutal and graphic at times but that definitely added to the on the edge feel as you don't know who is going to survive from one page to the next.
Overall, yes I'd recommend this highly intense thrill ride, one great read from start to finish.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
October 17, 2016
I have found a new author and I am very excited about it, James Carol you really know how to write a great yarn. If you are about to start this book then hang on as you are in for one hell of a ride. This story starts with a bang and continues to do so over the duration of the book in which the story is told in a four hour period. Adrenaline will be pumping as you put yourself in these characters shoes. A group of celebrities are dining out at a top restaurant, they are rich, good looking and to many have the world at their feet. Enter a crazed gunman who takes them all hostage. This is a terrifying and gripping story delivered with heart pounding moments that will keep going until the end. Loved it!
May 18, 2020
Lights, cameras, action!
What an intense, terrifying and unputdownable book.
If something looks too good to be true, it is.
The story takes place in the span of 3 hours in an exclusive restaurant frequented by the rich and famous.
Everybody is enjoying their meal, until a masked suicide bomber enters the restaurant and takes them hostage.
And then the nightmare begins.
Is this a case of wrong place, wrong time? Who will survive? Who will die?
It doesn’t matter how sparkling the future is, the past always has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it.
What an intense, terrifying and unputdownable book.
If something looks too good to be true, it is.
The story takes place in the span of 3 hours in an exclusive restaurant frequented by the rich and famous.
Everybody is enjoying their meal, until a masked suicide bomber enters the restaurant and takes them hostage.
And then the nightmare begins.
Is this a case of wrong place, wrong time? Who will survive? Who will die?
It doesn’t matter how sparkling the future is, the past always has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it.
October 15, 2016
WOW……….JUST…….WOW!!!!
Do you know that feeling of adrenaline that is mixed with fear and excitement that you get from those new rides at the themes parks? Well that is exactly how I felt the whole way through this novel. My heart is still pounding even now just thinking about it. Instead of it being over in seconds though like a ride would be, I felt it for the few hours that it took me to devour this book. I actually think it should come with those warning signs that you get at the theme parks as believe me, this is not one for the faint hearted what so ever!
It is actually quite hard to believe that the story is set over four hours. I honestly didn’t think it would be possible for someone to write a full length novel over such a short period of time. Not only has the author managed to do that, he has created one of the most adrenaline fuelled novels that I have ever read in my whole entire life! I don’t know whether it’s a good thing that the fear that the characters were feeling just ignited me to carry on reading and wanting more but I didn’t care as I had to keep going.
I actually felt like I had been in the boxing ring, the author constantly kept hitting me with shocks and surprises galore. No matter how many times he hit me with them I kept getting back up begging for more.
To start with, the whole life style of JJ (Jody Jordan) and the other diners made me envious. The power, money and lifestyles these people have is something most of us can only ever dream of. When an armed bomber takes over the restaurant though and what entails after, well all I can say is that, that envy did not last for long and I was counting my lucky stars that I was not caught up in the whole ordeal.
What happens in those four hours has to be some of the most intense reading I have ever experienced. I actually felt like I was with the other diners and in total fear of my life. It really grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let you go right up until the very last page. I actually had to take a few deep breathes as it felt like I had been holding it all the way through.
The Killing Game is a novel I could just go on and on and on and on about. It really is that good. In fact not just good, but absolutely with out a doubt just simply brilliant. Readers really need to read it for themselves to get the full impact of just how great a novel this is. To me it has HollyWood Block Buster written all over it.
My thanks to Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Do you know that feeling of adrenaline that is mixed with fear and excitement that you get from those new rides at the themes parks? Well that is exactly how I felt the whole way through this novel. My heart is still pounding even now just thinking about it. Instead of it being over in seconds though like a ride would be, I felt it for the few hours that it took me to devour this book. I actually think it should come with those warning signs that you get at the theme parks as believe me, this is not one for the faint hearted what so ever!
It is actually quite hard to believe that the story is set over four hours. I honestly didn’t think it would be possible for someone to write a full length novel over such a short period of time. Not only has the author managed to do that, he has created one of the most adrenaline fuelled novels that I have ever read in my whole entire life! I don’t know whether it’s a good thing that the fear that the characters were feeling just ignited me to carry on reading and wanting more but I didn’t care as I had to keep going.
I actually felt like I had been in the boxing ring, the author constantly kept hitting me with shocks and surprises galore. No matter how many times he hit me with them I kept getting back up begging for more.
To start with, the whole life style of JJ (Jody Jordan) and the other diners made me envious. The power, money and lifestyles these people have is something most of us can only ever dream of. When an armed bomber takes over the restaurant though and what entails after, well all I can say is that, that envy did not last for long and I was counting my lucky stars that I was not caught up in the whole ordeal.
What happens in those four hours has to be some of the most intense reading I have ever experienced. I actually felt like I was with the other diners and in total fear of my life. It really grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let you go right up until the very last page. I actually had to take a few deep breathes as it felt like I had been holding it all the way through.
The Killing Game is a novel I could just go on and on and on and on about. It really is that good. In fact not just good, but absolutely with out a doubt just simply brilliant. Readers really need to read it for themselves to get the full impact of just how great a novel this is. To me it has HollyWood Block Buster written all over it.
My thanks to Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2020
At an Hollywood elite upscale restaurant a masked gunman walks in taking everyone hostage. As bodies begin to pile up the gunman makes a game of who will live and who will die. Who is he and what does he want? Will anyone make it out of the restaurant alive?
The Killing Game by J.S.Carol is a fast paced heart-pounding tension filled tightly packed thriller. Lots of twists and turns in this twist ride. Highly recommended for all intense thriller lovers !
I would like to thank Bookouture & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
The Killing Game by J.S.Carol is a fast paced heart-pounding tension filled tightly packed thriller. Lots of twists and turns in this twist ride. Highly recommended for all intense thriller lovers !
I would like to thank Bookouture & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
October 10, 2016
Full review on www.novelgossip.com
Let’s start by talking about that cover and blurb. The cover is striking and immediately caught my eye, then when I read the blurb I was instantly fascinated. Hostage situations are always good for high intensity and drama. This was another book that I just had a feeling about, I knew that I would love it based on the blurb/cover combo alone and was I ever right!
Everyone that was eating lunch at LA hotspot Alfie’s is suddenly taken hostage by a crazed, masked madman. The suspense and intrigue start immediately with no hesitation from Carol. Thus begins a nonstop, action packed, thrilling ride that left me breathless. I swear I couldn’t keep up with all the crazy thoughts swirling around my head while reading this and I mean that in the best way possible. It just never lets up, the reader is constantly being assaulted by insane plot twists and shocking turns of events. This is a read in one sitting type of book and I would’ve done just that if I was able to. Since I was unable to do that, I was thinking about how it would all play out constantly.
I’m skeptical about revealing too much about the plot, but I will say that I loved the glimpse into both the lives of Hollywood’s elite and the journalists that are covering the situation. Carol showed the seedy and dark side of both worlds and you just know that it’s sadly an accurate portrayal of how this stuff really plays out.
Relentless action, nail biting moments, and a cast of characters that are flawed, self serving, egotistical and real are what The Killing Game is made of. I wholeheartedly recommend this one for anyone that enjoys thrillers or even action movies as it reminded me quite a bit of a blockbuster movie. Just be prepared for a chilling, exciting and entertaining ride that you won’t want to end.
Let’s start by talking about that cover and blurb. The cover is striking and immediately caught my eye, then when I read the blurb I was instantly fascinated. Hostage situations are always good for high intensity and drama. This was another book that I just had a feeling about, I knew that I would love it based on the blurb/cover combo alone and was I ever right!
Everyone that was eating lunch at LA hotspot Alfie’s is suddenly taken hostage by a crazed, masked madman. The suspense and intrigue start immediately with no hesitation from Carol. Thus begins a nonstop, action packed, thrilling ride that left me breathless. I swear I couldn’t keep up with all the crazy thoughts swirling around my head while reading this and I mean that in the best way possible. It just never lets up, the reader is constantly being assaulted by insane plot twists and shocking turns of events. This is a read in one sitting type of book and I would’ve done just that if I was able to. Since I was unable to do that, I was thinking about how it would all play out constantly.
I’m skeptical about revealing too much about the plot, but I will say that I loved the glimpse into both the lives of Hollywood’s elite and the journalists that are covering the situation. Carol showed the seedy and dark side of both worlds and you just know that it’s sadly an accurate portrayal of how this stuff really plays out.
Relentless action, nail biting moments, and a cast of characters that are flawed, self serving, egotistical and real are what The Killing Game is made of. I wholeheartedly recommend this one for anyone that enjoys thrillers or even action movies as it reminded me quite a bit of a blockbuster movie. Just be prepared for a chilling, exciting and entertaining ride that you won’t want to end.
October 16, 2016
I'm a HUGE fan of James Carol and his Jefferson Winter series featuring the FBI profiler, so it was with great curiosity to see what else he could come up with and, I am happy to tell you that this standalone book is absolutely brilliant! The description "rollercoaster ride of a book" can't even begin to depict the total adrenaline rush of this fast paced thriller. I felt like I had to keep my heart rate as high as the suicide bomber just in case it affected the outcome of this catastrophic event! I do love it when you become so involved with a book you feel like you are there, living it alongside the characters and I'm happy to report that I was totally blown away by it (no pun intended!).
I love strong female characters and Jody Johnson, known as JJ was a typical gutsy heroine that wasn't always totally honest and likeable but for me she stole the show. Alex King was also a character with questionable morals but who evolved throughout the plot along with the others until you weren't really sure where your sympathies lie. To have all the action eat within a restaurant full of important figures in Hollywood was a stroke of genius as it kept the action tightly packed with the occasional insight into the journalists waiting helplessly outside along with the FBI.
If this book doesn't get made into a Hollywood blockbuster then I will eat my hat (grey, woolly, very hard to digest!) In fact I was doing a mental casting all the way through so if any Hollywood producers need me, just call!
Very few books can make me abandon my TBR schedule but this book jumped to the top of the pile as soon as I had a copy and I loved every single second of it. Very highly recommended by me!
Thanks to Bookouture for my review copy and this is my unbiased review in return.
I love strong female characters and Jody Johnson, known as JJ was a typical gutsy heroine that wasn't always totally honest and likeable but for me she stole the show. Alex King was also a character with questionable morals but who evolved throughout the plot along with the others until you weren't really sure where your sympathies lie. To have all the action eat within a restaurant full of important figures in Hollywood was a stroke of genius as it kept the action tightly packed with the occasional insight into the journalists waiting helplessly outside along with the FBI.
If this book doesn't get made into a Hollywood blockbuster then I will eat my hat (grey, woolly, very hard to digest!) In fact I was doing a mental casting all the way through so if any Hollywood producers need me, just call!
Very few books can make me abandon my TBR schedule but this book jumped to the top of the pile as soon as I had a copy and I loved every single second of it. Very highly recommended by me!
Thanks to Bookouture for my review copy and this is my unbiased review in return.
October 18, 2016
Review first published on my blog http://thebookreviewcafe.com
**A word of warning** you may want to clear your schedule before you start reading this book, because once you pick it up there’s no way you will be able to put it down until you reach the explosive ending. The Killing Game is a standalone thriller written under the pseudonym JS Carol, now anyone whose a huge crime thriller fan will know J.S Carol is in fact James Carol the number 1 best selling author of Broken Dolls, the first in a series of thrillers featuring former FBI profiler Jefferson Winter, who I just happen to be a huge fan of. So when I was asked to review an exclusive early copy of The Killing Game I literally jumped at the chance to read this standalone thriller. When I enjoy an authors writing I’m always concerned that a change in direction in their work will be a let down, BUT I’M ABSOLUTELY THRILLED TO SAY THIS BOOK IS SIMPLY OUTSTANDING, and completely blew me away.
The Killing Game is a ‘real-time’ adrenaline fuelled thriller, and covers events over a four hour period. When a masked, armed bomber walks into Alfie’s restaurant, the most exclusive spot in Hollywood, the A-listers within find themselves caught up in a terrifying siege, one in which not everyone will live through, as lives are threatened the A-listers soon realise they are up against against an individual who is not afraid to kill to get what he wants. That’s all I’m going to say about the plot as I want readers to enjoy every heart pumping page of this masterfully plotted action thriller as much as I did.
From the off this has to be one of the most tense novels I have read in a long time, the pace is relentless. The chapters are delivered in half hour slots which add a sense of urgency to the plot as the FBI attempt to bring the hostage situation to a safe conclusion. The Killing Game feels like “time bomb” ticking you are constantly waiting for the next explosion, which certainly added to my own anxiety and trepidation as I turned the pages, in fact I found my heart pounding constantly as I read this book. The author describes the scene and atmosphere of the hostages situation so vividly I felt like I was there living their nightmare, the anxiety and fear the victims felt were tangible throughout.
There are numerous characters in The Killing Game some of them less likeable than others, but they all have a part to play, the A listers being held hostage are an interesting bunch and the gravity of their situation seemed very real, their fear and overwhelming urge “to get out alive” added to my own heart racing tenfold. Adding to the suspense is the Unknown identity of the armed bomber and their motives, believe me when I say the bomber is one of most complex, cold and calculated killers I have ever come across. As he plays chilling games with his hostages, I’m sure I was having palpitations as my fear and anxiety for the hostages safety grew the further on I read, as the bomber is so unpredictable you are never quite sure who his next victim is going to be or what he’s going to do next, which added a whole new level of suspense to the story. J.S Carol maintains the pace throughout, and each chapter leaves you wondering “what the hell can happen next?” you hardly get time to catch your breath before the author hits you with his next twist. This is certainly an adrenaline fuelled read, I’m convinced my heart never stopped racing as I read this book.
The Killing Game is a highly addictive read, in fact I felt I needed therapy after finishing it, as this book left me with a hell of a book hangover! I couldn’t bear to put it down. In my humble opinion The Killing Games has the hallmarks of a Hollywood blockbuster, with a highly original plot, action a plenty, and bucketfuls of suspense this is the perfect action thriller novel. If you only read one book this year make sure it’s The Killing Game.
**A word of warning** you may want to clear your schedule before you start reading this book, because once you pick it up there’s no way you will be able to put it down until you reach the explosive ending. The Killing Game is a standalone thriller written under the pseudonym JS Carol, now anyone whose a huge crime thriller fan will know J.S Carol is in fact James Carol the number 1 best selling author of Broken Dolls, the first in a series of thrillers featuring former FBI profiler Jefferson Winter, who I just happen to be a huge fan of. So when I was asked to review an exclusive early copy of The Killing Game I literally jumped at the chance to read this standalone thriller. When I enjoy an authors writing I’m always concerned that a change in direction in their work will be a let down, BUT I’M ABSOLUTELY THRILLED TO SAY THIS BOOK IS SIMPLY OUTSTANDING, and completely blew me away.
The Killing Game is a ‘real-time’ adrenaline fuelled thriller, and covers events over a four hour period. When a masked, armed bomber walks into Alfie’s restaurant, the most exclusive spot in Hollywood, the A-listers within find themselves caught up in a terrifying siege, one in which not everyone will live through, as lives are threatened the A-listers soon realise they are up against against an individual who is not afraid to kill to get what he wants. That’s all I’m going to say about the plot as I want readers to enjoy every heart pumping page of this masterfully plotted action thriller as much as I did.
From the off this has to be one of the most tense novels I have read in a long time, the pace is relentless. The chapters are delivered in half hour slots which add a sense of urgency to the plot as the FBI attempt to bring the hostage situation to a safe conclusion. The Killing Game feels like “time bomb” ticking you are constantly waiting for the next explosion, which certainly added to my own anxiety and trepidation as I turned the pages, in fact I found my heart pounding constantly as I read this book. The author describes the scene and atmosphere of the hostages situation so vividly I felt like I was there living their nightmare, the anxiety and fear the victims felt were tangible throughout.
There are numerous characters in The Killing Game some of them less likeable than others, but they all have a part to play, the A listers being held hostage are an interesting bunch and the gravity of their situation seemed very real, their fear and overwhelming urge “to get out alive” added to my own heart racing tenfold. Adding to the suspense is the Unknown identity of the armed bomber and their motives, believe me when I say the bomber is one of most complex, cold and calculated killers I have ever come across. As he plays chilling games with his hostages, I’m sure I was having palpitations as my fear and anxiety for the hostages safety grew the further on I read, as the bomber is so unpredictable you are never quite sure who his next victim is going to be or what he’s going to do next, which added a whole new level of suspense to the story. J.S Carol maintains the pace throughout, and each chapter leaves you wondering “what the hell can happen next?” you hardly get time to catch your breath before the author hits you with his next twist. This is certainly an adrenaline fuelled read, I’m convinced my heart never stopped racing as I read this book.
The Killing Game is a highly addictive read, in fact I felt I needed therapy after finishing it, as this book left me with a hell of a book hangover! I couldn’t bear to put it down. In my humble opinion The Killing Games has the hallmarks of a Hollywood blockbuster, with a highly original plot, action a plenty, and bucketfuls of suspense this is the perfect action thriller novel. If you only read one book this year make sure it’s The Killing Game.
October 14, 2016
Purely terrifying!!
And... breathe!! OMG!! I've just finished reading this book and honestly I'm still waiting for my pulse rate to return to normal. J.S. Carol took me on a claustrophobic, adrenaline-pumping, hair-raising ride that's left me an emotional wreck.
"From this moment on I am God."
What would you do if while dining in a restaurant, a masked, armed terrorist wearing an explosive vest comes in and says the above? I'd surely pee in my pants and die of a heart attack there and then. And that would have been the easiest way out of this terrifying situation. This is what happens to a bunch of Hollywood's rich and famous while dining at Alfie's, an exclusive restaurant in LA. One of these is Jody 'JJ' Johnson, a Hollywood PR consultant who has agreed to meet with one of her clients at this restaurant.
"There was nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide."
When the first execution is carried out in cold blood, everyone is sure that the bomber means business. From then on things turn very ugly. These people, who were used to give orders, now have to obey someone else's demands or else... die, as simple as that! While this is happening, all major newsrooms break the story to the world. Police seal off the street and journalists rush to the area to fight for the best vantage point, exclusive coverage and interviews.
Reading this book, my mind was full of questions such as: Who is this guy? What does he want? Why is he doing this? Why did he target this particular restaurant? How will it all end? How many hostages will have to die before this bomber is stopped?
Okay, this book is certainly NOT for the faint-hearted. From the first page, I knew that this would be a great read. The fast-paced action starts almost immediately and never slows down. The author certainly succeded in creating the right level of urgency, tension and danger. While I was reading it, I could feel my heart pumping very fast and I'm sure my blood pressure sky-rocketed.
Short, fast-paced, tension-packed chapters kept my heart racing throughout and made me go through this book like a breeze. The events in this book take place over a period of 4 hours. Chapters alternate between what's happening inside the restaurant, on the street outside and in the TRN Newsroom. I found myself actually looking forward to the scenes outside the restaurant as I couldn't bear the high tension inside the restaurant. On many occasions I realised I was holding my breath, afraid to turn on to the next page. There were moments in which my hand instinctively went to cover my mouth. I imagined I was one of those poor terrified hostages with my life hanging on the line.
My heart was in my mouth throughout and as the number of victims increased I found myself mentally pleading with the bomber to STOP and with the author to turn the chain of events in a favourable direction for the hostages, as I truly couldn't stand the tension any more. But that didn't happen and the author kept traumatising me one chapter after the other.
This book is not worth 5 stars... but 5 blazing comets! It is absolutely one of the best thrillers I've read in ages and will certainly be among my top 10 best reads of this year. If you love books that get your heart pumping, The Killing Game is a MUST!
With huge thanks to the lovely Kim Nash of Bookouture for sending me a very early copy of this book to read and review.
And... breathe!! OMG!! I've just finished reading this book and honestly I'm still waiting for my pulse rate to return to normal. J.S. Carol took me on a claustrophobic, adrenaline-pumping, hair-raising ride that's left me an emotional wreck.
"From this moment on I am God."
What would you do if while dining in a restaurant, a masked, armed terrorist wearing an explosive vest comes in and says the above? I'd surely pee in my pants and die of a heart attack there and then. And that would have been the easiest way out of this terrifying situation. This is what happens to a bunch of Hollywood's rich and famous while dining at Alfie's, an exclusive restaurant in LA. One of these is Jody 'JJ' Johnson, a Hollywood PR consultant who has agreed to meet with one of her clients at this restaurant.
"There was nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide."
When the first execution is carried out in cold blood, everyone is sure that the bomber means business. From then on things turn very ugly. These people, who were used to give orders, now have to obey someone else's demands or else... die, as simple as that! While this is happening, all major newsrooms break the story to the world. Police seal off the street and journalists rush to the area to fight for the best vantage point, exclusive coverage and interviews.
Reading this book, my mind was full of questions such as: Who is this guy? What does he want? Why is he doing this? Why did he target this particular restaurant? How will it all end? How many hostages will have to die before this bomber is stopped?
Okay, this book is certainly NOT for the faint-hearted. From the first page, I knew that this would be a great read. The fast-paced action starts almost immediately and never slows down. The author certainly succeded in creating the right level of urgency, tension and danger. While I was reading it, I could feel my heart pumping very fast and I'm sure my blood pressure sky-rocketed.
Short, fast-paced, tension-packed chapters kept my heart racing throughout and made me go through this book like a breeze. The events in this book take place over a period of 4 hours. Chapters alternate between what's happening inside the restaurant, on the street outside and in the TRN Newsroom. I found myself actually looking forward to the scenes outside the restaurant as I couldn't bear the high tension inside the restaurant. On many occasions I realised I was holding my breath, afraid to turn on to the next page. There were moments in which my hand instinctively went to cover my mouth. I imagined I was one of those poor terrified hostages with my life hanging on the line.
My heart was in my mouth throughout and as the number of victims increased I found myself mentally pleading with the bomber to STOP and with the author to turn the chain of events in a favourable direction for the hostages, as I truly couldn't stand the tension any more. But that didn't happen and the author kept traumatising me one chapter after the other.
This book is not worth 5 stars... but 5 blazing comets! It is absolutely one of the best thrillers I've read in ages and will certainly be among my top 10 best reads of this year. If you love books that get your heart pumping, The Killing Game is a MUST!
With huge thanks to the lovely Kim Nash of Bookouture for sending me a very early copy of this book to read and review.
October 13, 2016
When I got contacted by the lovely Kim Nash at Bookouture with a super secret ARC to read and review, I knew I’d be a fool to say no. One of my favourite authors, James Carol, was signed to Bookouture earlier this year and Kim gave me the opportunity to read his newest standalone novel, The Killing Game. Cue smiling like a loon and being all giddy at the thought of reading this book before release!
James Carol is the author of the Jefferson Winter series, Broken Dolls, Watch Me and Prey. I can’t praise these books highly enough and I was super excited to read his latest offering for Bookouture.
The Killing Game is an adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding roller coaster full of action. From the first to the last page, I was completely and utterly at the mercy of this book. I was turning the pages like they were on fire, it was that good!!!
The story focuses on a hostage situation in a restaurant in LA. A man with a bomb strapped to his body has a room filled with influential and important movie industry people and the story is told in a short timeline but it manages to pack a very weighty punch. The reader becomes invested in all of the characters, willing them to cooperate and to stay invisible to the bomber.
What follows is a pulse pounding thriller. Who is the bomber? Why is he there? What does he want? These questions ultimately get answered but the journey to these answers is not without peril for all involved. The characters are all so engaging, including those who are reporting from outside the building. Carol has done an excellent job in showing just how ruthless the 24 hour news cycle can be in terms of getting the story.
The Killing Game reads like an action movie. It’s a cross between 24 and any Bruce Willis film in the vein of Die Hard or Hostage. I cannot verbalise how much I enjoyed this book. It is a page turning thriller of the highest degree. The tension and the pressure is ramped up from the beginning and it doesn’t let up!
James Carol is the author of the Jefferson Winter series, Broken Dolls, Watch Me and Prey. I can’t praise these books highly enough and I was super excited to read his latest offering for Bookouture.
The Killing Game is an adrenaline-filled, heart-pounding roller coaster full of action. From the first to the last page, I was completely and utterly at the mercy of this book. I was turning the pages like they were on fire, it was that good!!!
The story focuses on a hostage situation in a restaurant in LA. A man with a bomb strapped to his body has a room filled with influential and important movie industry people and the story is told in a short timeline but it manages to pack a very weighty punch. The reader becomes invested in all of the characters, willing them to cooperate and to stay invisible to the bomber.
What follows is a pulse pounding thriller. Who is the bomber? Why is he there? What does he want? These questions ultimately get answered but the journey to these answers is not without peril for all involved. The characters are all so engaging, including those who are reporting from outside the building. Carol has done an excellent job in showing just how ruthless the 24 hour news cycle can be in terms of getting the story.
The Killing Game reads like an action movie. It’s a cross between 24 and any Bruce Willis film in the vein of Die Hard or Hostage. I cannot verbalise how much I enjoyed this book. It is a page turning thriller of the highest degree. The tension and the pressure is ramped up from the beginning and it doesn’t let up!
September 28, 2016
Alfie's is the restaurant where the rich and famous go to eat and this lunch time it is fully booked, filled with Hollywoods hottest stars. Then a masked gunman takes everyone hostage. He knows everything about everyone that is in the restaurant. He is also wearing a suicide vest that he's attached to a watch which measures his heart rate. If his heart rate goes to high or to low the bomb will automatically explode.
WOW this is well written, full of suspense and is disturbingly brutal. I highly recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author J. S. Carol for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
WOW this is well written, full of suspense and is disturbingly brutal. I highly recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author J. S. Carol for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2021
A masked gunman with a bomb enters an exclusive Hollywood restaurant and takes everyone hostage – including some of Hollywood’s hottest stars.
Which hostages will live, and which ones will die?
And what is the gunman's motive?
The premise of this thriller was compelling and intriguing.
After the first two chapters, however, the story faltered and began to drag. The book was an 11-hour audiobook that easily could have been a 6-hour "listen" with nothing lost.
Warning: This book has no shortage of blood, gore, and random, senseless killings.
To the author's credit, the content was fresh and that's why I rounded up the book's rating to 3-stars instead of 2-stars.
Which hostages will live, and which ones will die?
And what is the gunman's motive?
The premise of this thriller was compelling and intriguing.
After the first two chapters, however, the story faltered and began to drag. The book was an 11-hour audiobook that easily could have been a 6-hour "listen" with nothing lost.
Warning: This book has no shortage of blood, gore, and random, senseless killings.
To the author's credit, the content was fresh and that's why I rounded up the book's rating to 3-stars instead of 2-stars.
October 13, 2016
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have to be totally honest….when I first read this book, back in July (I think!) I really enjoyed it – but I did not love it…But time had passed, I had been on a serious #BookBingeOverload in May/June and I decided to give it another read – #BestDecisionEVER as I freakin’ LOVED it the second time around! The original title also put me off, but #TheKillingGame is by far the better choice - well I think so, anyway! Ok – now that I have got that off my chest, here is my actual review!
Set in Hollywood, the American tone is clearly felt throughout. Arrogance, selfishness, revenge, loss as well as new beginnings are some of the common threads you will find within the story-line.
For me, the pace was initially slow, or slower than I am used to…but when the #killerhook reared it’s head…OMFG – I was sucked in, racing through each chapter with eager anticipation and spat right out at the end! *Amazeballs peeps*!! WHAT A RIDE!
The characters were memorable and each one had a role to play in the unravelling of the plot – but I will mention my two faves, rather than focus on them all….we would be here forever otherwise! J.J in particular, stuck in my head as I just was not sure what to make of her. She annoyed me at first, but once her vulnerable side was revealed, she really grew on me. And I know it is probably wrong, but I really liked…I mean REALLY liked the masked gunman….his anger, his no holds barred attitude and the fact that he had no qualms about hurting/killing people all in the “name of the game” – well, that just intrigued me! #MyBad!!
A mahoosive #HellYeah recommendation from me if you are looking for a #CrimeThriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat! I clearly was INSANE the first time I read this book and I am so glad I gave it another go as this is one book you do not want to miss out on #bookjunkies!
I have to be totally honest….when I first read this book, back in July (I think!) I really enjoyed it – but I did not love it…But time had passed, I had been on a serious #BookBingeOverload in May/June and I decided to give it another read – #BestDecisionEVER as I freakin’ LOVED it the second time around! The original title also put me off, but #TheKillingGame is by far the better choice - well I think so, anyway! Ok – now that I have got that off my chest, here is my actual review!
Set in Hollywood, the American tone is clearly felt throughout. Arrogance, selfishness, revenge, loss as well as new beginnings are some of the common threads you will find within the story-line.
For me, the pace was initially slow, or slower than I am used to…but when the #killerhook reared it’s head…OMFG – I was sucked in, racing through each chapter with eager anticipation and spat right out at the end! *Amazeballs peeps*!! WHAT A RIDE!
The characters were memorable and each one had a role to play in the unravelling of the plot – but I will mention my two faves, rather than focus on them all….we would be here forever otherwise! J.J in particular, stuck in my head as I just was not sure what to make of her. She annoyed me at first, but once her vulnerable side was revealed, she really grew on me. And I know it is probably wrong, but I really liked…I mean REALLY liked the masked gunman….his anger, his no holds barred attitude and the fact that he had no qualms about hurting/killing people all in the “name of the game” – well, that just intrigued me! #MyBad!!
A mahoosive #HellYeah recommendation from me if you are looking for a #CrimeThriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat! I clearly was INSANE the first time I read this book and I am so glad I gave it another go as this is one book you do not want to miss out on #bookjunkies!
October 25, 2016
Can you imagine my excitement when a copy of this book drops in my email inbox with no cover, title or blurb all i know is, it's by J.S Carroll. I couldn't contain my excitement and got stuck in straight away reading it in a matter of hours. I simply couldn't put it down this is one hell of a page turner. I was hooked from the very first page.
A masked gunman walks in a restaurant filled with Hollywood's hottest stars and takes everyone hostage! And the story is written over fours hours. Sounds exciting doesn't it?! Honestly this book is that tense and exciting that my pulse was beating that hard I thought my heart was going to explode!
The Killing Room would make one seriously wicked movie that’s for sure. This is without a doubt one pulse racing read that J.S Carroll has cleverly woven together, taking you on the ride of your life. Which I cannot recommend it enough. If fast paced thrillers are your thing you will totally love this.
It's 5 massive stars from me Thank you to Kim Nash at Bookouture for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
A masked gunman walks in a restaurant filled with Hollywood's hottest stars and takes everyone hostage! And the story is written over fours hours. Sounds exciting doesn't it?! Honestly this book is that tense and exciting that my pulse was beating that hard I thought my heart was going to explode!
The Killing Room would make one seriously wicked movie that’s for sure. This is without a doubt one pulse racing read that J.S Carroll has cleverly woven together, taking you on the ride of your life. Which I cannot recommend it enough. If fast paced thrillers are your thing you will totally love this.
It's 5 massive stars from me Thank you to Kim Nash at Bookouture for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2016
‘When you get to the end, it’s not the things you achieved in life that you focus on, it’s all those things you didn’t do. All those missed opportunities. All those regrets. And the truth is that everyone’s got more than a few. Every last one of us. Let’s face it, nobody lies on their death bed and wishes they’d spent more time at the office. Nobody.’
The Killing Game had an excellent thread of suspense! It had me close to the edge of my sanity. I couldn't wait to find out how everything was going to unfold. The author captures your attention from the first page and the action never ends. What better way to keep me hooked?
The novel begins with a group of well-known Hollywood VIPs enjoying a meal at the restaurant Alfie's. Alfie's is one of those restaurants where only the rich and famous make an appearance. Space is limited and the wait to get into can takes months or a lot of zeros in your bank account.
One of the main characters is Jody Johnson better known as JJ. She's superb at her PR job. She specializes in making things go away. She's into damage control. She knows the business and if someone needs help cleaning their image she's the one you want on speed dial. She's smart and successful. She's also carrying guilty feelings from her past.
Then, there is Alex King. He's the up and coming action movie star. He's at the restaurant on a date with the successful Simone. JJ is his PR person and she's made it clear he must go out with Simone to create the next super couple since Brangelina was an item. He doesn't want to date Simone but he sees no other way around it.
On the outside, we have reporter Rob Taylor and his boss at the TV station, Seth Allen. Both would do anything for a story and to keep ahead of the game. Keeping ratings high is all that matter to them. They are without scruples and they don't care if someone ends up dead as long as they get the exclusive.
Last, we have the masked man who enters the restaurant with a gun and a bomb attached to his chest. This man, who is he? Is his motive money, notoriety or perhaps something else? When he starts shooting people you know this situation might not be survivable for any of them.
‘Those of you who can count will notice there are six of you standing there. Five of you will be going home very soon. Unfortunately, one of you won’t.’
Talk about an amazing plot with fascinating characters! I liked JJ. She was smart and tried to keep calm and analyze her dire situation to the best of her knowledge. My money was on her surviving.
Alex had tough choices to make and his doubts and imperfections made him likable too.
Despite how horrible human beings Rob and Seth were, I couldn't help but wish for them to stay ahead of the other stations.
If you like a well-written thriller that will capture your undivided attention, look no further. This one has it all.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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October 20, 2016
Oh my....Mr Carol! As many of you may know I am a HUGE fan of the series of books written by James Carol featuring Jefferson Winter. I wasn't quite sure what to expect when reading the synopsis but it certainly sounded like a thrilling book. So a very exclusive restaurant named 'Alfie's' in the heart of Hollywood which holds numerous high end celebrities and Industry stars is about to become a prison to its occupants. When a masked gunman walks in and takes them all hostage it seems its everybody for themselves. JJ seems to be the lead in this book and we meet her at the beginning when she arrives for her lunch and in a heartbeat her day switches and we see her react to the scene unfolding in front of her.
JS Carol has kind of outdone himself but in a different way. Eloquent I'm not, but I kind of know what I am trying to say. HIs Jefferson books are awesome but very different. This latest book of his is the high octane, heart pounding kind of Thriller that makes you hold your breath. It's so good its scary if you like that sort of thing. Thankfully I LOVE these sorts of books and Simon Kernick is awesome at it. So it seems is JS Carol!
In addition to JJ, we see glimpses of the other restaurant attendees and the second seemingly main character is a new kid on the block, the very bankable actor Alex King. Alex is in a slightly different situation as the other characters in this book and this very much seems to keep the tension ratcheted up to its highest possible gear with this additional element to the story. From the very first few chapters I did NOT stop reading. Read in less than a day it was a book that I didn't want to miss if that makes sense. You know those films where you are engrossed and you think "right I will put the kettle on"? You move to the edge of the settee and think, "in just one second I will do it" and then you stay there and before you know it the film is rolling the credits....yeah its like that!
Thankfully I was able to make it to the kettle as I read whilst waiting for it to boil. I read until the very last chapter and then you kind of let all that pent up breath out! This was a real page turner in every sense of the word and had me hooked right to the end. A word of warning, there is lots of violence and we see the human nature element stripped bare. It's a real must read this winter and one I cannot see anybody being disappointed in!A FABULOUS READ!!!!
JS Carol has kind of outdone himself but in a different way. Eloquent I'm not, but I kind of know what I am trying to say. HIs Jefferson books are awesome but very different. This latest book of his is the high octane, heart pounding kind of Thriller that makes you hold your breath. It's so good its scary if you like that sort of thing. Thankfully I LOVE these sorts of books and Simon Kernick is awesome at it. So it seems is JS Carol!
In addition to JJ, we see glimpses of the other restaurant attendees and the second seemingly main character is a new kid on the block, the very bankable actor Alex King. Alex is in a slightly different situation as the other characters in this book and this very much seems to keep the tension ratcheted up to its highest possible gear with this additional element to the story. From the very first few chapters I did NOT stop reading. Read in less than a day it was a book that I didn't want to miss if that makes sense. You know those films where you are engrossed and you think "right I will put the kettle on"? You move to the edge of the settee and think, "in just one second I will do it" and then you stay there and before you know it the film is rolling the credits....yeah its like that!
Thankfully I was able to make it to the kettle as I read whilst waiting for it to boil. I read until the very last chapter and then you kind of let all that pent up breath out! This was a real page turner in every sense of the word and had me hooked right to the end. A word of warning, there is lots of violence and we see the human nature element stripped bare. It's a real must read this winter and one I cannot see anybody being disappointed in!A FABULOUS READ!!!!
October 14, 2016
I can not even imagine giving this book any less than five stars. I enjoyed it that much. Four stars from me is good. Five is exceptional.
This book primarily takes place over four hours. Four measly hours. Most of us can lose ourselves in a book or Netflix for about that long. It's relaxing, right? Well, this book isn't. It's nerve wracking, chilling, and creepy. The final twist was perfect.
The Killing Game takes place in the kind of restaurant most of us will never get the chance to dine at: an incredibly exclusive eatery for the stars. No nobodies here. This place is for the rich and famous. Actors, directors, producers, agents. Sounds like a place some of us might want to visit, just out of curiosity. See how the 1% lives. We don't want to be there this day, though... the chatter and fine cuisine has been interrupted by a suicide bomber. If he dies, they all die. They are totally at his mercy and have to abide by his rules and play his sick games.
JJ is a fixer. Her clients pay her hefty fees for "the spin". She's one of the best in town. She can salvage your career when the public turns against you, keep the roles coming in and the money flowing. When you're caught with drugs or doing something nefarious and your job depends on consumer's perception of you, you need someone like JJ. She's great at reading people and situations, but it's never been this important. It's never been her life in the balance. While some hostages are set free, some are shot and killed. She's just trying to make it through the day. There are other characters of note, including Alex King who is an up and coming action star who was in the bathroom when the bomber came in. Tony, the restaurant's owner and JJ's good friend. Other members of the Hollywood elite, some JJ knows and some she doesn't. The hours tick by and it seems to become less and less likely that any of them will make it out alive. The FBI is involved, but with no windows for snipers to aim into and a bomb that will go off if the killer dies, panics, or hits a button... they don't have many options. They are totally at his mercy, and no one can figure out why he's chosen this place and these people.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This book primarily takes place over four hours. Four measly hours. Most of us can lose ourselves in a book or Netflix for about that long. It's relaxing, right? Well, this book isn't. It's nerve wracking, chilling, and creepy. The final twist was perfect.
The Killing Game takes place in the kind of restaurant most of us will never get the chance to dine at: an incredibly exclusive eatery for the stars. No nobodies here. This place is for the rich and famous. Actors, directors, producers, agents. Sounds like a place some of us might want to visit, just out of curiosity. See how the 1% lives. We don't want to be there this day, though... the chatter and fine cuisine has been interrupted by a suicide bomber. If he dies, they all die. They are totally at his mercy and have to abide by his rules and play his sick games.
JJ is a fixer. Her clients pay her hefty fees for "the spin". She's one of the best in town. She can salvage your career when the public turns against you, keep the roles coming in and the money flowing. When you're caught with drugs or doing something nefarious and your job depends on consumer's perception of you, you need someone like JJ. She's great at reading people and situations, but it's never been this important. It's never been her life in the balance. While some hostages are set free, some are shot and killed. She's just trying to make it through the day. There are other characters of note, including Alex King who is an up and coming action star who was in the bathroom when the bomber came in. Tony, the restaurant's owner and JJ's good friend. Other members of the Hollywood elite, some JJ knows and some she doesn't. The hours tick by and it seems to become less and less likely that any of them will make it out alive. The FBI is involved, but with no windows for snipers to aim into and a bomb that will go off if the killer dies, panics, or hits a button... they don't have many options. They are totally at his mercy, and no one can figure out why he's chosen this place and these people.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
January 18, 2022
"Was ich will? Das ist eine interessante Frage. Ich schätze wir können mit dem Weltfrieden anfangen und dann darauf aufbauen."
Dank der kurzen Kapitel liest sich das Buch recht flott, sonst hätte ich wohl irgendwann in einem Pressekapitel abgebrochen, denn die waren einfach nur fürchterlich. Gewollt, aber trotzdem. Alles, was im Restaurant spielt, las sich gut und hatte eine Sogwirkung vom Feinsten. Alles außerhalb, auch Prolog und Epilog, war einfach nur schrecklich. Sowohl vom Schreibstil (ja, den habe ich da sehr anders wahrgenommen), als auch vom allgemeinen Gefühl. Die Charaktere waren einfach nur schlimm, allesamt, ich habe mit keinem auch nur irgendwie eine Verbindung aufbauen oder Sympathie entwickeln können. Die Madigkeit der Presse, die Abgebrühtheit der anderen... Auch wenn dies wohl der beabsichtigte Effekt war. Der einzige, mit dem ich irgendwie mitfühlen konnte, war Alex King. Aber auch der versaut es sich gegen Ende.
September 24, 2024
Finished reading: February 22nd 2017
“It didn't matter how sparkling the future was, the past always had a way of sneaking up on you when you least expected it.”
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
January 11, 2019
I know I’m going to be roasted for this review as the majority of Goodreads comments have been 5 star ratings but to me it felt like a Hollywood script.
Yes I get the interesting reason the suicide bomber takes a restaurant full of Hollywood big-wigs hostage but the characters themselves did not evoke an iota of sympathy from me, particularly the very one-dimensional JJ. It was just the ‘voice’ of this book that was irritating.
The three stars go to the plot. It takes a while to get there but when all is revealed at least it is original. The negative stance painted of the media and society was also both believable and morally worth including.
Many others have loved this one but far too pedestrian for me for the genre.
Yes I get the interesting reason the suicide bomber takes a restaurant full of Hollywood big-wigs hostage but the characters themselves did not evoke an iota of sympathy from me, particularly the very one-dimensional JJ. It was just the ‘voice’ of this book that was irritating.
The three stars go to the plot. It takes a while to get there but when all is revealed at least it is original. The negative stance painted of the media and society was also both believable and morally worth including.
Many others have loved this one but far too pedestrian for me for the genre.
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