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Ruthless #2
Ruby's Palace
The Vincents' nightclubs are popping up all over London. The O'Connells, a gypsy family, plan to get their hands on the Palaces, but gypsies have no place in business... not the Vincents' business. Their hunger for revenge is driven by jealousy and greed. Disregarding the warnings and the rumours of the disappearance of the entire McManners family, the O'Connells plot a scam so cruel even their own kind shuns them. Ruby Vincent is now fifteen, and she may look like her aunt Francesca, but she still has Jesse Right's blood running through her veins. Turning her back on the family, she goes in search of the truth. What she finds will haunt her... She should have left the boogie man to rot in hell. ‘When you've made your bed, you must lie in it.'
- GenresCrime
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2017
221 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Barnes
32 books212 followersKerry Barnes: The Voice of British Gangland Fiction.
Kerry Barnes is a bestselling British gangland and crime thriller author, known for writing gritty, hard-hitting stories rooted in the darker side of organised crime. Her novels are packed with tension, betrayal, revenge, and morally complex characters — often driven by fierce, uncompromising women who refuse to back down.
Widely recognised for her raw, fast-paced style, Kerry’s books explore the realities of loyalty, power, family, and survival within the criminal underworld. Her stories pull no punches and aren’t afraid to venture into uncomfortable territory, making her a firm favourite with readers who enjoy dark, authentic British crime fiction.
With multiple chart-topping and number one bestselling titles, Kerry Barnes has built a loyal readership among fans of gangland fiction and crime thrillers. Her work is frequently compared to leading voices in the genre such as Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers, while maintaining a distinctive edge and voice of her own.
Kerry is the author of several popular series, including the Dolly Vincent Trilogy, Carrie Verne Series, Nemesis Trilogy, Harper Kane Trilogy, and The Hunted Trilogy, alongside a growing list of standalone novels and dark psychological thrillers.
Her latest work continues to push boundaries, delivering intense storytelling with sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and relentless pace — perfect for readers who like their crime fiction bold, brutal, and unforgettable.
Kerry Barnes is a bestselling British gangland and crime thriller author, known for writing gritty, hard-hitting stories rooted in the darker side of organised crime. Her novels are packed with tension, betrayal, revenge, and morally complex characters — often driven by fierce, uncompromising women who refuse to back down.
Widely recognised for her raw, fast-paced style, Kerry’s books explore the realities of loyalty, power, family, and survival within the criminal underworld. Her stories pull no punches and aren’t afraid to venture into uncomfortable territory, making her a firm favourite with readers who enjoy dark, authentic British crime fiction.
With multiple chart-topping and number one bestselling titles, Kerry Barnes has built a loyal readership among fans of gangland fiction and crime thrillers. Her work is frequently compared to leading voices in the genre such as Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers, while maintaining a distinctive edge and voice of her own.
Kerry is the author of several popular series, including the Dolly Vincent Trilogy, Carrie Verne Series, Nemesis Trilogy, Harper Kane Trilogy, and The Hunted Trilogy, alongside a growing list of standalone novels and dark psychological thrillers.
Her latest work continues to push boundaries, delivering intense storytelling with sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and relentless pace — perfect for readers who like their crime fiction bold, brutal, and unforgettable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 26, 2017
Following straight on the heels of #Ruthless, I dived straight into #RubysPalace and found myself embroiled in a feud that just does not let up from page one all the way through to the end!
Ruby Vincent has turned 15 and despite the protection and love of her family she is searching for something that she feels is missing; she is rebelling against the Vincent name and seeks out her estranged mother Jesse - but at what cost to herself and her family? The connections she makes are enough to shake the very foundations of the Vincent family. Ruby's Palace is a fast paced and gripping page-turner that will keep you engrossed from start to finish. This book could be read as a standalone but to get a better understanding of the characters and the background I'd recommend reading Ruthless first!
A huge cast of characters each with their own little foibles and too many to mention in a review. Oh Ruby, as a reader I wavered for empathising with the lost little girl that she is to despairing of her brattish and spoiled manner! Yet there was something about her, something so naive and gullible that I couldn't help but warm towards her as she searched for the truth about her background - a search that placed her and those she loved in great danger. When Ruby found her mum, Jesse, my heart sank and this woman repulsed me - there was not one redeeming feature about her!
Although Francesca(Dolly) Vincent doesn't feature so heavily in this book when she makes an appearance this woman just commands attention and respect! I love Dolly, she is one kick ass character and you wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of her!
I enjoyed the whole Gypsy storyline, I felt it was fairly representative and highlighted the discrimination against the community but also indicated the differences within the travelling community between the elder population and their own moral code compared to the younger members who get caught up in the ways of the gorger community. I did struggle a bit at times with the language and attitudes towards the travelling community within the book but I think it is fair to say it is a pretty accurate reflection of the reality of the subject covered.
Ruby's Palace gives you greed, revenge, jealousy and a search for the truth. It takes you and grabs you by the throat and compels you to read until the very end. A must for fans of Martina Cole, Kimberly Chambers and Jessie Keane.
Ruby Vincent has turned 15 and despite the protection and love of her family she is searching for something that she feels is missing; she is rebelling against the Vincent name and seeks out her estranged mother Jesse - but at what cost to herself and her family? The connections she makes are enough to shake the very foundations of the Vincent family. Ruby's Palace is a fast paced and gripping page-turner that will keep you engrossed from start to finish. This book could be read as a standalone but to get a better understanding of the characters and the background I'd recommend reading Ruthless first!
A huge cast of characters each with their own little foibles and too many to mention in a review. Oh Ruby, as a reader I wavered for empathising with the lost little girl that she is to despairing of her brattish and spoiled manner! Yet there was something about her, something so naive and gullible that I couldn't help but warm towards her as she searched for the truth about her background - a search that placed her and those she loved in great danger. When Ruby found her mum, Jesse, my heart sank and this woman repulsed me - there was not one redeeming feature about her!
Although Francesca(Dolly) Vincent doesn't feature so heavily in this book when she makes an appearance this woman just commands attention and respect! I love Dolly, she is one kick ass character and you wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of her!
I enjoyed the whole Gypsy storyline, I felt it was fairly representative and highlighted the discrimination against the community but also indicated the differences within the travelling community between the elder population and their own moral code compared to the younger members who get caught up in the ways of the gorger community. I did struggle a bit at times with the language and attitudes towards the travelling community within the book but I think it is fair to say it is a pretty accurate reflection of the reality of the subject covered.
Ruby's Palace gives you greed, revenge, jealousy and a search for the truth. It takes you and grabs you by the throat and compels you to read until the very end. A must for fans of Martina Cole, Kimberly Chambers and Jessie Keane.
March 7, 2017
This is the second novel that I have read by Kerry Barnes after loving the first one RUTHLESS I couldn't wait to get my teeth into this beauty. And I sure has hell wasn't disappointed, In fact Kerry has totally stepped up her game and taken her writing skills to a whole new level. This story is one hell of a page turner which I devoured in one day. I absolutely freaking loved it!
Following on from Ruthless we follow the Vincent's on a roller coaster journey in London who have nightclubs popping up all over London. We introduced to a gypsy family known has the the O'Connells who plan to get there hands on the palaces. Their hunger for revenge is driven by jealousy and greed. Disregarding the warnings and the rumours of the disappearance of the entire McManners family, the O'Connells plot a scam so cruel even their own kind shuns them. Ruby Vincent is now fifteen, and she may look like her aunt Francesca, but she still has Jesse Right's blood running through her veins. Turning her back on the family, she goes in search of the truth. What she finds will haunt her... She should have left the boogie man to rot in hell.
OMG what a story this is so well crafted my stomach was in knots. Its gritty, gripping, faced paced and gave me plenty of OMG moments where I was on tenterhooks. I loved the whole Gypsy story line. The author certainly did her research,the detail to their background really shines through has the author takes you into another world.
Ruby's mom Jesse made my blood boil...what an evil character. The whole time making me feel sorry for Ruby. The characters are so well written they really got in my head and played with my emotions.
Although this is the second book in the series it can easily be read has a standalone. But it is too good a series not to be missed. I cannot wait to read the third to now. Kerry Barnes is certainly going places. And Ruby's Palace has hit my best reads for 2017 that's how much I loved it.
This is a must read for Kimberly chambers and Dreda Mitchell fans. Which I highly recommend giving it 5 massive stars.
Following on from Ruthless we follow the Vincent's on a roller coaster journey in London who have nightclubs popping up all over London. We introduced to a gypsy family known has the the O'Connells who plan to get there hands on the palaces. Their hunger for revenge is driven by jealousy and greed. Disregarding the warnings and the rumours of the disappearance of the entire McManners family, the O'Connells plot a scam so cruel even their own kind shuns them. Ruby Vincent is now fifteen, and she may look like her aunt Francesca, but she still has Jesse Right's blood running through her veins. Turning her back on the family, she goes in search of the truth. What she finds will haunt her... She should have left the boogie man to rot in hell.
OMG what a story this is so well crafted my stomach was in knots. Its gritty, gripping, faced paced and gave me plenty of OMG moments where I was on tenterhooks. I loved the whole Gypsy story line. The author certainly did her research,the detail to their background really shines through has the author takes you into another world.
Ruby's mom Jesse made my blood boil...what an evil character. The whole time making me feel sorry for Ruby. The characters are so well written they really got in my head and played with my emotions.
Although this is the second book in the series it can easily be read has a standalone. But it is too good a series not to be missed. I cannot wait to read the third to now. Kerry Barnes is certainly going places. And Ruby's Palace has hit my best reads for 2017 that's how much I loved it.
This is a must read for Kimberly chambers and Dreda Mitchell fans. Which I highly recommend giving it 5 massive stars.
November 19, 2017
Got to love the Vincents, a family governed by bonds of loyalty. Double cross them, they make a formidable enemy, their only desire to protect their successful clubbing empire. With a great cast of characters (which includes several gypsy families along the way) at the heart of the story, is Ruby Vincent (and her brother) a somewhat naive teenager. In a way, it is quite touching that she ignores all stories about her drug addict mother and goes to find her. But Jesse is utterly vile. This gripping story has some disturbing scenes that make you question the nature of mankind. At the same time, a deep underlying vein of conspiracy resonates danger as one of the less than desirable gypsy families hatches an evil plot to take over the nightclub (Ruby's Palace) with a hard hitting climax and a twist I didn't expect. A real page turner.
March 16, 2017
Having recently finished Ruthless and loving it, I carried straight on to this the second in the series. Now I'm gutted to have to wait for the next one.
Brilliant book which doesn't let up for one second, loved every bit of it. Kerry Barnes has now become one of my must read authors, boy does she know how to write!
Brilliant book which doesn't let up for one second, loved every bit of it. Kerry Barnes has now become one of my must read authors, boy does she know how to write!
January 13, 2018
The 2nd book in The Vincent Trilogy and as good as the first book. After loving Ruthless I was itching to start Ruby’s Palace and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Ruby’s Palace has it all! Greed, revenge, jealousy with lots of violence along the way. A real page turner, another excellent novel. Well done Kerry!
July 2, 2017
You just got to!!!
This book was fantastic.. Fast paced page Turner. It has everything you need or could want in a book. I am an avid fan of Kimberly chambers....but Kerry Barnes is just as brilliant
This book was fantastic.. Fast paced page Turner. It has everything you need or could want in a book. I am an avid fan of Kimberly chambers....but Kerry Barnes is just as brilliant
January 18, 2018
Epic reading
Amazing read. Keeps you on your toes from start to finish. This is the 2nd book off kerry barnes's I've read and they are gripping. Can't wait to read the next 1. Great read and an amazing authur
Amazing read. Keeps you on your toes from start to finish. This is the 2nd book off kerry barnes's I've read and they are gripping. Can't wait to read the next 1. Great read and an amazing authur
October 2, 2018
Another fantastic read, gripping until the last page
February 21, 2021
Another brilliant book by Kerry.
Family loyalties tested. I loved the continuation from the previous book and the character growth of the Vincent boys
Family loyalties tested. I loved the continuation from the previous book and the character growth of the Vincent boys
February 11, 2017
Awesome !
Oh my gosh, well worth the wait for the second book in this series, (Ruthless being the first book) but you can read this a lone too, as this author has such a talent of writing that she gives details without going too far back to the beginning ! Absolutely loved this book and all the characters ( well most of them ! ) to the point I feel as though I know them personally, but again I guess that's because the author ( Kerry Barnes ) has a skill describing every little detail and you get the feel of each character/scenery, i have to say i especially liked Kizzy ! Not going to give to much away, but if you like Heather Atkinson, Kim Hunter or Mandasue Heller then this is a must read, you will be hooked right from the start just as I was ! Really hope there will be more of this series, I feel there's plenty more to come from the Vincents ! Good job Kerry, 5*
Oh my gosh, well worth the wait for the second book in this series, (Ruthless being the first book) but you can read this a lone too, as this author has such a talent of writing that she gives details without going too far back to the beginning ! Absolutely loved this book and all the characters ( well most of them ! ) to the point I feel as though I know them personally, but again I guess that's because the author ( Kerry Barnes ) has a skill describing every little detail and you get the feel of each character/scenery, i have to say i especially liked Kizzy ! Not going to give to much away, but if you like Heather Atkinson, Kim Hunter or Mandasue Heller then this is a must read, you will be hooked right from the start just as I was ! Really hope there will be more of this series, I feel there's plenty more to come from the Vincents ! Good job Kerry, 5*
May 13, 2018
Wow
Another brilliant book by this really talented author. She just gets better and better. The continuing saga of the Vincent family, the gypsies, all kept me turning the pages and on the edge of my seat. The crux of the story was Sam's 2 kids, all the others are still there but Jack and Ruby take main stage. Ruby had me wanting to slap and cuddle her all the way through and Jack is just so loyal a brother he is a diamond. I would highly recommend this book to all, you won't be disappointed. I can't wait to read the next one.
Another brilliant book by this really talented author. She just gets better and better. The continuing saga of the Vincent family, the gypsies, all kept me turning the pages and on the edge of my seat. The crux of the story was Sam's 2 kids, all the others are still there but Jack and Ruby take main stage. Ruby had me wanting to slap and cuddle her all the way through and Jack is just so loyal a brother he is a diamond. I would highly recommend this book to all, you won't be disappointed. I can't wait to read the next one.
September 8, 2020
Good read
I’m loving the Vincent’s saga, from poor helpless unloved babies, Jack a four year old toddler looking after his three year old sister, from the hunger cold nights were the worst, trying car doors to seek shelter and being so happy to find the driver of the car had left his coat inside, so Jack cuddling his sister, was able to keep his little sister warm. The cruelty these babies endured is so upsetting, being slapped punched starved and treated like trash. It a must read, another book pulls on your heartstrings.
I’m loving the Vincent’s saga, from poor helpless unloved babies, Jack a four year old toddler looking after his three year old sister, from the hunger cold nights were the worst, trying car doors to seek shelter and being so happy to find the driver of the car had left his coat inside, so Jack cuddling his sister, was able to keep his little sister warm. The cruelty these babies endured is so upsetting, being slapped punched starved and treated like trash. It a must read, another book pulls on your heartstrings.
April 23, 2017
Don't mess with the Vincent's
Martina Cole move over you have a new rival Kerry Barnes . From th first page to the last I couldn't put this book down it was a brilliant read about villains and gypsies clashing over clubs . If you are a Martina fan then read this book . Hopefully Kerry Barnes has more novels I would definitely buy her books . If I could give more stars then this author deserves more . 5 stars well deserved .
Martina Cole move over you have a new rival Kerry Barnes . From th first page to the last I couldn't put this book down it was a brilliant read about villains and gypsies clashing over clubs . If you are a Martina fan then read this book . Hopefully Kerry Barnes has more novels I would definitely buy her books . If I could give more stars then this author deserves more . 5 stars well deserved .
July 13, 2017
Wow, what a read I was moved to tears in some places reading this and other times on the edge of my seat, very fast paced and a perfect gangland read for fans of Martina Cole etc.
Ruby is a typical teenager and Dolly has a small cameo in it but again this woman commands respect it shone through even in her small role played out in this book - loved it, could not the book down till I devoured it all.
Ruby is a typical teenager and Dolly has a small cameo in it but again this woman commands respect it shone through even in her small role played out in this book - loved it, could not the book down till I devoured it all.
April 29, 2017
OMG is all I can say.. after being blown away by Ruthless the first in this series I couldn't wait to get my hands on this. Kerry is a brilliant writer and she only gone and smashed it again. She has upped her game when I thought she couldn't and Rubys Palace has got to be the best book I have read this year. it's soo good I read it in 5 hours
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September 22, 2019I love Kerry Barnes's books. Have read the whole collection. Never a dull moment from start to finish. A rollercoaster ride which keeps you never wanting to put the books down. Highly recommend her books. Be prepared for some bad language which is her style and makes the stories so realistic. Fantastic.
February 7, 2017
brilliant read
i just loved this book . i didnt want it to end. love the vincents, please dont let it be to long before meet them again. definitely 10\10 for this book. well done kerry barnes x
i just loved this book . i didnt want it to end. love the vincents, please dont let it be to long before meet them again. definitely 10\10 for this book. well done kerry barnes x
February 20, 2017
This book was well worth waiting for a great read love the Vincent family. Can't wait for the next one.
The storey is fast moving and a nice twist at the end. A book you don't want to put down.
The storey is fast moving and a nice twist at the end. A book you don't want to put down.
February 24, 2017
Excellent book
OMG I didn't want to out it down. So much going on and it keeps you sitting on the edge of your seat heart pounding waiting to find out what happens next. A must read this and the first book in the series.
OMG I didn't want to out it down. So much going on and it keeps you sitting on the edge of your seat heart pounding waiting to find out what happens next. A must read this and the first book in the series.
April 12, 2017
Loved the story
Great story couldn't put the book down have read all three books in the series only thing I wished was it was marked series 1 2 3 on the books as I started from book 2 3 1
Great story couldn't put the book down have read all three books in the series only thing I wished was it was marked series 1 2 3 on the books as I started from book 2 3 1
September 7, 2017
Another Kerry Barnes explosive book
Another action packed book by Kerry Barnes. Two books down one to go. Third one downloaded and ready for action. Thank you Kerry for such excellent gripping storylines.
Another action packed book by Kerry Barnes. Two books down one to go. Third one downloaded and ready for action. Thank you Kerry for such excellent gripping storylines.
November 7, 2017
The second book in the fantastic trilogy by Kerry Barnes does not disappoint. Following the Vincent's through the next chapter of their lives is a gritty and thrilling experience. I cannot recommend these books highly enough.
February 11, 2018
Brilliant
I couldn't put this book down it held me all the way through
It had so many different types of people gypsies, druggies and the Vincent's if I could give more star's I would give it 10/10
I couldn't put this book down it held me all the way through
It had so many different types of people gypsies, druggies and the Vincent's if I could give more star's I would give it 10/10
August 5, 2018
Absolutely friggin outstanding.
I was gripped from start to finish; the combination of Kerry Barnes and Annie Aldington made for one hell of a story.
Absolutely auto-listen Audible books for me. Can't wait for more.
I was gripped from start to finish; the combination of Kerry Barnes and Annie Aldington made for one hell of a story.
Absolutely auto-listen Audible books for me. Can't wait for more.
September 17, 2018
Highly recommend
Well what can I say, what a fantastic book, I was sorry when I finished it, a great story, well written, and I highly recommend this book. I am hoping that there will be a follow-up. Fantastic😊
Well what can I say, what a fantastic book, I was sorry when I finished it, a great story, well written, and I highly recommend this book. I am hoping that there will be a follow-up. Fantastic😊
December 20, 2018
Page turner
Well this is the sequel to Ruthless and usually the sequel is never as good as the original... this is an exception! I'm addicted to this author now, can not wait to read all her other books.
Well this is the sequel to Ruthless and usually the sequel is never as good as the original... this is an exception! I'm addicted to this author now, can not wait to read all her other books.
February 10, 2019
Addictive
Just when you think everything is going to be ok you turn the page and its Started again.
This is the second book I've read by this author within 3 weeks. Absolutely brilliant.
Just when you think everything is going to be ok you turn the page and its Started again.
This is the second book I've read by this author within 3 weeks. Absolutely brilliant.
February 9, 2017
Mesmerizing
First time reading the author and would highly recommend you read it. Fast paced and gritty. Right till the end.
First time reading the author and would highly recommend you read it. Fast paced and gritty. Right till the end.
February 21, 2017
BRILLIANT BOOK
This book is the follow on to Ruthless..... well done Kerry. Another gripping read. Could not put this book down.
This book is the follow on to Ruthless..... well done Kerry. Another gripping read. Could not put this book down.
March 3, 2017
Great read
Brilliant book a definite must read brilliant author I hope to read More of her books just as good as mandasue.
Brilliant book a definite must read brilliant author I hope to read More of her books just as good as mandasue.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews