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DC Will MacReady #2
Unforgivable
Bombs detonate in a busy souk, causing massive devastation.
An explosion rips apart a mosque, killing and injuring those inside.
But this isn't the Middle East - this is Cardiff . . .
In a city where tensions are already running high, DC Will MacReady and his colleagues begin the desperate hunt for the attacker. If they knew the 'why', then surely they can find the 'who'? But that isn't so easy, and time is fast running out . . .
MacReady is still trying to prove himself after the horrific events of the previous year, which left his sergeant injured and his job in jeopardy, so he feels sidelined when he's asked to investigate a vicious knife attack on a young woman.
But all is not as it seems with his new case, and soon MacReady must put everything on the line in order to do what is right.
An explosion rips apart a mosque, killing and injuring those inside.
But this isn't the Middle East - this is Cardiff . . .
In a city where tensions are already running high, DC Will MacReady and his colleagues begin the desperate hunt for the attacker. If they knew the 'why', then surely they can find the 'who'? But that isn't so easy, and time is fast running out . . .
MacReady is still trying to prove himself after the horrific events of the previous year, which left his sergeant injured and his job in jeopardy, so he feels sidelined when he's asked to investigate a vicious knife attack on a young woman.
But all is not as it seems with his new case, and soon MacReady must put everything on the line in order to do what is right.
400 pages, Paperback
Published July 27, 2017
8 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Mike Thomas
5 books43 followersMike Thomas was born in Wales in 1971. For more than two decades he served in the police, working some of Cardiff’s busiest neighbourhoods in uniform, public order units, drugs teams and CID. He left the force in 2015 to write full time.
His debut novel, Pocket Notebook, was published by William Heinemann (Penguin Random House) and longlisted for the Wales Book of the Year. The author was also named as one of Waterstones' 'New Voices' for 2010. His second novel, Ugly Bus, is currently in development for a six part television series with the BBC.
The first in the MacReady series, Ash and Bones, was published in August 2016 by Bonnier Zaffre. The sequel, Unforgivable, is published in July 2017.
He lives in the wilds of Portugal with his wife, two children and an unstable, futon-eating dog.
More details can be found on the website www.mikethomasauthor.co.uk
His debut novel, Pocket Notebook, was published by William Heinemann (Penguin Random House) and longlisted for the Wales Book of the Year. The author was also named as one of Waterstones' 'New Voices' for 2010. His second novel, Ugly Bus, is currently in development for a six part television series with the BBC.
The first in the MacReady series, Ash and Bones, was published in August 2016 by Bonnier Zaffre. The sequel, Unforgivable, is published in July 2017.
He lives in the wilds of Portugal with his wife, two children and an unstable, futon-eating dog.
More details can be found on the website www.mikethomasauthor.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 21, 2017
From the opening pages of "Unforgivable" you are thrown into this hard hitting, gritty and true to life story full force.
An lone attacker enters a yearly multicultural market/Souk in Cardiff and starts throwing IED's and then continues to set off a rucksack bomb. Death, panic and commotion ensues. Shortly after an explosion rips apart a mosque, while in a courtroom across the city a group of Asians are on trial for the vicious assault and murder of a young white male. The details of the murder are horrendous and quite upsetting - quite understandable that there is now unrest in the city due to this crime.
The author Mike Thomas describes the vibrant Souk in such detail as to make you believe you are actually there, smelling the spices and the food cooking and listening to all the different languages chattering about.
DC Will MacReady and his colleagues are tasked with finding the attacker - whilst still trying to prove himself after a horrific event the previous year. However, he feels sidelined when he's asked to investigate a vicious knife attack on a young woman. I haven't read the first in the MacReady series but there's enough in the book for it to be read and understood as a standalone.
I wasn't aware there were so many different departments across the police force and the author is well informed at all the different jobs that these officers do. There was a lot of sarcasm and negativity between the officers at times, but under pressure like they were here, I imagine this would be normal.
Action packed tension filled with emotion and intrigue this book is a brilliant read. Combining a police procedural with a powerful thriller storyline - I highly recommend "Unforgivable" and I would happily read more by Mike Thomas again.
An lone attacker enters a yearly multicultural market/Souk in Cardiff and starts throwing IED's and then continues to set off a rucksack bomb. Death, panic and commotion ensues. Shortly after an explosion rips apart a mosque, while in a courtroom across the city a group of Asians are on trial for the vicious assault and murder of a young white male. The details of the murder are horrendous and quite upsetting - quite understandable that there is now unrest in the city due to this crime.
The author Mike Thomas describes the vibrant Souk in such detail as to make you believe you are actually there, smelling the spices and the food cooking and listening to all the different languages chattering about.
DC Will MacReady and his colleagues are tasked with finding the attacker - whilst still trying to prove himself after a horrific event the previous year. However, he feels sidelined when he's asked to investigate a vicious knife attack on a young woman. I haven't read the first in the MacReady series but there's enough in the book for it to be read and understood as a standalone.
I wasn't aware there were so many different departments across the police force and the author is well informed at all the different jobs that these officers do. There was a lot of sarcasm and negativity between the officers at times, but under pressure like they were here, I imagine this would be normal.
Action packed tension filled with emotion and intrigue this book is a brilliant read. Combining a police procedural with a powerful thriller storyline - I highly recommend "Unforgivable" and I would happily read more by Mike Thomas again.
July 26, 2017
Explosive, adrenaline-pumping, and chillingly plausible!
Unforgivable is a well crafted, perfectly executed thriller that takes us on a manhunt for a ruthless terrorist and highlights how vulnerable we truly are.
The writing is tight and intense. The characterization is spot on with a whole slew of complex, genuine characters including the intelligent, gutsy, troubled Will MacReady whose greatest weakness seems to be his fearless, impulsive behaviour and his continuously unfolding personal drama. And the plot is a never-ending rollercoaster ride of twists, turns, suspense, intrigue, violence, and murder.
Overall this book has everything you look for in an action-packed mystery. It's timely, provocative, has great pace, incredible depth and does an exceptional job of showcasing Thomas' extraordinary knowledge of the nitty-gritty details of police policies and procedures.
Unforgivable is the first book I've read by Thomas, for which I am now definitely kicking myself, and even though it is the second novel in the "DC Will MacReady" series and there are some references to events from the previous novel it can be read as a standalone. However, if you would prefer to be a little smarter than me then be sure to pick up Ash and Bones, book #1, to start this clever, satisfying series right!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Unforgivable is a well crafted, perfectly executed thriller that takes us on a manhunt for a ruthless terrorist and highlights how vulnerable we truly are.
The writing is tight and intense. The characterization is spot on with a whole slew of complex, genuine characters including the intelligent, gutsy, troubled Will MacReady whose greatest weakness seems to be his fearless, impulsive behaviour and his continuously unfolding personal drama. And the plot is a never-ending rollercoaster ride of twists, turns, suspense, intrigue, violence, and murder.
Overall this book has everything you look for in an action-packed mystery. It's timely, provocative, has great pace, incredible depth and does an exceptional job of showcasing Thomas' extraordinary knowledge of the nitty-gritty details of police policies and procedures.
Unforgivable is the first book I've read by Thomas, for which I am now definitely kicking myself, and even though it is the second novel in the "DC Will MacReady" series and there are some references to events from the previous novel it can be read as a standalone. However, if you would prefer to be a little smarter than me then be sure to pick up Ash and Bones, book #1, to start this clever, satisfying series right!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2017
Unforgivable was awarded an easy 5* from me I read it cover to cover in record time. Brilliant mix of procedural and proper thriller with a truly authentic edge. Which I guess is what you get when writers do that “write what you know” stuff.
Starting with a truly horrifying and hypnotically described event, Unforgivable begins with a literal bang and basically doesn’t really let up from there – Mike Thomas pulls the reader into the real and difficult world of policing on the ground in all its many forms – whilst our hero, Will, is set onto another case and the local community is exploding due to a controversial trial ongoing – we are taken on a dark and twisted journey to the final resolution.
The storytelling is gritty and realistic, the themes are socially relevant and entirely possible – what the author does so very well is mix up the procedural aspects with the thriller aspects and throws in a driven, haunting and large as life main protagonist in Will Macready for good measure. Will is endlessly fascinating both in action and circumstance.
Tis a proper edgy page turner this one. With some genuinely talented writing skill, and brilliantly insightful storytelling Mike Thomas has taken what he started in Ash and Bone and shot it up the ratings by quite a few points. More of that I say.
Highly Recommended.
Starting with a truly horrifying and hypnotically described event, Unforgivable begins with a literal bang and basically doesn’t really let up from there – Mike Thomas pulls the reader into the real and difficult world of policing on the ground in all its many forms – whilst our hero, Will, is set onto another case and the local community is exploding due to a controversial trial ongoing – we are taken on a dark and twisted journey to the final resolution.
The storytelling is gritty and realistic, the themes are socially relevant and entirely possible – what the author does so very well is mix up the procedural aspects with the thriller aspects and throws in a driven, haunting and large as life main protagonist in Will Macready for good measure. Will is endlessly fascinating both in action and circumstance.
Tis a proper edgy page turner this one. With some genuinely talented writing skill, and brilliantly insightful storytelling Mike Thomas has taken what he started in Ash and Bone and shot it up the ratings by quite a few points. More of that I say.
Highly Recommended.
August 4, 2017
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
I didn’t realise Unforgettable was the second book in the MacReady series, if I’m honest I’m not one for jumping ahead in a series as I fear I might have missed something, and although it’s obvious that DC Will MacReady has issues that pertain to the previous book I still think Unforgettable made for an extremely gripping standalone. It’s pretty standard to have a detective in a crime thriller with issues and MacReady is no different, his personal life is one huge disaster but I still found him to be an interesting character. The commaradie amongst his fellow work colleagues added just the right amount of “gallows” humour to add.
Unforgettable begins with a “bang” literally when a bomb detonated in a busy Souk in the middle of Cardiff causes massive devastation as you can well imagine. We only have to pick up a newspaper or turn on the news to see events like this are very sadly part of our times, so the opening chapters were terrifyingly credible and shocking. What at first appears to be a racially motivated attack soon becomes something much more complex and Unforgettable made for a gritty fast paced read.
There are numerous strands to Unforgettable the bombings, a vicious knife attack, a group of Asians on trial for the vicious assault and murder of a young white male, all these events appear to be unrelated but are they? Well here’s where the author deftly leads the reader through the police investigation, revealing clues and red herrings aplenty.
Mike Thomas own career as a policeman adds authenticity to Unforgettable, the investigation, the dynamics within the team all give the reader insight into the workers of an investigation. You can help but feel the same frustrations that MacReady and his team have to endure on a daily basis. Fast paced and fraught with tension I found Unforgivable to be a “white knuckle” read, covering a very frighteningly credible topic. Action packed and filled with intrigue Unforgivable combines police procedure with a powerful and thrilling plot making for a throughly gripping read.
I didn’t realise Unforgettable was the second book in the MacReady series, if I’m honest I’m not one for jumping ahead in a series as I fear I might have missed something, and although it’s obvious that DC Will MacReady has issues that pertain to the previous book I still think Unforgettable made for an extremely gripping standalone. It’s pretty standard to have a detective in a crime thriller with issues and MacReady is no different, his personal life is one huge disaster but I still found him to be an interesting character. The commaradie amongst his fellow work colleagues added just the right amount of “gallows” humour to add.
Unforgettable begins with a “bang” literally when a bomb detonated in a busy Souk in the middle of Cardiff causes massive devastation as you can well imagine. We only have to pick up a newspaper or turn on the news to see events like this are very sadly part of our times, so the opening chapters were terrifyingly credible and shocking. What at first appears to be a racially motivated attack soon becomes something much more complex and Unforgettable made for a gritty fast paced read.
There are numerous strands to Unforgettable the bombings, a vicious knife attack, a group of Asians on trial for the vicious assault and murder of a young white male, all these events appear to be unrelated but are they? Well here’s where the author deftly leads the reader through the police investigation, revealing clues and red herrings aplenty.
Mike Thomas own career as a policeman adds authenticity to Unforgettable, the investigation, the dynamics within the team all give the reader insight into the workers of an investigation. You can help but feel the same frustrations that MacReady and his team have to endure on a daily basis. Fast paced and fraught with tension I found Unforgivable to be a “white knuckle” read, covering a very frighteningly credible topic. Action packed and filled with intrigue Unforgivable combines police procedure with a powerful and thrilling plot making for a throughly gripping read.
July 31, 2017
This is the second Will Macready book by Mike Thomas and although I’m sure you would be able to read it as a standalone novel, I would recommend also reading Ash and Bones so that you are hit with the full force of the emotions behind Will that follow him to Unforgivable. I also think the title will make much more sense right across the entire plotline then as well. I enjoyed Ash and Bones so was looking forward to Unforgivable and it definitely lived up to my, what can sometimes be quite unreachable, high standards!
Will himself draws the reader in with ease and he makes this book for me. He is a very complex man, an overthinker struggling with his inner conflicts and a personal life that probably has much more drama in it than his professional life will ever see! I do love a man with flaws and I think Will will appeal to both male and female readers due to the complexity of his character. He is definitely someone I want to know more about! His interactions within the police force were given a dark and gritty realism by the author which I’m sure has come from his own experiences of working in the police force. His observations went beyond expectations and I would love to find out which little anecdotes where based on fact as I’m sure a lot of them were!
This is a great series that’s developing all the qualities I look for in my crime friction. It’s well written, unputdownable and with a gripping storyline that doesn’t pull it punches. It’s also a tough read at times but a relevant one that has left me wanting more! Highly recommended by me!
Will himself draws the reader in with ease and he makes this book for me. He is a very complex man, an overthinker struggling with his inner conflicts and a personal life that probably has much more drama in it than his professional life will ever see! I do love a man with flaws and I think Will will appeal to both male and female readers due to the complexity of his character. He is definitely someone I want to know more about! His interactions within the police force were given a dark and gritty realism by the author which I’m sure has come from his own experiences of working in the police force. His observations went beyond expectations and I would love to find out which little anecdotes where based on fact as I’m sure a lot of them were!
This is a great series that’s developing all the qualities I look for in my crime friction. It’s well written, unputdownable and with a gripping storyline that doesn’t pull it punches. It’s also a tough read at times but a relevant one that has left me wanting more! Highly recommended by me!
July 17, 2017
When a malicious spectre’s intent is merely to inflict indiscriminate damage to innocent lives their actions are
Unforgivable
.
From the immediate tone of the story and an accompanying eye-witness report you would naturally assume that the suspect's actions were racially motivated. As new evidence materialises complications ensue and it becomes clear that the action during the first chapter is just the beginning. So sit tight, it’s going to be a very bumpy ride...
There’s no doubt it’s an explosive beginning, both literally and metaphorically. The search for the culprit may be extensive but it’s supported by inadequate manpower, which lends an insight into interesting police procedures and few absurd errors of judgement by investigators who are, after all, only human too - solving the case of this magnitude relies on heavily on perception but government cuts, lack of shut-eye, the archaic attitude of a colleague, and even a complicated personal life on the skids can disrupt proceedings.
I’d imagine that the author’s previous background as a former police officer contributes enormously to the reality of the complex labyrinth of evidence Will MacReady and co. are faced with. The narration is edgy and feels staggeringly authentic, so too are the observations of the resulting carnage at specific locations where herds of people gather. Add to this the false sense of relief when everyone believes the danger has passed, and the engineer’s indifference as they appreciate their handiwork, and you have all the ingredients of a riveting read.
And I hadn’t even realised this was book two in a series! It’s apparent there are some references to earlier event(s) as to why MacReady is the subject of a few wisecracks from his ‘buddies’ but I’m happy to report this didn’t affect my overall reading experience. The necessary background is casually integrated into the story without dwelling or hindering the pace.
To sum up: Unforgivable has a solid plot where ordinary people face extreme scenes that no one could have prepared for – except a vengeful choreographer, of course.
(My thanks to the publisher via their Reader’s First website for providing a copy of this title, for which It is my pleasure to provide this unbiased review.)
From the immediate tone of the story and an accompanying eye-witness report you would naturally assume that the suspect's actions were racially motivated. As new evidence materialises complications ensue and it becomes clear that the action during the first chapter is just the beginning. So sit tight, it’s going to be a very bumpy ride...
There’s no doubt it’s an explosive beginning, both literally and metaphorically. The search for the culprit may be extensive but it’s supported by inadequate manpower, which lends an insight into interesting police procedures and few absurd errors of judgement by investigators who are, after all, only human too - solving the case of this magnitude relies on heavily on perception but government cuts, lack of shut-eye, the archaic attitude of a colleague, and even a complicated personal life on the skids can disrupt proceedings.
I’d imagine that the author’s previous background as a former police officer contributes enormously to the reality of the complex labyrinth of evidence Will MacReady and co. are faced with. The narration is edgy and feels staggeringly authentic, so too are the observations of the resulting carnage at specific locations where herds of people gather. Add to this the false sense of relief when everyone believes the danger has passed, and the engineer’s indifference as they appreciate their handiwork, and you have all the ingredients of a riveting read.
And I hadn’t even realised this was book two in a series! It’s apparent there are some references to earlier event(s) as to why MacReady is the subject of a few wisecracks from his ‘buddies’ but I’m happy to report this didn’t affect my overall reading experience. The necessary background is casually integrated into the story without dwelling or hindering the pace.
To sum up: Unforgivable has a solid plot where ordinary people face extreme scenes that no one could have prepared for – except a vengeful choreographer, of course.
(My thanks to the publisher via their Reader’s First website for providing a copy of this title, for which It is my pleasure to provide this unbiased review.)
August 6, 2017
Set in Cardiff, the reader is thrown into a story filled with destruction on both personal and professional levels. There is loss, guilt, revenge, anger, retribution, family/relationships, lies/secrets, betrayal – all is not as it seems but most is unforgiveable….
Plot-wise, the story for me at first, moved along at quite an even pace but rose & fell exactly where it should – getting the #BOOMS in exactly where needed to keep the reader on edge throughout. Told in third-person POV, there initially appears to be two threads to this complex story-line, but don’t get complacent as all roads merge into one and you are carefully directed to see how all the pieces fit together. The pace also picked up full throttle in the second half of this novel which made for an exciting and intense read!
Character-wise, this book had a mixed bag of people to keep the reader interested, so I will only mention a few that really caught my eye. DC Will MacReady has a whole lot going on in both his personal and professional life which I found added that touch of realism and authenticity not only the story, but this character as well. Despite his demons and the state of the police force, MacReady is determined, reactive and trying to get to grips with the hardships that haunt him – ok, he may not deal with this part too well….but I think the author nailed it.
Echols- well the conflict between Echols and MacReady was so thick, I even felt awkward when these pair came together! This guy comes across as a grade-A arse if I am honest, but he may well have cause to be….
I have to say, Klaudia Slovak was my favourite character overall – she is a journalist, fiesty, a wee bit sassy but oh so intelligent. Ok…ok….so her involvement with MacReady may be questionable, but there is great banter and a genuine fondness that really made me soften towards her. I love her wit, sarcasm and ability to get exactly what she wants. Great character, Mr Thomas!!
This is the second book in the series, Ash and Bones being the first and although it can easily be read as I standalone, for me, I did feel like I was missing out on some of the backstory to really grasp the dynamics fully. Don’t get me wrong, the author does provide the reader with enough to enjoy the story, I just personally wanted more, so will definitely be picking up Ash and Bones to really immerse myself in this series!
Do I recommend this read? That would easily be a you bet your sweet arse I do! If you are looking for a dark, gritty, action-packed, explosive read/series – you will definitely want to get your hands on this badboy!
Plot-wise, the story for me at first, moved along at quite an even pace but rose & fell exactly where it should – getting the #BOOMS in exactly where needed to keep the reader on edge throughout. Told in third-person POV, there initially appears to be two threads to this complex story-line, but don’t get complacent as all roads merge into one and you are carefully directed to see how all the pieces fit together. The pace also picked up full throttle in the second half of this novel which made for an exciting and intense read!
Character-wise, this book had a mixed bag of people to keep the reader interested, so I will only mention a few that really caught my eye. DC Will MacReady has a whole lot going on in both his personal and professional life which I found added that touch of realism and authenticity not only the story, but this character as well. Despite his demons and the state of the police force, MacReady is determined, reactive and trying to get to grips with the hardships that haunt him – ok, he may not deal with this part too well….but I think the author nailed it.
Echols- well the conflict between Echols and MacReady was so thick, I even felt awkward when these pair came together! This guy comes across as a grade-A arse if I am honest, but he may well have cause to be….
I have to say, Klaudia Slovak was my favourite character overall – she is a journalist, fiesty, a wee bit sassy but oh so intelligent. Ok…ok….so her involvement with MacReady may be questionable, but there is great banter and a genuine fondness that really made me soften towards her. I love her wit, sarcasm and ability to get exactly what she wants. Great character, Mr Thomas!!
This is the second book in the series, Ash and Bones being the first and although it can easily be read as I standalone, for me, I did feel like I was missing out on some of the backstory to really grasp the dynamics fully. Don’t get me wrong, the author does provide the reader with enough to enjoy the story, I just personally wanted more, so will definitely be picking up Ash and Bones to really immerse myself in this series!
Do I recommend this read? That would easily be a you bet your sweet arse I do! If you are looking for a dark, gritty, action-packed, explosive read/series – you will definitely want to get your hands on this badboy!
September 19, 2017
Book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
This is a smart, well-written thriller/crime novel which focuses on the topical issue of terrorism, specifically in Cardiff, and makes the reader think about attacks which seem to focus on the muslim population too, instead of just thinking of terrorism as something that is inflicted upon others by muslim extremists. It's an interesting look at the way the police try to prevent and track down those who are likely to carry out terrorist attacks, or already have. There is another element to the storyline, in that a teenager has been killed in the midst of the most recent attack in Cardiff, but her death is being eclipsed by recent events, and it's interesting to read how the police desperately appeal for information but it doesn't gain anywhere near the coverage it would potentially have got, had it occurred at any other time.
I haven't read the first in the DC Will MacReady series, Ash and Bones. Because of this, I'm not sure if it would be better to reads this one first, so you know most about the background of Will and his colleagues, but I found I understood it all well enough with having done so. I do always think it's good to start at the beginning where possible, although I don't feel it's essential for enjoyment of this novel.
The pace is fast and exciting and the characters are all well crafted and interesting to read about - I liked Will MacReady, though he certainly had his faults, and enjoyed reading about his relationship with people such as his wife, work colleagues and other people too. Things certainly aren't simple in his marriage! I imagine reading the previous novel would give more information on this.
Mike Thomas has crafted a gritty, realistic novel that is chilling and definitely packs a punch. It kept me wanting to read on from first page to last and didn't release its grip on me until the very end!
Many thanks to Readers First for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
This is a smart, well-written thriller/crime novel which focuses on the topical issue of terrorism, specifically in Cardiff, and makes the reader think about attacks which seem to focus on the muslim population too, instead of just thinking of terrorism as something that is inflicted upon others by muslim extremists. It's an interesting look at the way the police try to prevent and track down those who are likely to carry out terrorist attacks, or already have. There is another element to the storyline, in that a teenager has been killed in the midst of the most recent attack in Cardiff, but her death is being eclipsed by recent events, and it's interesting to read how the police desperately appeal for information but it doesn't gain anywhere near the coverage it would potentially have got, had it occurred at any other time.
I haven't read the first in the DC Will MacReady series, Ash and Bones. Because of this, I'm not sure if it would be better to reads this one first, so you know most about the background of Will and his colleagues, but I found I understood it all well enough with having done so. I do always think it's good to start at the beginning where possible, although I don't feel it's essential for enjoyment of this novel.
The pace is fast and exciting and the characters are all well crafted and interesting to read about - I liked Will MacReady, though he certainly had his faults, and enjoyed reading about his relationship with people such as his wife, work colleagues and other people too. Things certainly aren't simple in his marriage! I imagine reading the previous novel would give more information on this.
Mike Thomas has crafted a gritty, realistic novel that is chilling and definitely packs a punch. It kept me wanting to read on from first page to last and didn't release its grip on me until the very end!
Many thanks to Readers First for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
August 1, 2017
I have had the first book in the DC Will MacReady series, Ash and Bones on my TBR since it was published. I remember thinking at the time how drawn I was to the book, how gritty and real the blurb felt. Unfortunately time has not been on my side and I have (so far) completely failed to read it. So when I was given the opportunity to read the second book, Unforgivable it was a no-brainer for me. It didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the first in the series, I wanted to be a part of the launch tour. And oh wow, I wasn’t the slightest bit disappointed.
This book opens with a catastrophic bang and I was immediately hooked. The scenes of chaos, the terror…my heart ached for the families, the normal everyday people caught up in a cataclysmic event. The author has expertly created an incredibly tense opening to what proves to be a terrifying yet realistic story, one I thoroughly enjoyed.
I’m still unsure exactly how I feel about DC Will MacReady. I do like him, but there are certain aspects that left me feeling cold. I loved his determination, his work ethic, his budding relationship with his newborn son and his utter distaste towards his thuggish, wife-beating brother. What left me feeling was cold was his extra-marital affair with a television journalist and his frostiness towards his wife. However (and it’s a big however) MacReady has been through some emotionally traumatic times, that’s clear for the reader to see. But whether these painful incidents permit him to pursue his affair…well, I don’t know. The author has put MacReady in a marital situation that would test the most devoted of couples. And it’s an interesting one. Really, really interesting.
There were several mentions of an event which occurred in the first book. At certain points, I wish I had been able to read Ash and Bones before Unforgivable so I could find out the intricacies of the previous investigation and exactly how it had played out, as it spills over ever so slightly into Unforgivable. Saying that, the author has done a great job of ensuring you have just enough of the back story for the book to make perfect sense. I would say, if anything, I now want to read the first book in the series more than ever!
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! You can tell from early on that the author is ex-police. There is no messing around in Unforgivable, you’re thrown head first into the melee and it is BRILLIANT! A terrifying tale of revenge and bitterness expertly narrated by an author who has lived life on the front line. A must read for crime thriller fans!
Four and a half out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an ARC of Unforgivable. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
This book opens with a catastrophic bang and I was immediately hooked. The scenes of chaos, the terror…my heart ached for the families, the normal everyday people caught up in a cataclysmic event. The author has expertly created an incredibly tense opening to what proves to be a terrifying yet realistic story, one I thoroughly enjoyed.
I’m still unsure exactly how I feel about DC Will MacReady. I do like him, but there are certain aspects that left me feeling cold. I loved his determination, his work ethic, his budding relationship with his newborn son and his utter distaste towards his thuggish, wife-beating brother. What left me feeling was cold was his extra-marital affair with a television journalist and his frostiness towards his wife. However (and it’s a big however) MacReady has been through some emotionally traumatic times, that’s clear for the reader to see. But whether these painful incidents permit him to pursue his affair…well, I don’t know. The author has put MacReady in a marital situation that would test the most devoted of couples. And it’s an interesting one. Really, really interesting.
There were several mentions of an event which occurred in the first book. At certain points, I wish I had been able to read Ash and Bones before Unforgivable so I could find out the intricacies of the previous investigation and exactly how it had played out, as it spills over ever so slightly into Unforgivable. Saying that, the author has done a great job of ensuring you have just enough of the back story for the book to make perfect sense. I would say, if anything, I now want to read the first book in the series more than ever!
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! You can tell from early on that the author is ex-police. There is no messing around in Unforgivable, you’re thrown head first into the melee and it is BRILLIANT! A terrifying tale of revenge and bitterness expertly narrated by an author who has lived life on the front line. A must read for crime thriller fans!
Four and a half out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an ARC of Unforgivable. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 28, 2017
Unforgivable is the second book in the DI Will MacReady series. As there is a bit of history that I think readers would benefit from knowing to do with Will's personal life, I would recommend reading Ash and Bones the first book in the series before reading this one.
Having read the first in the series I thought I knew what to expect from this author but boy, I did not expect the explosive beginning to Unforgivable. I had literally got all comfy to settle down to read it and literally within a few pages I was sat bolt upright on the edge of my seat. I knew then that I was in for a truly gripping read.
The story line itself will have the reader hooked. I think the authors police background really shines through out the story and it made it feel that bit more real. There really is a mixture of police procedural, investigation as well as a bit of the main characters personal life thrown in there and it really does make a great combination.
Unforgivable is a fast paced and tense read that will easily satisfy fans of the crime genre. It is dark, gritty and a guaranteed page turner.
My thanks to the author and Zaffre for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Having read the first in the series I thought I knew what to expect from this author but boy, I did not expect the explosive beginning to Unforgivable. I had literally got all comfy to settle down to read it and literally within a few pages I was sat bolt upright on the edge of my seat. I knew then that I was in for a truly gripping read.
The story line itself will have the reader hooked. I think the authors police background really shines through out the story and it made it feel that bit more real. There really is a mixture of police procedural, investigation as well as a bit of the main characters personal life thrown in there and it really does make a great combination.
Unforgivable is a fast paced and tense read that will easily satisfy fans of the crime genre. It is dark, gritty and a guaranteed page turner.
My thanks to the author and Zaffre for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
June 16, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre for an advance copy of Unforgivable, the second Cardiff based police procedural to feature DC Will MacReady.
Cardiff is rocked when a lone assassin sets of several IED bombs at a popular multicultural market, escapes and goes straight to a mosque for more of the same. Witness interviews suggest the man is white so the police wonder if it is some kind of white racist backlash in view of the current trial where 5 Asian youths are on trial for killing 16 year old white student, Alex Knight. With all hands on deck Will MacReady is anxious to play his part but after a previous incident he is regarded as a bit of a loose cannon and is quickly sidelined into investigating the stabbing of a young unidentified woman.
I really enjoyed Unforgivable which is a good mixture of procedure, action and interesting plotline. There's never a dull moment so it held my interest throughout and I read it in one sitting. The only downside is the slightly unbelievable but ingenious solution of how it all comes together.
The descriptions of the carnage and injuries caused by the bombs are harrowing but it is handled sensitively. It really brings home the devastation these incidents cause without any sensationalism.
I really like the procedural parts of the novel. They are interesting without being overwhelming. I found it interesting that the much vaunted computer systems are as reliant on human input as most of us suspect but no one admits. It is also interesting to see a major incident investigation through the eyes of a fringe player, Will - it looks like chaos. I understand that Mr Thomas has been a police officer which lends authenticity and the voice of experience to the novel.
I like the characterisation as well. Will has a complicated life but which fictional character doesn't nowadays? It could be OTT but Mr Thomas handles it well and while it informs his character it doesn't overwhelm. The interaction between the characters seems natural from the petty squabbles and oneupmanship to the cynical humour which pepper the narrative. I love Wazza, the jaded older detective with no respect for authority, an overriding need to eat and a natty line in socks and sandals. He seems so real that I suspect he must be based on someone Mr Thomas knows.
Unforgivable is a great read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Cardiff is rocked when a lone assassin sets of several IED bombs at a popular multicultural market, escapes and goes straight to a mosque for more of the same. Witness interviews suggest the man is white so the police wonder if it is some kind of white racist backlash in view of the current trial where 5 Asian youths are on trial for killing 16 year old white student, Alex Knight. With all hands on deck Will MacReady is anxious to play his part but after a previous incident he is regarded as a bit of a loose cannon and is quickly sidelined into investigating the stabbing of a young unidentified woman.
I really enjoyed Unforgivable which is a good mixture of procedure, action and interesting plotline. There's never a dull moment so it held my interest throughout and I read it in one sitting. The only downside is the slightly unbelievable but ingenious solution of how it all comes together.
The descriptions of the carnage and injuries caused by the bombs are harrowing but it is handled sensitively. It really brings home the devastation these incidents cause without any sensationalism.
I really like the procedural parts of the novel. They are interesting without being overwhelming. I found it interesting that the much vaunted computer systems are as reliant on human input as most of us suspect but no one admits. It is also interesting to see a major incident investigation through the eyes of a fringe player, Will - it looks like chaos. I understand that Mr Thomas has been a police officer which lends authenticity and the voice of experience to the novel.
I like the characterisation as well. Will has a complicated life but which fictional character doesn't nowadays? It could be OTT but Mr Thomas handles it well and while it informs his character it doesn't overwhelm. The interaction between the characters seems natural from the petty squabbles and oneupmanship to the cynical humour which pepper the narrative. I love Wazza, the jaded older detective with no respect for authority, an overriding need to eat and a natty line in socks and sandals. He seems so real that I suspect he must be based on someone Mr Thomas knows.
Unforgivable is a great read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
August 21, 2017
Usually mystery thrillers are my absolute favorite. But I just couldn't get into Unforgivable.
I've read some great reviews about this book, and I had high hopes for it. But I just couldn't get into it.
There were too many descriptions, to begin with. The first chapter itself put me off. I like fast paced novels, where you just don't have the time to dwell on stuff because you're in a hurry to know what's gonna happen. I couldn't find that drive in this book.
So yeah, I couldn't get into Unforgivable, despite multiple attempts.
I'm giving it 2 stars because the descriptions (though lengthy) were pretty beautiful and because the book deserves that much.
I've read some great reviews about this book, and I had high hopes for it. But I just couldn't get into it.
There were too many descriptions, to begin with. The first chapter itself put me off. I like fast paced novels, where you just don't have the time to dwell on stuff because you're in a hurry to know what's gonna happen. I couldn't find that drive in this book.
So yeah, I couldn't get into Unforgivable, despite multiple attempts.
I'm giving it 2 stars because the descriptions (though lengthy) were pretty beautiful and because the book deserves that much.
August 17, 2017
#KillerHook Alert! What a killer hook of a start! With the description of the market in full flow – could almost hear, see and smell the riot of colours, tastes and vibrancy before #BANG it exploded into one of the most explosive starts ever! I can tell you it did not let up at all right until the very last page!
DC Will MacReady and the team are thrown into the midst of what appears to be racially motivated attacks in Cardiff City Centre. While Will wants to be in the thick of the investigation his superiors sideline him to investigate the attack on a young girl around the same time of the bombings. Tensions are running high across the force and it is soon clear that the team might be entering a race against time that they just do not have!
I was slightly hesitant to start when reading the book, I hadn’t read the first in the series and I definitely did miss out on a bit of the back story as to why MacReady was in disgrace and just how complex his personal life really was. However, enough information was given to ensure that I could still follow the plot and not feel like I was missing out.
MacReady has obviously been a bit of a naughty boy in the past and his personal relationships take the Facebook Status “It’s Complicated” to a whole new level. This meant that not only was MacReady investigating an attack which involved liaising with devastated parents: trying to get in on the action on the bombing investigation, he was also caught smack bang in the middle of a massive relationship crisis and this whole tangled affair made for an intense reading experience! (and made me want to go and read the first in the series to find out even more!) As a reader, I could feel MacReady’s anguish as he worked alongside the family and how this invoked conflicting emotions in him in relation to his own family dynamics.
He is a bit of an enigma, is MacReady, there is something raw inside of him and his own turbulent background clearly plays a significant part in how he deals with things. His dad is in prison for murder and his brother is in court following domestic assault charges, I can just imagine the station tongues wagging at his colourful past!
It’s a harrowing novel which uncovers some of the most disturbing scenes in the aftermath of the bombings; it feels all too real reading this given what is happening in our world today. The plot is bang up to date with reference to social media reporting on events, the way in which the media collates and presents the news to the world were all covered with great detail and accuracy.
As the plot uncovered it soon became clear that there was more to this story than first met the eye. I was impressed at the level of detail and accuracy in this book and I was soon caught up in the storyline to the point where I was unable to put the book down until I had finished.
Unforgivable is a tightly crafted explosive and intense thriller that twists and weaves its way throughout the connected plots and bringing together a killer of a conclusion. Plenty of twists and turns kept me guessing all the way through and left me desperate to find out what happens next! I only wish I had read the first in the series before this one!
DC Will MacReady and the team are thrown into the midst of what appears to be racially motivated attacks in Cardiff City Centre. While Will wants to be in the thick of the investigation his superiors sideline him to investigate the attack on a young girl around the same time of the bombings. Tensions are running high across the force and it is soon clear that the team might be entering a race against time that they just do not have!
I was slightly hesitant to start when reading the book, I hadn’t read the first in the series and I definitely did miss out on a bit of the back story as to why MacReady was in disgrace and just how complex his personal life really was. However, enough information was given to ensure that I could still follow the plot and not feel like I was missing out.
MacReady has obviously been a bit of a naughty boy in the past and his personal relationships take the Facebook Status “It’s Complicated” to a whole new level. This meant that not only was MacReady investigating an attack which involved liaising with devastated parents: trying to get in on the action on the bombing investigation, he was also caught smack bang in the middle of a massive relationship crisis and this whole tangled affair made for an intense reading experience! (and made me want to go and read the first in the series to find out even more!) As a reader, I could feel MacReady’s anguish as he worked alongside the family and how this invoked conflicting emotions in him in relation to his own family dynamics.
He is a bit of an enigma, is MacReady, there is something raw inside of him and his own turbulent background clearly plays a significant part in how he deals with things. His dad is in prison for murder and his brother is in court following domestic assault charges, I can just imagine the station tongues wagging at his colourful past!
It’s a harrowing novel which uncovers some of the most disturbing scenes in the aftermath of the bombings; it feels all too real reading this given what is happening in our world today. The plot is bang up to date with reference to social media reporting on events, the way in which the media collates and presents the news to the world were all covered with great detail and accuracy.
As the plot uncovered it soon became clear that there was more to this story than first met the eye. I was impressed at the level of detail and accuracy in this book and I was soon caught up in the storyline to the point where I was unable to put the book down until I had finished.
Unforgivable is a tightly crafted explosive and intense thriller that twists and weaves its way throughout the connected plots and bringing together a killer of a conclusion. Plenty of twists and turns kept me guessing all the way through and left me desperate to find out what happens next! I only wish I had read the first in the series before this one!
July 31, 2017
A slow-burner but worth staying with it…..
I really wanted to like this book. It’s written by someone who has first-hand experience of front-line police work and is based in Cardiff and Penarth; places I know well from the 50s and 60s. My heart began to sink though after the first couple of chapters as I couldn’t relate to either the main character or indeed the constant reminders by the author of the effects which budget cuts have had on police numbers and effectiveness.
Things looked up quite quickly though and when they did it was quite a journey.
DC Will MacReady has returned to active duty after being involved in an incident which led to the death of one officer and the serious wounding of another. Many are unwilling to welcome him back and feelings run high in the team although he does have the support of his Inspector and Sergeant. All this becomes secondary though when a bomb explodes in an ethnic market, shortly followed by another at a mosque in Penarth.
Although the author might initially focus a little too much on the way in which the police are overloaded, one effect of this is to introduce a sense of reality. I loathe those crime novels where the investigating officer trots off just to deal with the crime in hand with no other pressures. MacReady’s workload is too much for one man to manage effectively and overtime is at a premium. He also has external pressures not only within his personal and private life but also from more senior members of the team. I began to like him and as the plot progressed I liked him more and more. Here was a man trying to do his very best under almost impossible circumstances.
Once properly into the story the investigation grabbed me by the throat and didn’t let go. I was drawn into the action by the excellent dialogue and the very realistic way the pieces of the jigsaw fell into place. I read the final two-thirds of the thriller in one morning whilst lying on a sun lounger in the garden! Without wishing to give too much away I have not given it 5 stars as I was a little disappointed in the way in which the perpetrator was found. However, anyone who enjoys this genre would be missing a trick if he passed this one by for this reason. Read it, if only to see whether you agree…….you won’t be disappointed.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
I really wanted to like this book. It’s written by someone who has first-hand experience of front-line police work and is based in Cardiff and Penarth; places I know well from the 50s and 60s. My heart began to sink though after the first couple of chapters as I couldn’t relate to either the main character or indeed the constant reminders by the author of the effects which budget cuts have had on police numbers and effectiveness.
Things looked up quite quickly though and when they did it was quite a journey.
DC Will MacReady has returned to active duty after being involved in an incident which led to the death of one officer and the serious wounding of another. Many are unwilling to welcome him back and feelings run high in the team although he does have the support of his Inspector and Sergeant. All this becomes secondary though when a bomb explodes in an ethnic market, shortly followed by another at a mosque in Penarth.
Although the author might initially focus a little too much on the way in which the police are overloaded, one effect of this is to introduce a sense of reality. I loathe those crime novels where the investigating officer trots off just to deal with the crime in hand with no other pressures. MacReady’s workload is too much for one man to manage effectively and overtime is at a premium. He also has external pressures not only within his personal and private life but also from more senior members of the team. I began to like him and as the plot progressed I liked him more and more. Here was a man trying to do his very best under almost impossible circumstances.
Once properly into the story the investigation grabbed me by the throat and didn’t let go. I was drawn into the action by the excellent dialogue and the very realistic way the pieces of the jigsaw fell into place. I read the final two-thirds of the thriller in one morning whilst lying on a sun lounger in the garden! Without wishing to give too much away I have not given it 5 stars as I was a little disappointed in the way in which the perpetrator was found. However, anyone who enjoys this genre would be missing a trick if he passed this one by for this reason. Read it, if only to see whether you agree…….you won’t be disappointed.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
September 9, 2017
All my reviews can be found at The Coffee & Kindle
The book starts of with an all too real terrorist(?) attack quickly followed by another attack on a mosque. Whilst everyone else is trying to find the bomber MacReady is sidelined after he is asked to investigate a knife attack.
As with all my reviews I will not spoil it for anyone by giving the plot away but needless to say everything is not how it seems.
Unforgivable is a thriller that twists and turns the reader through interconnected story lines that lead to a fantastic ending. Its one of those books that you really want to get to the end of but when you do you are so disappointed that its finished you want to read it again.
The story felt so real, I felt totally immersed into the book I was there dodging the shrapnel and listening to the briefings standing next to Will MacReady.
Really loved it and cant recommend it enough. From one expat living in Portugal to another a massive 5 stars.
The book starts of with an all too real terrorist(?) attack quickly followed by another attack on a mosque. Whilst everyone else is trying to find the bomber MacReady is sidelined after he is asked to investigate a knife attack.
As with all my reviews I will not spoil it for anyone by giving the plot away but needless to say everything is not how it seems.
Unforgivable is a thriller that twists and turns the reader through interconnected story lines that lead to a fantastic ending. Its one of those books that you really want to get to the end of but when you do you are so disappointed that its finished you want to read it again.
The story felt so real, I felt totally immersed into the book I was there dodging the shrapnel and listening to the briefings standing next to Will MacReady.
Really loved it and cant recommend it enough. From one expat living in Portugal to another a massive 5 stars.
Read
November 15, 2017Overall this was a great read. It was an exciting book with twists and revelations throughout. I really enjoyed how the author switched points of view at pivotal moments between police and terrorist, this was a fantastic way to build tension in the lead up to key events.
The story line also felt very realistic and entirely possible, something that could only have come from the authors time working in the police. I also appreciated how the author gave an insight into the lives of the individuals in the book, allowing the reader to relate to them on a personal level, rather than them just being 'a police officer' or 'a terrorist'.
It took me a little time to get into the book as I was confused by some of the terminology used, which was to be expected given this was my first crime book.
I would like to thank Readers First for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
The story line also felt very realistic and entirely possible, something that could only have come from the authors time working in the police. I also appreciated how the author gave an insight into the lives of the individuals in the book, allowing the reader to relate to them on a personal level, rather than them just being 'a police officer' or 'a terrorist'.
It took me a little time to get into the book as I was confused by some of the terminology used, which was to be expected given this was my first crime book.
I would like to thank Readers First for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
May 5, 2020
A fantastic read with a good protagonist, a solid team, realistic portrayals of the realities of police work and a gripping story that has kept me up late to finish. A few minor issues with the writing style, but overall a brilliant second novel.
July 12, 2017
Unforgivable
A gritty new police drama for fans of Stuart MacBride
by Mike Thomas
Bonnier Zaffre
Zaffre
General Fiction (Adult) , Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 27 Jul 2017
I am reviewing a copy of Unforgiveable through Zaffre and Netgalley:
DC Will Macready and his attackers must stop someone whose bombs have already detonated a Souk causing mass destruction, and an explosion that rips a part of a Mosque not in the Middle East but in Cardiff.
Can Macready prove himself on the new case after the previous years disaster?
Find out in Unforgivable!
Four out of five stars.
Happy Reading
June 26, 2017
This is the second book in the DC Will Mc Ready series and I enjoyed it just as much as book one. Set in Cardiff, it is a good mix of thriller, action and police procedural. I love the character of Will with his complicated personal life. Wazza sounds amazing with his need to eat at all times and his total lack of respect! I would recommend this book. Thank you Net Galley for my copy.
August 16, 2017
Opening the pages to Unforgivable you are thrown straight into the action, and oh boy is there plenty of action to keep you gripped.
When a bomb is set off in a busy souk there’s pure devastation, utter chaos and sadly very believable scenes. Another explosion is then set off in a Mosque, causing more devastation and to the police, to everyone really it looks like a terror attack and the hunt is on to find the killer. Reading these scenes my heart was in my mouth, I could have been in the middle of the destruction, witnessing it all for real.
There are a few different threads to Unforgivable, so not only is Will Macready on the hunt for the attacker, he has another case to crack as well. Sadly though due to the attacks on the souk and mosque it seems this case may take a bit of a back seat and may not be quite as straight forward as first thought.
We also find out about Will’s incredibly complicated personal life which was where I thought I would struggle a bit with not having read the first book, but Thomas has done a good job of slowly giving you a bit of back story. It’s not over powering and I don’t believe it will be repetitive from book one, sometimes I find there is so much info from previous books it can take over a new story but not with Unforgivable, I got enough to make sense but not enough to feel like I know the whole story of book one and I really want to read it now.
Unforgivable is a fast paced thriller, it’s gritty, dark, utterly consuming and incredibly believable. I’ll definitely recommend this book and I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Mike Thomas soon.
When a bomb is set off in a busy souk there’s pure devastation, utter chaos and sadly very believable scenes. Another explosion is then set off in a Mosque, causing more devastation and to the police, to everyone really it looks like a terror attack and the hunt is on to find the killer. Reading these scenes my heart was in my mouth, I could have been in the middle of the destruction, witnessing it all for real.
There are a few different threads to Unforgivable, so not only is Will Macready on the hunt for the attacker, he has another case to crack as well. Sadly though due to the attacks on the souk and mosque it seems this case may take a bit of a back seat and may not be quite as straight forward as first thought.
We also find out about Will’s incredibly complicated personal life which was where I thought I would struggle a bit with not having read the first book, but Thomas has done a good job of slowly giving you a bit of back story. It’s not over powering and I don’t believe it will be repetitive from book one, sometimes I find there is so much info from previous books it can take over a new story but not with Unforgivable, I got enough to make sense but not enough to feel like I know the whole story of book one and I really want to read it now.
Unforgivable is a fast paced thriller, it’s gritty, dark, utterly consuming and incredibly believable. I’ll definitely recommend this book and I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Mike Thomas soon.
July 30, 2017
A rollicking rollercoaster of a novel. Fast-paced, gritty, dark and intensely believable from the get-go,
I raced through it in a day and a half.
The frequent switching of points of view between terrorist and police adds to the drama, and for an ex-police, Thomas shows a powerful ability to get inside the head of the bad guys, making the story all the more realistic as a result.
I'm a big fan of the author (his second novel Ugly Bus remains one of my favourites) and was anxiously anticipating this second instalment to the series
- I loved that this had a darker feeling than the first. Unfortunately I know face a frustrating wait for the next now face can't wait for the next!u
I raced through it in a day and a half.
The frequent switching of points of view between terrorist and police adds to the drama, and for an ex-police, Thomas shows a powerful ability to get inside the head of the bad guys, making the story all the more realistic as a result.
I'm a big fan of the author (his second novel Ugly Bus remains one of my favourites) and was anxiously anticipating this second instalment to the series
- I loved that this had a darker feeling than the first. Unfortunately I know face a frustrating wait for the next now face can't wait for the next!u
October 10, 2017
This is the second in the author’s DC Will MacReady novels, and if anything, it’s better than the first, Ash and Bones, which I also reviewed. Set against a backdrop of a Cardiff on edge - a white boy has been murdered by a gang of smirking Asian youth, cue lots of EDL types protesting every morning on the court’s steps, Antifa opposing them, the police stuck in the middle - a series of bombs explodes across the city. The first hit’s a souk, an annual celebration of multiculturalism held in one of the city’s parks. The second strikes a mosque. There are multiple casualties at each location, fatalities and maimings. Is this the work of far-right extremists? A cell of bombers or a lone wolf like Anders Breivik, or the Brixton bomber, David Copeland?
I don’t want to give away spoilers, so I will avoid too much discussion of the plot, but needless to say, everything is not all that it seems. What I will say is that MacReady and the other characters in the novel are well drawn and the book itself is tightly plotted. While this is the second in the series, it can be read as a standalone, though you will miss a little of the back story.
Mike Thomas is a former police officer and as such this novel has a real air of authenticity. While Will is the main character, Thomas is obviously aware that a police investigation is a team effort and consequently the supporting cast play big roles. Some writers aiming for authenticity overwhelm their readers with the minutia of their research but Thomas is careful not to do this, so while the novel does have the ring of accuracy to it, this is not laboured.
Unforgivable is a police procedural and we all know that the bookshelves groan under the weight of such titles. I would say though that the author’s skill as a writer elevates his novel above many of its competitors. For a start this is not a serial killer novel. Also, while MacReady has got a troubled personal life, the author writes well enough to avoid the usual cliche’s. In fact, that’s a feature of the book full stop. Numerous journalists have pontificated in the past over what makes a great book or film, what makes a great crime thriller. For my own part I think it’s a magic ingredient that is difficult to put one’s finger on. So, if one thinks of The Wire, or The Killing, it’s easy to think that it might be a sense of place, or a killer twist. But many books and films have a sense of place or a knockout twist and aren’t so good. Which brings me back to that magic, the elusive fairy dust. Unforgivable is one such novel; while the plot is original enough, there have been books before that have dealt with terrorism and terror-like atrocities, similarly, as noted above, there are innumerable police procedurals with troubled protagonists. But the author writes well and imbues his novel with that something extra.
In short this is a great novel and one that I heartily recommend. Mike Thomas is an author to watch and I look forward to future novels in the MacReady series. But his previous novels (standalones, not Will MacReady novels, and indeed, not police procedurals) are also well worth digging out. In particular, I would challenge anyone to read Ugly Bus and not think it a cult classic.
I don’t want to give away spoilers, so I will avoid too much discussion of the plot, but needless to say, everything is not all that it seems. What I will say is that MacReady and the other characters in the novel are well drawn and the book itself is tightly plotted. While this is the second in the series, it can be read as a standalone, though you will miss a little of the back story.
Mike Thomas is a former police officer and as such this novel has a real air of authenticity. While Will is the main character, Thomas is obviously aware that a police investigation is a team effort and consequently the supporting cast play big roles. Some writers aiming for authenticity overwhelm their readers with the minutia of their research but Thomas is careful not to do this, so while the novel does have the ring of accuracy to it, this is not laboured.
Unforgivable is a police procedural and we all know that the bookshelves groan under the weight of such titles. I would say though that the author’s skill as a writer elevates his novel above many of its competitors. For a start this is not a serial killer novel. Also, while MacReady has got a troubled personal life, the author writes well enough to avoid the usual cliche’s. In fact, that’s a feature of the book full stop. Numerous journalists have pontificated in the past over what makes a great book or film, what makes a great crime thriller. For my own part I think it’s a magic ingredient that is difficult to put one’s finger on. So, if one thinks of The Wire, or The Killing, it’s easy to think that it might be a sense of place, or a killer twist. But many books and films have a sense of place or a knockout twist and aren’t so good. Which brings me back to that magic, the elusive fairy dust. Unforgivable is one such novel; while the plot is original enough, there have been books before that have dealt with terrorism and terror-like atrocities, similarly, as noted above, there are innumerable police procedurals with troubled protagonists. But the author writes well and imbues his novel with that something extra.
In short this is a great novel and one that I heartily recommend. Mike Thomas is an author to watch and I look forward to future novels in the MacReady series. But his previous novels (standalones, not Will MacReady novels, and indeed, not police procedurals) are also well worth digging out. In particular, I would challenge anyone to read Ugly Bus and not think it a cult classic.
August 20, 2017
With such an explosive start, the reader is launched straight into the action in Unforgivable, the second book in the DC Will MacReady series. I do usually like to read books in order; sometimes you can get away with not reading the previous books and other times it really is a necessity. For me, Unforgivable just scrapes through into the former; I would have liked to have read the first book but I didn't need to have read it in order to enjoy this one.
The first chapter is quite chilling as a bomb goes off in a busy market in Cardiff. A short while later another bomb is detonated in a mosque and across town a young woman is stabbed. As chaos descends on Cardiff, Will MacReady already has a lot going on in his personal life. Will's brother, Stuart, is in court and Stuart's baby is at home with Will's wife, who is also the baby's mother. What a complicated life Will has! It is because of this complex personal story that I would have liked to have read the first book prior to reading this one, but it's certainly intriguing enough to make me want to look out for book one: Ash and Bones.
With the city on high alert, Will struggles to keep the press interested in the death of the young woman who got stabbed, Heidi Paxton. Heidi's death is no less senseless than the innocent people murdered at the market and mosque...but is Heidi one of the innocents? As Will investigates, he finds that there is more to Heidi than he bargained for. As he races to uncover the truth about Heidi, time is ticking and the next Cardiff attack is imminent. Can Will stop it in time?
Unforgivable is perhaps not quite as fast paced as I expected, but it certainly kept me engrossed and eager to turn the pages. I loved how the book was sectioned into days as it brought added realism to the story. It is a highly detailed police procedural thriller and I loved the banter between the police officers; I sometimes felt like I was a fly on the wall inside a police station. Some chapters are told from the point of view of the bombers and these chapters really are quite chilling as they go about their lives with their true feelings hidden from friends and family.
I'm sure Mike Thomas has a lot more up his sleeve for DC Will MacReady so I definitely want to pick up the first book in the series before book 3 comes out. I have a feeling that this series is going to be a firm favourite among crime fiction fans, so keep your eye on this one!
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The first chapter is quite chilling as a bomb goes off in a busy market in Cardiff. A short while later another bomb is detonated in a mosque and across town a young woman is stabbed. As chaos descends on Cardiff, Will MacReady already has a lot going on in his personal life. Will's brother, Stuart, is in court and Stuart's baby is at home with Will's wife, who is also the baby's mother. What a complicated life Will has! It is because of this complex personal story that I would have liked to have read the first book prior to reading this one, but it's certainly intriguing enough to make me want to look out for book one: Ash and Bones.
With the city on high alert, Will struggles to keep the press interested in the death of the young woman who got stabbed, Heidi Paxton. Heidi's death is no less senseless than the innocent people murdered at the market and mosque...but is Heidi one of the innocents? As Will investigates, he finds that there is more to Heidi than he bargained for. As he races to uncover the truth about Heidi, time is ticking and the next Cardiff attack is imminent. Can Will stop it in time?
Unforgivable is perhaps not quite as fast paced as I expected, but it certainly kept me engrossed and eager to turn the pages. I loved how the book was sectioned into days as it brought added realism to the story. It is a highly detailed police procedural thriller and I loved the banter between the police officers; I sometimes felt like I was a fly on the wall inside a police station. Some chapters are told from the point of view of the bombers and these chapters really are quite chilling as they go about their lives with their true feelings hidden from friends and family.
I'm sure Mike Thomas has a lot more up his sleeve for DC Will MacReady so I definitely want to pick up the first book in the series before book 3 comes out. I have a feeling that this series is going to be a firm favourite among crime fiction fans, so keep your eye on this one!
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 18, 2017
I have to talk about the opening chapter it's safe to say that it grabbed hold of me and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. It's gritty and dark at times but this just made the story all the more gripping and addictive. The main point that I found was that the events in this book can and do take place which made it all the more chilling, from protest marches to actual bombs being detonated. The story feels very real almost as if you are a fly on the wall experiencing the events with the characters.
Will isn't perfect and for me it made his character much more believable. I always seem to appreciate a character more if they have flaws. Will makes mistakes but don't we all it's just all the more dangerous and significant if Will does. Even though this is the second Will MacReady story it didn't really feel as if there was any confusion from not reading the first story Ash and Bones. Although as with any series it does help to start at the beginning I guess just so you get more of the back story. I felt that I was given enough information to get a feel for Will's character without it being too much at once. There are a wide range of supporting characters who vary in how likeable they are.
It was great to see a couple of plot strands take place along with the bombings and it was interesting to see the investigations play out. The pacing of the story is pretty good with a good mix of high adrenaline scenes then seeing how they go about investigating the crimes. Mike Thomas has written an intriguing character and story that left me wanting more.
Unforgivable is tense, fast paced with plenty of heart stopping moments!
With thanks to Emily at Bonnier Zaffre for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Will isn't perfect and for me it made his character much more believable. I always seem to appreciate a character more if they have flaws. Will makes mistakes but don't we all it's just all the more dangerous and significant if Will does. Even though this is the second Will MacReady story it didn't really feel as if there was any confusion from not reading the first story Ash and Bones. Although as with any series it does help to start at the beginning I guess just so you get more of the back story. I felt that I was given enough information to get a feel for Will's character without it being too much at once. There are a wide range of supporting characters who vary in how likeable they are.
It was great to see a couple of plot strands take place along with the bombings and it was interesting to see the investigations play out. The pacing of the story is pretty good with a good mix of high adrenaline scenes then seeing how they go about investigating the crimes. Mike Thomas has written an intriguing character and story that left me wanting more.
Unforgivable is tense, fast paced with plenty of heart stopping moments!
With thanks to Emily at Bonnier Zaffre for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 28, 2017
**I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley**
The second in the DC Will MacReady series, Unforgivable starts with a bang - quite literally! Having enjoyed the previous installment, I was keen to read this and wasn't at all disappointed, although it was very topical at the time of reading, with various terrorist attacks in the news being quite similar to the events in the book. Chillingly similar, in fact.
Thomas writes with a familiar fluency that betrays his own years in the police force, so that MacReady and the supporting characters, as well as the settings, are completely believable. (I would imagine, there are a lot of real people written into the pages.) He fills out even the most incidental details with entertaining vernacular language - eg "The CID's waiting room was a windowless box just off the main corridor; until the previous autumn it had been a store cupboard for a cantankerous cleaner's extensive selection of mops and soiled girlie mags, but the DI had seen to it that the moany old perv was booted elsewhere...".
While this is a page-turning self-contained story, the overall character arc is continued from the previous novel - although it's not necessary to have read that. I sincerely hope there will be a third MacReady novel. A perfect holiday read!
The second in the DC Will MacReady series, Unforgivable starts with a bang - quite literally! Having enjoyed the previous installment, I was keen to read this and wasn't at all disappointed, although it was very topical at the time of reading, with various terrorist attacks in the news being quite similar to the events in the book. Chillingly similar, in fact.
Thomas writes with a familiar fluency that betrays his own years in the police force, so that MacReady and the supporting characters, as well as the settings, are completely believable. (I would imagine, there are a lot of real people written into the pages.) He fills out even the most incidental details with entertaining vernacular language - eg "The CID's waiting room was a windowless box just off the main corridor; until the previous autumn it had been a store cupboard for a cantankerous cleaner's extensive selection of mops and soiled girlie mags, but the DI had seen to it that the moany old perv was booted elsewhere...".
While this is a page-turning self-contained story, the overall character arc is continued from the previous novel - although it's not necessary to have read that. I sincerely hope there will be a third MacReady novel. A perfect holiday read!
August 2, 2017
I wanted to read Unforgivable because of the atrocious terror attacks that we've seen in the UK this year, as it deals with the sensitive topic of terrorism in Cardiff, particularly the response of the police force and the challenge of staying one step ahead of the perpetrators. I can happily say that I was not disappointed! Unforgivable gives a chilling fictional narrative of the mindset behind these horrific acts, delving into the reasons and justifications behind the perpetrator's decision to commit such atrocities. It's impossible to go into much more detail about the plot without giving away some of the most fascinating and shocking twists and developments in the police investigation, but if you love books centred around crime with a fast-paced plot development, then this is the book for you!
Will Macready was an incredibly likeable character, whose complicated relationship with his wife and brother provided another element to the storyline which both allowed a break from the intense central thread of terrorism, and also permitted me to get to know Will and invest in him as a person.
Overall, Unforgivable kept me guessing until the very end - I was convinced I had the right suspect throughout the whole novel, and I was very wrong!
Will Macready was an incredibly likeable character, whose complicated relationship with his wife and brother provided another element to the storyline which both allowed a break from the intense central thread of terrorism, and also permitted me to get to know Will and invest in him as a person.
Overall, Unforgivable kept me guessing until the very end - I was convinced I had the right suspect throughout the whole novel, and I was very wrong!
July 19, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! The book starts with a bombing in a souk. However the souk isn't in the Middle East, but in Cardiff. Just as the emergency services are getting to grips with this there is another bombing in a Mosque in Penarth. Will Macready is amongst the team working on these terrible events. In between times he gets the job of investigating the murder of a young woman near to Cardiff station. He begrudgingly does as he's told, but there are few clues to why this woman was stabbed. His personal life his complicated and becomes entangled with his work life as events progress.
Will has to work with a DS that he doesn't particularly like while his DS recovers from a gunshot (previous to this book). The Police are stretched and pushed to their limits as events progress.
Great book!
Will has to work with a DS that he doesn't particularly like while his DS recovers from a gunshot (previous to this book). The Police are stretched and pushed to their limits as events progress.
Great book!
February 19, 2019
A classic example of an all-consuming book, Mike Thomas draws you into his written world with ease and holds your interest with plenty of twists and turns along the way.
MacReady, a Detective with a reputation to win back, is embroiled in the war against terrorism. It is written and executed in a quick-paced manner that allows the reader to feel as though they are speeding alongside him in his 'battered Peugeot' on the hunt for the mystery attacker(s). He and his colleagues become familiar to the reader throughout the book, written in such a way that makes the story 'un-put-a-down-able', it is comical in its own right and packs a lot of 'oomph'.
I for one will be searching for more titles written by Thomas and look forward to jumping back into the world of literary Cops & Robbers.
Read, read, read!
MacReady, a Detective with a reputation to win back, is embroiled in the war against terrorism. It is written and executed in a quick-paced manner that allows the reader to feel as though they are speeding alongside him in his 'battered Peugeot' on the hunt for the mystery attacker(s). He and his colleagues become familiar to the reader throughout the book, written in such a way that makes the story 'un-put-a-down-able', it is comical in its own right and packs a lot of 'oomph'.
I for one will be searching for more titles written by Thomas and look forward to jumping back into the world of literary Cops & Robbers.
Read, read, read!
July 20, 2018
Well, where do i begin with this book? The cover is a great one, simplistic but really draws you in.
The blurb is hard hitting and i knew this story would be an incredible one.
Honestly, despite what i knew about the book from the cover and the blurb, i really wasn't expecting the massive plot twists, i was so shocked and tense that i could feel my heart pounding in my ribcage.
It was an intense book with very serious matters and to me, it made it all the more chilling to read.
Equally the book had a strong topic of mental health which appealed to me because it is a subject that i feel strongly about.
I would highly recommend this book to anybody that loves crime and thriller genres, this is one of the few that really is set apart from the rest.
The blurb is hard hitting and i knew this story would be an incredible one.
Honestly, despite what i knew about the book from the cover and the blurb, i really wasn't expecting the massive plot twists, i was so shocked and tense that i could feel my heart pounding in my ribcage.
It was an intense book with very serious matters and to me, it made it all the more chilling to read.
Equally the book had a strong topic of mental health which appealed to me because it is a subject that i feel strongly about.
I would highly recommend this book to anybody that loves crime and thriller genres, this is one of the few that really is set apart from the rest.
September 16, 2018
I want to start off my saying that I was drawn to this book in support of a Welsh author, with the story being set around the area I live. I have also come to realise that the book is part of a series. I enjoy mystery thrillers so I thought this would be the fast paced book I tend to enjoy, but I felt it lacked anything personal about the main character MacReady and was quite slow paced.
As you can imagine I was slightly disappointed. Although the writing itself was satisfactory.
I tried so hard to love the storyline, but after picking it up to read it multiple times, I felt that it was a chore.
I've given it two stars because it some areas I was caught. Such as the Paxton's grief, but apart from that I was stumped on what was actually going on on the book itself.
As you can imagine I was slightly disappointed. Although the writing itself was satisfactory.
I tried so hard to love the storyline, but after picking it up to read it multiple times, I felt that it was a chore.
I've given it two stars because it some areas I was caught. Such as the Paxton's grief, but apart from that I was stumped on what was actually going on on the book itself.
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