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Deadly Partnership: Murder, Blackmail and Voices from the Spirit World
On his retirement, widower Paul Jenkins decides to live with his sister by the sea. But having moved in, the idyllic life that he has been hankering after is thrown into turmoil when he comes face to face with a burglar in the middle of the night.
His impulsive reaction to the intrusion has disturbing consequences when he is confronted with some unsavoury characters. However, it is the dead that he has far more to fear from.
His impulsive reaction to the intrusion has disturbing consequences when he is confronted with some unsavoury characters. However, it is the dead that he has far more to fear from.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 24, 2017
7 people are currently reading
977 people want to read
About the author
Richard Gardner
3 books221 followersBorn in Southampton, Richard Gardner has
lived in South East London for many years. Married to a nurse, he has a daughter, son and at this moment in time - five grandchildren.
Having obtained a degree in Business Studies, he spent most of his working life in finance but never lost his desire to become a successful author. So far he has written three novels, Righteous Release,
Iniquitous Lives and his latest Deadly Partnership, but he hopes to write many more.
Richard's interests include, travel, history and literature. He also has a fascination for the paranormal which prompted him to write Deadly Partnership.
http://www.bookviral.com/deadly-partn...
lived in South East London for many years. Married to a nurse, he has a daughter, son and at this moment in time - five grandchildren.
Having obtained a degree in Business Studies, he spent most of his working life in finance but never lost his desire to become a successful author. So far he has written three novels, Righteous Release,
Iniquitous Lives and his latest Deadly Partnership, but he hopes to write many more.
Richard's interests include, travel, history and literature. He also has a fascination for the paranormal which prompted him to write Deadly Partnership.
http://www.bookviral.com/deadly-partn...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
March 28, 2018
**I received a PDF copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Richard Gardner!! =))**
“Gary gave him a long hard stare. He had always thought of his father as being honest, decent and fair-minded, but over the last day and a half he was seeing a different side to the man. A dark side that was cold, calculating and almost devoid of a conscience.”
First of all I have to say that “Deadly Partnership” was completely different than the books I usually read. People who know me, know that I’m a sucker for YA and fantasy. This time however I decided to read something else. So when Richard asked me if I wanted to read his book I was so curious I immediately said yes. XD
It’s not often you get to read a crime book with mystery elements and I wanted to know how the author pulled it off. *lol* They say curiosity kills the cat. In that particular case it thankfully didn’t though. ;-) Oh well, to be fair, there actually were quite a few deaths in this book but they were done so nicely I couldn’t help but relish them. ;-P
Truth be told, there was some sort of morbid humour that ran like a thread through the entire book and I found myself savouring it so much. Haha! For some reason Paul’s and Gary’s antics amused me immensely and halfway through the book I was shaking my head so hard, I almost felt dizzy. I couldn’t help but wonder how this would all end and I constantly wanted to know what would happen next. I think this alone says enough about Richard’s skills! *lol* I was puzzling over the ending until it was finally there and yes, it actually surprised me somehow. XD
I don’t want to reveal all too much about the plot so all I’ll say is that we have: Paul a retired widower, his sister Julie, his son Gary, a psychic that communicates with the ghosts in the spiritual world, curious neighbours and a burglar.
To find out about the rest is up to you! ;-P
All told, this was not only a very unique and intriguing story but also something completely different! =))) I can really recommend it to anyone and if you have a sense of irony and some sort of dark humour I’m sure you’ll enjoy it as well. XD
“Gary gave him a long hard stare. He had always thought of his father as being honest, decent and fair-minded, but over the last day and a half he was seeing a different side to the man. A dark side that was cold, calculating and almost devoid of a conscience.”
First of all I have to say that “Deadly Partnership” was completely different than the books I usually read. People who know me, know that I’m a sucker for YA and fantasy. This time however I decided to read something else. So when Richard asked me if I wanted to read his book I was so curious I immediately said yes. XD
It’s not often you get to read a crime book with mystery elements and I wanted to know how the author pulled it off. *lol* They say curiosity kills the cat. In that particular case it thankfully didn’t though. ;-) Oh well, to be fair, there actually were quite a few deaths in this book but they were done so nicely I couldn’t help but relish them. ;-P
Truth be told, there was some sort of morbid humour that ran like a thread through the entire book and I found myself savouring it so much. Haha! For some reason Paul’s and Gary’s antics amused me immensely and halfway through the book I was shaking my head so hard, I almost felt dizzy. I couldn’t help but wonder how this would all end and I constantly wanted to know what would happen next. I think this alone says enough about Richard’s skills! *lol* I was puzzling over the ending until it was finally there and yes, it actually surprised me somehow. XD
I don’t want to reveal all too much about the plot so all I’ll say is that we have: Paul a retired widower, his sister Julie, his son Gary, a psychic that communicates with the ghosts in the spiritual world, curious neighbours and a burglar.
To find out about the rest is up to you! ;-P
All told, this was not only a very unique and intriguing story but also something completely different! =))) I can really recommend it to anyone and if you have a sense of irony and some sort of dark humour I’m sure you’ll enjoy it as well. XD
January 15, 2018
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
His retirement was supposed to be idyllic and peaceful, but for Paul Jenkins, once a respected senior financial executive, life was about to become a series of hellacious nightmares, complete with the spirits of the dead. It all started when the widowed Paul convinced his sister to share their family home with him. Little did he know the spiritual medium with a message from beyond was more than cheap parlor entertainment or that his sister would believe the voices from beyond the grave.
It all started when he left a window open and a burglar took advantage of the fact. Like most of us, Paul took decisive, defensible action, but that action would come back to haunt him in more ways than one when he attempts to bury what happened.
DEADLY PARTNERSHIP by Richard Gardner is a trip into the mysterious, the deadly and the webs we weave when we first choose to deceive.
Paul appeared to be re-gaining his roots, going back to his childhood home, reconnecting with the girl he left behind and beginning another chapter in his quiet and ordered life. One action will begin a tsunami of bad choices and proof that there is no perfect crime, or cover up, because somewhere, someone may be watching and somehow, they will uncover murder, mayhem and a thousand-fold of pain.
Do you believe in communicating with the spirits of the departed? Do you believe a loved one is watching over you? Richard Gardner presents an excellent tale of suspense, remorse, justice and atonement that is dark, detailed and filled with “normal,” flawed characters who are just like people we pass on the streets every day. A fascinating read, which while not presented at a rapid pace, certainly carries an attitude of high tension and fear that is razor taut. Who knew retirement could be so dangerous?
I received a complimentary copy from Richard Gardner!
Publisher: Grosvenor House Publishing (May 24, 2017)
Publication Date: May 24, 2017
Genre: Suspense | Thriller
Print Length: 344 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
His retirement was supposed to be idyllic and peaceful, but for Paul Jenkins, once a respected senior financial executive, life was about to become a series of hellacious nightmares, complete with the spirits of the dead. It all started when the widowed Paul convinced his sister to share their family home with him. Little did he know the spiritual medium with a message from beyond was more than cheap parlor entertainment or that his sister would believe the voices from beyond the grave.
It all started when he left a window open and a burglar took advantage of the fact. Like most of us, Paul took decisive, defensible action, but that action would come back to haunt him in more ways than one when he attempts to bury what happened.
DEADLY PARTNERSHIP by Richard Gardner is a trip into the mysterious, the deadly and the webs we weave when we first choose to deceive.
Paul appeared to be re-gaining his roots, going back to his childhood home, reconnecting with the girl he left behind and beginning another chapter in his quiet and ordered life. One action will begin a tsunami of bad choices and proof that there is no perfect crime, or cover up, because somewhere, someone may be watching and somehow, they will uncover murder, mayhem and a thousand-fold of pain.
Do you believe in communicating with the spirits of the departed? Do you believe a loved one is watching over you? Richard Gardner presents an excellent tale of suspense, remorse, justice and atonement that is dark, detailed and filled with “normal,” flawed characters who are just like people we pass on the streets every day. A fascinating read, which while not presented at a rapid pace, certainly carries an attitude of high tension and fear that is razor taut. Who knew retirement could be so dangerous?
I received a complimentary copy from Richard Gardner!
Publisher: Grosvenor House Publishing (May 24, 2017)
Publication Date: May 24, 2017
Genre: Suspense | Thriller
Print Length: 344 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 10, 2018
Paul Jenkins is a recently retired widower. After a lifetime of being a loyal employee as the financial controller of a large company, Paul makes the decision to leave the bright lights of London to move back to the seaside town of his childhood. Paul’s sister Julie has retained the family home of his youth, and both agree to pool their resources and to live out their retirements together.
It all starts wonderfully. Paul & Julie fall into a routine and get on well, Paul reconnects with his high-school sweetheart, and friends from his school years.
When Julie goes on a cruise around the Greek Islands, she leaves her/their home in Paul’s capable hands. While undergoing desperately needed renovations on the home with his son Gary, Paul accidentally leaves a window open one night to let out the paint fumes, and this when the story really takes off.
Awakening to noises downstairs in the middle of the night, Paul confronts the burglar…
I hovered between feeling sympathy for the situation Paul Jenkins found himself in, and a sense of revulsion at his guile and seeming cunning as the body count continued to rise.
It was interesting how one spur-of-the-moment decision led to another poor choice, then another.
This is a very well thought out plot, and I loved how the character’s lives and stories interwove with each others. I didn’t see the end coming at all. This story reminds me of the types of suspense novels I used to read as a teen, the type that keeps you engrossed from start to finish.
Many thanks to the Author, Richard Gardner who kindly offered me a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review. A thoroughly good read.
It all starts wonderfully. Paul & Julie fall into a routine and get on well, Paul reconnects with his high-school sweetheart, and friends from his school years.
When Julie goes on a cruise around the Greek Islands, she leaves her/their home in Paul’s capable hands. While undergoing desperately needed renovations on the home with his son Gary, Paul accidentally leaves a window open one night to let out the paint fumes, and this when the story really takes off.
Awakening to noises downstairs in the middle of the night, Paul confronts the burglar…
I hovered between feeling sympathy for the situation Paul Jenkins found himself in, and a sense of revulsion at his guile and seeming cunning as the body count continued to rise.
It was interesting how one spur-of-the-moment decision led to another poor choice, then another.
This is a very well thought out plot, and I loved how the character’s lives and stories interwove with each others. I didn’t see the end coming at all. This story reminds me of the types of suspense novels I used to read as a teen, the type that keeps you engrossed from start to finish.
Many thanks to the Author, Richard Gardner who kindly offered me a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review. A thoroughly good read.
December 1, 2017
A fantastic read! Really enjoyed this book. Great book I can‘t put it down because it has drawn me in so much, I just have to know what happens and continue.
Thank you Richard Gardner for a copy of the book and for writing an amazing story!
Thank you Richard Gardner for a copy of the book and for writing an amazing story!
September 23, 2017
This novel had me feeling one way then another about the characters. One moment I liked and understood Paul, then in one sentence, I didn't. In one moment I liked Angela, then I found that I didn't.
Back and forth I went all through the book and to tell the truth at the end I am not quite how I feel about them all.
The story turns on a dime and knocks me off my feet. Always unsure if the moral high ground. I will continue to mull over this book and it's cast of characters.
At some points I began to think over kill, much? Yet, I was invested. I wanted to know the results of these events.
I found in some ways the story cliche while obscure at other moments. With that said, there was always a twist I didn't see couldn't see coming. So it remained unique.
Back and forth I went all through the book and to tell the truth at the end I am not quite how I feel about them all.
The story turns on a dime and knocks me off my feet. Always unsure if the moral high ground. I will continue to mull over this book and it's cast of characters.
At some points I began to think over kill, much? Yet, I was invested. I wanted to know the results of these events.
I found in some ways the story cliche while obscure at other moments. With that said, there was always a twist I didn't see couldn't see coming. So it remained unique.
August 14, 2017
This was an interesting read, a man retires and moves back to the house he grew up in ,with his sister,Julie. Paul,the retiree, is happy to fix up the house and live there, where old friends are around and they can talk about the good ole' days. But some things are different, a burglar is climbing into the neighborhood houses at night, and all must shut their windows before bed. The first night Paul and son Gary go out, they are pretty drunk and Paul forgets to shut windows. Hearing a noise later he encounters a person stuffing things in his pocket. When the guy turns Paul hits him with the hammer he carried for safety, but hits very hard. From here we follow all that arises from this crime. Spirituality melds in nicely in the story, but as we learn more about Paul it becomes slightly far-fetched, he has killed before, several times. The story is written well, some characters are done nicely, as the medium ,Mary, and sister Julie.
I did receive a copy of this from author Richard Gardner fro which I can give you my thoughts, and I thank him very much for this chance.
I did receive a copy of this from author Richard Gardner fro which I can give you my thoughts, and I thank him very much for this chance.
November 28, 2017
Paul Jenkins is finally retired and decides to sell his house and move in with his sister. What Paul doesn't know is that his sister is a spiritualist and believes that the dead can and do talk. A medium who says she has a message from their mother is invited into their home. The medium passes on a strange message ... make sure all the windows are closed and locked.
Paul scoffs, but a few nights later he forgets to close one window and awakes when he hears noises in a room downstairs. He wakes his son who has been staying there to help with renovations and together they approach the burglar.
Downstairs they find a young man ransacking their house. What happens next is something that no one could guess .. and it has a profound affect on Paul and his son. Together they make a decision that will change the rest of their lives.
This is a riveting story .. of blackmail, murder, and voices of the dead. The paranormal aspect is only a small part of this tale. There are twists and turns around every corner that kept me rapidly turning pages to see what happened next. The book is very well written with some good characters, some bad ... but all are memorable.
Many thanks to the author for the advance copy of DEADLY PARTNERSHIP. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Paul scoffs, but a few nights later he forgets to close one window and awakes when he hears noises in a room downstairs. He wakes his son who has been staying there to help with renovations and together they approach the burglar.
Downstairs they find a young man ransacking their house. What happens next is something that no one could guess .. and it has a profound affect on Paul and his son. Together they make a decision that will change the rest of their lives.
This is a riveting story .. of blackmail, murder, and voices of the dead. The paranormal aspect is only a small part of this tale. There are twists and turns around every corner that kept me rapidly turning pages to see what happened next. The book is very well written with some good characters, some bad ... but all are memorable.
Many thanks to the author for the advance copy of DEADLY PARTNERSHIP. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 5, 2017
When widower Paul Jenkins leaves his executive role and the bright lights of London, he's determined to make a fresh start, and leave the secrets of his past behind.
But starting over again is not easy when the spectre of his past comes back to haunt him, as he finds himself in an ever tightening web of murder and deceit.
A lost love brings a glimmer of hope but, the secret she hides will set in motion a series of events from which there can be no turning back. How far will he go to protect his own secrets when the dead will not be silenced?
But starting over again is not easy when the spectre of his past comes back to haunt him, as he finds himself in an ever tightening web of murder and deceit.
A lost love brings a glimmer of hope but, the secret she hides will set in motion a series of events from which there can be no turning back. How far will he go to protect his own secrets when the dead will not be silenced?
October 20, 2017
Murder, Blackmail and Voices from the Spirit World
At first I was leery reading this book after all voices from the other world is not my kind of excitement and by far not my cup of tea. Was I ever wrong thinking this and so glad I said yes to Mr. Garner’s request to review his book. This was a very captivating read.
Right from the opening page I was hooked by this dark and clever storyline. The author feeds his story and builds suspense in calculating steps, drop by drop. It begins with an introduction to the main character with Paul Jenkins decisions to live with his sister Julie in their child-hood home after retirement….this may not have been a wise decision. Our first meeting with the spiritual world comes when Julie attends a séance.
After moving in Paul’s idyllic life turns into turmoil when he comes face to face with a burglar, his reaction to this intrusion had tragic consequences. It is not the first time Paul has taken matters in his own hands and it seems that those who have disappeared in the past are not completely gone….from then on we have strange occurrences, medium visits and more murders.
I enjoyed this book. It has a cracking great story with characters easy to connect with. The story provides surprises after surprises and the medium aspects are at its bare minimum. What kept me glued was wondering the outcome, what will Paul do next, who will squeal on him, will he get caught, what about his son, his sister, old friends and the riffraff Paul associates himself with, what’s next…..This story is very well-written with enough suspense to have us flipping the page at a rapid rage…that good.
At first I was leery reading this book after all voices from the other world is not my kind of excitement and by far not my cup of tea. Was I ever wrong thinking this and so glad I said yes to Mr. Garner’s request to review his book. This was a very captivating read.
Right from the opening page I was hooked by this dark and clever storyline. The author feeds his story and builds suspense in calculating steps, drop by drop. It begins with an introduction to the main character with Paul Jenkins decisions to live with his sister Julie in their child-hood home after retirement….this may not have been a wise decision. Our first meeting with the spiritual world comes when Julie attends a séance.
After moving in Paul’s idyllic life turns into turmoil when he comes face to face with a burglar, his reaction to this intrusion had tragic consequences. It is not the first time Paul has taken matters in his own hands and it seems that those who have disappeared in the past are not completely gone….from then on we have strange occurrences, medium visits and more murders.
I enjoyed this book. It has a cracking great story with characters easy to connect with. The story provides surprises after surprises and the medium aspects are at its bare minimum. What kept me glued was wondering the outcome, what will Paul do next, who will squeal on him, will he get caught, what about his son, his sister, old friends and the riffraff Paul associates himself with, what’s next…..This story is very well-written with enough suspense to have us flipping the page at a rapid rage…that good.
July 23, 2018
Excellent read.The writer has created a very complex protaganist and the fact that such violent and extreme events are set within a very normal and suburban setting makes them all the more shocking. I was really gripped from the first page to the last, it never gave up surprising me. Highly recommend.
July 16, 2017
This story is quite different; I found I could not put it down. As the title implies, there is murder and blackmail and even some psychic phenomena.
Paul Jenkins lives in Chislehurst in southeast London and has recently retired. When his son Gary approaches him to request a hefty loan for his construction business, Paul comes up with a plan. He will sell his house, move in with his sister in the family home in Petermouth and Gary can pay off the loan by doing some remodeling work for them. His sister Julie is amenable: the family home was willed to both of them and they've always gotten along well.
Julie is interested in spiritualism and after attending her first meeting, invites Mary, the medium, to their home. Mary has a warning for them from the other side: be sure to keep their windows and doors locked. They assure her that they always do.
Gary moves in with his father and aunt to start the renovations and shortly after, Julie leaves for a two-week trip to Greece. In the middle of the night, the two men hear someone in the house and sneak downstairs armed with weapons. After a violent struggle ends with disastrous results, the two men have to make a decision which will have many repercussions for them in the coming days. What are they capable of doing to protect their secrets and lies? I was reminded of the Sir Walter Scott quote: "Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive," as things get more and more complicated.
There are lots of surprising twists and turns with a the touch of the paranormal and a satisfying ending. I enjoyed the author's writing style very much, very British. Paul is an interesting, complicated character with a surprising dark side, who seems able to salve his conscience with what he thinks are well thought out reasons for his actions. Will the whole house of cards he has built come tumbling down?
Note: Richard Gardner, the author and Goodreads friend of mine, asked if I'd be interested in reading his new novel and writing a review. I was happy to do that. Thank you, Richard, for the opportunity.
Paul Jenkins lives in Chislehurst in southeast London and has recently retired. When his son Gary approaches him to request a hefty loan for his construction business, Paul comes up with a plan. He will sell his house, move in with his sister in the family home in Petermouth and Gary can pay off the loan by doing some remodeling work for them. His sister Julie is amenable: the family home was willed to both of them and they've always gotten along well.
Julie is interested in spiritualism and after attending her first meeting, invites Mary, the medium, to their home. Mary has a warning for them from the other side: be sure to keep their windows and doors locked. They assure her that they always do.
Gary moves in with his father and aunt to start the renovations and shortly after, Julie leaves for a two-week trip to Greece. In the middle of the night, the two men hear someone in the house and sneak downstairs armed with weapons. After a violent struggle ends with disastrous results, the two men have to make a decision which will have many repercussions for them in the coming days. What are they capable of doing to protect their secrets and lies? I was reminded of the Sir Walter Scott quote: "Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive," as things get more and more complicated.
There are lots of surprising twists and turns with a the touch of the paranormal and a satisfying ending. I enjoyed the author's writing style very much, very British. Paul is an interesting, complicated character with a surprising dark side, who seems able to salve his conscience with what he thinks are well thought out reasons for his actions. Will the whole house of cards he has built come tumbling down?
Note: Richard Gardner, the author and Goodreads friend of mine, asked if I'd be interested in reading his new novel and writing a review. I was happy to do that. Thank you, Richard, for the opportunity.
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December 3, 2017First, let me thank the author for giving me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Paul Jenkins , a newly retired finance director decides to shift from London to stay with his sister Julie in their ancestral home at Piedmouth. Julie is an aspiring spiritualist.Paul's son Gary has financial problems and he approaches Paul for help.Paul agrees to help his son on condition that Gary, a builder agrees to carry out renovations in their ancestral house at Piedmouth in exchange for the money. They accidentally stumble upon a burglary in their house , which ends up in an unexpected murder and the plot speeds into a maze of twists and turns.
This is basically a thriller with a paranormal touch to it , an unexpected turn of events and an unanticipated twist at the climax. I liked the story.The story line was tight with no loose ends and the narrative was precise and neatly written.The plot kept me hooked from the beginning to the end ,even though I started reading this with a slight skepticism since this is a new author for me.The characters are also well developed and in a few pages we realize that all of them are flawed in some way and not as innocent as they seem , especially Paul.
I strongly recommend this to those who love thrillers .
Paul Jenkins , a newly retired finance director decides to shift from London to stay with his sister Julie in their ancestral home at Piedmouth. Julie is an aspiring spiritualist.Paul's son Gary has financial problems and he approaches Paul for help.Paul agrees to help his son on condition that Gary, a builder agrees to carry out renovations in their ancestral house at Piedmouth in exchange for the money. They accidentally stumble upon a burglary in their house , which ends up in an unexpected murder and the plot speeds into a maze of twists and turns.
This is basically a thriller with a paranormal touch to it , an unexpected turn of events and an unanticipated twist at the climax. I liked the story.The story line was tight with no loose ends and the narrative was precise and neatly written.The plot kept me hooked from the beginning to the end ,even though I started reading this with a slight skepticism since this is a new author for me.The characters are also well developed and in a few pages we realize that all of them are flawed in some way and not as innocent as they seem , especially Paul.
I strongly recommend this to those who love thrillers .
September 29, 2017
British crime writers excel at their craft. The detective series presented by the BBC are exceptional. One knows from the beginning episode that the detectives will solve the case. With Deadly Partnership we are not so sure that the killer will be caught for this detective tale has a Stephen King style of plot. It takes a unique talent to write about seemingly normal people who are far from normal. This is one of Stephen King's specialties and it is evident in this crime story by Richard Gardner. We think we are reading about a very typical widowed and recently retired successful financial manager. "Paul was suddenly feeling a sense of loss. Being set free of his working commitments also meant that he had been robbed of his status in the world. Never again would he be in charge of a large department. People had ceased to depend on him to make decisions or tell them what to do. Although a perfectly able person, from this moment on he would be watching from the sidelines while others did the work; somebody of no importance who would spend the rest of his life doing things that didn’t matter very much." This retiree Paul Jenkins is wicked to the core. Stephen King writes his novels with the criminal/maniac/protagonist as the person to be feared. Richard Gardner has written from the killer's perspective. This switch makes every aspect of the crimes more intense for the reader. Read Deadly Partnership before it gets made into a thriller movie.
August 13, 2017
First off, I received this book from the author to review. Thank you Richard.
This is one of those books that you want to finish in one sitting. It was an amazing thriller with supernatural elements that fit right it. It revolved around a character named Paul and various parts of his family. But this isn't a typical family story. To say anymore would spoil the story.
I can see this story becoming a brilliant film with the right director.
Find a copy of this story and enjoy the way the book unfolds.
This is one of those books that you want to finish in one sitting. It was an amazing thriller with supernatural elements that fit right it. It revolved around a character named Paul and various parts of his family. But this isn't a typical family story. To say anymore would spoil the story.
I can see this story becoming a brilliant film with the right director.
Find a copy of this story and enjoy the way the book unfolds.
December 13, 2017
I received this book direct from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Please see full review at www.coffeeandtrainspotting.wordpress.com.
P.s. Excellent read!
Please see full review at www.coffeeandtrainspotting.wordpress.com.
P.s. Excellent read!
January 5, 2018
Many thanks to Richard for providing me with a free PDF copy of his book in exchange for an honest review.
Deadly Partnership is not a book I would ordinarily buy as I'm a sceptic where spiritualism is concerned. Having said that, it is only a minor part of this book and fits in well with the storyline.
Scepticism aside, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The first chapter had me hooked and I found myself unable to put it down. The story flows well and is a very easy read that took me roughly eight hours to finish.
The characters were likeable. I found myself particularly endeared to Paul despite the revelations throughout the book. Gary, Paul's son, didn't sit too well with me though, given his easy acceptance and complicity in the unfolding events. Then again considering his father's propensities I guess the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.
Overall it has an interesting plot with enough twists to keep the reader engaged right through to the end. It's not often that a book will grip me enough that I will read it in one sitting, but this one certainly did. If you enjoy a good thriller this one is most definitely for you. I can't recommend it enough.
Deadly Partnership is not a book I would ordinarily buy as I'm a sceptic where spiritualism is concerned. Having said that, it is only a minor part of this book and fits in well with the storyline.
Scepticism aside, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The first chapter had me hooked and I found myself unable to put it down. The story flows well and is a very easy read that took me roughly eight hours to finish.
The characters were likeable. I found myself particularly endeared to Paul despite the revelations throughout the book. Gary, Paul's son, didn't sit too well with me though, given his easy acceptance and complicity in the unfolding events. Then again considering his father's propensities I guess the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.
Overall it has an interesting plot with enough twists to keep the reader engaged right through to the end. It's not often that a book will grip me enough that I will read it in one sitting, but this one certainly did. If you enjoy a good thriller this one is most definitely for you. I can't recommend it enough.
August 7, 2017
A good book is when you enjoy it all the way through. A great book is when you can‘t put it down because it has drawn you in so much you just have to know what happens. This one falls into that category. Paul has just retired and decides to move back with his sister Julie to raise funds from his house to help his son Gary whose business is on its knees from his lavish spending. When an intruder breaks in, their plans have to change rather swiftly. Paul also meets an old flame from his school days and a little romance is in the air.A twist that puts Paul in a spin and a past that comes in rather useful. Brilliantly written with excellent descriptions that pitch you into the heart of the action. A little humour, a little romance. Overall a lighthearted read with nothing to put you off your dinner, even if one or two characters are not still breathing.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
December 21, 2017
Thank you, Richard Gardner, for sending me this to read.
This exceeded my expectations. It was well written and kept me guessing. The characters were well developed, but you didn't quite know the whole of them. Which is why this story was not predictable. Nobody did anything they were supposed to. Oh, and the spirit world was quite active as well.
Nice suspenseful story. Recommend.
This exceeded my expectations. It was well written and kept me guessing. The characters were well developed, but you didn't quite know the whole of them. Which is why this story was not predictable. Nobody did anything they were supposed to. Oh, and the spirit world was quite active as well.
Nice suspenseful story. Recommend.
January 23, 2018
*PDF Copy received from the author for an honest review*
Murder, Blackmail & Voices from the Spirit World” - there’s an awful lot of lies & deception going on here creating a very tangled web indeed! Despite enjoying the book I’ve found it tough to review without giving away the twists & turns in the story…& there’s certainly a lot of them…anyway here goes…
The story opens with a flashback to 1978, where prostitute Wendy is hired by “James” (obviously not his real name but who is he?) to contact business man Roland & arrange to meet him. Unluckily for Roland, it’s James who is waiting for him & poor Roland ends up six foot under…
Now onto the summer of 2011 Paul where Paul is about to retire from his job. Paul’s son Gary is in desperate need of money so to help pay off his son’s debts, Paul decides to sell his house & move in with his sister Julie. To make her more agreeable to this idea he offers to fund home improvements on their old family home, this sets in motion a chain of events that could never have been expected!
As well as murders (a surprising number as it turns out), attempted blackmail & messages from beyond the grave there’s also a touch of romance in the air for Paul but sadly for him that takes a rather unexpected turn to say the least.
I didn’t like Paul as a person but I did like the portrayal of his character (hope that makes sense) On the face of it he would appear to be just an ordinary middle-aged man but boy was he hiding a different side! I wasn’t sure what to make of his son Gary, at times I found it hard to believe that he would be so compliant with his dad’s plans – I wasn’t sure whether he was a devoted son or just a bit too easily led!
There’s a lot of twists in the story. I wasn’t expecting things to finish as they did for Paul but then I also had myself convinced that Wendy Cooper, Julie’s next-door neighbour, was going to be the Wendy of the 1978 episode!
The aftermath of the events for the main characters was summed up nicely in the final chapter & concluded everything satisfactorily. My only (slight) criticism was that the messages passed to Julie by the medium seemed rather too specific to my mind.
If I had had a hint of all the lies, secrets, coincidences, never mind all the murders, that occur in this book, in all honesty I think I would have thought that I was in for a preposterous & OTT tale but it isn’t. It works. Everything pulls together nicely & even Paul’s actions seem perfectly logical when viewed through his eyes. A good read indeed, thank you for sharing it.
Murder, Blackmail & Voices from the Spirit World” - there’s an awful lot of lies & deception going on here creating a very tangled web indeed! Despite enjoying the book I’ve found it tough to review without giving away the twists & turns in the story…& there’s certainly a lot of them…anyway here goes…
The story opens with a flashback to 1978, where prostitute Wendy is hired by “James” (obviously not his real name but who is he?) to contact business man Roland & arrange to meet him. Unluckily for Roland, it’s James who is waiting for him & poor Roland ends up six foot under…
Now onto the summer of 2011 Paul where Paul is about to retire from his job. Paul’s son Gary is in desperate need of money so to help pay off his son’s debts, Paul decides to sell his house & move in with his sister Julie. To make her more agreeable to this idea he offers to fund home improvements on their old family home, this sets in motion a chain of events that could never have been expected!
As well as murders (a surprising number as it turns out), attempted blackmail & messages from beyond the grave there’s also a touch of romance in the air for Paul but sadly for him that takes a rather unexpected turn to say the least.
I didn’t like Paul as a person but I did like the portrayal of his character (hope that makes sense) On the face of it he would appear to be just an ordinary middle-aged man but boy was he hiding a different side! I wasn’t sure what to make of his son Gary, at times I found it hard to believe that he would be so compliant with his dad’s plans – I wasn’t sure whether he was a devoted son or just a bit too easily led!
There’s a lot of twists in the story. I wasn’t expecting things to finish as they did for Paul but then I also had myself convinced that Wendy Cooper, Julie’s next-door neighbour, was going to be the Wendy of the 1978 episode!
The aftermath of the events for the main characters was summed up nicely in the final chapter & concluded everything satisfactorily. My only (slight) criticism was that the messages passed to Julie by the medium seemed rather too specific to my mind.
If I had had a hint of all the lies, secrets, coincidences, never mind all the murders, that occur in this book, in all honesty I think I would have thought that I was in for a preposterous & OTT tale but it isn’t. It works. Everything pulls together nicely & even Paul’s actions seem perfectly logical when viewed through his eyes. A good read indeed, thank you for sharing it.
January 31, 2018
This was my first introduction to the writings of Richard Gardner! I was asked to read and review Deadly Partnership: Murder, Blackmail and Voices from the Spirit World by the author.
Needless to say, a few pages into the book, I was hooked!
The first chapter teases the reader into a ‘where is this going?’ thought. We find a man set to retire from a seemingly secure London job as an executive, to the quiet of a seaside town where his sister lives. Paul Jenkins is a widower, with a grown son and grandchildren. Why leave the flat in London to start over?
We learn things are not always as they seem, soon into the book we find the reunion with his unmarried sister Julie is, on the surface, pleasant. But Julie dabbles in the world of mediums, and spiritualism, something Paul scoffs at.
Paul shares his ideas of renovating the house that he and Julie own from their deceased parents. It does not take Julie long to agree to go on holiday while Paul and his son Gary see to the work. Before she leaves, Julie mentions that an old acquaintance of Paul’s still lives in the town, and has asked about him. Something moves in Paul’s mind, and when Julie is off to Greece, he eventually meets up with this woman, someone he was involved with before going off to university.
Through twists and turns, the plot moves from adjusting to retirement, to memories of old times, and further into a spiral of happenings which cause the reader to leap ahead to the next ‘what if?”
There are secrets and hints of resolution throughout. The book moves quickly, the chapters flow into each other one after the other. Surely this clue was too evident, the other clue meaningless.
It was a captivating read…
Needless to say, a few pages into the book, I was hooked!
The first chapter teases the reader into a ‘where is this going?’ thought. We find a man set to retire from a seemingly secure London job as an executive, to the quiet of a seaside town where his sister lives. Paul Jenkins is a widower, with a grown son and grandchildren. Why leave the flat in London to start over?
We learn things are not always as they seem, soon into the book we find the reunion with his unmarried sister Julie is, on the surface, pleasant. But Julie dabbles in the world of mediums, and spiritualism, something Paul scoffs at.
Paul shares his ideas of renovating the house that he and Julie own from their deceased parents. It does not take Julie long to agree to go on holiday while Paul and his son Gary see to the work. Before she leaves, Julie mentions that an old acquaintance of Paul’s still lives in the town, and has asked about him. Something moves in Paul’s mind, and when Julie is off to Greece, he eventually meets up with this woman, someone he was involved with before going off to university.
Through twists and turns, the plot moves from adjusting to retirement, to memories of old times, and further into a spiral of happenings which cause the reader to leap ahead to the next ‘what if?”
There are secrets and hints of resolution throughout. The book moves quickly, the chapters flow into each other one after the other. Surely this clue was too evident, the other clue meaningless.
It was a captivating read…
January 17, 2018
I was given this copy by the author in exchange for a review.
I really enjoyed the flow of this story. I felt the characters come to life, right from the start. However, as with any book, you only know about the characters what the writer tells you.
I thought I had a good handle on Paul – boy, was I surprised, yet I still liked him. But I really enjoyed the dark twists in here.
I did find some loose ends that I would have liked answered; had they been, I probably would have given this book 5 stars. However, it is certainly a high 4-star for me. I would definitely read other books by this author.
I really enjoyed the flow of this story. I felt the characters come to life, right from the start. However, as with any book, you only know about the characters what the writer tells you.
I thought I had a good handle on Paul – boy, was I surprised, yet I still liked him. But I really enjoyed the dark twists in here.
I did find some loose ends that I would have liked answered; had they been, I probably would have given this book 5 stars. However, it is certainly a high 4-star for me. I would definitely read other books by this author.
June 8, 2018
What an intense thriller!
Deadly Partnership is a rollercoaster of combined subgenres. It has an ominous beginning that segues into a mystery with paranormal add ins and evolves into a page-turner of a thriller... or, more aptly, thrill ride! Gardner gives us flawed, realistic characters that steadily develop with the steady pace of the story. Nothing and no one is quite what they seem.
Although the ending was a bit tidy for the dark climax of the story, I still find it to be a thoroughly entertaining read!
Highly recommended for those who enjoy a good thriller as well as those who love genre benders. Very fun story.
Deadly Partnership is a rollercoaster of combined subgenres. It has an ominous beginning that segues into a mystery with paranormal add ins and evolves into a page-turner of a thriller... or, more aptly, thrill ride! Gardner gives us flawed, realistic characters that steadily develop with the steady pace of the story. Nothing and no one is quite what they seem.
Although the ending was a bit tidy for the dark climax of the story, I still find it to be a thoroughly entertaining read!
Highly recommended for those who enjoy a good thriller as well as those who love genre benders. Very fun story.
January 10, 2018
I really liked this book. It gave you a little bit of everything that you are looking for in a good book, romance, mystery and a great main character. I found that I just couldn't put it down once I started reading it.
January 8, 2018
Paul retires and decides to move back into his childhood home with his sister Julie. He's happy to fix up the house and live there, hang out with ol' buddies, drink and talk about days gone by. There is a burglar sneaking through windows into people's houses at night. One night when Paul and his son Gary get drunk and Paul forgets to shut the windows the burglar sneaks in and Paul wakes up to find someone sneaking through drawers in the dining room. The guy turns around and Paul panics, he had picked up a hammer on the way to the dining room for protection, and he swings the hammer and hits him very hard, killing him. This story follows events that happen relating to that.
I really did enjoy the plot, with needing to know what was going to happen as a result. It's more of a slow-paced book but in a way that kept me hooked and interested in what was happening. I didn't like really anyone in the book, but that seems to be part of the point. At some points I would think Paul isn't so bad, I actually like him and understand him. Then not too long after i'd be hating him again. It definitely had me thinking.
It's hard trying to write a review for this book simply because I don't want to spoil anything. Also saying it's a mystery sounds wrong but I don't know how else to describe it. You often know what's happened, you're following who did it, it isn't about trying to find out who did what, you already know. It's about finding out consequences, learning about different characters, and making you think about events and people. I also enjoyed finding out more pieces I didn't know existed to the puzzle and I thought the ending really fit the story. Mystery and spiritualism melded really nicely. There is a psychic who can talk to spirits and I loved how that was weaved into the story.
This book isn't necessarily perfect but I really enjoyed it over-all. It kept me interested, needing to know what was going to happen, and got me thinking. If it sounds interesting to you i'd definitely say give it shot!
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I really did enjoy the plot, with needing to know what was going to happen as a result. It's more of a slow-paced book but in a way that kept me hooked and interested in what was happening. I didn't like really anyone in the book, but that seems to be part of the point. At some points I would think Paul isn't so bad, I actually like him and understand him. Then not too long after i'd be hating him again. It definitely had me thinking.
It's hard trying to write a review for this book simply because I don't want to spoil anything. Also saying it's a mystery sounds wrong but I don't know how else to describe it. You often know what's happened, you're following who did it, it isn't about trying to find out who did what, you already know. It's about finding out consequences, learning about different characters, and making you think about events and people. I also enjoyed finding out more pieces I didn't know existed to the puzzle and I thought the ending really fit the story. Mystery and spiritualism melded really nicely. There is a psychic who can talk to spirits and I loved how that was weaved into the story.
This book isn't necessarily perfect but I really enjoyed it over-all. It kept me interested, needing to know what was going to happen, and got me thinking. If it sounds interesting to you i'd definitely say give it shot!
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September 22, 2017
What an absolutely amazing piece of literature! I really enjoyed the book and was shocked so many times. It is so important, regardless of what happens to tell the truth! Even if it means giving up your freedom. Paul found out the hard way and could not handle what he had done. When Gary told his dad they were serial killers, how Could Chris know that his father was a serial killer and he had inadvertently helped his dad . It will be nice to see what happens with Julie now. Is she going to become a gifted psychic and help others? Or will she hide allowing her gift to descend into a deep place never to be used again. Time will have to reveal what will happen
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
November 7, 2017
I found this book to be a little of everything I like in a ghost story. Intriguing mystery. Crying spirit. And this out for vengeance against the living and the dead. As this was a new author to me I was surprised at how life like his characters always were along with the settings they were in. I would say pick up a give this book a chance you won’t regret it.
May 3, 2018
I found this book to be quite interesting. Definately did not expect the ending for Paul though. It was a well paced storyline with well thought out characters, especially the nosey neighbour cause I'm sure we all have one of those
February 4, 2018
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for a honest review *
Wow, where to start? This is a book like I have never read before. The paranormal twist is awesome and I love how bodies kept piling up.
The character development is wonderful and relatable. My only complaint is I feel the ending was slightly rushed. However, this book does completely wrap up the end and could have a second part that I would love to read.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
Wow, where to start? This is a book like I have never read before. The paranormal twist is awesome and I love how bodies kept piling up.
The character development is wonderful and relatable. My only complaint is I feel the ending was slightly rushed. However, this book does completely wrap up the end and could have a second part that I would love to read.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
January 6, 2018
With a first chapter that reminded me of a Peter James book, Deadly Partnership grips the reader instantly and refuses to let go. I was left with my mouth agape at the end of chapter 1 as the scene was set for a thrilling read.
I loved the way the characters were portrayed, although I didn't particularly like any of them. When I first read about Paul and his son, Gary, I felt as though Gary was taking advantage of his father's generosity by asking for more money to keep his business afloat. My feelings soon changed as things progressed, as it became clear that Paul remained in control of every situation he was put in.
Paul plans to move in with his sister, Julie, who currently lives in the family home. When Julie becomes involved in spiritualist meetings, the resident medium warns her about letting Paul move in. Julie doesn't pay much attention to this warning and allows Paul and Gary to renovate the house, but Julie gets more than she bargained for when a restless spirit starts appearing. With some people willing to do anything to keep their secrets buried, will this spirit ever be able to rest in peace?
The paranormal edge gave this thriller a little something extra and just shows that you might be able to fool the living but you can't run away from the dead. A hugely enjoyable novel that continued to surprise me at every turn.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I loved the way the characters were portrayed, although I didn't particularly like any of them. When I first read about Paul and his son, Gary, I felt as though Gary was taking advantage of his father's generosity by asking for more money to keep his business afloat. My feelings soon changed as things progressed, as it became clear that Paul remained in control of every situation he was put in.
Paul plans to move in with his sister, Julie, who currently lives in the family home. When Julie becomes involved in spiritualist meetings, the resident medium warns her about letting Paul move in. Julie doesn't pay much attention to this warning and allows Paul and Gary to renovate the house, but Julie gets more than she bargained for when a restless spirit starts appearing. With some people willing to do anything to keep their secrets buried, will this spirit ever be able to rest in peace?
The paranormal edge gave this thriller a little something extra and just shows that you might be able to fool the living but you can't run away from the dead. A hugely enjoyable novel that continued to surprise me at every turn.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 3, 2017
Julie thinks she knows her brother but he has many hidden secrets, in fact one secret is hidden even from Paul himself.
I wonder, does murder get easier over time?
Paul has recently retired and been approached by his son Gary for a loan. He has already given Gary money in the past which he has yet to pay back but decides he will help him out of his current financial troubles by having him work for the money. Paul's plan is to sell off his home, use some of the money to make improvements to his sister Julie's home and live with her. His son will get paid to work on the house and it's a win win situation for all.
Not long after arriving, a medium has a vision of something horrible that happens on the property and issues a warning to make sure the house is locked up. This warning is not heeded and when a break in goes badly Paul's life will never be the same. As one bad choice leads to another Paul and Gary get themselves deeper and deeper into trouble.
This was a fun read and I particularly enjoyed the paranormal aspect.
I received a complimentary copy for review
I wonder, does murder get easier over time?
Paul has recently retired and been approached by his son Gary for a loan. He has already given Gary money in the past which he has yet to pay back but decides he will help him out of his current financial troubles by having him work for the money. Paul's plan is to sell off his home, use some of the money to make improvements to his sister Julie's home and live with her. His son will get paid to work on the house and it's a win win situation for all.
Not long after arriving, a medium has a vision of something horrible that happens on the property and issues a warning to make sure the house is locked up. This warning is not heeded and when a break in goes badly Paul's life will never be the same. As one bad choice leads to another Paul and Gary get themselves deeper and deeper into trouble.
This was a fun read and I particularly enjoyed the paranormal aspect.
I received a complimentary copy for review
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