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A Raines & Shaw Thriller #2
The Blasphemer
An electrifying thriller from a USA TODAY bestselling author…
Everybody wants him dead. She’s the only one who can keep him alive…
Abraham Khan is a Muslim who dreams of changing the world. He’s liberal, pro-Western and determined to speak out against the extremists who have hijacked his religion.
That makes him a target, and the consequences hit him fast and hard — an armed fanatic smashes into his home one evening, trying to kill him. He survives the harrowing attempt, just barely, but will he survive the next one?
Maya Raines is the special operative brought in to protect Abraham. She is tough and committed. The very best at what she does. Always one step ahead of the threat.
But Abraham is no ordinary principal — he will not hide, and he will not stay silent. And as rage explodes on the streets and the nation is propelled to the brink, Maya will have to ask herself the hardest question of all: how far would you go to protect one man’s right to speak?
‘High-octane international intrigue.’
—Crime Watch
‘An engaging thriller that investigates the psychology of fanaticism.’
—San Francisco Book Review
‘Thought-provoking themes. Exciting action.’
—The Sun
‘Bullet-whizzing, knife-slicing action. The surveillance techniques and intelligence analysis bring it to life.’
—The Star
‘A fair and balanced account of what's really shaping the Islamic world today.’
—The Malaysian Insider
‘A powerful new voice in adventure stories.’
—Pendulum Press
‘A cracking thriller.’
—The TBR Pile
‘Realistic and tightly drawn.’
—Aust Crime Fiction
‘Has the pacing of an action movie.’
—The Kindle Book Review
‘An intriguing exploration of free speech and violent reprisal.’
—Midwest Book Review
‘A riveting thriller. Thoughtful and provocative.’
—Beattie's Book Blog
‘Fight scenes that play out through the pages like a ballet of words.’
—Write Today
‘A must for lovers of the action tale.’
—Boogle Books
‘Fast-paced, high-calibre writing.’
—Lighthouse Media One
Everybody wants him dead. She’s the only one who can keep him alive…
Abraham Khan is a Muslim who dreams of changing the world. He’s liberal, pro-Western and determined to speak out against the extremists who have hijacked his religion.
That makes him a target, and the consequences hit him fast and hard — an armed fanatic smashes into his home one evening, trying to kill him. He survives the harrowing attempt, just barely, but will he survive the next one?
Maya Raines is the special operative brought in to protect Abraham. She is tough and committed. The very best at what she does. Always one step ahead of the threat.
But Abraham is no ordinary principal — he will not hide, and he will not stay silent. And as rage explodes on the streets and the nation is propelled to the brink, Maya will have to ask herself the hardest question of all: how far would you go to protect one man’s right to speak?
‘High-octane international intrigue.’
—Crime Watch
‘An engaging thriller that investigates the psychology of fanaticism.’
—San Francisco Book Review
‘Thought-provoking themes. Exciting action.’
—The Sun
‘Bullet-whizzing, knife-slicing action. The surveillance techniques and intelligence analysis bring it to life.’
—The Star
‘A fair and balanced account of what's really shaping the Islamic world today.’
—The Malaysian Insider
‘A powerful new voice in adventure stories.’
—Pendulum Press
‘A cracking thriller.’
—The TBR Pile
‘Realistic and tightly drawn.’
—Aust Crime Fiction
‘Has the pacing of an action movie.’
—The Kindle Book Review
‘An intriguing exploration of free speech and violent reprisal.’
—Midwest Book Review
‘A riveting thriller. Thoughtful and provocative.’
—Beattie's Book Blog
‘Fight scenes that play out through the pages like a ballet of words.’
—Write Today
‘A must for lovers of the action tale.’
—Boogle Books
‘Fast-paced, high-calibre writing.’
—Lighthouse Media One
322 pages, ebook
First published December 27, 2011
153 people are currently reading
756 people want to read
About the author
John Ling
11 books37 followersJohn Ling is the author of international thrillers that have appeared on the USA Today and Amazon bestseller lists.
He was born into an ethnic Chinese family and raised as a Christian in Muslim-majority Malaysia. He now lives in New Zealand. His exotic cultural background, straddling East and West, informs his storytelling.
He was born into an ethnic Chinese family and raised as a Christian in Muslim-majority Malaysia. He now lives in New Zealand. His exotic cultural background, straddling East and West, informs his storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
April 29, 2015
Freedom has a price, and it can be ugly.
BOOK #2 in Carmen-Downloads-20-Free-Ebooks-Onto-Her-Kindle-Day. More widely known as March 3rd, 2015.
I feel like this is the author's whole message, but he could have done us a favor and just tweeted it or something, instead of writing this tedious book.
Abraham Kahn has written a book. The book condemns radical Islam or mocks Muhammad or... something. Details unclear. Then a terrorist named Samir breaks into Abraham's home in order to murder him and his wife in the name of Allah. He fails. What follows is basically Abraham on the run from crazies and under the protection of a woman named Maya and her group of bodyguards.
It's very boring. Ling seems to just be lecturing us or teaching us about inter-Muslim conflict, Western-Muslim conflict, the inner workings of terrorism, and junk psychology that seems to be ripped from textbooks and self-help books.
I can't even count the number of times characters stop what little they are doing in the ersatz plot in order to explain (out loud or in their head) the psychology or history of something in great detail. Boring as hell.
There is ZERO character development here. ZERO. There is a handful of characters and I have no idea what really makes them tick, Ling does not focus at all on making characters 3D or even bothering to give them a personality.
The machismo, paranoia, and pseudo-psychology that fills the book don't help it any.
Lastly, not only do you have to deal with all this, but there is also the kneecapping and then throat-slitting of an 8-year-old boy in this novel. That is also being filmed while the murderers say "Allahu akbar." This is very distasteful and NOT something I want to read about. Children getting tortured, killed or raped is pretty much an instant close-the-book for me. However, I did finish this novel.
Tl;dr - Avoid at all costs.
I got this for free on my Kindle by just browsing through Amazon, they were having a special. This was entry #2 in Carmen-Downloads-20-Free-Ebooks-Onto-Her-Kindle-Day. More widely known as March 3rd, 2015.
BOOK #2 in Carmen-Downloads-20-Free-Ebooks-Onto-Her-Kindle-Day. More widely known as March 3rd, 2015.
I feel like this is the author's whole message, but he could have done us a favor and just tweeted it or something, instead of writing this tedious book.
Abraham Kahn has written a book. The book condemns radical Islam or mocks Muhammad or... something. Details unclear. Then a terrorist named Samir breaks into Abraham's home in order to murder him and his wife in the name of Allah. He fails. What follows is basically Abraham on the run from crazies and under the protection of a woman named Maya and her group of bodyguards.
It's very boring. Ling seems to just be lecturing us or teaching us about inter-Muslim conflict, Western-Muslim conflict, the inner workings of terrorism, and junk psychology that seems to be ripped from textbooks and self-help books.
I can't even count the number of times characters stop what little they are doing in the ersatz plot in order to explain (out loud or in their head) the psychology or history of something in great detail. Boring as hell.
There is ZERO character development here. ZERO. There is a handful of characters and I have no idea what really makes them tick, Ling does not focus at all on making characters 3D or even bothering to give them a personality.
The machismo, paranoia, and pseudo-psychology that fills the book don't help it any.
Lastly, not only do you have to deal with all this, but there is also the kneecapping and then throat-slitting of an 8-year-old boy in this novel. That is also being filmed while the murderers say "Allahu akbar." This is very distasteful and NOT something I want to read about. Children getting tortured, killed or raped is pretty much an instant close-the-book for me. However, I did finish this novel.
Tl;dr - Avoid at all costs.
I got this for free on my Kindle by just browsing through Amazon, they were having a special. This was entry #2 in Carmen-Downloads-20-Free-Ebooks-Onto-Her-Kindle-Day. More widely known as March 3rd, 2015.
January 22, 2012
You don't really expect a fast-paced action thriller to take place in the sleepy antipodean nation of New Zealand, and yet John Ling, a Malaysian-born Kiwi, has made it work.
In The Blasphemer, a Muslim author named Abraham Khan has written a very controversial book very much akin to Salman Rushdie's Satanic Verses. But Khan is no Rushdie. I won't tell you why (spoilers!) but even the author himself claims the main inspiration for the character is the feminist writer, Taslima Nasrin, who is a far cry from Salman Rushdie.
It goes without saying that Khan is then targeted by extremists. Enter Maya Raines, who is assigned by the New Zealand police to protect Khan and his wife, Belinda Freeman, after a failed suicide attack almost kills them both.
John Ling then goes on to weave a fast-placed story that includes drugs, thrall-like Somalis, two hired assassins (with the names Devlin and Emmerich; see if you can catch the reference) and a mysterious man with an aim to create Mayhem and Mischief.
The action scenes are taut and written well with good detail. And with good reason. The author spent some time interviewing members of special forces, and it shows. John Ling describes the action scenes clearly and with great detail but it never feels like he is being didactic.
The other main character in the novel, that of Maya Raines, should be well received by lovers of strong female leads. She is a no-nonsense, professional operator and knows how to get her job done. She's not two dimensional either as we learn that she has had some personal trouble with her mother, Dierdre, who incidentally happens to be her supervisor in her mission.
On the whole, a great fun, fast-paced read. I can't wait to read the sequel, of which the ending of The Blasphemer strongly suggests.
The book also contains some essays and excerpts of aborted novels. The essays cover interesting topics and issues such as Shiites in Malaysia and the Arab Spring but the essays are too short and one is left wanting after reading them.
The excerpts of John Ling's aborted novels are also interesting but one gets the sense that they are only there to pad out the book. Also, if they are abandoned novels, why should the reader want to read those excerpts, because it is clear the author does not intend to finish them. If anything, these extras are not detriments to the novel and can be considered like the "Bonus Extras" in a movie DVD.
As a final note, I think it is interesting that while both Taslima Nasrin and Salman Rushdie were Muslim turned Atheists, Abraham Khan remains Muslim even after he publishes his book.
In The Blasphemer, a Muslim author named Abraham Khan has written a very controversial book very much akin to Salman Rushdie's Satanic Verses. But Khan is no Rushdie. I won't tell you why (spoilers!) but even the author himself claims the main inspiration for the character is the feminist writer, Taslima Nasrin, who is a far cry from Salman Rushdie.
It goes without saying that Khan is then targeted by extremists. Enter Maya Raines, who is assigned by the New Zealand police to protect Khan and his wife, Belinda Freeman, after a failed suicide attack almost kills them both.
John Ling then goes on to weave a fast-placed story that includes drugs, thrall-like Somalis, two hired assassins (with the names Devlin and Emmerich; see if you can catch the reference) and a mysterious man with an aim to create Mayhem and Mischief.
The action scenes are taut and written well with good detail. And with good reason. The author spent some time interviewing members of special forces, and it shows. John Ling describes the action scenes clearly and with great detail but it never feels like he is being didactic.
The other main character in the novel, that of Maya Raines, should be well received by lovers of strong female leads. She is a no-nonsense, professional operator and knows how to get her job done. She's not two dimensional either as we learn that she has had some personal trouble with her mother, Dierdre, who incidentally happens to be her supervisor in her mission.
On the whole, a great fun, fast-paced read. I can't wait to read the sequel, of which the ending of The Blasphemer strongly suggests.
The book also contains some essays and excerpts of aborted novels. The essays cover interesting topics and issues such as Shiites in Malaysia and the Arab Spring but the essays are too short and one is left wanting after reading them.
The excerpts of John Ling's aborted novels are also interesting but one gets the sense that they are only there to pad out the book. Also, if they are abandoned novels, why should the reader want to read those excerpts, because it is clear the author does not intend to finish them. If anything, these extras are not detriments to the novel and can be considered like the "Bonus Extras" in a movie DVD.
As a final note, I think it is interesting that while both Taslima Nasrin and Salman Rushdie were Muslim turned Atheists, Abraham Khan remains Muslim even after he publishes his book.
January 18, 2012
John Ling delivers an exceptional story full of intrigue, danger and excitement.
The Blasphemer is set in New Zealand, where you wouldn't normally associate such situations occuring, but from the first couple of pages, I was convinced. Mr. Ling expertly draws for the reader the seedier, darker belly of the country and the people from all walks of life who inhabit it. He focuses on the frightening aspects of racism and fanatical religious ideas that is harboured in a scarily large number of us. After reading The Blasphemer, I was struck with the thought of how we're all capable of these feelings - it's how we deal and accept each other that sets us apart from the ones who glory in harming others for 'the greater good'. His heroine Maya, is a kick-ass character who I'm itching to learn more about. I hope to see more of her in the future.
This is an intelligent read which gripped me by the throat and wouldn't let me go until long after I'd finished it. I can't wait to read more by this talented new author. John Ling is a writer to keep an eye on.
The Blasphemer is set in New Zealand, where you wouldn't normally associate such situations occuring, but from the first couple of pages, I was convinced. Mr. Ling expertly draws for the reader the seedier, darker belly of the country and the people from all walks of life who inhabit it. He focuses on the frightening aspects of racism and fanatical religious ideas that is harboured in a scarily large number of us. After reading The Blasphemer, I was struck with the thought of how we're all capable of these feelings - it's how we deal and accept each other that sets us apart from the ones who glory in harming others for 'the greater good'. His heroine Maya, is a kick-ass character who I'm itching to learn more about. I hope to see more of her in the future.
This is an intelligent read which gripped me by the throat and wouldn't let me go until long after I'd finished it. I can't wait to read more by this talented new author. John Ling is a writer to keep an eye on.
June 5, 2013
This was a different type of read for me since i usually don't read books based on political issues, but i have no regrets. I was captured from the very beginning all the way to the end. The author did a great job writing this book and i was able to vividly picture the scenes that played out. You can tell that the author did his research. While reading you couldn't help but look back on the things that have happened such as 9/11 and even the most recent like the Boston bombing. I was somewhat disappointed in the ending and look forward to a sequel. Excellent read and would definitely suggest this to others.
November 28, 2014
Having read Fallen Angel and been very critical of it, the author John Ling wrote to me and offered me my money back. This was an amazing thing to do and showed what a class man he is. I refused so he sent me a copy of The Blasphemer instead which I really enjoyed. The difference between the books was the time available in the longer book to develop both the story and the characters. Less action but a far better and believable story. Although set in quiet New Zealand, a country I love, the story has enough action to keep you interested throughout. John is an author to keep an eye on.
January 27, 2012
Could not finish this book....
December 11, 2017
I got this as a e book for my laptop from the author in exchange for a honest review. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. It was full of action and adventure. It is my second book that I reviewed by this author. I hope to read and review more books written by him.
March 27, 2012
I must say, I don’t normally go for books themed around socio-political issues, but this one really captured my interest and imagination. Ling vividly depicts the tensions between Muslims and the Western world, as well as the infighting within Islam, making these very real and very current issues both accessible and intriguing. I particularly enjoy the parallels Ling drew between his fictional characters and real-life individuals, and the balanced, neutral manner in which he introduces the issues, approaching the argument from multiple viewpoints.
The story starts off with Abraham’s attempted assassination, grabbing you by the throat from the get-go. This choke-hold remains in place for the whole of the book, never loosening, until I was literally breathless by the end of the story, but still panting for more! The prose is tight, the writing fast-paced. Few words are wasted in descriptive narration. Ling plops his readers down in the thick of the action, making them feel like an active participant in unfolding events. The short chapters ensure speedy reading, making this a page-turner that will keep you reading long after you should really be asleep/at work.
The novel is set in New Zealand, a country where you wouldn’t expect to have much crime, much less escalating racial tensions, riots, assassination attempts, and acts of terrorism. Perhaps it is the unlikeliness, but plausibility, of it all, that kept me riveted. NZ has always been one of those places I’d love to move to, and Ling’s novel has only solidified the fact. He paints a beautiful but real picture of the country: clean, safe, naturally pristine. Sure, there are terrorists, racists, and criminals, but what country doesn’t have them? And as a Malaysian, I enjoyed the references to the homeland, including the little nuggets of controversy that is sure to ignite some debate. The ending of The Blasphemer hints strongly at a sequel set in Malaysia. That alone sells the next book for me!
My one complaint about the book is its ending. After a guns-blazin’, pulse-pounding showdown, it kind of just fizzled out at the end: the main plot, to protect the principal, seems to be resolved, but not quite to my satisfaction. There are several loose ends that remain unresolved. Rather than a ‘the end,’ it read more like a ‘to be continued,’ like the doof-doof end of an episode of Eastenders.
I would have also liked to have seen more character development. The story was told from multiple viewpoints, offering plenty of opportunity to develop key players. Maya Raines seems like a compelling heroine, one still haunted by the death of her father, but she seemed a bit overshadowed by all the action and commotion going on all around her. Nevertheless, this lack of character development detracted little from the thrill of reading this high-octane thriller.
Perhaps all these loose ends will be tied up in the second book? Ooh, I can’t wait!
The Blasphemer is a heart-stopping roller coaster ride that addresses some intriguing current issues, centred around the controversial question: what price would you pay for freedom of speech?
The story starts off with Abraham’s attempted assassination, grabbing you by the throat from the get-go. This choke-hold remains in place for the whole of the book, never loosening, until I was literally breathless by the end of the story, but still panting for more! The prose is tight, the writing fast-paced. Few words are wasted in descriptive narration. Ling plops his readers down in the thick of the action, making them feel like an active participant in unfolding events. The short chapters ensure speedy reading, making this a page-turner that will keep you reading long after you should really be asleep/at work.
The novel is set in New Zealand, a country where you wouldn’t expect to have much crime, much less escalating racial tensions, riots, assassination attempts, and acts of terrorism. Perhaps it is the unlikeliness, but plausibility, of it all, that kept me riveted. NZ has always been one of those places I’d love to move to, and Ling’s novel has only solidified the fact. He paints a beautiful but real picture of the country: clean, safe, naturally pristine. Sure, there are terrorists, racists, and criminals, but what country doesn’t have them? And as a Malaysian, I enjoyed the references to the homeland, including the little nuggets of controversy that is sure to ignite some debate. The ending of The Blasphemer hints strongly at a sequel set in Malaysia. That alone sells the next book for me!
My one complaint about the book is its ending. After a guns-blazin’, pulse-pounding showdown, it kind of just fizzled out at the end: the main plot, to protect the principal, seems to be resolved, but not quite to my satisfaction. There are several loose ends that remain unresolved. Rather than a ‘the end,’ it read more like a ‘to be continued,’ like the doof-doof end of an episode of Eastenders.
I would have also liked to have seen more character development. The story was told from multiple viewpoints, offering plenty of opportunity to develop key players. Maya Raines seems like a compelling heroine, one still haunted by the death of her father, but she seemed a bit overshadowed by all the action and commotion going on all around her. Nevertheless, this lack of character development detracted little from the thrill of reading this high-octane thriller.
Perhaps all these loose ends will be tied up in the second book? Ooh, I can’t wait!
The Blasphemer is a heart-stopping roller coaster ride that addresses some intriguing current issues, centred around the controversial question: what price would you pay for freedom of speech?
November 15, 2014
Samir Ziad Jarrah (37, mujahid, holy warrior, legal counselor) had plans to kill Abraham Khan (Muslim, writer) & Belinda Freeman-Khan (agnostic) (wife).
The gun that he had bought did not work. The couple was saved.
The police arrived & tazered him. Samir was taken away.
Abraham Khan & Belinda Freeman-Khan are now in a safe-secure facility in Pacifica being protected 24/7 by Section 1 elite: Maya Raines & Noah Sanderson. Dashiell Kanawa & Arthur Cruden will meet the 2 there. Detective Inspector Gabrielle Tomasi was there also a liaison. Maya knew her from the past & did not like her.
Deirdre Raines (mother, boss, aka Dragon Lady, Ice Queen, Mrs. Panther) kept in contact with Maya.
Deirdre informed her Adam Larsen (Maya former partner) was coming on board also.
Adam had an informant Tong Kok Tai (street drug dealer).
Abraham Khan was not liked in the real/political world. There were several PPL out there who would like to take him out.
What will happen to Magellan (professional assassin, drug dealer, aka Caleb)?
What will happen to Devlin (Al-Shukur)?
What will happen to Sofia Emmerich (Al-Shukur)?
1 of my best grad classes ever neuro-linguistics programming (NLP).
Since I’m a retired Vietnam era Army Veteran, I think you know which side I am on. I don’t envy my brothers/sisters all branches who are presently 2014, over in Afghanistan, Iraq, & South Korea.
Terrorists have been around since shortly after Adam & Eve progression. Religious war have been going on since then also.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a powerful exciting very well written everything you could ask for cloak-&-dagger; covert operations; & bait-&-switch book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great movie, animated cartoon, PP presentation or paid-per-view mini TV series (A & E, History channel). To be continued? There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Story Cartel)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The gun that he had bought did not work. The couple was saved.
The police arrived & tazered him. Samir was taken away.
Abraham Khan & Belinda Freeman-Khan are now in a safe-secure facility in Pacifica being protected 24/7 by Section 1 elite: Maya Raines & Noah Sanderson. Dashiell Kanawa & Arthur Cruden will meet the 2 there. Detective Inspector Gabrielle Tomasi was there also a liaison. Maya knew her from the past & did not like her.
Deirdre Raines (mother, boss, aka Dragon Lady, Ice Queen, Mrs. Panther) kept in contact with Maya.
Deirdre informed her Adam Larsen (Maya former partner) was coming on board also.
Adam had an informant Tong Kok Tai (street drug dealer).
Abraham Khan was not liked in the real/political world. There were several PPL out there who would like to take him out.
What will happen to Magellan (professional assassin, drug dealer, aka Caleb)?
What will happen to Devlin (Al-Shukur)?
What will happen to Sofia Emmerich (Al-Shukur)?
1 of my best grad classes ever neuro-linguistics programming (NLP).
Since I’m a retired Vietnam era Army Veteran, I think you know which side I am on. I don’t envy my brothers/sisters all branches who are presently 2014, over in Afghanistan, Iraq, & South Korea.
Terrorists have been around since shortly after Adam & Eve progression. Religious war have been going on since then also.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a powerful exciting very well written everything you could ask for cloak-&-dagger; covert operations; & bait-&-switch book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great movie, animated cartoon, PP presentation or paid-per-view mini TV series (A & E, History channel). To be continued? There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Story Cartel)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 20, 2013
This is not the usual genre of book that I enjoy, but having been recommended to me a number of times, I decided to give it a go. The story centres on Abraham Khan, a Muslim himself, and the author of a controversial eBook condemning radical Islam. He immediately becomes a high profile target and his protection is assigned to Maya Raines, a more than competent security operator, and Adam Larson, her former partner, recently fallen from grace, and forced to become a freelancer.
I was hooked immediately as the first paragraph alone is filled with action and suspense, and I found the unbiased honesty of the writer very appealing. Maya Raines is a very real and capable character. Her own life is not picture perfect (an interesting relationship with her mother, to say the least!), and this adds to the sensitive and dangerously complex situation that she finds herself in. As the situation develops and more sophisticated, die hard characters are brought into their story, each one convinced of the truth of their own beliefs, the magnitude of their actions is compelling and urges the reader to seek the dramatic conclusion of the story.
An ignorant when it comes to the diversities and complexities of politics, religion, philosophy and so on, I found that the escalation of events brought about by such intricate, developed and intense beliefs, portrayed in this story, made me realise and believe how easily something like this can and does actually happen.
In the afterword of the book, the writer himself explains that this book is a faction, not a fiction, and is based on real people and events such as Taslima Nasrin with her novel “Shame” which depicts a communal riot between Hindus and Muslims. Reverend Jonah Vosen interviewed on the radio programme “Tough Talk” is a composite of politician Winston Peters and preacher Brian Tamaki. The list goes on.
In summary, this is an excellent book and an intriguing insight into the world of terrorism, its reasons, and the complex people assigned to protect the world from such events. Well worth buying!
I was hooked immediately as the first paragraph alone is filled with action and suspense, and I found the unbiased honesty of the writer very appealing. Maya Raines is a very real and capable character. Her own life is not picture perfect (an interesting relationship with her mother, to say the least!), and this adds to the sensitive and dangerously complex situation that she finds herself in. As the situation develops and more sophisticated, die hard characters are brought into their story, each one convinced of the truth of their own beliefs, the magnitude of their actions is compelling and urges the reader to seek the dramatic conclusion of the story.
An ignorant when it comes to the diversities and complexities of politics, religion, philosophy and so on, I found that the escalation of events brought about by such intricate, developed and intense beliefs, portrayed in this story, made me realise and believe how easily something like this can and does actually happen.
In the afterword of the book, the writer himself explains that this book is a faction, not a fiction, and is based on real people and events such as Taslima Nasrin with her novel “Shame” which depicts a communal riot between Hindus and Muslims. Reverend Jonah Vosen interviewed on the radio programme “Tough Talk” is a composite of politician Winston Peters and preacher Brian Tamaki. The list goes on.
In summary, this is an excellent book and an intriguing insight into the world of terrorism, its reasons, and the complex people assigned to protect the world from such events. Well worth buying!
December 18, 2013
Up front, the only complaint I've got about THE BLASPHEMER is that the ending came way too quickly. From the opening scenes, when an armed fanatic breaks into the house of, we discover, Abraham Khan and his wife, things just keep moving fast. Much like the cavalcade required to move Khan from one safe location to another. Much like the speed at which security operator Maya Raines has to move to keep the principal (Khan) safe.
Set in New Zealand, there's never a moment when anything "really... in New Zealand..." enters your mind. The threat from extremists, the use of drugs - both as a controlling and financing device, the radicalisation of members of the Somali community, the whole lurking mysterious man in the background works.
The action scenes are really well written, realistic and tightly drawn. The characters are strong, particularly the female lead Maya Raines - she's capable, clever and real as well.
The scenario of Security Operatives, close protection experts is interesting, and works really well as a perspective to look at terrorism. The only problem with THE BLASPHEMER is that it feels very short, and ended quite abruptly. Which could mean there's another episode in the making. But it did have a slight feeling of an episode, rather than a fully explored book. Or I could just be being greedy.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
Set in New Zealand, there's never a moment when anything "really... in New Zealand..." enters your mind. The threat from extremists, the use of drugs - both as a controlling and financing device, the radicalisation of members of the Somali community, the whole lurking mysterious man in the background works.
The action scenes are really well written, realistic and tightly drawn. The characters are strong, particularly the female lead Maya Raines - she's capable, clever and real as well.
The scenario of Security Operatives, close protection experts is interesting, and works really well as a perspective to look at terrorism. The only problem with THE BLASPHEMER is that it feels very short, and ended quite abruptly. Which could mean there's another episode in the making. But it did have a slight feeling of an episode, rather than a fully explored book. Or I could just be being greedy.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
February 16, 2013
This book is an extremely enjoyable fast paced thriller. It reminds me on Tom Clancy (minus the 6 page descriptions) in the sense that it talks about current events which keeps me very interested because the problems are easy for me to relate to. But don't worry, if you don't follow current events, just read the authors notes at the end of the book and everything will make sense.
The characters are each unique in their own right, and I will talk about my favorite, Maya. She does her job but she doesn't just have sympathy, she has empathy. That is an extremely hard quality to find in people and was surprised by how the author was able to put that quality into a character so well.
5/5, The book is very fast paced and moves from plot point to plot point and grabs your attention like a well made action movie. I wouldn't be surprised if I see this as a movie one day in the near future.
The characters are each unique in their own right, and I will talk about my favorite, Maya. She does her job but she doesn't just have sympathy, she has empathy. That is an extremely hard quality to find in people and was surprised by how the author was able to put that quality into a character so well.
5/5, The book is very fast paced and moves from plot point to plot point and grabs your attention like a well made action movie. I wouldn't be surprised if I see this as a movie one day in the near future.
July 28, 2012
The Blasphemer by John Ling is an intense politically charged thriller that takes off on an adventure from the first page and leaves you in suspense all the way to the end. Fans of Steig Larsson, as the titles suggests, will find a great read and familiar writing styles and themes in The Blasphemer. It’s no wonder that this book is in the Top 100 list for Kindle ebooks on Amazon. John Ling does a fantastic job with developing his characters, Abraham Khan and Maya Raines especially. The ending will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more. I can’t wait for the sequel to this great story.
November 6, 2012
FULL REVIEW: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
This is a fast-paced story with an intense and involving plot that quickly sweeps you up and refuses to let you go. For me, it was also interesting that this book was set entirely in New Zealand, as this was a country that before now I was not overly familiar with. One question I always ask myself when reviewing is “would I read more by this author?” and judging from this first novel, the answer is definitely yes! John Ling looks like an author with a lot of promise
and if this first novel is an example of what he has to offer then I look forward to seeing more.
This is a fast-paced story with an intense and involving plot that quickly sweeps you up and refuses to let you go. For me, it was also interesting that this book was set entirely in New Zealand, as this was a country that before now I was not overly familiar with. One question I always ask myself when reviewing is “would I read more by this author?” and judging from this first novel, the answer is definitely yes! John Ling looks like an author with a lot of promise
and if this first novel is an example of what he has to offer then I look forward to seeing more.
March 12, 2015
Worthwhile Read Even For Non-Fans of Genre
The plot is Complicated enough to keep me engaged without prompting me to mentally protest "Oh, come. Onnn." Enough character quirks to make them feel real. I am not a fan of "Muslim Terrorism" novels. This one is saved by a rather informative discussion of the relationships between sects, which serves to break the stereotype of "the monolithic Muslim World with a Unified Goal." It also suggests that anti-Muslim fears can be manipulated by utterly different groups by their operations being blamed on "Muslim Terrorists," obscuring and deflecting their damage to a nation's fabric.
The plot is Complicated enough to keep me engaged without prompting me to mentally protest "Oh, come. Onnn." Enough character quirks to make them feel real. I am not a fan of "Muslim Terrorism" novels. This one is saved by a rather informative discussion of the relationships between sects, which serves to break the stereotype of "the monolithic Muslim World with a Unified Goal." It also suggests that anti-Muslim fears can be manipulated by utterly different groups by their operations being blamed on "Muslim Terrorists," obscuring and deflecting their damage to a nation's fabric.
January 4, 2012
Wonderfully written taut thriller with compelling characters and vivid action scenes. The only reason I'm not giving this 5 stars is the ending. It ended too abruptly for me, and I would like to see more resolution for the characters. I love Maya! What a dynamic heroine. John Ling has clearly done his research, and he portrays New Zealand so well. It's lovely to see a thriller set in New Zealand for once, because it's such a land of peace and plenty.
January 21, 2026
I have to admit I was a little weary of this book before reading it. Anything involving the words 'Muslim' and 'bombing' in the same sentence makes me a little suspicious. I wondered if Ling would play the stereotype card to its heaviest. Granted, he has used a touchy and polemic issue, but he has also done it well.
Read my full review here: https://www.ps-sobookish.com/post/boo...
Read my full review here: https://www.ps-sobookish.com/post/boo...
November 16, 2013
Was an interesting read, didn't realise it was set in New Zealand until I started reading
Being from New Zealand I kept thinking that these things couldn't happen here but I suppose that was the premise behind the story, just because we think they won't happen here doesn't mean they can't or won't. I did find the confused use of kiwi and US terms a little distracting but overall wasn't a bad read.
Being from New Zealand I kept thinking that these things couldn't happen here but I suppose that was the premise behind the story, just because we think they won't happen here doesn't mean they can't or won't. I did find the confused use of kiwi and US terms a little distracting but overall wasn't a bad read.
April 17, 2013
This was a well written book and it was especially appropriate to finish today, the day after the Boston Marathon bombings. Mr. Ling has definitely done his research into this book and he fully admits at the end that the characters are based on real people. The reader can also tell that the events in the book are highly possible.
This is not a long read, but I would definitely recommend it to others.
This is not a long read, but I would definitely recommend it to others.
October 2, 2012
This book got me.
At first I must admit I was skeptical. But as I flipped the pages, the characters, their fears and adrenaline rushes became palpable.
Their complexity became real - and then... I couldn't stop reading.
When I did stop, I found myself thinking to where the book's plot will take me next.
Excellent read. Wholeheartedly looking forward to the sequel.
At first I must admit I was skeptical. But as I flipped the pages, the characters, their fears and adrenaline rushes became palpable.
Their complexity became real - and then... I couldn't stop reading.
When I did stop, I found myself thinking to where the book's plot will take me next.
Excellent read. Wholeheartedly looking forward to the sequel.
June 5, 2012
The Blasphemer was a quick, easy read. I thought this book had an
excellant plot with a rapid pace and sudden plot twists. I really enjoyed
it. I did, however, think the ending was a little too quick.
excellant plot with a rapid pace and sudden plot twists. I really enjoyed
it. I did, however, think the ending was a little too quick.
July 31, 2012
A tour de force! Fast-paced, intelligent, and beautifully structured, this elegant novel packs a whole lot of wallop into a small amount of space. John Ling is definitely an author to watch! I'd be shocked if this exciting thriller didn't make it to the screen.
August 3, 2013
Too close
to how the people of this Earth are reacting to all of the death and pain committed by activist of war. WE need to find a way to PEACE and understanding for all beliefs, whether in god, Nature, or whatever it is someone wants as their focus. I did NOT like it.
to how the people of this Earth are reacting to all of the death and pain committed by activist of war. WE need to find a way to PEACE and understanding for all beliefs, whether in god, Nature, or whatever it is someone wants as their focus. I did NOT like it.
January 14, 2012
Fast paced and thrilling (it is a thriller, after all), this is definitely a page turner. The characters were strong, the plot engrossing and was extremely well written. Loved it!
February 21, 2014
Great read. Reads like a Brad Thor faction book all around. Will be adding John Ling to my must read list
December 16, 2014
I get it...this was simply a teaser and it was free. however, I felt like I was left hanging. at the end...and it was way too short!
March 5, 2015
Introduction to terror
Good story and insight to Islam. It's difficult to understand a religion where some supplicant espouse violence and death to their definition of an infidel.
Good story and insight to Islam. It's difficult to understand a religion where some supplicant espouse violence and death to their definition of an infidel.
March 23, 2015
Not one I would recommend.
Found the plot Hard to follow. I Didn't enjoy the story because it was very disjointed. It jumped around too much.
Found the plot Hard to follow. I Didn't enjoy the story because it was very disjointed. It jumped around too much.
January 30, 2014
Really enjoyed the plot, but I wanted a little more of the characters. It was quick and fun read.
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