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Abel's Revenge
This is a story about a city. As with all others, it’s a place of violence. There are murderers, and they live among us.
This is also a tale about a couple — sometimes friends, occasionally lovers, but always partners. Dan and Olivia are fighting modern battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace.
An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises as their relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, and no one is safe. Dan and Olivia experience this first-hand as danger closes in.
Will Abel’s reign of terror ever end?
Who will live, and who will die?
This is also a tale about a couple — sometimes friends, occasionally lovers, but always partners. Dan and Olivia are fighting modern battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace.
An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises as their relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, and no one is safe. Dan and Olivia experience this first-hand as danger closes in.
Will Abel’s reign of terror ever end?
Who will live, and who will die?
297 pages, ebook
First published March 25, 2018
872 people are currently reading
606 people want to read
About the author
Ross Greenwood
43 books556 followersI was born in 1973 in Peterborough and lived there until I was 20, attending The King's School in the city. I then began a rather nomadic existence, living and working all over the country and various parts of the world.
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
March 26, 2018
Written from multiple points of view Abel's Revenge is a gritty, intense and intriguing read. Following, mainly the voices of Dan and Olivia, the story had me hooked from the beginning and I couldn't wait to see how it unfolds. I loved the concept of the story. It's not your usual run-of-the-mill serial killer book. It's a story about a killer but also a story about a couple struggling with their everyday life. The way Ross Greenwood writes is gripping and engaging. There's plenty of action here but also dry and dark humour.
Brilliantly written, with dark undertones, Abel's Revenge is a clever and surprising read and I really enjoyed it.
Brilliantly written, with dark undertones, Abel's Revenge is a clever and surprising read and I really enjoyed it.
March 15, 2018
"Abel's Revenge" by Ross Greenwood is a brilliantly written, addictive serial killer book with a difference, having two completely different storylines running side by side that combine together seamlessly in a fabulous ending. Focusing on relationships and the evil that lurks inside us, this story will certainly keep you entertained and intrigued. I thoroughly enjoyed it and found it a complete page turner, unable to put it down.
This is a story about a city. As with all others, it’s a place of violence. There are murderers, and they live among us. This is also a tale about a couple - Dan and Olivia who are fighting modern day battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace. An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises as their relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, and no one is safe. Dan and Olivia experience this first-hand as danger closes in. Will Abel’s reign of terror ever end? Who will live and who will die?
Funnily enough, this is the second book I have read recently where modern life affects people's mental health and for stress to cause breakdowns and I'm very pleased it's being made aware of, as it is a much more of a common problem than people think. Ross has incorporated this situation into a fantastic serial killer book that really works and truly represents real life - well the relationship part at least! Although there is some violence during the killings I didn't find it as gratuitous as some books I've read, I personally found it quite lighthearted in its portrayal and made for comfortable reading. The twist at the end was phenomenal and totally unexpected but wow! So good!
I can actually see a second instalment to this stunning story, I'd love to continue to follow Dan and Olivia (for obvious reasons once you've read the book) and I'd happily highly recommend 'Abel's Revenge' to crime readers of all ages. I look forward to reading many more books by Ross Greenwood again in the future!
5 stars - paperback version.
This is a story about a city. As with all others, it’s a place of violence. There are murderers, and they live among us. This is also a tale about a couple - Dan and Olivia who are fighting modern day battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace. An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises as their relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, and no one is safe. Dan and Olivia experience this first-hand as danger closes in. Will Abel’s reign of terror ever end? Who will live and who will die?
Funnily enough, this is the second book I have read recently where modern life affects people's mental health and for stress to cause breakdowns and I'm very pleased it's being made aware of, as it is a much more of a common problem than people think. Ross has incorporated this situation into a fantastic serial killer book that really works and truly represents real life - well the relationship part at least! Although there is some violence during the killings I didn't find it as gratuitous as some books I've read, I personally found it quite lighthearted in its portrayal and made for comfortable reading. The twist at the end was phenomenal and totally unexpected but wow! So good!
I can actually see a second instalment to this stunning story, I'd love to continue to follow Dan and Olivia (for obvious reasons once you've read the book) and I'd happily highly recommend 'Abel's Revenge' to crime readers of all ages. I look forward to reading many more books by Ross Greenwood again in the future!
5 stars - paperback version.
March 11, 2018
4.5 Stars
A serial killer is threatening the entire city. It starts with a man named Abel. He tells his victims his name before he kills them. The problem is that the fear has spread so much that almost every crime committed has given the credit to Abel. It's obvious that most of the crimes are the work of others.
This is not only a story about the terrified city, it's not even all about the killer. It's about Dan and Olivia, parents of two young children, and thinking about getting married. But there are problems. Dan hates his job with a passion, Olivia is working part time and loves her job. She also makes better money than Dan. Dan is kind of a slob ... and he's drinking heavily. Olivia is a clean freak and feels that she has to do everything herself. And there's nothing she wouldn't do for her children.
Olivia is quite attractive .. and unhappy. Just ask her neighbor, Mike. It's kind of creepy the way he watches her... and seems to know which of her buttons to push. Dan isn't exactly worried..but he definitely doesn't like Mike. Then there's Olivia's boss .. a man who has it all ...money, prestige, everything that Dan doesn't. And let's not forget the mailman. He loves peering into households through the letter slots on front doors.
Someone is sending Olivia flowers and anonymous notes. Someone has targeted Olivia. Someone with a crush .. or someone with something else on his mind?
The book is written with characters speaking in alternate chapters. First comes Abel, with his backstory of why he is the way he is. Then we hear from Dan and then Olivia, relating what they are each feeling and thinking during their times of bickering and arguments.
The characters are fully defined.... no cardboard standouts here. I love how the characters interact... with love, lust, anger, sadness, and even humor.
There are many twists and turns and not everything you read is the truth. The ending was terrific ... and surprising.
Many thanks to the author / TBC Reviewer Requests for the advanced digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
A serial killer is threatening the entire city. It starts with a man named Abel. He tells his victims his name before he kills them. The problem is that the fear has spread so much that almost every crime committed has given the credit to Abel. It's obvious that most of the crimes are the work of others.
This is not only a story about the terrified city, it's not even all about the killer. It's about Dan and Olivia, parents of two young children, and thinking about getting married. But there are problems. Dan hates his job with a passion, Olivia is working part time and loves her job. She also makes better money than Dan. Dan is kind of a slob ... and he's drinking heavily. Olivia is a clean freak and feels that she has to do everything herself. And there's nothing she wouldn't do for her children.
Olivia is quite attractive .. and unhappy. Just ask her neighbor, Mike. It's kind of creepy the way he watches her... and seems to know which of her buttons to push. Dan isn't exactly worried..but he definitely doesn't like Mike. Then there's Olivia's boss .. a man who has it all ...money, prestige, everything that Dan doesn't. And let's not forget the mailman. He loves peering into households through the letter slots on front doors.
Someone is sending Olivia flowers and anonymous notes. Someone has targeted Olivia. Someone with a crush .. or someone with something else on his mind?
The book is written with characters speaking in alternate chapters. First comes Abel, with his backstory of why he is the way he is. Then we hear from Dan and then Olivia, relating what they are each feeling and thinking during their times of bickering and arguments.
The characters are fully defined.... no cardboard standouts here. I love how the characters interact... with love, lust, anger, sadness, and even humor.
There are many twists and turns and not everything you read is the truth. The ending was terrific ... and surprising.
Many thanks to the author / TBC Reviewer Requests for the advanced digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
April 5, 2018
This was such an unusual serial killer thriller, you almost have two completely separate storylines running side by side, the only thing they have in common is the location. Olivia and Dan are an unmarried couple with two kids living in London and then Abel is a serial killer that’s stalking the streets and wrecking havoc. Olivia and Dan’s chapters read like a domestic suspense and then the little we do hear from Abel feels more like a standard serial killer thriller. This may sound like it wouldn’t work together but it really does, it was a compulsive page turner that had me glued to my Kindle.
While the bulk of the novel focuses on Olivia and Dan’s relationship woes there is an undercurrent of apprehension running in the background as everyone in the city is on edge waiting for Abel to strike again, it’s not a question of him attacking again, but rather where and how. He doesn’t follow any sort of pattern or MO, his attacks are random and unpredictable, which to me makes it even more frightening. Greenwood did a fantastic job at creating this atmosphere full of frantic citizens who are fearful for their safety as well as a killer who’s inner thoughts were terrifying and left me chilled.
There was some excellent dark, black humor to bring levity to an ominous situation, I always love that and find that sarcasm brings an edge to an already dark plot. I wouldn’t describe this as full of twists and turns, though there are some surprises to be found, but I actually appreciated that more, it made Greenwood’s clever plotting and solid writing shine brighter. If you’re looking for a unique crime fiction read give this one a shot!
Abel’s Revenge in three words: Menacing, Different and Gritty.
While the bulk of the novel focuses on Olivia and Dan’s relationship woes there is an undercurrent of apprehension running in the background as everyone in the city is on edge waiting for Abel to strike again, it’s not a question of him attacking again, but rather where and how. He doesn’t follow any sort of pattern or MO, his attacks are random and unpredictable, which to me makes it even more frightening. Greenwood did a fantastic job at creating this atmosphere full of frantic citizens who are fearful for their safety as well as a killer who’s inner thoughts were terrifying and left me chilled.
There was some excellent dark, black humor to bring levity to an ominous situation, I always love that and find that sarcasm brings an edge to an already dark plot. I wouldn’t describe this as full of twists and turns, though there are some surprises to be found, but I actually appreciated that more, it made Greenwood’s clever plotting and solid writing shine brighter. If you’re looking for a unique crime fiction read give this one a shot!
Abel’s Revenge in three words: Menacing, Different and Gritty.
June 20, 2024
3.25 (rnd up) ⭐️— A good book, a really good audiobook!
Ross Greenwood is a very talented writer, and here he is fun, at times poignant, and mostly, just highly entertaining.
‘Hunter’ is another excellent novel by Greenwood, that feels much like an ode to London, and perhaps more pertinently its current state of being prone to high rates of violence. Greenwood adds in a layered narrative, that focuses on one central couple with young children — Dan & Olivia — Whom are in a bit of a funk in recent times. Both characters are warm, funny and offer fresh perspectives to follow, keeping things interesting and engaging. Abel, the third main narrative and central character, an unhinged predator whom feels as though he is acting in an almost avenger-type role in taking out the trash of London’s streets, whilst also seeking vengeance against London itself. Dan and Olivia are kind of over each other, and are their relationship as de-facto partners is in a definite malaise. This forms the central focus of the novel, with violence seemingly occurring around them, more so than to them.
London has a crime rate 32% greater than the UK as a whole — so it can’t be avoided in drawing your thoughts that this is Greenwood attempting to highlight this current issue, enticing the reader to show its impacting everyday families, not just the poor or depraved hurting themselves. Daniel is an extremely funny, quick-witted character, that is far less sympathetic than he might believe. In saying this I did quickly find myself aligning with him throughout the novel, such is his way of thinking & positioning things to make the reader feel a little empathic towards his situation, losing a grip on his family and his sense of identity as a man. Olivia, is perhaps less sympathetically written, but is immensely attractive at the same time, such is her admirable motherly instinct and her want for things to always be more than they are.
Ross Greenwood is an excellent genre writer, who’s entertaining, funny and inexplicably chilling novels are always filled with interesting characters & place a much larger focus on character & family life, than the average crime thriller. Is characters are always full of life and focusing on the mundane details is what grounds these novels so robust is the attention to detail of everyday life that invariably seeps into every chapter.
This was a member-inclusive audible listen, and thankfully Greenwood or his publisher Boldwood Books has maintained David Thorpe as the narrator. Thorpe is a special kind of good and is so in tune with Greenwood it’s as if they are one and the same at this point, his reading here is not good, but great! He reads with such enthusiasm and vigour, that it is impossible to imagine anyone else bringing Greenwood’s characters to life. Thorpe undoubtedly adds another 0.5-1 Star to this read himself, as without him I’d dare say this one was closer to a ⭐️⭐️⭐️ read overall. The narrative does come at an extremely slow-burn and the suspense never really ratchets-up to a level one is accustomed too for the style of novel, but I’m ok with that — Greenwood writes family politics and detail like few others in the genre can, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters thanks to the trademark humour and hilarity that any parent or middle-aged reader is bound to resonate with.
Hunter is Greenwoods best effort, and I did have issues with the ending and some red-herrings that don’t quite marry-up for me, but insofar as entertainment and enjoyment goes, this is another stellar effort that perfectly captured the essence of what it was going for, in that the greater community of the suburbs of London itself is a character, albeit without much of a descriptive atmosphere of the suburbs themselves, and lacking any high-tension, Greenwoods humour and depiction all depth of character is fun and enticing. Abel is a killer and sexual deviant that whilst menacing, never really reached the point of total destruction or anything akin to taut psychological thriller — but it is a book that’s fun to read and highly enjoyable at the same time.
Ross Greenwood is a very talented writer, and here he is fun, at times poignant, and mostly, just highly entertaining.
‘Hunter’ is another excellent novel by Greenwood, that feels much like an ode to London, and perhaps more pertinently its current state of being prone to high rates of violence. Greenwood adds in a layered narrative, that focuses on one central couple with young children — Dan & Olivia — Whom are in a bit of a funk in recent times. Both characters are warm, funny and offer fresh perspectives to follow, keeping things interesting and engaging. Abel, the third main narrative and central character, an unhinged predator whom feels as though he is acting in an almost avenger-type role in taking out the trash of London’s streets, whilst also seeking vengeance against London itself. Dan and Olivia are kind of over each other, and are their relationship as de-facto partners is in a definite malaise. This forms the central focus of the novel, with violence seemingly occurring around them, more so than to them.
London has a crime rate 32% greater than the UK as a whole — so it can’t be avoided in drawing your thoughts that this is Greenwood attempting to highlight this current issue, enticing the reader to show its impacting everyday families, not just the poor or depraved hurting themselves. Daniel is an extremely funny, quick-witted character, that is far less sympathetic than he might believe. In saying this I did quickly find myself aligning with him throughout the novel, such is his way of thinking & positioning things to make the reader feel a little empathic towards his situation, losing a grip on his family and his sense of identity as a man. Olivia, is perhaps less sympathetically written, but is immensely attractive at the same time, such is her admirable motherly instinct and her want for things to always be more than they are.
Ross Greenwood is an excellent genre writer, who’s entertaining, funny and inexplicably chilling novels are always filled with interesting characters & place a much larger focus on character & family life, than the average crime thriller. Is characters are always full of life and focusing on the mundane details is what grounds these novels so robust is the attention to detail of everyday life that invariably seeps into every chapter.
This was a member-inclusive audible listen, and thankfully Greenwood or his publisher Boldwood Books has maintained David Thorpe as the narrator. Thorpe is a special kind of good and is so in tune with Greenwood it’s as if they are one and the same at this point, his reading here is not good, but great! He reads with such enthusiasm and vigour, that it is impossible to imagine anyone else bringing Greenwood’s characters to life. Thorpe undoubtedly adds another 0.5-1 Star to this read himself, as without him I’d dare say this one was closer to a ⭐️⭐️⭐️ read overall. The narrative does come at an extremely slow-burn and the suspense never really ratchets-up to a level one is accustomed too for the style of novel, but I’m ok with that — Greenwood writes family politics and detail like few others in the genre can, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters thanks to the trademark humour and hilarity that any parent or middle-aged reader is bound to resonate with.
Hunter is Greenwoods best effort, and I did have issues with the ending and some red-herrings that don’t quite marry-up for me, but insofar as entertainment and enjoyment goes, this is another stellar effort that perfectly captured the essence of what it was going for, in that the greater community of the suburbs of London itself is a character, albeit without much of a descriptive atmosphere of the suburbs themselves, and lacking any high-tension, Greenwoods humour and depiction all depth of character is fun and enticing. Abel is a killer and sexual deviant that whilst menacing, never really reached the point of total destruction or anything akin to taut psychological thriller — but it is a book that’s fun to read and highly enjoyable at the same time.
April 3, 2018
Abel’s Revenge is unlike any other crime thriller I have read. It’s a book that you need to have read to fully understand. It starts off flicking between numerous characters until it settles down mainly between Dan and his wife Olivia. The crime aspect is very much in the back ground and the story centres on Dan and Olivia’s relationship.
At times I did forget that there was even a killer on the loose as I was wrapped up in what was going on between Olivia and Dan. I kind of had empathy for both as I could easily see both sides of the situation they found themselves in. While the readers get wrapped up in their lives, we keep getting fed snippets of Abel and the atrocities he is committing.
I really wasn’t sure how Abel fitted into this story. You get a sense of what it is like when a killer is on the loose in the area and not only are Olivia and Dan trying to make sense of their own lives, they are being careful when out and about in the hope that they don’t come into contact with a killer. When we come to the conclusion, everything soon becomes crystal clear and you get one of those OH moments. You know the one, where you need to pick your jaw back up off the floor.
Abel’s Revenge is a very different take on a serial killer thriller. It is a dark and suspenseful read that will have you guessing right up until the end. Overall an engrossing and entertaining read.
At times I did forget that there was even a killer on the loose as I was wrapped up in what was going on between Olivia and Dan. I kind of had empathy for both as I could easily see both sides of the situation they found themselves in. While the readers get wrapped up in their lives, we keep getting fed snippets of Abel and the atrocities he is committing.
I really wasn’t sure how Abel fitted into this story. You get a sense of what it is like when a killer is on the loose in the area and not only are Olivia and Dan trying to make sense of their own lives, they are being careful when out and about in the hope that they don’t come into contact with a killer. When we come to the conclusion, everything soon becomes crystal clear and you get one of those OH moments. You know the one, where you need to pick your jaw back up off the floor.
Abel’s Revenge is a very different take on a serial killer thriller. It is a dark and suspenseful read that will have you guessing right up until the end. Overall an engrossing and entertaining read.
April 1, 2018
Although I’ve got other books by this author this is my first read by him but it certainly won’t be the last as this was a great read.
The story starts off with an insight into Abel’s warped mind. After leaving school he moves away for a clean start where no one knows him. We also read the story of Dan and Olivia, a couple with two children. These two stories run parallel with each other.
There’s a serial killer terrorising the city. Who’s the killer??
I found this to be a really well written story with a clever plot. It kept me on my toes as I kept trying to guess who the killer is.
Great twists had me mentally high fiving the author.
I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.
The story starts off with an insight into Abel’s warped mind. After leaving school he moves away for a clean start where no one knows him. We also read the story of Dan and Olivia, a couple with two children. These two stories run parallel with each other.
There’s a serial killer terrorising the city. Who’s the killer??
I found this to be a really well written story with a clever plot. It kept me on my toes as I kept trying to guess who the killer is.
Great twists had me mentally high fiving the author.
I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.
November 22, 2022
This is a story about a city. As with all others, it's a place of violence. There are murderers, and they live among us. This is also a tale about a couple - sometimes friends, occasionally lovers, but always partners. Dan and Oliva are fighting modern battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace. An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises and their own relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, no one is safe.
This gruesome tale is fast paced. But there is some humour added along the way. Sometimes we are reading about relationships in trouble, and then a gory murder is thrown into the mix. The characters are well developed. Filled with twist, this well written held my attention throughout, and I liked the authors writing style. This story is told in alternating chapters from the characters. This is a cleverly crafted story.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RossGreen#Hunter for my ARC of #Hunter in exchange for an honest review.
This gruesome tale is fast paced. But there is some humour added along the way. Sometimes we are reading about relationships in trouble, and then a gory murder is thrown into the mix. The characters are well developed. Filled with twist, this well written held my attention throughout, and I liked the authors writing style. This story is told in alternating chapters from the characters. This is a cleverly crafted story.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RossGreen#Hunter for my ARC of #Hunter in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2024
Ross Greenwood brings one of his great standalone novels to readers. With a solid set of characters and strong plot line, Greenwood lays the groundwork for a novel well worth the reader’s time. While a family is falling apart due to drugs and laziness, someone lurks in the bushes. Murders and horrible assaults have been filling the headlines, leaving the locals concerned. But this killer has a larger plan, one that will force many to take action or become headlines of their own. Greenwood dazzles once more and kept me hooked!
In a small English town, things begin to get troublesome. The newspaper headlines speak of a number of events, from a drowning to a number of decapitated bodies. The concern and worry fuel the local coffee shop chats and local visits at the pub. Something is happening and the authorities will only issue warnings and mention of some “Abel” being on the loose!
With this serial killer on the prowl, no one is safe. However, Dan Flood and Olivia Jones have issues of their own. With their two small children, they are trying to hold together a family on the brink of disaster. Work, parenting, and a taste for drink are making things worse and Olivia has met her limit. Dan has no motivation and seems fine with settling. This is not part of Olivia’s life plan and she makes her move.
Abel keeps his attacks coming, as well as some odd encounters with locals. When he sets his eyes on Olivia, the plan is devastating. Will she be saved or is this the final nail in Dan’s coffin? Greenwood brings a chilling tale to the reader and leaves much to resolve.
Ross Greenwood does well with this piece, weaving together a story that has all the elements for success. A narrative that paces things and offers multiple perspectives fuels a great story that gets more intense by the chapter. Strong characters sketch themselves out and offer the reader someone with whom they can connect. As the tension mounts, strong plot lines keep the thrills coming and prevents the reader from fully predicting what is on the horizon. I loved it and find the Greenwood can create a strong independent or series novel!
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for a chilling story that had me wondering from the outset.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
In a small English town, things begin to get troublesome. The newspaper headlines speak of a number of events, from a drowning to a number of decapitated bodies. The concern and worry fuel the local coffee shop chats and local visits at the pub. Something is happening and the authorities will only issue warnings and mention of some “Abel” being on the loose!
With this serial killer on the prowl, no one is safe. However, Dan Flood and Olivia Jones have issues of their own. With their two small children, they are trying to hold together a family on the brink of disaster. Work, parenting, and a taste for drink are making things worse and Olivia has met her limit. Dan has no motivation and seems fine with settling. This is not part of Olivia’s life plan and she makes her move.
Abel keeps his attacks coming, as well as some odd encounters with locals. When he sets his eyes on Olivia, the plan is devastating. Will she be saved or is this the final nail in Dan’s coffin? Greenwood brings a chilling tale to the reader and leaves much to resolve.
Ross Greenwood does well with this piece, weaving together a story that has all the elements for success. A narrative that paces things and offers multiple perspectives fuels a great story that gets more intense by the chapter. Strong characters sketch themselves out and offer the reader someone with whom they can connect. As the tension mounts, strong plot lines keep the thrills coming and prevents the reader from fully predicting what is on the horizon. I loved it and find the Greenwood can create a strong independent or series novel!
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for a chilling story that had me wondering from the outset.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
August 15, 2018
Interesting story told from a number of point-of-views. The ending wasn't really a surprise, but that didn't detract from the journey. Although this was a dark story, there were a number of witty lines to lighten the tone.
January 1, 2023
I discovered Ross Greenwood's books at the end of 2021 and have since read all in his DI Barton series and several stand-alones mainly set in a police/prison environment - all excellent - including this one.
This one is equally as good as the other books although slightly different. This concentrates on several characters within a town that enters into frightening times. The main characters are Dan & Olivia whose marriage is struggling - this is shown against the backdrop and fear of a local serial killer/attacker and characters in the local community.
I love the psychological insights. There is humour here too guys! It is funny, as well as philosophical.
This one is equally as good as the other books although slightly different. This concentrates on several characters within a town that enters into frightening times. The main characters are Dan & Olivia whose marriage is struggling - this is shown against the backdrop and fear of a local serial killer/attacker and characters in the local community.
I love the psychological insights. There is humour here too guys! It is funny, as well as philosophical.
Want to read
August 9, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (8/9/2018)!💝
Blurb:
This is a story about a city. As with all others, it’s a place of violence. There are murderers, and they live among us.
This is also a tale about a couple — sometimes friends, occasionally lovers, but always partners. Dan and Olivia are fighting modern battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace.
An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises as their relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, and no one is safe. Dan and Olivia experience this first-hand as danger closes in.
Will Abel’s reign of terror ever end?
Who will live, and who will die?
Blurb:
This is a story about a city. As with all others, it’s a place of violence. There are murderers, and they live among us.
This is also a tale about a couple — sometimes friends, occasionally lovers, but always partners. Dan and Olivia are fighting modern battles; the ones parents have over a lack of money, time or peace.
An escalating serial killer terrifies the streets and homes. The body count rises as their relationship crumbles. Society reveals its dark side, and no one is safe. Dan and Olivia experience this first-hand as danger closes in.
Will Abel’s reign of terror ever end?
Who will live, and who will die?
March 1, 2018
Having read one of Ross books previously and completely loving it, I was completely excited to read this his new book Abraham. Suffice to say I wasn't left disappointed.
Well I read it in two evenings, didn't take me long at all, as the story was a real page turner. You literally had no idea what was going to happen from one page to the next. So I literally couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
The story plot was very cleverly done, you had different characters tell the story from one chapter to the next, which I really liked as it gives you an insight into the characters and helps you get to know them better and it also gives you a better perspective on the story throughout.
There was also a few funny moments thrown in which did give me a giggle or two. Do love it when books do that.
I was pleasantly surprised by the ending as wasn't expecting it to end the way it did, nor did I see that twist come out of nowhere.
So all in all, a brilliant book, one not to be missed and I totally recommend it.
Well I read it in two evenings, didn't take me long at all, as the story was a real page turner. You literally had no idea what was going to happen from one page to the next. So I literally couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
The story plot was very cleverly done, you had different characters tell the story from one chapter to the next, which I really liked as it gives you an insight into the characters and helps you get to know them better and it also gives you a better perspective on the story throughout.
There was also a few funny moments thrown in which did give me a giggle or two. Do love it when books do that.
I was pleasantly surprised by the ending as wasn't expecting it to end the way it did, nor did I see that twist come out of nowhere.
So all in all, a brilliant book, one not to be missed and I totally recommend it.
April 5, 2018
This is such a modern-day story, of modern-day life, where people have grown to expect violence every day but just hope it will happen to someone else and with their modern-day keep up with the Jones life style, they just haven’t got time to get involved. Except for one guy that is. Abel knew he was different, even as a boy and now it was time to leave his mark because enough was enough. The crime rate was about to rise a little more and fear in the city increase, as people would hear the warning of Abel to change their ways, or else…………
Just to prove a point the story that runs side by side with this new threat to society, is that of Dan and Olivia with their two point two children and dog, both working full-time, juggling school runs, randy bosses, weird delivery men, neighbours and not much time for each other. A typical modern couple. Yep it could be any town really, this just happens not to be mine, not yet, but we are only short of Abel. Now I have to say here that Dan did my head in as he fell into the category of badly done to. Why do I have to take the kids to school? Why do I do to help round the house? sort of bloke! But the story does get across the stresses and strains of every day living and the quick fix remedies that become all too common long term major problems.
The chapters were short and snappy between the main characters and victims of Abel, with subtle humour that you don’t realise is coming up until your brain has been too slow to send the signal to laugh in your head. I just loved the pages that were brimming over with hormones and weirdos which are at times the same people! This is a brilliant creep up on you story that builds with each chapter. Very cleverly written, very funny and with characters that you feel like you already know in a random sort of way. I became so involved in Dan and Olivia’s lives that like the point of the story, the crimes taking place became secondary but I soon got a reminder! Yikes!
This is a stand alone novel so there is a conclusion to the story with all the ends tied up. A very all round super entertaining book. Brilliant!
I received an e-book copy which I have honestly reviewed.
Just to prove a point the story that runs side by side with this new threat to society, is that of Dan and Olivia with their two point two children and dog, both working full-time, juggling school runs, randy bosses, weird delivery men, neighbours and not much time for each other. A typical modern couple. Yep it could be any town really, this just happens not to be mine, not yet, but we are only short of Abel. Now I have to say here that Dan did my head in as he fell into the category of badly done to. Why do I have to take the kids to school? Why do I do to help round the house? sort of bloke! But the story does get across the stresses and strains of every day living and the quick fix remedies that become all too common long term major problems.
The chapters were short and snappy between the main characters and victims of Abel, with subtle humour that you don’t realise is coming up until your brain has been too slow to send the signal to laugh in your head. I just loved the pages that were brimming over with hormones and weirdos which are at times the same people! This is a brilliant creep up on you story that builds with each chapter. Very cleverly written, very funny and with characters that you feel like you already know in a random sort of way. I became so involved in Dan and Olivia’s lives that like the point of the story, the crimes taking place became secondary but I soon got a reminder! Yikes!
This is a stand alone novel so there is a conclusion to the story with all the ends tied up. A very all round super entertaining book. Brilliant!
I received an e-book copy which I have honestly reviewed.
November 25, 2022
I love this author and you know that once you start reading one of his books it is going to be another page turner and impossible to put down. A domestic drama and a serial killer. Seems strange I thought but this very talented author has brought these two genres together seamlessly. There is humour, chilling in places and revenge so much revenge. I had no idea who the killer was, I had my list of suspects which i had great delight in whittling down and I still got it wrong. Only a really good author can achieve this. This author has done it again, he has managed to leave me speechless, holding my breath and definitely wanting more. Loved it!!!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
March 28, 2018
A man called Abel brings death and destruction to the city causing “madness, fear, and murder” – no wonder the city is on edge. Some of its inhabitants follow Abel’s lead…
| Introduction |
‘The sickness” is what transforms Abel into a person most cruel who tortures and gravely misconducts himself without feeling… anything. The chilling first chapter shows us all too well what Abel is capable of and that is just him growing up. The reference to the Biblical brothers Cain and Abel is there to see but what is extremely worrying is Abel’s conclusion – one which will have a far-reaching impact on his life and, sadly, on that of others too…
| Storyline |
Is it growing up in a loveless family, with parents who could not care less what happened to their only child, Abel, that made the boy the man he came to be? Or is it something dark in his psyche that forces its way out in unspeakable actions? Abel’s parents most certainly knew what their son was capable of but they were incapable of doing anything about it. But Abel’s father recognised it – because of something in himself too? It is also Abel’s father who flattens out the ‘creases’ Abel makes or, in other words, who makes complaints go away and charges dropped and who, even more disturbingly, tells Abel how to “revel in the joy of those moments” when the “impulses from within” emerge to the surface. It was a spine-chilling moment both for Abel as for the reader.
First, we meet Dan Flood and Olivia Jones, who fell head over heels in love whilst on vacation. Now, they are a couple with two young children and life is not as rosy as it was. The daily arguments about the children and the house, the constant tiredness and both their jobs, it all seems too much. Dan feels a hostility towards the city Olivia made him move to and, on top of that, hates his job with a vengeance. No wonder he blames Olivia. She, on the other hand, would love to go back to the days of old but even more, would like Dan to get a grip and ‘man up.’ Theirs is a daily continuous struggle and we wonder whether they will go through with their marriage plans. We also see Olivia’s boss having an eye for his beautiful employee and there is the neighbour, Mike, who is only too happy to take over jobs around the house.
With jealousy and discontent at hand, a weird postman and a city in the grip of a man called Abel terrorising whoever he can, the tension rises. We perceive Abel’s thoughts and know, he has so much more in store for the city. At first, you almost feel pity for Abel as he tells us he feels isolated but is it due to his own behaviour or to the fact that he is incapable of giving and receiving love and affection? Who is Abel and what is his motive for his reign of terror? He wants the public to know him and fear his name because he tells his victims “my name is Abel” and thrills at the fear he installs. Abel is in the city – how will the city cope? The police have no clue and the question is how long will the public stay quiet? Will there be vigilantes or others, inspired by Abel’s behaviour? Slowly, action by action, step by step, the violence deteriorates and with the submerging fear in the city and its inhabitants, we shudder to think what Abel is capable of.
| My Thoughts |
‘Abel’s Revenge’ is yet another expertly crafted psychological thriller by Ross Greenwood, exploring the influence of man’s darkest sides on life and relationships. It sounds so ordinary: a couple with young children, marital problems (even if they are not married – the situation is the same), but slowly the author shows us multiple layers, a few more characters, each with their own tribulations. The book is carefully construed into short chapters, each written from the perspective of the chapter’s protagonist. That fascinating topic, nature or nurture to instigate someone’s conduct again is at the bottom of this insightful novel, this time mixed with societal and human behaviour. Why is it, that people tend to ignore others? Why are so few capable of extending a hand, even a smile towards a stranger? Are we as a society responsible for the anti-social attitudes we see on a daily basis?
In ‘Abel’s Revenge’ we witness ordinary lives going downhill and also how even innocent actions can have a huge impact, let alone the violent ones. The most fascinating aspect of this book is that the author paints a picture of people like you and me – with everyday emotions and jobs and then, somehow, he adds a dark layer to it all combining the ordinary with a viciousness that makes your blood go cold and you just have to keep on reading to find out what will happen next. After I finished the book the emotions hurtled through my mind about the topic and complexity of the novel. Yet again, the author has delivered a dark and disturbing psychological thriller!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/abel-r...
| Introduction |
‘The sickness” is what transforms Abel into a person most cruel who tortures and gravely misconducts himself without feeling… anything. The chilling first chapter shows us all too well what Abel is capable of and that is just him growing up. The reference to the Biblical brothers Cain and Abel is there to see but what is extremely worrying is Abel’s conclusion – one which will have a far-reaching impact on his life and, sadly, on that of others too…
| Storyline |
Is it growing up in a loveless family, with parents who could not care less what happened to their only child, Abel, that made the boy the man he came to be? Or is it something dark in his psyche that forces its way out in unspeakable actions? Abel’s parents most certainly knew what their son was capable of but they were incapable of doing anything about it. But Abel’s father recognised it – because of something in himself too? It is also Abel’s father who flattens out the ‘creases’ Abel makes or, in other words, who makes complaints go away and charges dropped and who, even more disturbingly, tells Abel how to “revel in the joy of those moments” when the “impulses from within” emerge to the surface. It was a spine-chilling moment both for Abel as for the reader.
First, we meet Dan Flood and Olivia Jones, who fell head over heels in love whilst on vacation. Now, they are a couple with two young children and life is not as rosy as it was. The daily arguments about the children and the house, the constant tiredness and both their jobs, it all seems too much. Dan feels a hostility towards the city Olivia made him move to and, on top of that, hates his job with a vengeance. No wonder he blames Olivia. She, on the other hand, would love to go back to the days of old but even more, would like Dan to get a grip and ‘man up.’ Theirs is a daily continuous struggle and we wonder whether they will go through with their marriage plans. We also see Olivia’s boss having an eye for his beautiful employee and there is the neighbour, Mike, who is only too happy to take over jobs around the house.
With jealousy and discontent at hand, a weird postman and a city in the grip of a man called Abel terrorising whoever he can, the tension rises. We perceive Abel’s thoughts and know, he has so much more in store for the city. At first, you almost feel pity for Abel as he tells us he feels isolated but is it due to his own behaviour or to the fact that he is incapable of giving and receiving love and affection? Who is Abel and what is his motive for his reign of terror? He wants the public to know him and fear his name because he tells his victims “my name is Abel” and thrills at the fear he installs. Abel is in the city – how will the city cope? The police have no clue and the question is how long will the public stay quiet? Will there be vigilantes or others, inspired by Abel’s behaviour? Slowly, action by action, step by step, the violence deteriorates and with the submerging fear in the city and its inhabitants, we shudder to think what Abel is capable of.
| My Thoughts |
‘Abel’s Revenge’ is yet another expertly crafted psychological thriller by Ross Greenwood, exploring the influence of man’s darkest sides on life and relationships. It sounds so ordinary: a couple with young children, marital problems (even if they are not married – the situation is the same), but slowly the author shows us multiple layers, a few more characters, each with their own tribulations. The book is carefully construed into short chapters, each written from the perspective of the chapter’s protagonist. That fascinating topic, nature or nurture to instigate someone’s conduct again is at the bottom of this insightful novel, this time mixed with societal and human behaviour. Why is it, that people tend to ignore others? Why are so few capable of extending a hand, even a smile towards a stranger? Are we as a society responsible for the anti-social attitudes we see on a daily basis?
In ‘Abel’s Revenge’ we witness ordinary lives going downhill and also how even innocent actions can have a huge impact, let alone the violent ones. The most fascinating aspect of this book is that the author paints a picture of people like you and me – with everyday emotions and jobs and then, somehow, he adds a dark layer to it all combining the ordinary with a viciousness that makes your blood go cold and you just have to keep on reading to find out what will happen next. After I finished the book the emotions hurtled through my mind about the topic and complexity of the novel. Yet again, the author has delivered a dark and disturbing psychological thriller!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/abel-r...
March 4, 2018
Another wonderfully unique book from Greenwood. It's a tale about a family and their day to day struggles, but with an added wrinkle: there is a serial killer terrorizing their city. Well-written, in-depth likable characters, humor, heartbreak and a twist that will floor you. It's no secret that I am a fan of this author.
March 25, 2018
Abel's Revenge by Ross Greenwood is a compelling story with relatable characters and as far removed from what I thought it would be as possible.
Told from different characters points of view, we are immediately thrown into the plot as the killer, who calls this dark predator that lives inside of him 'Abel', describes to us what happens when Abel rises up and takes control of him. When Abel is in charge, terror will unfold.
Then the story shifts to Dan and Olivia, a perfectly ordinary couple who have lost their spark and themselves in the routine of work, kids, and running the house. Dan is miserable and hates every part of his life while Olivia desperately wants the man that she loves to grow up and realise how lucky he is to have her and the kids. As their relationship continues to go downhill, they let us see the community that they live in, a community that is now living in fear as Abel begins his attacks. But who will be next???
First of all, I have to point out how eye-catching this cover is - definitely a cover that made me stop and look at it a few times. With this story, I expected a police procedural novel with the odd twist but ABEL'S REVENGE by Ross Greenwood turned this on its head and brings the reader onto the ground level, just an ordinary person living in a community that is terrified at what is happening. There are many possibilities as to who Abel could be - their sleazy next-door neighbour, or the creepy postman and over friendly milkman are just a few that immediately pop into my mind - but you always have that whisper of doubt as to who it really is. I enjoyed the fact that an ordinary couple and their struggles play a big part in this story as it makes the overall plot more relatable and believable.
ABEL'S REVENGE by Ross Greenwood is steadily paced with plenty of grit and surprises to keep you hooked from start to finish and I highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the blog tour organiser
Told from different characters points of view, we are immediately thrown into the plot as the killer, who calls this dark predator that lives inside of him 'Abel', describes to us what happens when Abel rises up and takes control of him. When Abel is in charge, terror will unfold.
Then the story shifts to Dan and Olivia, a perfectly ordinary couple who have lost their spark and themselves in the routine of work, kids, and running the house. Dan is miserable and hates every part of his life while Olivia desperately wants the man that she loves to grow up and realise how lucky he is to have her and the kids. As their relationship continues to go downhill, they let us see the community that they live in, a community that is now living in fear as Abel begins his attacks. But who will be next???
First of all, I have to point out how eye-catching this cover is - definitely a cover that made me stop and look at it a few times. With this story, I expected a police procedural novel with the odd twist but ABEL'S REVENGE by Ross Greenwood turned this on its head and brings the reader onto the ground level, just an ordinary person living in a community that is terrified at what is happening. There are many possibilities as to who Abel could be - their sleazy next-door neighbour, or the creepy postman and over friendly milkman are just a few that immediately pop into my mind - but you always have that whisper of doubt as to who it really is. I enjoyed the fact that an ordinary couple and their struggles play a big part in this story as it makes the overall plot more relatable and believable.
ABEL'S REVENGE by Ross Greenwood is steadily paced with plenty of grit and surprises to keep you hooked from start to finish and I highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the blog tour organiser
March 7, 2018
Oops, he did it again! Another 5 star book from the penmanship of Mr Greenwood. Such a clever idea; one minute you're reading an exceptionally witty and dry humoured account of an ordinary family struggling with everyday life, next you're gasping in shock and horror at the actions of a serial killer. I had some genuine laugh-out-loud moments, the humour is spot on, sarcastic, dark and appropriate to anyone who lives in today's chaotic world. The murder spree keeps you guessing, not only as to the identity of the murderer, but what his method of dispatch will be. My oh my, Mr Greenwood has a vivid imagination! This is a very funny, very dark, very clever story, and as for the twist.....no spoilers but I recommend you rush out and get yourself a copy of Abel's Revenge. You can thank me later!
March 1, 2018
Oh wow! I wasn’t prepared for that. Another wonderfully described book from the master of words. This begins telling two stories. One is from Abel’s point of view- his childhood and his demons and how he deals with them and his dark past. The other is of a couple trudging through the treacle that is their relationship, possibly the end of it, and dealing with their young children . When one party doesn’t pull his weight at home- in fact Olivia may as well be dealing with another child. Ross has a way with words (He was my author of the year for 2017) that beautifully describes each scenario. Caring and tender when it needs to be and then gritty and raw to flip the coin. Enough action to draw you in and characters that you take to- or not in one case! You wonder where the two are going to meet - just having that feeling that they might. Jamie Lawson wasn’t wrong when he said “I wasn’t expecting that”. I won’t give anything away …..I’ll just say.. wow, wow, wow. Stunning.
March 25, 2018
The synopsis for this book is quite unique and it is not until I now sit and write my review that I really get it’s significance as I re read it, a story about a city. This is a clever and a brilliant concept of the city being responsible for the actions of people. Life in a city is what you make it. If you don’t accept and embrace the diversity and opportunities it lays out before you, it will mess with your head. A couple with two children, one parent accepts city life and loves her life, the other parent feels suffocated, out-of-place and struggles. With their own problems to deal with the couple hear of a serial killer crime wave. It is a crime wave that terrorizes the inhabitants of the sprawling urban streets, it has a name. Its name is Abel.
This is a cleverly thought out book, with dark depths and subtle moments of unexpected sarcasm and humour as it brings the city to life through those who live in it. It shows us a typical family with the stress and strain of being parents, and trying to balance time between children, work and for themselves. We hear of their story as the city is in the grip of Abel, his actions are on the news and on everyone’s lips, this adds another worry to their lives.
Half way through this book is a newspaper article that gives the most perfect way of summarising events that have been escalating. It’s a great way of taking the reader out of the cocoon and opening it up to give a wider general opinion, it expands the vision and lets the reader get more of a feel for what is being referred to as “The Abel Effect”. It adds public opinion, fear and outcry as they feel the police are not doing enough to balance this is the police response and how they are dealing with this phenomenon.
It is at this inclusion in the story I made a note as I was reading, “this is bad, but I have an even badder feeling something sinister is going to happen”, okay I am not very articulate when I make notes, but I know exactly what I felt and what I meant. This is the point when you realise that the story is winding up again, upping the ante and giving this reader a real sense of dread. The way I had no idea who the serial killer was, well had several suspects and kept changing my mind but had no idea how this story was going to end.
This is a story that took me on a journey that was unexpected, even after reading I am still thinking about it. It is deceptive and a brilliant read, a book I really wanted to race through to discover the whys and hows of the plot, but one that I slowed my reading for so I could really understand the story behind the story.
This is a definitely highly recommended read, not often I use definite and highly together, it is a psychological thriller that is powerful, brutal and honest. A look into the mind of a serial killer as the crimes are committed and seeing the reasoning and justification behind them. But also in contrast, how a family struggling in their relationship deal with the strains of living within a city. This is a book that I think would be brilliant for a brilliant Book Club pick, it has many aspects that I think could give some great discussions.
This is a cleverly thought out book, with dark depths and subtle moments of unexpected sarcasm and humour as it brings the city to life through those who live in it. It shows us a typical family with the stress and strain of being parents, and trying to balance time between children, work and for themselves. We hear of their story as the city is in the grip of Abel, his actions are on the news and on everyone’s lips, this adds another worry to their lives.
Half way through this book is a newspaper article that gives the most perfect way of summarising events that have been escalating. It’s a great way of taking the reader out of the cocoon and opening it up to give a wider general opinion, it expands the vision and lets the reader get more of a feel for what is being referred to as “The Abel Effect”. It adds public opinion, fear and outcry as they feel the police are not doing enough to balance this is the police response and how they are dealing with this phenomenon.
It is at this inclusion in the story I made a note as I was reading, “this is bad, but I have an even badder feeling something sinister is going to happen”, okay I am not very articulate when I make notes, but I know exactly what I felt and what I meant. This is the point when you realise that the story is winding up again, upping the ante and giving this reader a real sense of dread. The way I had no idea who the serial killer was, well had several suspects and kept changing my mind but had no idea how this story was going to end.
This is a story that took me on a journey that was unexpected, even after reading I am still thinking about it. It is deceptive and a brilliant read, a book I really wanted to race through to discover the whys and hows of the plot, but one that I slowed my reading for so I could really understand the story behind the story.
This is a definitely highly recommended read, not often I use definite and highly together, it is a psychological thriller that is powerful, brutal and honest. A look into the mind of a serial killer as the crimes are committed and seeing the reasoning and justification behind them. But also in contrast, how a family struggling in their relationship deal with the strains of living within a city. This is a book that I think would be brilliant for a brilliant Book Club pick, it has many aspects that I think could give some great discussions.
March 26, 2018
Shocking...Dark ...I loved it...
Dan and Olivia have two young children and are sort of at the Seven year itch stage..Olivia loves her job, loves her kids and loves Dan but he is in what you would call perhaps a midlife crisis their niggling at each other is pulling them apart...In the city there are a series of vicious attacks...There are brutal murders...the killer is spiralling out of control...and now he is leaving messages...People are terrified..Detective Sharpe and Inspector Jordan have a team stressed out...and they have no inkling ...A psychopath is on the loose...and he is escalating ...Olivia meanwhile is offered a once in a lifetime opportunity...Dan though is hitting the bottle ...hates his job...and becoming further and further away...But will they catch Abel? This story will make you laugh in parts...Dan and Olivia's story from when they meet could be the story of any couple...Yet there are dark undertones Abel is unhinged...unfeeling and clever...As the story reaches fever point...you will find yourself saying ...No no no...What a story...Just be careful there are many like Abel out there......Waiting patiently....
Dan and Olivia have two young children and are sort of at the Seven year itch stage..Olivia loves her job, loves her kids and loves Dan but he is in what you would call perhaps a midlife crisis their niggling at each other is pulling them apart...In the city there are a series of vicious attacks...There are brutal murders...the killer is spiralling out of control...and now he is leaving messages...People are terrified..Detective Sharpe and Inspector Jordan have a team stressed out...and they have no inkling ...A psychopath is on the loose...and he is escalating ...Olivia meanwhile is offered a once in a lifetime opportunity...Dan though is hitting the bottle ...hates his job...and becoming further and further away...But will they catch Abel? This story will make you laugh in parts...Dan and Olivia's story from when they meet could be the story of any couple...Yet there are dark undertones Abel is unhinged...unfeeling and clever...As the story reaches fever point...you will find yourself saying ...No no no...What a story...Just be careful there are many like Abel out there......Waiting patiently....
December 4, 2022
Hunter by Ross Greenwood.
First there was the drowned man, but maybe his death was an accident?
Then there were the decapitated bodies, the burnt girl, the women pursued in the dark. Finally the police have to admit there’s a serial killer on the loose and he seems set on revenge. His name is Abel and his crimes are escalating every day.
Dan Flood, Olivia Jones and their two young children are a family at breaking point. The mundane juggle of parenting and work means that the romance is draining away. Living in a community that is growing ever more fearful, just adds to the pressure in their lives.
But when Abel turns his attention on Olivia, only Dan can save her…
I did enjoy this book. I do enjoy this author books. I love the cover. 5*.
First there was the drowned man, but maybe his death was an accident?
Then there were the decapitated bodies, the burnt girl, the women pursued in the dark. Finally the police have to admit there’s a serial killer on the loose and he seems set on revenge. His name is Abel and his crimes are escalating every day.
Dan Flood, Olivia Jones and their two young children are a family at breaking point. The mundane juggle of parenting and work means that the romance is draining away. Living in a community that is growing ever more fearful, just adds to the pressure in their lives.
But when Abel turns his attention on Olivia, only Dan can save her…
I did enjoy this book. I do enjoy this author books. I love the cover. 5*.
March 25, 2018
When I saw that Ross Greenwood had written a serial killer thriller I preordered it and then jumped at the chance of a review copy. In truth, this wasn’t exactly what I expected. I have found his previous work very emotional and dark even though they were peppered with humour. In Abel’s Revenge I felt that the humour dominated and I just didn’t feel the emotional connection to the characters that I had expected. For me this read a bit like a sit-com where you are focussed on the laughs and violence doesn’t seem so violent. The majority of chapters switch between Dan, Olivia and Abel and are titled to reflect this. My favourite title for a chapter (of anything I have ever read) has to be ‘The model with no name and beautiful hair who ignores Judith’. Genius!
I’ll be interested to read other reviews of Abel’s Revenge, particularly from readers who are new to Ross Greenwood’s work.
I’ll be interested to read other reviews of Abel’s Revenge, particularly from readers who are new to Ross Greenwood’s work.
dropped
June 29, 2023DNF @ 48%. If I had wanted to read a drama, I would have picked up a freaking drama. I wanted a British crime Thriller not a British drama with a pinch of serial k1ll3r.
Such a huge disappointment considering how much I love this author's DI Barton series.
Such a huge disappointment considering how much I love this author's DI Barton series.
March 26, 2018
This book didn't grab me as I thought it would. It is told from various perspectives, but mainly Dan, his partner Olivia and Abel, a killer terrifying a city.
I really enjoyed Abel's chapters (and would have liked more of them), and those from other minor characters, but, for me, the chapters from Dan and Olivia's points of view broke the rising tension (and I would have liked less of them). That said, Dan and Olivia's characters are well fleshed out and their struggling relationship is well described. I found Dan quite annoying though! Abel remained mysterious through most of the book. I also enjoyed the descriptions of a city in chaos and freefall, caused by the fear of Abel, as more and more crimes are attributed to him, regardless of whether he has committed them or not.
For me, this book was saved by the ending. The action increased and then there was a surprise twist that I just didn't coming, and it helped explain some of the earlier story.
There is potential for a follow up book, and I would certainly be interested to read it, if that was the case, to see how things develop.
I really enjoyed Abel's chapters (and would have liked more of them), and those from other minor characters, but, for me, the chapters from Dan and Olivia's points of view broke the rising tension (and I would have liked less of them). That said, Dan and Olivia's characters are well fleshed out and their struggling relationship is well described. I found Dan quite annoying though! Abel remained mysterious through most of the book. I also enjoyed the descriptions of a city in chaos and freefall, caused by the fear of Abel, as more and more crimes are attributed to him, regardless of whether he has committed them or not.
For me, this book was saved by the ending. The action increased and then there was a surprise twist that I just didn't coming, and it helped explain some of the earlier story.
There is potential for a follow up book, and I would certainly be interested to read it, if that was the case, to see how things develop.
March 20, 2019
I feel I have been fortunate of late. With picks of books, I mean. As with all best laid plans--things do go awry. Anyway, I feel I must be honest: I gave this book until chapter 8 and when it still had yet to hook me I pulled the plug. One caveat, however: I needed to see if I was right and had figured out who Able was early on in the proceedings. As my not too hard a hunch led me to believe, this was so. Note: when another character says he will not go by his given name and instead by his middle which fails to be mentioned, the pool of suspects becomes rather small. Anyway, this is all to say I skipped to the last 3 chapters and can clearly say I don't think I missed much in-between.
March 23, 2018
This book has what seems like 2 stories running parallel to one another with the story about Abel and his killing spree and Dan and Olivia's family troubles. I am afraid I didn't find it a gripping thriller just a quite good read. For me it was one of those books that I enjoyed but find it hard to review as it isn't one that will stay with me for a while. I admit that I had an inkling about how it would end from about half way through and I was right but that wasn't confirmed until the very end so I was kept guessing which was good.
August 23, 2023
This book just seemed to go on and on. I’ve enjoyed the author’s other works and possibly wasn’t ready for this one to be more about a relationship than murder detection.
Parts of it were ok but the final twist wasn’t really a surprise and the explanation about how it had all been accomplished stretched credulity to the limit.
I listened to the story on audible. The narrator was very good except at the end he ascribed the killer’s voice in a misleading way and I’m not sure why.
Parts of it were ok but the final twist wasn’t really a surprise and the explanation about how it had all been accomplished stretched credulity to the limit.
I listened to the story on audible. The narrator was very good except at the end he ascribed the killer’s voice in a misleading way and I’m not sure why.
April 5, 2018
Abel's Revenge is a tale of an ordinary couple living an ordinary life. Neither of them seem particularly happy in their relationship but neither of them seem to be able to find a way out of the hole they seem to have dug themselves into. Meanwhile the city is subject to the terrifying presence of a serial killer and the killer is about to make a huge impact on their lives.
OK this was a surreal one but not in a bad way just in a very strange way! Ross Greenwood has a brilliant knack of writing strong character focused novels and Abel's revenge is no different in this respect. Ross has created a cast of extremely well written characters.
Dan and Olivia are struggling in their relationship, parenthood and career stresses have eroded any depth of feeling that they have for each other and their lives seem to have become a never-ending series of petty squabbles. As a reader I found myself sucked into the apathy that was their relationship and it often felt as though I was carrying their burdens as I read. However, and I don't know if the author intended this, at times I was absolutely howling with laughter at their behaviour; some of the one liners are class! A realistic portrayal of how people's lives can quickly fall into a rut.
Abel, now we know right from the beginning that he is the serial killer terrorising the city. We know his name but we don't know who he is.We are told from the start of the book about the issues he faced as a child and we are led to ponder over the idea of nature V nurture, especially when the advice given to him by his father is to ensure that he keeps himself hidden and not get caught doing the things that he does. He really is the most revolting individual, a sociopath or a psychopath, it is difficult to tell but you certainly wouldn't want to be meeting him on a dark night by yourself! Yet at times there is something about him that makes you wonder if there is another side to Abel.
The city is under attack with crime rates soaring, it isn't clear if Abel is responsible for them all or if he has acted as an inspiration to others. At times it became unclear if Abel was actually real or a representation of the sickness in society. The police play a very minor part in this novel, it is not a police procedural, it's not about the good guys catching the bad guys; it's more of an exploration into the darker side of human nature.
The book is written from Dan and Olivia' point of view interspersed with narrative from Abel and random characters he has chosen as victims. Other characters were very much on the periphery and as such I never really felt much connection with the other characters in the book as this was more a story of Dan, Olivia and Abel.
I don't know that I would categorise Ross Greenwood's books in the genre of thriller, there is something quite different about them. Reading Abel's Revenge was almost like an opportunity to identify with the main characters, Dan and Olivia, yet at the same time being taken on a rollercoaster ride of a read way outside of your normal everyday experiences. Domestic Noir with a twist, dark psychological read? I'm not sure but it is certainly a twisted and disturbing read altogether!
If you are looking for a straightforward psychological thriller/good guys catch bad guys type of read this one is probably not for you. If, however, you are looking for an exploration into the depths of human nature where the darkness of the mind combined with a dark sense of humour then I think you might like this one.
OK this was a surreal one but not in a bad way just in a very strange way! Ross Greenwood has a brilliant knack of writing strong character focused novels and Abel's revenge is no different in this respect. Ross has created a cast of extremely well written characters.
Dan and Olivia are struggling in their relationship, parenthood and career stresses have eroded any depth of feeling that they have for each other and their lives seem to have become a never-ending series of petty squabbles. As a reader I found myself sucked into the apathy that was their relationship and it often felt as though I was carrying their burdens as I read. However, and I don't know if the author intended this, at times I was absolutely howling with laughter at their behaviour; some of the one liners are class! A realistic portrayal of how people's lives can quickly fall into a rut.
Abel, now we know right from the beginning that he is the serial killer terrorising the city. We know his name but we don't know who he is.We are told from the start of the book about the issues he faced as a child and we are led to ponder over the idea of nature V nurture, especially when the advice given to him by his father is to ensure that he keeps himself hidden and not get caught doing the things that he does. He really is the most revolting individual, a sociopath or a psychopath, it is difficult to tell but you certainly wouldn't want to be meeting him on a dark night by yourself! Yet at times there is something about him that makes you wonder if there is another side to Abel.
The city is under attack with crime rates soaring, it isn't clear if Abel is responsible for them all or if he has acted as an inspiration to others. At times it became unclear if Abel was actually real or a representation of the sickness in society. The police play a very minor part in this novel, it is not a police procedural, it's not about the good guys catching the bad guys; it's more of an exploration into the darker side of human nature.
The book is written from Dan and Olivia' point of view interspersed with narrative from Abel and random characters he has chosen as victims. Other characters were very much on the periphery and as such I never really felt much connection with the other characters in the book as this was more a story of Dan, Olivia and Abel.
I don't know that I would categorise Ross Greenwood's books in the genre of thriller, there is something quite different about them. Reading Abel's Revenge was almost like an opportunity to identify with the main characters, Dan and Olivia, yet at the same time being taken on a rollercoaster ride of a read way outside of your normal everyday experiences. Domestic Noir with a twist, dark psychological read? I'm not sure but it is certainly a twisted and disturbing read altogether!
If you are looking for a straightforward psychological thriller/good guys catch bad guys type of read this one is probably not for you. If, however, you are looking for an exploration into the depths of human nature where the darkness of the mind combined with a dark sense of humour then I think you might like this one.
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