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The Journey
★★★★★ This is the most memorable and gripping novel I have read in a very long time. It will stay with me.★★★★★ This should be on every school reading list.★★★★★ A modern-day reflection of life in our time.It is for fans of The Pianist, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and similar.★★★★★ Jones is a prolific thriller writer but this is his masterpiece.★★★★★ I Couldn't put this down. Fast-paced from the beginning. Get your tissues out for this one.★★★★★ An incredible story, which will haunt me for a long time.The Journey is a must-read thriller. The gripping story of a young boy and his family, driven from their home by war and indiscriminate violence. Like millions of others, they attempt the treacherous journey across their war-torn continent, trying to reach the safety of Europe. The truth is, Europe doesn't want them and thousands die every month at the hands of thieves and profiteering men to whom life is cheap. The story is fast-paced, at times heart-breaking but it will pull you along at 100 miles an hour. It will make you think and it will make you question your perception of refugees.Most of all it will make you ask if your family was in peril, what would you do?What the reviewers are saying about The ★★★★★ "If you’re looking for something to open your eyes, break your heart, and look to take action to promote change, start with The Journey." Tiffany Hall - Beyond The Stars★★★★★ "I have never read a book before where I have had to stop reading because I couldn’t cope with the emotions the book engendered in me but the author writes so powerfully that I HAD to finish it." Joanna Lanum - Guest Reviewer★★★★★ "Such an intense, chilling and eye-opening novel which is guaranteed to leave you utterly speechless." Kaisha Holloway - The Writing Garnet★★★★★ "The plot line is superb and the characters are brilliant and really help carry the story forward." Donna Maguire - Donnas Book Blog★★★★★ "It had me captivated until the end. An easy, fast-paced read!" Gemma Myers - Between The Pages Book Club
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2018
374 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Conrad Jones
125 books396 followersConrad Jones is a best-selling thriller writer with 30 thriller novels.
The Anglesey Murders 10 books
The Soft Target Series 6 books
The Detective Alec Ramsay Series 6 books
The Inspector Braddick Series 4 books
The Journey Series 3 books
Cuckoos on the Mersey
18 of his books are available in audio and his novels have been translated into six languages.
He is always keen to talk to readers and writers alike, jonesconrad5@aol.com
FaceBook Conrad Jones Author
Twitter @ConradJones
The Anglesey Murders 10 books
The Soft Target Series 6 books
The Detective Alec Ramsay Series 6 books
The Inspector Braddick Series 4 books
The Journey Series 3 books
Cuckoos on the Mersey
18 of his books are available in audio and his novels have been translated into six languages.
He is always keen to talk to readers and writers alike, jonesconrad5@aol.com
FaceBook Conrad Jones Author
Twitter @ConradJones
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
March 1, 2021
When the trucks full of extremists armed with machetes and machine guns descended on their village people were rounded up and treated appallingly.
This is the story of Kalu a doctor from village of Monguno in Nigeria fleeing from the atrocities that rebel forces were inflicting on his people. He takes his wife, son and three daughters on a heartbreaking journey full of danger.
This book kept me captivated and I really cared about the characters.
The Journey is the first book I've read by Conrad Jones and I will be looking out for more from this author.
I would like to NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Kalu a doctor from village of Monguno in Nigeria fleeing from the atrocities that rebel forces were inflicting on his people. He takes his wife, son and three daughters on a heartbreaking journey full of danger.
This book kept me captivated and I really cared about the characters.
The Journey is the first book I've read by Conrad Jones and I will be looking out for more from this author.
I would like to NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2019
This book is epic, truly, from page 1 to the last word I was held captive by it
Esse and Kalu and their family have a good life in Nigeria when Boko Haram arrive in their town, the description of this is harrowing, emotional and tense and really sets the scene for the rest of this book
So real is the descriptive writing I had to check this wasn’t a real account as I believed every word and lived every second I was reading
Once Boko Haram descend the family escape and go on a torturous journey through Niger, Chad and eventually arrive in Libya where they manage to set sail to Europe
All the above is described in real time and so powerful I am finding it hard to describe how it made me feel, often we say ‘on the edge of our seats’ or ‘ unputdownable’ but I mean it 100% with this book
The description of the boat journey from Libya to Europe is as the rest of the book mind blowingly awesome but so so sad
The ending of the book was probably one of the biggest shocks I have read in a book for a long time and just did not expect it and left me open mouthed
The author has written this book with such depth and detail, compassion and insight and yet not fallen into the trap of making the book a political statement, I imagine hard to do on such subjects
I doubt I will ever forget this book and the family and what they went through and also that real families are going through very similar
Outstanding, touching, real, devastating and well, you read it and see how difficult it is to actually put in words how it makes you feel
10/10 5 Stars
October 28, 2022
I've heard Conrad Jones be recommended a few times, so was excited to get the chance to join the blog tour for this.
I expected a thriller, but this is so much more. This was totally different to what I had in mind, and so much more powerful. Quite unlike anything I've read before. It is full of drama, but also opens the readers' eyes to the trauma and pain of living in such unstable areas, ready to flee the home at a moment's notice.
The book reads to be more like literary fiction, raising awareness for a previously unknown area of history. I'll be honest and admit I hadn't heard of Boko Haram until I read this, and now I've finished the book, I actually feel rather ashamed.
This is engrossing, shocking, traumatic and thought-provoking. The kind of painful book that hurts emotionally to read, but you can't put it down because you have to know the characters are going to be okay.
Incredible.
I expected a thriller, but this is so much more. This was totally different to what I had in mind, and so much more powerful. Quite unlike anything I've read before. It is full of drama, but also opens the readers' eyes to the trauma and pain of living in such unstable areas, ready to flee the home at a moment's notice.
The book reads to be more like literary fiction, raising awareness for a previously unknown area of history. I'll be honest and admit I hadn't heard of Boko Haram until I read this, and now I've finished the book, I actually feel rather ashamed.
This is engrossing, shocking, traumatic and thought-provoking. The kind of painful book that hurts emotionally to read, but you can't put it down because you have to know the characters are going to be okay.
Incredible.
May 29, 2018
I am sat here flabbergasted after finishing The Journey, what a simply fabulous heart-breaking read this turned out to be, and what a talented and versatile author Conrad Jones is. I picked up The Journey and even after reading the book description I thought it would lean heavily towards being a crime thriller, but my god was I so wrong, It’s a story of Human resilience, and the incredible lengths people will go to protect their family. Although a fictional account of refugees, it never the less made for a haunting read and a very credible one at that.
The journey is a modern day tale of our times, and follows the harrowing story of ten year old Beb and his family who flee their village of Monuno after Boko Haram attack their village. Beb’s story is unfortunately a very credible one, it’s the reality that thousands of innocent people face every day. Conrad Jones describes scenes which are rich in detail, the suffering, the violence, the author doesn’t sugarcoat the atrocities carried out by Boko Haram, but neither does he use them for shock value.
The author has created a family whose characters engage you from the start, you can’t help but connect with Beb and his family and thanks to the incredible detailed descriptions you feel you are there alongside the family on their treacherous journey to reach Europe, you feel their desperation and uncertainty and their fear, you can’t help but urge this family on as they face the unknown. The Journey depicts the best and worse in human behaviour, it’s harrowing without a doubt, heartbreaking and yet amid the horrors there’s an underlying sense of hope for some. I’m sure this book and Beb will haunt me for weeks, so convincing was Conrad Jones’s writing. Highly recommended
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
The journey is a modern day tale of our times, and follows the harrowing story of ten year old Beb and his family who flee their village of Monuno after Boko Haram attack their village. Beb’s story is unfortunately a very credible one, it’s the reality that thousands of innocent people face every day. Conrad Jones describes scenes which are rich in detail, the suffering, the violence, the author doesn’t sugarcoat the atrocities carried out by Boko Haram, but neither does he use them for shock value.
The author has created a family whose characters engage you from the start, you can’t help but connect with Beb and his family and thanks to the incredible detailed descriptions you feel you are there alongside the family on their treacherous journey to reach Europe, you feel their desperation and uncertainty and their fear, you can’t help but urge this family on as they face the unknown. The Journey depicts the best and worse in human behaviour, it’s harrowing without a doubt, heartbreaking and yet amid the horrors there’s an underlying sense of hope for some. I’m sure this book and Beb will haunt me for weeks, so convincing was Conrad Jones’s writing. Highly recommended
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
April 21, 2018
The Journey is very different from the authors other books. Where as his others are more crime some bordering on horror, this one is more to do with the atrocities that go on in the real world of which is happening right now.
Kalu and his family are peace loving people. Sadly their home town comes under threat from a group wanting to take over. These people have no respect for anyone and will kill without a second thought as well as raping and pillaging the villages and towns they come into. I couldn't imagine anything worse, there seems to be no stopping them and Kalu has no choice but to try and get his family into Europe where they will be safe. Like I say, with what is happening in Syria and other parts of the world, Kalu's journey I think will hit home for what these people have to go through.
From picking this book up I couldn't put it down and read it in one evening. I had to know whether Kalu and his family make it. There are so many horrors and heartaches along the way that will shock and surprise you.
The Journey is a story that will have you go through so many emotions, mainly anger and compassion for what is happening to the people. It is one that will make you sit back and reflect with what is going on in the real world. This is a story that needed to be told, and whilst not a true one, this is what is happening in our world and hopefully it will make people sit up and take note. A hard hitting and emotional read that will stay with me for a very long time to come.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Kalu and his family are peace loving people. Sadly their home town comes under threat from a group wanting to take over. These people have no respect for anyone and will kill without a second thought as well as raping and pillaging the villages and towns they come into. I couldn't imagine anything worse, there seems to be no stopping them and Kalu has no choice but to try and get his family into Europe where they will be safe. Like I say, with what is happening in Syria and other parts of the world, Kalu's journey I think will hit home for what these people have to go through.
From picking this book up I couldn't put it down and read it in one evening. I had to know whether Kalu and his family make it. There are so many horrors and heartaches along the way that will shock and surprise you.
The Journey is a story that will have you go through so many emotions, mainly anger and compassion for what is happening to the people. It is one that will make you sit back and reflect with what is going on in the real world. This is a story that needed to be told, and whilst not a true one, this is what is happening in our world and hopefully it will make people sit up and take note. A hard hitting and emotional read that will stay with me for a very long time to come.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
March 14, 2018
This book shows what a fabulous talented writer Conrad Jones is. It is totally different to his other books yet it still has shocking part of the plot he is so well known for, however from this book, the bloodshed is real. At times I felt like I was reading someone’s heart-breaking biography because Conrad has made the book so real with a gripping plot. The characters are brilliantly written, they feel real and people you would warm to easily. Kalu is a character that is strong and logical and Beb made me want to hug him many times though out the book. I even felt Esse’s pain come from the pages when all she wanted to do was protect her family.
Kalu knew the Boko Harman could attack his village at any moment so he makes a plan to give his family the best chance of escape. The reader follows them on a journey to Europe where nothing comes easy. They literally face every person’s nightmare and for me it opened my eyes to why people flee and seek safety.
This truly is a well-deserved 5 * book!
Kalu knew the Boko Harman could attack his village at any moment so he makes a plan to give his family the best chance of escape. The reader follows them on a journey to Europe where nothing comes easy. They literally face every person’s nightmare and for me it opened my eyes to why people flee and seek safety.
This truly is a well-deserved 5 * book!
July 27, 2022
It took me a while to consider how to write this review. What word could I use to truly describe the impact this book has had on me. I’m not sure I’m even close to deciding. I needed time to absorb the atrocities within before I wrote anything, but knew I was thankful that Mr Jones had taken the time to write the book, so that I could begin to see some of the story behind the story we are allowed to see on the news.
Why has he written such a book? Who is Kalu? Why are some of the human race so cruel and some so strong? What would I do in that situation? All as yet unanswered questions for me.
This story is all at once - heartbreaking, desperate, uplifting, emotional, painful, strong and powerful. Running through the pulsing heart of it, is the huge strength that those in peril will dig deep to find when faced with a desperate situation.
Mr Jones, this one will stay with me for a long time to come. Thank you.
Why has he written such a book? Who is Kalu? Why are some of the human race so cruel and some so strong? What would I do in that situation? All as yet unanswered questions for me.
This story is all at once - heartbreaking, desperate, uplifting, emotional, painful, strong and powerful. Running through the pulsing heart of it, is the huge strength that those in peril will dig deep to find when faced with a desperate situation.
Mr Jones, this one will stay with me for a long time to come. Thank you.
August 12, 2023
Audio 3.5 ⭐️
April 16, 2019
If you've ever wondered what could possibly cause educated middle class parents to put their children on unsafe vessels and risk their lives fleeing atrocity, then read this!
The Journey is the story of Kalu, a doctor and his family. Dealing graphically with the violence of the Boko Haram extremists as they surge through his village and the resultant journey to try to evade them and seek refuge in Europe - Kalu had kept abreast of the news, was prepared, had passports, money and a plan .... Is it enough to get his family to safety? - will they survive not just the terrorists but the opportunists of chaos who profit inhumanely from the desperation of these terrified displaced people?
Unbearably sad and far too believable, deviating from his usual thrillers Conrad Jones shows us the inhumanity shown to these refugees and the terror encountered by them. I read this in two sittings; it's gripping, the characters are wonderfully drawn, the story well crafted and I just had to know the outcome - despite the horror and the subject matter there is warmth and love and humour in this story and, as I should have know with this author, an unexpected outcome!
A book that will educate, inspire, move you to tears and stay with you for a long time - highly recommended!
March 26, 2018
Wow...this book takes you on a journey through the whole story and the lives of Beb and his family.
The story is fast paced and leaves you wanting to know more with each page. The characters are so alive and you feel you are there with them experiencing all the emotions they are going through, and that ending is something else.
I read the book in about two days keeping myself il when I had work the next day. Five stars.
The story is fast paced and leaves you wanting to know more with each page. The characters are so alive and you feel you are there with them experiencing all the emotions they are going through, and that ending is something else.
I read the book in about two days keeping myself il when I had work the next day. Five stars.
March 22, 2018
The Journey – Conrad Jones
The Journey is only my second book by this very popular author and after reading Brick I had promised myself to catch up on some of Conrad Jones’s previous book but have never found the time, so after The Journey I am now renewing this promise to myself.
The Journey is just WOW!!!!!
A truly heartbreaking and true to life story about the evilness that is conquering Africa and the millions of people who are left homeless and destitute after fleeing their homes and country seeking freedom and safety.
For those who adore a shocking twist...... believe me when I say that you won’t be disappointed.
The Journey is only my second book by this very popular author and after reading Brick I had promised myself to catch up on some of Conrad Jones’s previous book but have never found the time, so after The Journey I am now renewing this promise to myself.
The Journey is just WOW!!!!!
A truly heartbreaking and true to life story about the evilness that is conquering Africa and the millions of people who are left homeless and destitute after fleeing their homes and country seeking freedom and safety.
For those who adore a shocking twist...... believe me when I say that you won’t be disappointed.
May 27, 2018
Wow. Just wow. This was a rough read. It was an incredibly heart wrenching journey of a man trying desperately to save his family by getting them to Europe after Boko Haram destroys their village. It is a shocking peek into what so many African refugees experience as they are forced to flee their homeland due to extreme violence and the human trafficking trade. I couldn’t put it down.
October 25, 2022
Wow this book was just breathtaking, by the end of it I felt that my opinion on a lot of things had changed, its one of them books that even though it is a fiction thriller it has so many truths and harsh realities that it opens your eyes so much.
If you are a fan of books such as the boy in the striped pyjamas , the kind of book that pulls on your heart, one that you need a box of tissues next to you as you read then read this book!
I don't want to say too much about the storyline I would just say.....read this book!
If you are a fan of books such as the boy in the striped pyjamas , the kind of book that pulls on your heart, one that you need a box of tissues next to you as you read then read this book!
I don't want to say too much about the storyline I would just say.....read this book!
April 1, 2018
Beb his three older sisters and their parents Kalu (who is a doctor,) and Esse stay in Monguno. Ten year old Beb and Kalu discuss Boko Haram, the extremist militia who have been attacking government areas and the possibility Monguno could be next Kalu had warned Beb to be wary.
When that day came it was with a vengeance they rounded up the people the men they would try and persuade to join them if not they’d be killed the women and children would be sold to the highest bidders into slavery or prostitution.
Kalu, Esse, Beb and the three girls manage to escape that’s when the Journey begins. First they had to escape to Morocco from there they hoped to fly to London.
We go on the Journey with the family through the rough terrain the horrors they see the decisions they have to make the people they have to leave behind the corruption, people taking advantage of the situation. Will they manage to escape the Boko Haram or will they be killed like so many others?
I really enjoyed this book it was a bit harrowing at times given the ongoing wars it really makes you think about the hardships of the people in the countries affected by war, they are normal hardworking people who just happen to live in a certain area and because of this they can lose their lives and their families. They endure the hundreds of miles treks to try for a better life not even a better life just a life and when they get to the borders they’re not wanted there. It is heartbreaking. Brilliant read but be warned plenty of tissues will be a requirement.
When that day came it was with a vengeance they rounded up the people the men they would try and persuade to join them if not they’d be killed the women and children would be sold to the highest bidders into slavery or prostitution.
Kalu, Esse, Beb and the three girls manage to escape that’s when the Journey begins. First they had to escape to Morocco from there they hoped to fly to London.
We go on the Journey with the family through the rough terrain the horrors they see the decisions they have to make the people they have to leave behind the corruption, people taking advantage of the situation. Will they manage to escape the Boko Haram or will they be killed like so many others?
I really enjoyed this book it was a bit harrowing at times given the ongoing wars it really makes you think about the hardships of the people in the countries affected by war, they are normal hardworking people who just happen to live in a certain area and because of this they can lose their lives and their families. They endure the hundreds of miles treks to try for a better life not even a better life just a life and when they get to the borders they’re not wanted there. It is heartbreaking. Brilliant read but be warned plenty of tissues will be a requirement.
April 10, 2018
I loved this book . A story of a family fleeing Nigeria from the boko Harmon extremists . A tale of love , hope , faith and tragedy I devoured this book in two sittings . My first book from this author but certainly not my last. I loved his writing style ..This book will stay with me for a very long time . Definitely in my top ten reads of the year . My thanks to tbc reviewers for my opportunity to read
May 10, 2018
This is not the Conrad Jones that we know and love. But there's no need to worry, because this book is an example of his talented a writer Mr Jones is. The Journey is a heart breaking tale, brilliantly written and wrings every emotion out of the reader. Just when you think there is hope, it is snatched away and desolation takes it place. An unbearably sad, far too believable record of the times we live in. Conrad Jones has written an hugely important and very relevant account that will stay with me for a very long time.
March 17, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Conrad Jones and what a book it is. This was a captivating story from beginning to end.
A story about a doctor called Kalu and his family escaping Nigeria when it is infiltrated by Boko Haram. We see the struggle and heartbreak the family have to endure whilst on this difficult and very dangerous journey.
This is a very well written book, which conjure up all the deepest emotions possible. At points the story was very difficult to read as it felt too real. I felt like I was feeling the emotions the characters were feeling. The story had me captivated until the very last sentence in the book. This book is going to stay with me for a very long time.
A story about a doctor called Kalu and his family escaping Nigeria when it is infiltrated by Boko Haram. We see the struggle and heartbreak the family have to endure whilst on this difficult and very dangerous journey.
This is a very well written book, which conjure up all the deepest emotions possible. At points the story was very difficult to read as it felt too real. I felt like I was feeling the emotions the characters were feeling. The story had me captivated until the very last sentence in the book. This book is going to stay with me for a very long time.
May 12, 2018
The Journey by Conrad Jones
What if you and your family had to flee for your life? What would you do? How would you get away? Would you be prepared?
Dr. Kalu Andaku has been aware that Boko Haram was on the move and that being prepared was essential if he wanted to get his wife, son and three daughters out safely should the rebel militia arrive in town. But when the time to flee arrived it was so much worse than expected, the trip was fraught with peril and it became a nightmare of epic proportion that saw not all make it out safely.
This is a gritty story of survival that made me revisit wars I have lived through and also think about a time when my husband and I got together items to make on a trek across a dessert to get our son and daughter out safely – if we needed to – and another time when we were evacuated from a coast with one suitcase and snipers on the roofs nearby. We did not have to implement the plans we made to cross the desert but we did make them. If we had ended up like Kalu, his wife and their children…well…I don’t even want to think about what that would have been like!
Even though this story was gritty and the target is no doubt adults I had the feeling it might be a book that could be a class-read novel to be discussed with a wise teacher in a classroom. Educational and thought provoking – this was a quick read but one that will linger with me for some time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
What if you and your family had to flee for your life? What would you do? How would you get away? Would you be prepared?
Dr. Kalu Andaku has been aware that Boko Haram was on the move and that being prepared was essential if he wanted to get his wife, son and three daughters out safely should the rebel militia arrive in town. But when the time to flee arrived it was so much worse than expected, the trip was fraught with peril and it became a nightmare of epic proportion that saw not all make it out safely.
This is a gritty story of survival that made me revisit wars I have lived through and also think about a time when my husband and I got together items to make on a trek across a dessert to get our son and daughter out safely – if we needed to – and another time when we were evacuated from a coast with one suitcase and snipers on the roofs nearby. We did not have to implement the plans we made to cross the desert but we did make them. If we had ended up like Kalu, his wife and their children…well…I don’t even want to think about what that would have been like!
Even though this story was gritty and the target is no doubt adults I had the feeling it might be a book that could be a class-read novel to be discussed with a wise teacher in a classroom. Educational and thought provoking – this was a quick read but one that will linger with me for some time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
May 16, 2018
The Journey follows Kalu and his family trying to escape Boko Harmon extremists by trying to get to Europe to survive! Boko Harmon want to take over and will kill easily without a thought or a second. It can be a very dark read in places throughout this story.
However, the sad truth is this is still happening in this day and age so it will make the reader open their eyes and appreciate their life a little more, god knows what I woulf do if I was Kalu and other civilians. Once I got into this story I could not put it down, different from those everyday thrillers. Unique.
I previously enjoyed Brick by Conrad Jones so had expectations for this story, I loved them both but enjoyed this one more. Very impressed. I awarded four stars and would highly recommend to you all. It had me captivated until the end. An easy, fast paced read!
However, the sad truth is this is still happening in this day and age so it will make the reader open their eyes and appreciate their life a little more, god knows what I woulf do if I was Kalu and other civilians. Once I got into this story I could not put it down, different from those everyday thrillers. Unique.
I previously enjoyed Brick by Conrad Jones so had expectations for this story, I loved them both but enjoyed this one more. Very impressed. I awarded four stars and would highly recommend to you all. It had me captivated until the end. An easy, fast paced read!
April 28, 2018
This book deserves so much more than 5 stars, there should be an outstanding button. I have been completely blown away by this book. The Journey follows a family trying to escape their village of Monuno after Boko Haram attack their village. They flee with a plan to get to Europe and Kalu has to keep his family together on this journey. This story had me hooked right from the first page. There were too many heart stopping moments to count! The book was fast paced and had my emotions all over the place. This book is one of the best books I have read so far this year, it really did make me stop and appreciate how lucky I am. This is truly outstanding and if there is one book you should read, it is The Journey. I would highly recommend this book.
April 22, 2018
The cover of this book says so much, of what the story has in store for you.
Having read the majority of Jones previous work I knew what a prolific writier he is.
He always gives us humanity at its best and worst.
In The Journey, he held my heart in his hands while I read page after page after page. I could only pause the read for short sections of a time.
This is marketed as a gripping emotional thriller and that is spot on.
You are taken on a journey with one of the most gorgeous fictional families you will ever read about.
I know with what I watch on the news is harrowing, but I assumed the difficulties these famileis faced were in Europe, once crossing to get to the border.
How naïve and wrong I was.
They start way before and I was sickened and disgusted with how these people were treated.
Jones cleverly gave us such a wonderful leader in Kalu, I laughed, cried and felt the fear within the family on this journey.
Such a wonderful story that I am hoping is full on fiction, but have a feeling there are waves of reality in it. This is a book that should be read, and taught in schools.
There are so many beautiful aspects to this story and it did as it said, took me on a journey, and as difficult as elements are to read. It is one I am so pleased to have taken.
An absolutely blinding read! Jones should be extremely proud of this book.
Thank you Mr Jones, a story that will stay for me for a long time.
ALL THE STARS for The Journey.
thank you to #Netgalley and #bloodhoundbooks for a preview copy, all thoughts on this book are my own.
Having read the majority of Jones previous work I knew what a prolific writier he is.
He always gives us humanity at its best and worst.
In The Journey, he held my heart in his hands while I read page after page after page. I could only pause the read for short sections of a time.
This is marketed as a gripping emotional thriller and that is spot on.
You are taken on a journey with one of the most gorgeous fictional families you will ever read about.
I know with what I watch on the news is harrowing, but I assumed the difficulties these famileis faced were in Europe, once crossing to get to the border.
How naïve and wrong I was.
They start way before and I was sickened and disgusted with how these people were treated.
Jones cleverly gave us such a wonderful leader in Kalu, I laughed, cried and felt the fear within the family on this journey.
Such a wonderful story that I am hoping is full on fiction, but have a feeling there are waves of reality in it. This is a book that should be read, and taught in schools.
There are so many beautiful aspects to this story and it did as it said, took me on a journey, and as difficult as elements are to read. It is one I am so pleased to have taken.
An absolutely blinding read! Jones should be extremely proud of this book.
Thank you Mr Jones, a story that will stay for me for a long time.
ALL THE STARS for The Journey.
thank you to #Netgalley and #bloodhoundbooks for a preview copy, all thoughts on this book are my own.
March 16, 2018
This was not the book I was expecting, it was however a totally immersive and very different story. I must admit to much more ignorance about the situation in Nigeria that led to all those school girls being abducted than that of the plight of Syria, but this brought to the fore many strong parallels!
This is an unflinching story of violence and zealotry filled and even with artistic license being taken into account to power the plot, this was a hard hitting and dramatic telling of what is at heart a story of a family under duress, but deeply loving and nurturing.
There is a warmth and humour to their story, despite the harrowing backdrop and I grew to love all the characters which made the rather marvellous curveball we got all the more shocking.
My first book by Conrad, but likely not my last!
This is an unflinching story of violence and zealotry filled and even with artistic license being taken into account to power the plot, this was a hard hitting and dramatic telling of what is at heart a story of a family under duress, but deeply loving and nurturing.
There is a warmth and humour to their story, despite the harrowing backdrop and I grew to love all the characters which made the rather marvellous curveball we got all the more shocking.
My first book by Conrad, but likely not my last!
March 30, 2018
Fiction that enlightens one about real events is very impactful.
This is one such story about a family running away from the Boko Haram atrocities in Nigeria.
Kalu and Esse flee their home with their son and three daughters and hope to somehow get to Europe.
However there is danger on every step of the way, with the Boko Haram infiltrating deeper into the country all the time. Scarcity and threat to life makes people selfish and they don't care about right or wrong to survive. Looting and killing is par for the course. And everything costs much much more because there is no choice for people.
This family manage to stay together and get through some dangerous times until it becomes clear that their journey is yet to see it's worse moments.
The desperation of the parents, the fear they go through and the raw terror they face is written in such a real way that it was like the reader is in the truck with them.
A sad story but one well worth reading.
This is one such story about a family running away from the Boko Haram atrocities in Nigeria.
Kalu and Esse flee their home with their son and three daughters and hope to somehow get to Europe.
However there is danger on every step of the way, with the Boko Haram infiltrating deeper into the country all the time. Scarcity and threat to life makes people selfish and they don't care about right or wrong to survive. Looting and killing is par for the course. And everything costs much much more because there is no choice for people.
This family manage to stay together and get through some dangerous times until it becomes clear that their journey is yet to see it's worse moments.
The desperation of the parents, the fear they go through and the raw terror they face is written in such a real way that it was like the reader is in the truck with them.
A sad story but one well worth reading.
March 25, 2018
I was completely blown away by this book from the opening lines.
I have a soft spot for sub Saharan Africa and lived in a country torn apart by a civil war. I experienced the aftermath of such devastation and heard first hard how war turned people into savages.
This book took those feelings to a new level and I found myself holding my breath as I willed the family on.
A book that will stay with me for a long time. Incredible. Next time you moan about immigrants sponging off us, read this, it might change your perspective...
I have a soft spot for sub Saharan Africa and lived in a country torn apart by a civil war. I experienced the aftermath of such devastation and heard first hard how war turned people into savages.
This book took those feelings to a new level and I found myself holding my breath as I willed the family on.
A book that will stay with me for a long time. Incredible. Next time you moan about immigrants sponging off us, read this, it might change your perspective...
April 28, 2018
This book deserves so much more than 5 stars, there should be an outstanding button. I have been completely blown away by this book. The Journey follows a family trying to escape their village of Monuno after Boko Haram attack their village. They flee with a plan to get to Europe and Kalu has to keep his family together on this journey. This story had me hooked right from the first page. There were too many heart stopping moments to count! The book was fast paced and had my emotions all over the place. This book is one of the best books I have read so far this year, it really did make me stop and appreciate how lucky I am. This is truly outstanding and if there is one book you should read, it is The Journey. I would highly recommend this book.
May 27, 2018
What an absolutely amazing book, totally different to what I am use to from this author and it just shows what a brilliant writer he is to be able to switch but still produce perfection. It is very thought provoking and it makes you realise why millions of people are making the hazardous journey from Africa just to try and keep their families safe. If anyone thinks why do they have to come here read this book as I am sure it is an accurate interpretation of the horrors they face on their journey, a journey none of them would choose to make.
May 31, 2018
I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author so I looked forward to reading The Journey. So completely different to this authors other books but every bit as good. A very topical and harrowing read. The plight of a family trying to escape to a better life away from the threat of the Boko Harum . This is a heartbreaking , harrowing and humbling read. Fraught with danger and unscrupulous people, this family's journey to a safer life is an edge of your seat journey!
July 18, 2018
A story that will leave you reeling.
This is 5* well deserved.
An unputdownable novel that is heart breaking and thought provoking. Conrad weaves an atmospheric and graphic thriller with believable language and charchters that slip to your heart. Terifying in its believability, my heart breaks for all those affected by the evil that makes this not just a story but a reality.
Bravo Conrad, a wonderful novel that will stay with me x
This is 5* well deserved.
An unputdownable novel that is heart breaking and thought provoking. Conrad weaves an atmospheric and graphic thriller with believable language and charchters that slip to your heart. Terifying in its believability, my heart breaks for all those affected by the evil that makes this not just a story but a reality.
Bravo Conrad, a wonderful novel that will stay with me x
May 14, 2018
I don’t even know where to begin. The Journey is a truly heart wrenching story, and the epilogue really dug the knife in and twisted it around even more.
Beb’s family is forced from their home and encounter many dangers along the way to safety. They are forced to change their plans, reroute, and face the death of their loved ones, all while trying to remain strong for each other.
Living in the United States, we really aren’t educated enough about the horrors that that go on in other parts of the world. We hear things and say, “Oh that couldn’t happen to us!” But what if it did? Would you be prepared?
There are so many emotions that I felt while reading that I am struggling to fully disclose. Anger, sadness...there are moments of joy where we see random acts of kindness from strangers, but this story is truly devastating.
The author does an amazing job of making us feel everything that Beb’s family is going through. Their emotions become ours. I truly felt that I was on their journey with them.
I would recommend The Journey to anyone looking for a story that gives them insight into the world and what is going on. Genocide is real and is still happening. It is not a thing of the past or something from stories. Real people are being forced to run, die, or submit to unjust rule. If you’re looking for something to open you eyes, break your heart, and look to take action to promote change, start with The Journey.
Beb’s family is forced from their home and encounter many dangers along the way to safety. They are forced to change their plans, reroute, and face the death of their loved ones, all while trying to remain strong for each other.
Living in the United States, we really aren’t educated enough about the horrors that that go on in other parts of the world. We hear things and say, “Oh that couldn’t happen to us!” But what if it did? Would you be prepared?
There are so many emotions that I felt while reading that I am struggling to fully disclose. Anger, sadness...there are moments of joy where we see random acts of kindness from strangers, but this story is truly devastating.
The author does an amazing job of making us feel everything that Beb’s family is going through. Their emotions become ours. I truly felt that I was on their journey with them.
I would recommend The Journey to anyone looking for a story that gives them insight into the world and what is going on. Genocide is real and is still happening. It is not a thing of the past or something from stories. Real people are being forced to run, die, or submit to unjust rule. If you’re looking for something to open you eyes, break your heart, and look to take action to promote change, start with The Journey.
June 27, 2019
Kalu is a Doctor, his 10 year old son Beb believes him to be the cleverest man in Nigeria….he has a wife, Esse, and 3 daughters, Oke, Kissie and Isime…
One day the Book Haram arrive in the small town of Monguno, Beb sees his friends shot and killed, but he managed to hide……but the soldiers eventually catch him, beat him and take him to the town centre, where they have gathered the survivors….
Luckily, the family have all made it, but they witness continued vicious and brutal killings by gun and machete, until a sniper shoots some of the boko rebels, in the panic, Kalu and his family escape and run to the surgery where Kalu has hidden emergency supplies, rucksacks, food and money……the plan is to run, to escape to Europe……by any means….to keep the family safe.
What follows is the traumatic tale of fear……the constant terror of the Boko catching up with them. But when they think they are safe, they find out that they can trust no one……greedy, unscrupulous men will just take everything, even the governments soldiers demand a bribe before letting anyone through the border….
Then Beb has a seizure, the result of his head injury, weak, he is left in their vehicle but when they return, the Land Cruiser is gone and so is Beb….
This is a heartbreaking tale of desperation, a man just wants to keep his family safe so he takes them on a dangerous journey to find some safety, but tragedy is never far away……this will really break your heart……then as you relax at the feeling of hope….it is ripped away…..time and time again….
An incredibly emotional and thought provoking read, that will highlight the desperation of those fleeing war and terror……just how far would you go to protect your family?……stunning writing by Conrad Jones…a must read.
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
One day the Book Haram arrive in the small town of Monguno, Beb sees his friends shot and killed, but he managed to hide……but the soldiers eventually catch him, beat him and take him to the town centre, where they have gathered the survivors….
Luckily, the family have all made it, but they witness continued vicious and brutal killings by gun and machete, until a sniper shoots some of the boko rebels, in the panic, Kalu and his family escape and run to the surgery where Kalu has hidden emergency supplies, rucksacks, food and money……the plan is to run, to escape to Europe……by any means….to keep the family safe.
What follows is the traumatic tale of fear……the constant terror of the Boko catching up with them. But when they think they are safe, they find out that they can trust no one……greedy, unscrupulous men will just take everything, even the governments soldiers demand a bribe before letting anyone through the border….
Then Beb has a seizure, the result of his head injury, weak, he is left in their vehicle but when they return, the Land Cruiser is gone and so is Beb….
This is a heartbreaking tale of desperation, a man just wants to keep his family safe so he takes them on a dangerous journey to find some safety, but tragedy is never far away……this will really break your heart……then as you relax at the feeling of hope….it is ripped away…..time and time again….
An incredibly emotional and thought provoking read, that will highlight the desperation of those fleeing war and terror……just how far would you go to protect your family?……stunning writing by Conrad Jones…a must read.
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
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