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Henry Crowne Paying the Price #1
Collapse
He is a secret IRA operative.
He is one of the most successful City bankers in London...
Now he is accused of murder.
Henry Crowne's case seems decided from the very beginning. His Irish background, financial terrorist connections and City reputation inexorably tilt the scales against him until Nancy Wu, former Queen's Counsel accepts to mount his defence. Will she manage to unpick the devious manipulations of a most twisted case before the shadows of her own past swallow her down?
Collapse is a political and espionage thriller, the first book in the Henry Crowne: Paying the Price series. If you like The Big Short by Michael Lewis, The Fear Index by Robert Harris and A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks you will enjoy the twists and turns of Freddie P Peters’ latest fast-paced thriller. Discover it now…
He is one of the most successful City bankers in London...
Now he is accused of murder.
Henry Crowne's case seems decided from the very beginning. His Irish background, financial terrorist connections and City reputation inexorably tilt the scales against him until Nancy Wu, former Queen's Counsel accepts to mount his defence. Will she manage to unpick the devious manipulations of a most twisted case before the shadows of her own past swallow her down?
Collapse is a political and espionage thriller, the first book in the Henry Crowne: Paying the Price series. If you like The Big Short by Michael Lewis, The Fear Index by Robert Harris and A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks you will enjoy the twists and turns of Freddie P Peters’ latest fast-paced thriller. Discover it now…
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2018
103 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Freddie P. Peters
15 books88 followersFreddie P Peters is the author of three international thriller series; the Henry Crowne financial and espionage thriller series , the Nancy Wu political crime thriller series and the River Swift thriller series. Freddie seeks to build edge-of-seat plots that enravel deep and dark secrets.
A law graduate from Sorbonne, Paris and King’s College, London, she started her career as a lawyer before becoming an investment banker. Her profession led her to travel extensively around the world from Europe to Asia as well as North America, the Middle East and Africa.
25 years spent in the Square Mile-City of London working for too-big-to-fail international banks did give Freddie a view, she likes to share on many hot topics from financial crisis to working in a high-octane, male dominated industry, from politics and the might of money to contemporary art.
The questions of ethics and the greater good, deception and secrecy inspire her writing. Her career placed her in a unique position to understand subterranean currents of power and how these can motivate or destroy people. Her extensive travels enabled her to experience and appreciate different countries and culture.
When she’s not scanning the news to find new ideas for her next plot or writing a new book, Freddie devotes her time to supporting emerging artists and small art galleries in addition to mentoring students and young professionals.
Henry and Nancy may not be easy to find but you can reach Freddie at https://freddieppeters.com/
Join Freddie’s book club to gain access to her free and exclusive prequel, INSURGENT, and her starter library. This will give you insights into the books’ background stories, free chapters and special offers which are exclusive to members of Freddie’s book club…
A law graduate from Sorbonne, Paris and King’s College, London, she started her career as a lawyer before becoming an investment banker. Her profession led her to travel extensively around the world from Europe to Asia as well as North America, the Middle East and Africa.
25 years spent in the Square Mile-City of London working for too-big-to-fail international banks did give Freddie a view, she likes to share on many hot topics from financial crisis to working in a high-octane, male dominated industry, from politics and the might of money to contemporary art.
The questions of ethics and the greater good, deception and secrecy inspire her writing. Her career placed her in a unique position to understand subterranean currents of power and how these can motivate or destroy people. Her extensive travels enabled her to experience and appreciate different countries and culture.
When she’s not scanning the news to find new ideas for her next plot or writing a new book, Freddie devotes her time to supporting emerging artists and small art galleries in addition to mentoring students and young professionals.
Henry and Nancy may not be easy to find but you can reach Freddie at https://freddieppeters.com/
Join Freddie’s book club to gain access to her free and exclusive prequel, INSURGENT, and her starter library. This will give you insights into the books’ background stories, free chapters and special offers which are exclusive to members of Freddie’s book club…
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 15, 2021
A thriller that entails financial skulduggery, terrorism, explosions and a plot that twists and turns.
The main character, Henry Crowne, finds himself in the cross hairs of the police and the loss of his extremely successful career in high finance following a plane explosion in which his rival is killed. Crowne cuts an isolated individual it is hard to warm to yet simultaneously hard to take against .
There are some other interesting supporting characters Pole (police officer) and Nancy (neighbour and former barrister) give a little added depth to this story. There are also some interesting details about finance and art.
The final twist tied up the loose ends, a fun, easy to read thriller - 3.5 out of 5.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in response for an honest review.
The main character, Henry Crowne, finds himself in the cross hairs of the police and the loss of his extremely successful career in high finance following a plane explosion in which his rival is killed. Crowne cuts an isolated individual it is hard to warm to yet simultaneously hard to take against .
There are some other interesting supporting characters Pole (police officer) and Nancy (neighbour and former barrister) give a little added depth to this story. There are also some interesting details about finance and art.
The final twist tied up the loose ends, a fun, easy to read thriller - 3.5 out of 5.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in response for an honest review.
May 11, 2021
This is a good story with intelligently created characters. The story is quite engaging and includes some nice twists. I'm surprised there aren't more reviews for this one. Recommended for thriller fans.
Thanks very much for the review copy!!
Thanks very much for the review copy!!
November 24, 2018
The catchy cover made me pick this book up. I loved the book because of three main reasons- 1. The portrayal of the incidents perfectly
2. The twisting plot with unexpected turns
3. The thrilling elements the story entangled with.
- All the things mentioned above made this book a sure shot for avid readers. Definitely recommendable. Thank you.
2. The twisting plot with unexpected turns
3. The thrilling elements the story entangled with.
- All the things mentioned above made this book a sure shot for avid readers. Definitely recommendable. Thank you.
April 28, 2021
This is the first corporate thriller I’ve read, and I am very intrigued by the genre. I loved the concept of everyone being a little corrupt and immoral, it drew me in in a way that few novels can, and I am excited to read more of Freddie P. Peter’s work.
I love thriller/ mystery novels especially when they have unpredictable but logical conclusions, like Collapse.
Sections of the novel were hard to follow with a lot of corporate lingo and characters keeping secrets, but I was able to skim these sections and still enjoy the story. The changing point of view kept the story interesting and kept the stakes high as I worked out who’s team I was on. Although, having completed the story I am still not entirely sure about who is good, who is bad and who some characters even are, but I am sure these questions will be answered throughout the series.
Most of the characters seemed so real and the multiple perspectives gave the story higher stakes. However, it also made the story slightly more confusing but I was able to follow and it didn’t prevent me from loving this novel. I liked how almost all the character’s had secrets and low morals because it made them relatable. I grew attached to Crowne’s confidence and egoism. He was very well written and impossible to not like despite being working in finance. I also loved Pole who seemed so upright amongst all the shady stockbrokers, I also liked many side characters, such as Andy and James, but I felt like their storylines were left unfinished. Hopefully, they will be picked up in the next book. I did struggle to read some parts of other characters, for example, Nancy Wu, who came across as too perfect and one dimensional with the way she could almost read Henry’s mind.
I liked the writing structure, and while the changing point of view was a bit confusing, it kept it interesting. However, I did find a few sentences a bit problematic as they were sexist or ableist. I am unsure if this was unintentional or if they were put in to make the characters less likeable.
Overall, it was an intriguing, high stakes, mystery that was impossible to put down. The mystery was slowly unravelled in a very satisfactory manner but leaving plenty of questions for the next book in the series.
I love thriller/ mystery novels especially when they have unpredictable but logical conclusions, like Collapse.
Sections of the novel were hard to follow with a lot of corporate lingo and characters keeping secrets, but I was able to skim these sections and still enjoy the story. The changing point of view kept the story interesting and kept the stakes high as I worked out who’s team I was on. Although, having completed the story I am still not entirely sure about who is good, who is bad and who some characters even are, but I am sure these questions will be answered throughout the series.
Most of the characters seemed so real and the multiple perspectives gave the story higher stakes. However, it also made the story slightly more confusing but I was able to follow and it didn’t prevent me from loving this novel. I liked how almost all the character’s had secrets and low morals because it made them relatable. I grew attached to Crowne’s confidence and egoism. He was very well written and impossible to not like despite being working in finance. I also loved Pole who seemed so upright amongst all the shady stockbrokers, I also liked many side characters, such as Andy and James, but I felt like their storylines were left unfinished. Hopefully, they will be picked up in the next book. I did struggle to read some parts of other characters, for example, Nancy Wu, who came across as too perfect and one dimensional with the way she could almost read Henry’s mind.
I liked the writing structure, and while the changing point of view was a bit confusing, it kept it interesting. However, I did find a few sentences a bit problematic as they were sexist or ableist. I am unsure if this was unintentional or if they were put in to make the characters less likeable.
Overall, it was an intriguing, high stakes, mystery that was impossible to put down. The mystery was slowly unravelled in a very satisfactory manner but leaving plenty of questions for the next book in the series.
March 30, 2023
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Henry in his office when an explosion is detected. Unknown to Henry at the time, the explosion killed his adversary and was soon declared a homicide. Henry was working on information for a merger between GL, his bank, and another large bank. The merger would have pitted Henry against Anthony Albert his nemesis.
The person headed up the investigation was Inspector Pole and it seems that the more that he looked into placed Henry as the main suspect. Henry was eventually brought to the police station for questioning and Nancy Wu, his neighbor a former barrister, came down to the station to give him legal guidance. Nancy told Henry that she would help him find a lawyer to handle his case and she would assist if Henry wanted her to continue. Eventually Henry was released, but as a result his employment at GL was terminated.
Later on while the investigation was still going on, it was discovered that Henry was associated with the IRA and information discovered by Inspector Pole resulted with Henry's arrest. Henry was being transported when there was a bomb that was detonated and resulted in Henry going on the run. Eventually Henry was once again captured and taken to jail.
Inspector Pole and Nancy Wu were not convinced that Henry was responsible for Anthony's death and continued looking for information that would prove their point.
The ending was well done and questions that the reader might have were answered. It is a great story and one you must read.
The story begins with Henry in his office when an explosion is detected. Unknown to Henry at the time, the explosion killed his adversary and was soon declared a homicide. Henry was working on information for a merger between GL, his bank, and another large bank. The merger would have pitted Henry against Anthony Albert his nemesis.
The person headed up the investigation was Inspector Pole and it seems that the more that he looked into placed Henry as the main suspect. Henry was eventually brought to the police station for questioning and Nancy Wu, his neighbor a former barrister, came down to the station to give him legal guidance. Nancy told Henry that she would help him find a lawyer to handle his case and she would assist if Henry wanted her to continue. Eventually Henry was released, but as a result his employment at GL was terminated.
Later on while the investigation was still going on, it was discovered that Henry was associated with the IRA and information discovered by Inspector Pole resulted with Henry's arrest. Henry was being transported when there was a bomb that was detonated and resulted in Henry going on the run. Eventually Henry was once again captured and taken to jail.
Inspector Pole and Nancy Wu were not convinced that Henry was responsible for Anthony's death and continued looking for information that would prove their point.
The ending was well done and questions that the reader might have were answered. It is a great story and one you must read.
November 23, 2019
1 in the Henry Crown, Paying The Price series.
Set in the City of London in 2008. It really captures the atmosphere at the time of the financial collapse and those responsible for it….
It has great characters in Henry Crowne, a not very likeable, at times, protagonist, former QC, Nancy Wu and the rather wonderful Inspector Pole. He really could have a series of his own. There’s a fizzing chemistry between all three of them too.
A tale of the dark side of the financial world and all its shenanigans. Gripping, tense and a real page turner…
Thank you to Anne Cater and Random Things Tours for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour, for the promotional materials and a free copy of the book. This is my honest, unbiased review.
Set in the City of London in 2008. It really captures the atmosphere at the time of the financial collapse and those responsible for it….
It has great characters in Henry Crowne, a not very likeable, at times, protagonist, former QC, Nancy Wu and the rather wonderful Inspector Pole. He really could have a series of his own. There’s a fizzing chemistry between all three of them too.
A tale of the dark side of the financial world and all its shenanigans. Gripping, tense and a real page turner…
Thank you to Anne Cater and Random Things Tours for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour, for the promotional materials and a free copy of the book. This is my honest, unbiased review.
August 21, 2021
I read these books in the wrong order. It doesn’t matter much as they genuinely stand alone as stories but I recommend reading them in order to get the benefit of character development and relationship growth. There is enough detail in the legal aspects of the plot to keep the reader across some of the complexities of the system but this is not belaboured and the pace remains strong.
April 10, 2023
I really enjoyed how good of a start to this series was, it did everything that was promised from the description. I enjoyed the twists and getting to know these characters. It left me wanting to read more and I enjoyed the way Freddie P. Peters wrote this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2023
Enjoyable. But I was hoping to be enthralled enough to be pulled into wanting to read the full series. It was good, but just not quite THAT good. I'll leave it at that and appreciate the fulfillment of having giving it a go and feeling interested enough to keep turning the pages thru to the surprising end.
January 30, 2022
I did not expect to find this book so riveting but I found it hard to put down and do housework. Henry is a complex person and luckily finds some truly good people to help him out when push comes to shove.
Can't wait to learn more about him.
Can't wait to learn more about him.
March 7, 2022
I found Collapse quite slow to get into but once I got started I enjoyed it.
The plot is intriguing based in investment banking and international terrorism. The characters are believable and well researched.
I'm looking forward to reading book 2 in the series
The plot is intriguing based in investment banking and international terrorism. The characters are believable and well researched.
I'm looking forward to reading book 2 in the series
July 22, 2023
Henry is a very intriguing person to read about. He got my attention to his life. Investigation mind wants the truth and my suspects list is ready to go with my snacks. I'm going have to take my time reading Henry. All Henry's books will be adding to my book collection of favorites. Iler.
August 28, 2023
It was a good story; but the editing was atrocious. Freddie better fire the proof reader. I read 5-7 books a week, and I have never seen another one with so many misspellings, letters left off words, poor punctuation. Even a paragraph indentation in the middle of a sentence.
December 15, 2024
Freddie’s words paint scenes so vividly you feel you are there. Tenseness builds, fades and builds again. I enjoy the action between Inspector Poole and Harry. This is a page turner. I recommend this book and am looking forward to reading Breaking Point.
October 9, 2021
What a story. Henry is just trying to do his job and live his life. Being accused of murder was definitely not in the plan. How will he prove his innocence. Fast paced, superb book.
February 3, 2022
Overall an excellent financial thriller, gripping read … can’t wait for the next one in the trilogy.
August 3, 2022
Very entertaining. Intriguing story line that engages the reader throughout the book.
July 18, 2023
4.5*
This was really good. Ill admit I have not a clue about the financial aspects of it but the overall storyline will leave you wanting more. Wanting to know what is next.
This was really good. Ill admit I have not a clue about the financial aspects of it but the overall storyline will leave you wanting more. Wanting to know what is next.
September 2, 2024
A clear lack of research regarding Police and Criminal justice procedures really let's this book down.
December 9, 2019
Consisting of Collapse, Breaking Point and No turning Back , Freddie P. Peters has created an exhilarating series of high stakes financial thrillers. Stories deep in financial crime and corruption, murder, violence, terrorism, IRA, and focuses on the dishonest art world and more!
These fast paced, highly entertaining thrillers are a joy to read.
These books really carry some detail on past real life events, as Peters rips open the secrecy and the unscrupulous actions of the banks and bankers.
Collapse, No.1 in the series introduces Henry Crowne, A High powered trader on the London Financial exchanges as he deals with a massive merger when the murder of Crowne's direct rival in the transaction is committed, all eyes are cast upon Henry, and this in turn introduces the two other pivotal characters in these stories, The über stylish Former QC Nancy Wu, Crowne's neighbour and friend , and the enigmatic Inspector Pole, Hell bent on solving the crime.
Breaking Point, No.2 , continues the story, with Crowne now finding himself serving a 30 year stretch at her majesties cost, Pole is forced to turn to Henry for help in uncovering a huge financial scandal,
No Turning Back, No.3, Henry, Nancy and Pole return, in another twisting, pulse pounding espionage thriller, with a surprise finale, I look forward to more in the series.
Each book is written with verve, and intelligence, fast paced, adrenaline filled page turners, they are a nice change from the more common serial killer crime, and clearly written with a passion and some serious knowledge of the financial world.
In Summary , this these 3 books are a fine set, highly recommended to all crime fans alike, especially any fans of films such as the wolf of wall street, and tv series like Suits. Henry for me reminds me very much of an early Harvey Spector played by Gabriel Macht, and if these books were ever to be immortalised on-screen I would love to see Macht in the starring role of the cocky, arrogant , so sure of himself Henry Crowne.
A sizzling series of modern, sign of the times, high stakes thrill rides.
4 🔥🔥🔥🔥
These fast paced, highly entertaining thrillers are a joy to read.
These books really carry some detail on past real life events, as Peters rips open the secrecy and the unscrupulous actions of the banks and bankers.
Collapse, No.1 in the series introduces Henry Crowne, A High powered trader on the London Financial exchanges as he deals with a massive merger when the murder of Crowne's direct rival in the transaction is committed, all eyes are cast upon Henry, and this in turn introduces the two other pivotal characters in these stories, The über stylish Former QC Nancy Wu, Crowne's neighbour and friend , and the enigmatic Inspector Pole, Hell bent on solving the crime.
Breaking Point, No.2 , continues the story, with Crowne now finding himself serving a 30 year stretch at her majesties cost, Pole is forced to turn to Henry for help in uncovering a huge financial scandal,
No Turning Back, No.3, Henry, Nancy and Pole return, in another twisting, pulse pounding espionage thriller, with a surprise finale, I look forward to more in the series.
Each book is written with verve, and intelligence, fast paced, adrenaline filled page turners, they are a nice change from the more common serial killer crime, and clearly written with a passion and some serious knowledge of the financial world.
In Summary , this these 3 books are a fine set, highly recommended to all crime fans alike, especially any fans of films such as the wolf of wall street, and tv series like Suits. Henry for me reminds me very much of an early Harvey Spector played by Gabriel Macht, and if these books were ever to be immortalised on-screen I would love to see Macht in the starring role of the cocky, arrogant , so sure of himself Henry Crowne.
A sizzling series of modern, sign of the times, high stakes thrill rides.
4 🔥🔥🔥🔥
May 23, 2023
Henry's double life catches up with him when there is an upcoming merger and his routine drastically shifts. The story is plot-driven, follows various characters, and not a casual read.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Booksprout, StoryOrigin, and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Booksprout, StoryOrigin, and author.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews