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A Matter of Will
Success becomes dangerously seductive for this Wall Street broker in a dizzying thriller by the author of the Amazon Charts bestseller Dead Certain.
Will Matthews came to Wall Street with hopes and dreams of hitting it big. But things have not been going as expected. He’s on the verge of being fired when he meets the devilishly mysterious and fabulously wealthy Sam Abaddon.
Winning Sam’s business answers Will’s prayers, catapulting the young stockbroker into the privileged world of money and luxury. Not only that, but Will also has met his dream girl, ambitious attorney Gwen Lipton.
All at once, it seems as if Will’s life couldn’t get any better.
And it doesn’t.
When Will witnesses a shocking act of violence, his charmed new existence is revealed to be a waking nightmare as the truth about his benefactor—and his own complicity in criminal conduct—becomes devastatingly clear. As the noose draws tighter, Will faces an impossible feast upon the poisonous fruit of his bloody business or defy his patron and face dire consequences.
Then again, maybe there’s a third option…
Will Matthews came to Wall Street with hopes and dreams of hitting it big. But things have not been going as expected. He’s on the verge of being fired when he meets the devilishly mysterious and fabulously wealthy Sam Abaddon.
Winning Sam’s business answers Will’s prayers, catapulting the young stockbroker into the privileged world of money and luxury. Not only that, but Will also has met his dream girl, ambitious attorney Gwen Lipton.
All at once, it seems as if Will’s life couldn’t get any better.
And it doesn’t.
When Will witnesses a shocking act of violence, his charmed new existence is revealed to be a waking nightmare as the truth about his benefactor—and his own complicity in criminal conduct—becomes devastatingly clear. As the noose draws tighter, Will faces an impossible feast upon the poisonous fruit of his bloody business or defy his patron and face dire consequences.
Then again, maybe there’s a third option…
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2019
745 people are currently reading
1652 people want to read
About the author
Adam Mitzner
17 books530 followersI grew up in East Brunswick, New Jersey, which is about an hour outside of New York City. I graduated from Brandeis University with a B.A. and M.A. in politics, and from there went directly on to law school at the University of Virginia.
After law school, I joined the litigation department of a large New York City law firm, and after a few more stops, am currently the head of the litigation department of Pavia & Harcourt LLP, which is located in midtown Manhattan. Pavia & Harcourt.
I have written 8 novels -- A Conflict of Interest (2011); A Case of Redemption (2013); Losing Faith (2015); The Girl From Home (2016); Dead Certain (2017); Never Goodbye (2018); A Matter of Will (2019); and The Best Friend (2020).
Nothing pleases me more than hearing from readers, so please email me at adam@adammitzner.com
After law school, I joined the litigation department of a large New York City law firm, and after a few more stops, am currently the head of the litigation department of Pavia & Harcourt LLP, which is located in midtown Manhattan. Pavia & Harcourt.
I have written 8 novels -- A Conflict of Interest (2011); A Case of Redemption (2013); Losing Faith (2015); The Girl From Home (2016); Dead Certain (2017); Never Goodbye (2018); A Matter of Will (2019); and The Best Friend (2020).
Nothing pleases me more than hearing from readers, so please email me at adam@adammitzner.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
June 23, 2019
Will Matthews is a broker-in-training at a prestigious wealth management firm in New York City. A job he loves but risks losing if he can’t stir up a few new clients to meet his quota. Hmmm…perhaps a chance meeting at a hockey game may turn Will’s luck around. But is there an unexpected price to pay?
Gwen Lipton is an up and coming lawyer with one of the most powerful law firms in New York City. She’s just been given the rare opportunity to join the team handling a high profile murder case! Is this the break from the overbearing routine her life has become?
This was a very compulsive read that I quickly breezed through in just a couple days. While some of the story-line was a tad predictable, Adam Mitzner threw in enough explosive moments to keep me on my toes!
My second read from this author and you can bet I’ll be looking out for more!
Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Adam Mitzner for an ARC to read and review.
Gwen Lipton is an up and coming lawyer with one of the most powerful law firms in New York City. She’s just been given the rare opportunity to join the team handling a high profile murder case! Is this the break from the overbearing routine her life has become?
This was a very compulsive read that I quickly breezed through in just a couple days. While some of the story-line was a tad predictable, Adam Mitzner threw in enough explosive moments to keep me on my toes!
My second read from this author and you can bet I’ll be looking out for more!
Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Adam Mitzner for an ARC to read and review.
July 21, 2019
A Matter of Will by Adam Mitzner is a legal/financial thriller I won't soon forget. Will Matthews has come to the big city to make his fortune as an investment broker at a large firm. Life is not happening as planned and he is on the verge of losing his job due to his sub-par performance at recruiting new business. Out of the blue, he meets Sam Abaddon at a baseball game and Sam becomes Will's client and brings in millions in new business for the young broker, thereby saving his job and making him wealthy in the process. Life is good and Will is on top of the world until a serious crime is committed and nothing is what it seems. Will is then faced with difficult decisions that will affect the rest of his life. This is a fascinating thriller that doesn't let up. This is my first Adam Mitzner novel and I look forward to reading more. Highly recommended. Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2019
A financial thriller set in the big, bad stockbroking (I hope this is a correct word) world of Wall Street and it does kind of remind one of the movie 'Wall Street'.
Will Matthews is an investment broker in training who is almost on the verge of getting fired due to his failure to meet his quarterly quota. So for him it's no less a miracle when at an ice hockey game, he meets the mysterious and super wealthy Sam Abaddon and his girlfriend Eve who takes a liking to Will and decides to invest an initial 18 million with him...with a promise of further more cash packed investments! From there onwards life seems to be on an up and up for Will but like Sam forewarns him, the higher you blindy climb the financial ladder to success, the greater the fall when it all comes crashing down and does it come crashing down for Will! The second story running parallel to Will's is his girlfriend Gwen's, who as an up and coming lawyer is thrilled to be part of the defense team for Jasper Toolan, a movie director accused of killing his wife. She dreams of using her lawyer status to fight for what is right but she soon finds out that things are never ever just black and white.
Although the book lacked any 'OMG what the heck just happened??!!!' moments, it was still a very fast paced, easy to read book without a dull moment. A solid 3.5* rating.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publishers Thomas and Mercer and the author Adam Mitzner for providing me with an e-Arc of the book.
Will Matthews is an investment broker in training who is almost on the verge of getting fired due to his failure to meet his quarterly quota. So for him it's no less a miracle when at an ice hockey game, he meets the mysterious and super wealthy Sam Abaddon and his girlfriend Eve who takes a liking to Will and decides to invest an initial 18 million with him...with a promise of further more cash packed investments! From there onwards life seems to be on an up and up for Will but like Sam forewarns him, the higher you blindy climb the financial ladder to success, the greater the fall when it all comes crashing down and does it come crashing down for Will! The second story running parallel to Will's is his girlfriend Gwen's, who as an up and coming lawyer is thrilled to be part of the defense team for Jasper Toolan, a movie director accused of killing his wife. She dreams of using her lawyer status to fight for what is right but she soon finds out that things are never ever just black and white.
Although the book lacked any 'OMG what the heck just happened??!!!' moments, it was still a very fast paced, easy to read book without a dull moment. A solid 3.5* rating.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publishers Thomas and Mercer and the author Adam Mitzner for providing me with an e-Arc of the book.
June 4, 2019
A fun book for sure: Sort of a "Godfather" meets "Wall Street" that pits wet-behind-the-ears stockbroker Will Matthews with a filthy rich rich stranger who met him at a hockey game and made him an offer he couldn't But as Will Matthews soon learns, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
At first, Will - who is struggling to make his quarterly quota of new clients - is puzzled by the out-of-the-blue attention he gets from Samuel Abaddon (and by proxy, Sam's drop-dead gorgeous girlfriend, Eve). After turning over ludicrous amounts of money to Will to supervise, Sam showers the young man with expensive dinners and other high-priced treats - all with no apparent strings attached. Despite a few "why me" moments, Will can't help but think he's died and gone to heaven.
As all this is going on, lawyer Gwen Lipton is trying to make a name for herself in the huge firm for which she works, but she can't escape the reality that she's just treading water. Needless to say, neither Will nor Gwen have much time for a personal life, but they both turn to dating apps once in a while for quickie meetups that both hope might turn into something more meaningful. And surprise (well, not really) - the two meet up and hit it off. Any real romance, though, is destined for the back burner as Sam's demands on Will's time grow by the minute and Gwen suddenly gets assigned to one of the firm's highest profile cases: Defending a movie mogul who's charged with murdering his wife.
As more and more money comes Will's way, he starts to worry about what he's gotten himself into; but the lure of success, his eternally optimistic outlook and the clearance of each deal by his employer's oversight officers convince him that everything is on the up and up. That is, until it's not; seeing a murder happen opens his eyes to some very unpleasant and unsettling truths. But can he do anything about it? And even if he can, will he?
Most of the story focuses on Will's situation, but I really enjoyed the progress and conclusion of Gwen's murder trial (which plays into the book's ending). My own conclusion is that while I wasn't exactly blown away with excitement, this is an easy-to-read, thoroughly enjoyable book that's a perfect accompaniment for a lounge chair on the beach or in front of a cozy fireplace. My thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.
At first, Will - who is struggling to make his quarterly quota of new clients - is puzzled by the out-of-the-blue attention he gets from Samuel Abaddon (and by proxy, Sam's drop-dead gorgeous girlfriend, Eve). After turning over ludicrous amounts of money to Will to supervise, Sam showers the young man with expensive dinners and other high-priced treats - all with no apparent strings attached. Despite a few "why me" moments, Will can't help but think he's died and gone to heaven.
As all this is going on, lawyer Gwen Lipton is trying to make a name for herself in the huge firm for which she works, but she can't escape the reality that she's just treading water. Needless to say, neither Will nor Gwen have much time for a personal life, but they both turn to dating apps once in a while for quickie meetups that both hope might turn into something more meaningful. And surprise (well, not really) - the two meet up and hit it off. Any real romance, though, is destined for the back burner as Sam's demands on Will's time grow by the minute and Gwen suddenly gets assigned to one of the firm's highest profile cases: Defending a movie mogul who's charged with murdering his wife.
As more and more money comes Will's way, he starts to worry about what he's gotten himself into; but the lure of success, his eternally optimistic outlook and the clearance of each deal by his employer's oversight officers convince him that everything is on the up and up. That is, until it's not; seeing a murder happen opens his eyes to some very unpleasant and unsettling truths. But can he do anything about it? And even if he can, will he?
Most of the story focuses on Will's situation, but I really enjoyed the progress and conclusion of Gwen's murder trial (which plays into the book's ending). My own conclusion is that while I wasn't exactly blown away with excitement, this is an easy-to-read, thoroughly enjoyable book that's a perfect accompaniment for a lounge chair on the beach or in front of a cozy fireplace. My thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.
October 25, 2019
Meh. I don't really know what to say about this one. It was very okay. The story was entertaining enough, but quite predictable (that said, I read waaay too much crime fiction, so that could have something to do with it;-) I've read a few of Mitzner's books, and like Harlan Coben, they are somewhat hit or miss for me. That said, i wasn't looking for the next "Great Expectations" here, so it served the purpose of entertaining. Overall, a decent read, though ultimately not likely to be very memorable I'm sorry to say.
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
June 26, 2019
I'm pretty sure that A Matter of Will is my first foray into the world of bestselling author Adam Mitzner, and it certainly didn't disappoint me; not in the slightest! It's a surprisingly ambitious thriller with a plethora of twists pushing you into backing the wrong horse. Because of this, I found myself having to constantly revise my opinion to suit the changing situation as I feverishly turned the pages desperately daring the dastardly Mr Mitzner to fool me again and to my glee, he obliged several times. Now it's not often I appreciate being taken for a ride but the plotting was just so wickedly clever that I revelled in my utter foolishness for the entirety of the book.
Barely a page goes by without some form of excitement and once it gets going the pace is pretty spot on. It's a refreshingly original thriller not least because of the Wall Street, high society setting and vibe running throughout. It is based around Will Matthews, a struggling stockbroker who accepts the financial aid offered to him by Sam Abaddon. After all, he knows he will be in dire straits without it. But what he didn't bargain for was the curtain drawing back to reveal quite how dangerous being involved with Sam is. Perhaps a brief check on Sam's character would've been a wise move BEFORE accepting help.
What follows is a nail-biting, heart-thumping adrenaline-fuelled ride; a ride Will sincerely wishes he could disembark. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for an ARC.
Barely a page goes by without some form of excitement and once it gets going the pace is pretty spot on. It's a refreshingly original thriller not least because of the Wall Street, high society setting and vibe running throughout. It is based around Will Matthews, a struggling stockbroker who accepts the financial aid offered to him by Sam Abaddon. After all, he knows he will be in dire straits without it. But what he didn't bargain for was the curtain drawing back to reveal quite how dangerous being involved with Sam is. Perhaps a brief check on Sam's character would've been a wise move BEFORE accepting help.
What follows is a nail-biting, heart-thumping adrenaline-fuelled ride; a ride Will sincerely wishes he could disembark. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for an ARC.
February 7, 2021
"The one thing—maybe the only thing—he knew for certain was that once he made his choice, there would be no turning back."
Will Matthews finally sees all of his dreams come true. He meets a high profile client who turns him into the golden boy of wealth management, affording him a life of privilege and luxury, and he even finds the love of his life, Gwen Lipton, an up and coming lawyer. He thinks his life couldn't possibly get any better. It doesn't. His perfect life becomes the ultimate nightmare.
"At every turn, what he thought he was seeing had not been real at all. It had been arranged solely for him to witness it. A lavish production for an audience of one."
Will thinks his greatest mistake was ever believing in the power of his dreams to actually come to fruition. I was disappointed to read about his disillusionment with how his life had evolved. I also saw no real chemistry between Will and Gwen and I found the storyline to be somewhat predictable. I did, however, like the way everything wrapped up and I always appreciate a good ending. I also enjoyed reading about the courtroom case and the other legal aspects woven in. Overall, this wasn't the best choice for me personally but I would recommend it for fans of financial thrillers and I wouldn't hesitate to read another book by the author.
"“And if you won’t take my word for it, allow me to quote the great Willy Wonka. Remember what happened to the boy who got everything he wished for?”“What?” Gwen laughed softly. “That’s exactly what Charlie said when Wonka posed the question. And the answer is, of course, ‘He lived happily ever after.’”"
Will Matthews finally sees all of his dreams come true. He meets a high profile client who turns him into the golden boy of wealth management, affording him a life of privilege and luxury, and he even finds the love of his life, Gwen Lipton, an up and coming lawyer. He thinks his life couldn't possibly get any better. It doesn't. His perfect life becomes the ultimate nightmare.
"At every turn, what he thought he was seeing had not been real at all. It had been arranged solely for him to witness it. A lavish production for an audience of one."
Will thinks his greatest mistake was ever believing in the power of his dreams to actually come to fruition. I was disappointed to read about his disillusionment with how his life had evolved. I also saw no real chemistry between Will and Gwen and I found the storyline to be somewhat predictable. I did, however, like the way everything wrapped up and I always appreciate a good ending. I also enjoyed reading about the courtroom case and the other legal aspects woven in. Overall, this wasn't the best choice for me personally but I would recommend it for fans of financial thrillers and I wouldn't hesitate to read another book by the author.
"“And if you won’t take my word for it, allow me to quote the great Willy Wonka. Remember what happened to the boy who got everything he wished for?”“What?” Gwen laughed softly. “That’s exactly what Charlie said when Wonka posed the question. And the answer is, of course, ‘He lived happily ever after.’”"
October 1, 2021
Mitzner’s A Matter Of Will is a legal/ crime thriller that follows the rise of a young yuppie couple dressed for success in Manhattan. Will is an Ivy League grad on his first job as a junior executive at the largest wealth management firms on Wall Street, Cold calling his way to his first million. He meets Sam Abaddon at a hockey game and, for some strange reason, Sam takes a liking to Will, taking him under his wing, swiftly depositing millions under Will’s management and showing Will what it’s like to be one of the Masters of the Universe, dining at the best places, taking the top penthouse apartment. The money is simply gushing like a waterfall.
And with this success came Gwen, an up and coming lawyer at a high priced New York firm, taking that same climb to success, but without Sam’s helping hand. Just as how Will’s story shows what it’s like to start at a top Wall Street firm, Gwen’s story offers a solid portrayal of the life of a young corporate lawyer, who gives their left kidney to stay on the partnership track, but rarely, if ever, sets foot in a courtroom.
Given Sam’s surname, readers might imagine the narrative follows a more supernatural track. What you get instead is a white-collar thriller with twists and turns that will surprise you.
And with this success came Gwen, an up and coming lawyer at a high priced New York firm, taking that same climb to success, but without Sam’s helping hand. Just as how Will’s story shows what it’s like to start at a top Wall Street firm, Gwen’s story offers a solid portrayal of the life of a young corporate lawyer, who gives their left kidney to stay on the partnership track, but rarely, if ever, sets foot in a courtroom.
Given Sam’s surname, readers might imagine the narrative follows a more supernatural track. What you get instead is a white-collar thriller with twists and turns that will surprise you.
June 22, 2019
*** 4 Stars ***
Publication Date: June 25, 2019
Will Matthews is a young guy trying to make it on Wall Street as a wealth manager with a large firm. Worried he may not make his quota and risk being fired, he feels that he hits to jackpot when he meets Sam Abaddon, a very wealthy man who seems to want to invest with Will. He also meets Gwen, an attorney that seems to be just perfect for him. Lots of good things coming his way, he seems to be getting it all. That's where I will stop and save any further details as I don't want to spoil the plot. I really enjoyed this. I liked Adam Mitzner's writing style and his character development of Will and Gwen. It was fast paced and exciting. I read this book in one sitting as I couldn't put it down and highly recommend. I will definitely be looking into further reads by Adam Mitzner in the future.
Special Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: June 25, 2019
Will Matthews is a young guy trying to make it on Wall Street as a wealth manager with a large firm. Worried he may not make his quota and risk being fired, he feels that he hits to jackpot when he meets Sam Abaddon, a very wealthy man who seems to want to invest with Will. He also meets Gwen, an attorney that seems to be just perfect for him. Lots of good things coming his way, he seems to be getting it all. That's where I will stop and save any further details as I don't want to spoil the plot. I really enjoyed this. I liked Adam Mitzner's writing style and his character development of Will and Gwen. It was fast paced and exciting. I read this book in one sitting as I couldn't put it down and highly recommend. I will definitely be looking into further reads by Adam Mitzner in the future.
Special Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2018
Will is a stockbroker that's about to get fired for not meeting his quarterly quota.
A co-worker gives him a ticket to the NY Rangers game and he sits next to Sam a mysterious super duper wealthy man who hands him $18 million to invest. Lucky guy!
This book reminded me of the movie Wall Street
Michael Douglas as Sam
Charlie Sheen as Will
Darryl Hannah as Eve
Although Darryl Hannah is not miss innocent interior designer she claims to be.
Naive: showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment.
That's the first word that came to mind to describe Will. You didn't know that the money was being laundered? Not a spoiler because it's so obvious.
The trial of Jasper Toolan. Did they check his wife's hands for gun shot residue? If she did commit suicide it would be on her hands. Plus the burn mark on her head.
A good fast paced read. This is a book you buy at an airport kiosk.
I call books like this comfort food.
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review
A co-worker gives him a ticket to the NY Rangers game and he sits next to Sam a mysterious super duper wealthy man who hands him $18 million to invest. Lucky guy!
This book reminded me of the movie Wall Street
Michael Douglas as Sam
Charlie Sheen as Will
Darryl Hannah as Eve
Although Darryl Hannah is not miss innocent interior designer she claims to be.
Naive: showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment.
That's the first word that came to mind to describe Will. You didn't know that the money was being laundered? Not a spoiler because it's so obvious.
The trial of Jasper Toolan. Did they check his wife's hands for gun shot residue? If she did commit suicide it would be on her hands. Plus the burn mark on her head.
A good fast paced read. This is a book you buy at an airport kiosk.
I call books like this comfort food.
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review
July 1, 2019
A twisty, fast-paced financial thriller with enough murder to keep things moving along nicely.
4 stars
4 stars
July 7, 2019
It was a slow start for me. Once the plot got going it was enjoyable.
It was a free read on Prime so that is always a plus. I willl read more by this author.
It was a free read on Prime so that is always a plus. I willl read more by this author.
March 20, 2019
Thank you netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review/opinion. I'm a little torn on this title. I was truly enjoying the title and at the big plot twist, it began to feel rushed. I definitely recommend the book as it was entertaining, just wish there was more to the 2nd half of the story.
August 4, 2020
“Every man is the protagonist in the novel that is his life.”
Business, blood, and deception made this a fast-moving read. Sam kept referring Will to as "Young Will" which was rather apt. (Has Will never heard the phrase "If something seems too good to be true, it probably is?") When the tables eventually turned, Will found himself caught up in a trap of lies and double identities, not seeing any way to escape. Other than Will’s naivete being a bit too unbelievable, it was a suspenseful book to read!! I definitely enjoyed it.
Business, blood, and deception made this a fast-moving read. Sam kept referring Will to as "Young Will" which was rather apt. (Has Will never heard the phrase "If something seems too good to be true, it probably is?") When the tables eventually turned, Will found himself caught up in a trap of lies and double identities, not seeing any way to escape. Other than Will’s naivete being a bit too unbelievable, it was a suspenseful book to read!! I definitely enjoyed it.
August 14, 2019
“Every man is the protagonist in the novel that is his life”
Having literally just finished reading and reviewing a previous story where the two main protagonists have both personal and business interests which overlap and have the potential to destroy them, both as a couple and individually, A Matter Of Will virtually replicates this scenario, but there the likeness ends, as this fast moving book has the potential to be adding death to the equation!
Our two main protagonists, Will and Gwen, are both vulnerable and emotional individuals, still trying to prove themselves in their respective chosen careers as investment broker and law graduate, whilst also trying to cement an emotional and physical relationship between them, which is as yet, still in its fledgling stage.
Both are being placed under enormous pressure to find outcomes to problems, which they know are not ethically good or right. When opportunities for fast track career enhancement, are handed to them both on a plate; morals, truth and a profound sense of right and wrong, seem to fly in the face of greed, desire and ‘turning a blind eye’. Both are lured into a false sense of security and seduced by the dream of success, which because of their inexperience and naivety, they fail to realise will suck them in so deep that they will be unable to escape, when the truth of the situation slowly dawns on them – which it inevitably does!
When honesty between them and a reality check finally prevails, both realise that they are opening a Pandora’s box of retribution and destruction, by continuing on their current paths, a price they might ultimately be forced to pay for with their lives.
With his seemingly effortless, skilled writing and compelling, well balanced attention to detail in the narrative and dialogue, Adam never once forgot any one of the many complex characters he introduced into the story, when it came to fleshing out all the details about them and giving them a life and personality of their own. The synergy and dynamics between each of them made for a palpable tension which lasted from the first to last page of the book.
This multi-layered storyline started off at a good pace and the suspense and intrigue never let up for a minute, only when Adam decided to ratchet things up a notch, making the adrenaline pump even faster! There were so many twists and turns in the tale, almost from the first page to the last, that I challenge any reader to have worked out the final outcome until almost the very final sentence. I thought I had it sussed several times, only to be proved wrong within seconds, as the next event unfolded.
For me personally, the only weak spot in the book were the last couple of pages. However, I seriously think that was probably me, looking for that one last twist in the tale, as if there hadn’t already been enough!
Realistically, the ending was the only plausible option I wanted for the couple, although I was in no way prepared for the way in which it happened – this was the most well kept secret of the entire story!
Very reminiscent of, and a cross between, the films The Devil’s Advocate and The Firm, this book truly deserves to be optioned for film and could definitely stand amongst them in its own right.
A Matter Of Will had just about everything going for it, so move over John Grisham, because Adam Mitzner is here to stay – and heading for my Goodreads ‘Favourites’ list!
Having literally just finished reading and reviewing a previous story where the two main protagonists have both personal and business interests which overlap and have the potential to destroy them, both as a couple and individually, A Matter Of Will virtually replicates this scenario, but there the likeness ends, as this fast moving book has the potential to be adding death to the equation!
Our two main protagonists, Will and Gwen, are both vulnerable and emotional individuals, still trying to prove themselves in their respective chosen careers as investment broker and law graduate, whilst also trying to cement an emotional and physical relationship between them, which is as yet, still in its fledgling stage.
Both are being placed under enormous pressure to find outcomes to problems, which they know are not ethically good or right. When opportunities for fast track career enhancement, are handed to them both on a plate; morals, truth and a profound sense of right and wrong, seem to fly in the face of greed, desire and ‘turning a blind eye’. Both are lured into a false sense of security and seduced by the dream of success, which because of their inexperience and naivety, they fail to realise will suck them in so deep that they will be unable to escape, when the truth of the situation slowly dawns on them – which it inevitably does!
When honesty between them and a reality check finally prevails, both realise that they are opening a Pandora’s box of retribution and destruction, by continuing on their current paths, a price they might ultimately be forced to pay for with their lives.
With his seemingly effortless, skilled writing and compelling, well balanced attention to detail in the narrative and dialogue, Adam never once forgot any one of the many complex characters he introduced into the story, when it came to fleshing out all the details about them and giving them a life and personality of their own. The synergy and dynamics between each of them made for a palpable tension which lasted from the first to last page of the book.
This multi-layered storyline started off at a good pace and the suspense and intrigue never let up for a minute, only when Adam decided to ratchet things up a notch, making the adrenaline pump even faster! There were so many twists and turns in the tale, almost from the first page to the last, that I challenge any reader to have worked out the final outcome until almost the very final sentence. I thought I had it sussed several times, only to be proved wrong within seconds, as the next event unfolded.
For me personally, the only weak spot in the book were the last couple of pages. However, I seriously think that was probably me, looking for that one last twist in the tale, as if there hadn’t already been enough!
Realistically, the ending was the only plausible option I wanted for the couple, although I was in no way prepared for the way in which it happened – this was the most well kept secret of the entire story!
Very reminiscent of, and a cross between, the films The Devil’s Advocate and The Firm, this book truly deserves to be optioned for film and could definitely stand amongst them in its own right.
A Matter Of Will had just about everything going for it, so move over John Grisham, because Adam Mitzner is here to stay – and heading for my Goodreads ‘Favourites’ list!
March 1, 2019
What an absolutely blistering read! I read this in 24 hours, oblivious to time and my other commitments, just lost in this awesome page-turner, unable to put it down. Longtime fans of Adam Mitzner (and I count myself as one for sure!) might be a little thrown at first because his previous books are courtroom dramas/thrillers in the vein of Scott Turow, whereas this one is closer to John Grisham’s The Firm, combined with Wall Street (the movie about Gordon Gekko – sp?). The story pulled me in immediately, and I loved the way it never let up. The intrigue built and built, and just when I thought I knew what was happening, there was a HUGE twist that I never saw coming. (And I’m pretty good at guessing plot twists and figuring out whodunits). I hate twists that come out of nowhere and don’t make sense, but this is one of those that, once I looked back, was completely logical and fit perfectly with everything that came before. The ending was utterly satisfying. I’m betting that this will be made into a movie. Cannot wait!
January 9, 2019
Adam Mitzner always delivers a great read. A Matter of Will is no exception. It's an engaging story with twists and turns. Sort of like a fairy godmother gone wrong. The characters are strong and likeable. Overall a good read.
July 1, 2019
I enjoyed the book because of the individual characters, especially Gwen. It's hard not to like Gwen since she is sincere, honest, beautiful, and has a sharp wit. Almost all the other characters are cheats, liars, dumb, or out for themselves, including Will.
June 27, 2020
Your first clue that the whale of a client who's fallen into your lap might not be on the up and up is that his name is Sam Abaddon. I mean, come on.
The second clue should be a mysterious billionaire who grabs some random schmuck and promptly shovels millions of dollars of business his way because he's just such a swell guy and took a liking to you. Really now.
Adam Mitzner's legal thrillers are kind of like brain candy, they aren't very deep but he writes a fairly straightforward crime thriller with a bit of authentic legal and financial patter, enough to make the shenanigans believable, even if the characters sometimes stretch credulity.
Our first protagonist, Will Matthews, is a bright-eyed, bushy-tailed "wealth manager" trying to make it in a cutthroat Manhattan firm, and he's not making it. Then he meets Sam Abaddon and his gorgeous girlfriend at a game, and Sam takes a shine to young Will and makes all his dreams come true by opening huge accounts with him after a couple of friendly conversations, and while you can forgive Will for not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth, the reader obviously knows right away that this isn't going to turn out to be anything good.
Meanwhile, Will is starting to date a young lawyer named Gwen Lipton, the second protagonist of the novel. Gwen is also bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, trying to make her bones at a prestigious Manhattan law firm. She lands a spot on the defense team for an A-list Hollywood director who's on trial for allegedly murdering his wife. He was having an affair with the starlet in his latest film, and he claims his wife committed suicide, while the prosecution claims he killed her to avoid a messy divorce. Gwen is convinced by the lead counsel that they have a bonafide Innocent Man as a client, and she launches herself into the case with professional and righteous zeal.
So, our young lawyer and our young money manager start dating, falling in love, and picking out the nursery at the brand new $10 million apartment Will has been given as a "gift," and then all the clues so obvious to the reader that things are going to go to shit drop, and things go to shit.
There are a few twists that weren't obvious, which kept the story from following a totally predictable path, but I did find myself thinking that people this naive shouldn't swim with sharks in Manhattan. The resolution was also a bit abrupt and tidy, but this is Mitzner's specialty, delivering a lean, fast-paced thriller without a lot of fat on it, or time to indulge in subplots or extended character studies.
A little bit of John Grisham, a little bit of Law & Order, a good audiobook to play while you're doing something else.
The second clue should be a mysterious billionaire who grabs some random schmuck and promptly shovels millions of dollars of business his way because he's just such a swell guy and took a liking to you. Really now.
Adam Mitzner's legal thrillers are kind of like brain candy, they aren't very deep but he writes a fairly straightforward crime thriller with a bit of authentic legal and financial patter, enough to make the shenanigans believable, even if the characters sometimes stretch credulity.
Our first protagonist, Will Matthews, is a bright-eyed, bushy-tailed "wealth manager" trying to make it in a cutthroat Manhattan firm, and he's not making it. Then he meets Sam Abaddon and his gorgeous girlfriend at a game, and Sam takes a shine to young Will and makes all his dreams come true by opening huge accounts with him after a couple of friendly conversations, and while you can forgive Will for not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth, the reader obviously knows right away that this isn't going to turn out to be anything good.
Meanwhile, Will is starting to date a young lawyer named Gwen Lipton, the second protagonist of the novel. Gwen is also bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, trying to make her bones at a prestigious Manhattan law firm. She lands a spot on the defense team for an A-list Hollywood director who's on trial for allegedly murdering his wife. He was having an affair with the starlet in his latest film, and he claims his wife committed suicide, while the prosecution claims he killed her to avoid a messy divorce. Gwen is convinced by the lead counsel that they have a bonafide Innocent Man as a client, and she launches herself into the case with professional and righteous zeal.
So, our young lawyer and our young money manager start dating, falling in love, and picking out the nursery at the brand new $10 million apartment Will has been given as a "gift," and then all the clues so obvious to the reader that things are going to go to shit drop, and things go to shit.
There are a few twists that weren't obvious, which kept the story from following a totally predictable path, but I did find myself thinking that people this naive shouldn't swim with sharks in Manhattan. The resolution was also a bit abrupt and tidy, but this is Mitzner's specialty, delivering a lean, fast-paced thriller without a lot of fat on it, or time to indulge in subplots or extended character studies.
A little bit of John Grisham, a little bit of Law & Order, a good audiobook to play while you're doing something else.
July 9, 2019
This was a quick 3 day read. The story kept you interested and made you stay up late to finish the book.
February 2, 2019
Well-Worth Your Consideration!
Adam Mitzner continues to be one of my "don't miss" authors -- meaning that if he wrote, I'll be rushing to read it. And, A Matter Of Will continues this author's streak of writing very fast-paced, hard-to-put-down thrillers/mysteries, with well-developed characters.
Without describing its plot, which can be read about in the Book Description above, A Matter Of Will shares many of the same qualities I felt were characteristic of each of Mitzner's six previous highly recommendable books: 1) excellent pacing, which starts off slow and steadily builds to a level that will have you turning the pages at a rapid pace to find out what happens next; 2) creating realistic flawed, yet sympathetic, characters; 3) providing such true-to-life prose that makes you feel you are actually hearing the characters speaking their words; 4) having the main character be so fully dimensionalized that you forget you are reading a book and not right there with him as he is experiencing his personal and professional life turn to shambles; and 5) providing some interesting plot twists.
I enjoyed A Matter Of Will and I think you will too; although it has one factor that caused me to deduct one star from my rating. This is that despite Mitzner's ability to keep the plot moving at a brisk pace, the plot itself requires the reader to suspend disbelief a bit too much..Despite this minor flaw, which is far outweighed by its strengths mentioned above, A Matter Of Will is a book I'd recommend to any reader who enjoys thrillers/mysteries. The same recommendation applies to each of Mitzner's other books.
#A Matter Of Will, #Net Galley
Adam Mitzner continues to be one of my "don't miss" authors -- meaning that if he wrote, I'll be rushing to read it. And, A Matter Of Will continues this author's streak of writing very fast-paced, hard-to-put-down thrillers/mysteries, with well-developed characters.
Without describing its plot, which can be read about in the Book Description above, A Matter Of Will shares many of the same qualities I felt were characteristic of each of Mitzner's six previous highly recommendable books: 1) excellent pacing, which starts off slow and steadily builds to a level that will have you turning the pages at a rapid pace to find out what happens next; 2) creating realistic flawed, yet sympathetic, characters; 3) providing such true-to-life prose that makes you feel you are actually hearing the characters speaking their words; 4) having the main character be so fully dimensionalized that you forget you are reading a book and not right there with him as he is experiencing his personal and professional life turn to shambles; and 5) providing some interesting plot twists.
I enjoyed A Matter Of Will and I think you will too; although it has one factor that caused me to deduct one star from my rating. This is that despite Mitzner's ability to keep the plot moving at a brisk pace, the plot itself requires the reader to suspend disbelief a bit too much..Despite this minor flaw, which is far outweighed by its strengths mentioned above, A Matter Of Will is a book I'd recommend to any reader who enjoys thrillers/mysteries. The same recommendation applies to each of Mitzner's other books.
#A Matter Of Will, #Net Galley
January 13, 2019
A Matter of Will was a fun ride that I would highly recommend. It's the story of a young Wall Street broker, the titular Will, a mysterious and hugely wealthy couple, Eve and Sam, and Will's girlfriend Gwen, a young lawyer. One night at a NY Rangers game, Will meets Eve and Sam. Days later Sam brings Will into his heady world and invests heavily with him, a life changer for Will. Concurrently, Will meets Gwen through a dating app, and they quickly fall in love. Although the story is primarily about Will, Eve, and Sam, there is also a side plot involving Gwen who is participating in a huge murder trial. Everything is sunshine and unicorns for Will and Gwen until the day he witnesses a murder.
The novel reminded me of movies like The Devil's Advocate and The Firm where young up-and-comers learn the hard way that if it seems too good to be true, run! The reader knows pretty much how things are going to go for young Will, but that in no way detracts from the joy of reading A Matter of Will. Adam Mitzner did a terrific job weaving a tight story and well-developed characters. Satisfying ending too.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy in return for an honest review.
The novel reminded me of movies like The Devil's Advocate and The Firm where young up-and-comers learn the hard way that if it seems too good to be true, run! The reader knows pretty much how things are going to go for young Will, but that in no way detracts from the joy of reading A Matter of Will. Adam Mitzner did a terrific job weaving a tight story and well-developed characters. Satisfying ending too.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy in return for an honest review.
January 7, 2019
I have to say Adam Mitzner has become one of my favorite authors. He can write, and his plots are twisty and divine.
This book tells the story of a broker trainee Will, who meets a mysterious couple who seem to be able to grant Will's wildest wish: to be a success on Wall Street.
With the woman of his dreams by his side (a young lawyer named Gwen) it seems like Will is ready to take New York by storm, but quickly things turn out not to be quite as great as they seem.
Everything I have read by Mitzner has been amazing. I enjoy his detail, realistic dialogue, and interesting plots. In addition, he is a rare male author that does not diminish his female characters. And, even though many of his plots are wildly unrealistic, he writes so well, as a reader you will be there every step of the way.
With all the legal thrillers bandied about, Mitzner definitely stands above. You will not be sorry with any of his books.
Thanks to the publisher, author, and NetGalley.com for my advance copy.
This book tells the story of a broker trainee Will, who meets a mysterious couple who seem to be able to grant Will's wildest wish: to be a success on Wall Street.
With the woman of his dreams by his side (a young lawyer named Gwen) it seems like Will is ready to take New York by storm, but quickly things turn out not to be quite as great as they seem.
Everything I have read by Mitzner has been amazing. I enjoy his detail, realistic dialogue, and interesting plots. In addition, he is a rare male author that does not diminish his female characters. And, even though many of his plots are wildly unrealistic, he writes so well, as a reader you will be there every step of the way.
With all the legal thrillers bandied about, Mitzner definitely stands above. You will not be sorry with any of his books.
Thanks to the publisher, author, and NetGalley.com for my advance copy.
February 20, 2019
A Matter of Will by Adam Mitzner is thrilling courtroom drama and Wall Street dealing thrown into one great novel.
The main characters - sultry Eve, naïve Will, stoic Gwen and seedy Sam – are all completely engaging! Well developed through a fast-paced read, I felt like I was watching a John Grisham movie. A realistic plot with some twists and turns (although nothing too unexpected) keep you guessing and turning the pages.
The courtroom scenes also flowed easily – not always easy to do without a whole lot of jargon being bandied about, and it easily kept the book moving along.
I especially enjoyed Mr. Mitzner’s writing style. It is quick, witty and the dialogue is cleverly woven to reveal important facts without leaving me feeling like I’m being explained to.
The ending was all tied up really nicely and I’m not sure if I liked this or not. All in all, though, I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a quick legal thriller.
The main characters - sultry Eve, naïve Will, stoic Gwen and seedy Sam – are all completely engaging! Well developed through a fast-paced read, I felt like I was watching a John Grisham movie. A realistic plot with some twists and turns (although nothing too unexpected) keep you guessing and turning the pages.
The courtroom scenes also flowed easily – not always easy to do without a whole lot of jargon being bandied about, and it easily kept the book moving along.
I especially enjoyed Mr. Mitzner’s writing style. It is quick, witty and the dialogue is cleverly woven to reveal important facts without leaving me feeling like I’m being explained to.
The ending was all tied up really nicely and I’m not sure if I liked this or not. All in all, though, I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a quick legal thriller.
December 15, 2018
Thank you to #NetGalley for this ARC of A Matter Of Will
Adam Mitzner offers a action-packed suspense set in the high stakes world of a Wall Street.
The reader is drawn into the life of a struggling mid-level investment broker named Will, trying to make his stake in life. When luck happens to find him sitting next to a high profile couple at a hockey game, his life suddenly changes with an unexpected opportunity. Unfortunately, the old adage “if it looks too good to be true, it is” come to forwishin. Will soon finds himself in the middle of his worst nightmare.
This is an exciting, fast paced novel, written with exceptional detail. Mitzner has brought to life each detail and leaves the reader hanging on until the very end. Great read. 5 stars.
Adam Mitzner offers a action-packed suspense set in the high stakes world of a Wall Street.
The reader is drawn into the life of a struggling mid-level investment broker named Will, trying to make his stake in life. When luck happens to find him sitting next to a high profile couple at a hockey game, his life suddenly changes with an unexpected opportunity. Unfortunately, the old adage “if it looks too good to be true, it is” come to forwishin. Will soon finds himself in the middle of his worst nightmare.
This is an exciting, fast paced novel, written with exceptional detail. Mitzner has brought to life each detail and leaves the reader hanging on until the very end. Great read. 5 stars.
June 25, 2019
I have read all of Adam Mitzner's book. This was my favorite. It follows the story of Will Matthews, a young NYC stock broker with dreams of being a master of the universe. He meets a true master of the universe in Sam Abaddon, and the question is whether Will is going to be corrupted by his taste of the good life. His girlfriend Gwen provides moral balance for Will, but he soon realizes that nothing about his future is what he thought. Not wanting to include any spoilers prevents me from revealing more, but suffice to say that like with all of Mitzner’s books there are jaw-dropping twists along the way that I didn’t see coming. Highly recommended! 5 ++ stars!!!
September 7, 2019
Reviewing this book is difficult. It was so stupid, suspenseful, and obvious that there is nothing good I can say about the story.
I read this book as a combination audio and kindle book. The narrator was pretty effective however, not so effective that he could make the book sound suspenseful or interesting.
Without giving anything away, even a middle school kid would be able to figure out what was happening in the first couple of pages. I have to believe this because the alternative would mean that the people we entrust our life savings too are really dumber than a rock.
It took everything in me to finish this book - - it was that bad.
My advice, skip it.
I read this book as a combination audio and kindle book. The narrator was pretty effective however, not so effective that he could make the book sound suspenseful or interesting.
Without giving anything away, even a middle school kid would be able to figure out what was happening in the first couple of pages. I have to believe this because the alternative would mean that the people we entrust our life savings too are really dumber than a rock.
It took everything in me to finish this book - - it was that bad.
My advice, skip it.
December 17, 2018
I liked the writing style a great deal. We sort of know what will happen to Will when by chance he meets the enigmatic wealthy man at a sporting event-but, it is a train wreck you cannot stop yourself from watching.
Will is likable and very naive but you want things to work out for him and his girlfriend Gwen right from the get go. I highly recommend -I especially liked the ending.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a chance to read and review.
Will is likable and very naive but you want things to work out for him and his girlfriend Gwen right from the get go. I highly recommend -I especially liked the ending.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a chance to read and review.
January 8, 2019
Adam Mitzner’s “A Matter of Will” is his best work yet. The main character, Will Matthews, is an innocent dreamer who truly believes that people are good and trustworthy. His naiveté blinds him to the cold reality that unfolds in this unpredictable page turner with so many twists and turns in the plot, that you will be out of breath (seriously) as you turn the last page. Not sure what to read next that won’t disappoint me after reading this!
July 16, 2019
Like a few I've read recently, this one sort of ended abruptly. I really enjoyed the story. I give it 3.5 stars. But it was in full swing and the in the last 20 pages or so, it sort of miraculously concludes and everyone is happy. I get that you can fall down a rabbit hole and not be able to find a way out, so I know it has to end somehow. All in all, a good book. I enjoy Adam's writing.
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