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Georgina Garrett was born to be ruthless and she's about to earn her reputation.

As World War One is announced a baby girl is born into a harsh life on London streets. Little do people realise that she's going to grow up to rule the borough of Battersea.

With a father who steals for a living, a grandmother who's a woman of the night and a mother long dead, Georgina was never in for an easy life. But after a tragic event left her father shaken he makes a decision that will change the course of all their lives – to raise Georgina as George, ensuring her safety but marking the start of her life of crime...

This is the first book in the thrilling new Georgina Garrett series.

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 16, 2019

261 people are currently reading
205 people want to read

About the author

Sam Michaels

15 books69 followers
Sam Michaels writes gritty historical crime sagas set in Battersea, South London, which is where she was born and bred, the council estates being her playground.

After leaving school at sixteen with no qualifications, Sam married soon after and had a son. The marriage ended quickly, and as a single mother, she worked in various retail positions until undertaking an Open University degree. This led to Sam becoming an analytical scientist and then into technical sales where she met her husband.

A few years later, they moved from Hampshire to Spain. It was then that her mother, the Sunday Times best-selling author, Kitty Neale, inspired Sam to put pen to paper. She now writes her novels in sunnier climates with the company of her husband, four dogs and six cats.

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5 stars
947 (63%)
4 stars
379 (25%)
3 stars
122 (8%)
2 stars
26 (1%)
1 star
20 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
Profile Image for Louise Wilson.
3,659 reviews1,690 followers
April 6, 2019
Georgina Garrett was born to be ruthless and she's about to earn her reputation. As World War 1 was announced a baby girl was born into the harsh life on London Streets. Little do people realise that she is going to grow up to rule the borough of Battersea.

I was gripped from the very first page of this new crime thriller series. George's (Georgina) mother dies while giving birth to her. Her father takes her to live with his mother so that he can go out on the rob to help pay for their keep. Eventually George is introduced to the life of crime. There is so much happening in George and her families life's. The story is action packed from beginning to end. This is the first book in a new series and I can't wait to read the second instalment due out in October.

I would like to thank NetGalley, Aria and the author Sam Michaels for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Bibi.
1,287 reviews136 followers
January 3, 2020
The good thing about Trickster is the pervasive sense of dreariness which means the author did a bang-up job of creating the right atmosphere; conversely, the bad thing about this book is the pervasive sense of dreariness which made it acutely depressing.
Profile Image for Dash fan .
1,517 reviews714 followers
April 24, 2019
5☆ I can't Recommend this Gritty Thriller Enough!

TRICKSTER is a Gritty, Enthralling, Pacy, thriller that delves into the highs and lows, heart breaks, of growing up the daughter of a thief and learning the ropes, whilst trying to stay strong and fearless, no matter what life throws at her!

George (aka Georgina) has had a very colourful upbringing, her mother died during child birth, her Dad Jack unable to cope moves in with his Mum and Step Dad as they help raise her.

It's set in the war times and life is tough, people have to turn to crime and prostitution to survive.

I really don't want to give anything away as this book is so good i want you to discover why Georgina became George for yourself.

The story follows George's life as she grows into the fierce, not to be messed with young lady, who has painful scars that run deep, she's ruthless, street smart, courageous, loyal and protective of those she loves.

There are other stories that run alongside George's which weave together seamlessly and are just as thrilling and gritty.
For example you have the story of Molly, who is George's best friend but lives in squalor and watches her mother get repeatedly beaten by her drunken father, as she tries to protect her sisters.
Then there is the notorious villain Norman who runs the brothel & protection racquets and his pure evil son Billy who make everyone's lives a living hell!.

At times this can be a lil uneasy to read, with some seriously sensitive subjects, such as child abuse, rape, domestic violence, murder, but Sam had handled the sensitive subjects with sensitivity but still makes a powerful impact.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this gripping book, it's hard to believe it's just the first book in the series it's so good!
I was captivated and enthralled by George's story. Her story broke my heart, but the strength she has shone through.
The plot is gritty, compulsive, Pacy, thrilling, I devoured it in one night!
The Characters are deeply flawed, yet so well written and believable.

I'm so excited for the next instalment...i can't wait! Sam Michaels is definitely going on my to watch out for list.

So would I recommend reading this action packed thriller?.... without a doubt....100%....YES!!....A Must Read!!

Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

My Review is also on my Blog Website :-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Profile Image for 8stitches 9lives.
2,853 reviews1,723 followers
April 15, 2019
Trickster is the first book in the Georgina Garrett series, set in London 1914 and what a great page-turner it is. At the time women were viewed as being of less intelligence and less productive when compared to men, so in order to get around this Georgina becomes George to ensure her survival. Raised as a boy by her father she grows up to be a ruthless woman at the very heart of her families criminal dealings. This is an action-packed, gripping read from beginning to end and demands to be read in a single suspenseful sitting.

Even though the family are hardened criminals you can't help but find them likeable and intriguing and there's a strong sense that they're are doing what they're doing merely as a means of income during a time of high unemployment. It is an exciting, accomplished debut with a no-nonsense and truly fearless protagonist and is exceptionally written with many twisty surprises in store for readers. The portrayal of poverty and depression was moving and authentic; it's clear that the author has researched this period extensively, and I found the period detail indeed added to the atmosphere of the story.

Those who enjoy gangland crime and historical crime will no doubt find this as thrilling as I. I look forward to the next instalment due out in October.

Many thanks to Aria for an ARC.
Profile Image for Mark.
1,682 reviews
September 11, 2020
Wow! What a story and what a book
This is a electric mix of history and ‘gangland’ that I loved from the gritty opening till the powerful end
Set in Battersea, which was great ( initial home to my George and Mildred ) and an area we regularly go to/through and set ( at first ) at the start of WW1 ( George is born the day it start’s ) and this is real, harsh, unforgiving and in your face.
The book then follows her life through to her starting a courtship and all she does inbetween, and some of things that happen to her will make your toes curl BUT she exacts revenge and everyone who has crossed her will, and does pay ( to say more would ruin it )
A whole host of fab characters, from a strong no nonsense Nan to Fanny Wipple, a local lady and flower seller make this book very quickly a feel ‘comfy with’ read ( even though there is lots of bad things happen in it )
The writing is flawless and a joy to read and not sure what else can say other than I loved every page and will certainly be reading the 2 follow up books in the series Rivals and Vixen

10/10
5 Stars
Profile Image for Janet Newport.
471 reviews121 followers
June 29, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Aria for this arc.

Maybe its just me..... I just couldn't get into this one. It felt awfully Oliver Twist-ish early on, and while George/Georgina was never and orphan and was surrounded by family and friends throughout the story, it felt unnecessarily contrived to me. I was never able to connect with any of the characters either. They just seemed to all develop at the speed of light and the author's all tell and no show presentation of the story left me with too many "Huh??" moments for any real reading enjoyment.

2.0 stars
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,752 reviews160 followers
April 2, 2019
Trickster by Sam Michaels is her debut novelt and what a fantastic read it is. I requested it because one I love historical fiction but, also love Gangland crime and I was excited to see it both in the same book.
It’s around the time of World War one, in the poorest areas of Battersea. Georgina Garrett is born but, her mother dies in childbirth. Her father a local thief, lives with their gran who is a prostitute. Her father for her safety brings her up dressed up as a boy and changes her name to George. They spend the days together, her father teaching her his thieving ways until she grows up and can’t help him no more. There is also Norman Wilcox and son Billy who take control of the area and terrorises the local people if they don’t pay up every week money towards their gang.
I won’t give anymore of the storyline away. But I loved this book from the very first page. It gripped me from the start. It has a great storyline and plot and likeable characters, especially George/Georgina. I like her gutsy character and her determination. With all her events that took place in her life, she dusted herself off carried on and didn’t let any man get in her way. I can’t wait to read the second instalment due out in October. A big 5 stars from me.
Thank you NetGalley and Aria for a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Booklover BEV.
1,724 reviews53 followers
Read
April 22, 2019
Absolutely brilliant

Georgina Garrett was born in Battersea 1914, her mother sissy died during giving birth, been brought up by her father Jack and gran Dulcie. War was declared and Jack was wheeling and dealing making a crust, his daughter was his world, and he didn't want to get called up. The year's go by and George as she is called grows up. The characters I loved in this book it's so fast paced as you read. It's a book you don't want to put down. I loved this book, gripping, mind blowing, harrowing. The author's first book and in my mind it's a winner. There's nothing more I can say about this book WELL DONE
Profile Image for deborah fanning.
93 reviews6 followers
December 20, 2021
This book was brilliant! I loved the development of the characters George Molly and Billy. Albeit I hated Billy with a passion he certainly is one of the worst of humanity. He is a bully sadistic cruel depraved and he got his just deserts !
George endures hunger and heartache but grows into a strong compassionate character, you would certainly want her on your side.
Again the horrors she experienced left me so abhorrent and angry !
I don’t like to spoil and say to much other than read this book.
I am onto the second book and loving it.
Profile Image for Mandy Desay.
266 reviews12 followers
April 23, 2019
Wow what an amazing read!! It’s hard to believe this is Sam’s debut novel, and what a debut it is. Everything is thrown into this book, it has it all with no time to take a breath, it constantly keeps you on your toes right from the first to the last page. A fantastic read that I would highly recommend and I cannot wait to read more from Sam, she is amazing.
10 reviews
April 16, 2019
Fantastic book

Well what a fab book it kept me turning the pages, can’t wait for the second instalment.First class all the way well done
Profile Image for Nicky Mottram.
2,156 reviews20 followers
November 7, 2019
Audio version of this book 📚 - got to chapter 10 and gave up ! Storyline unconvincing and was not gripped by it all , as another reader put it..... dreary ☹️
Profile Image for Jane Hunt.
Author 3 books114 followers
April 17, 2019
Set in the early 20th-century ‘Trickster’ follows the fortunes of Georgina Garrett from her birth in 1914 when England declared war on Germany. Georgina knows tragedy from her first breath, she is no stranger to loss and falls foul of the depravity she is born into, despite the love and protection of her family.

This historical crime saga is characterised by well-researched historical detail, which brings the story to life. It’s easy to imagine the poverty, depravity and violence of the London slums. The writing is full of vivid imagery and dialogue which gives it an authentic feel.

The characters are believable and even though many of them are criminals, they are easy to empathise. Many are victims of circumstance, they commit crimes and act violently to survive. The strong family bond essential for gangland crime fiction is evident in this story, and it is this that makes it such an absorbing read.

The abuse, language and violence are graphic, but not gratuitous. They make this story an authentic reading experience, but there will be times when you will cringe or want to look away.

The plot is well- written and has many twists, that shape Georgina Garrett and her future self. The underlying theme of the story is based on a misnomer, which gives this story a refreshing uniqueness. This is an accomplished debut story and I look forward to reading book two.

I received a copy of this book from Aria Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Deborah.
46 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2019
Good story, the thing that put me off throughout the book was the bad language.,
but that's just my opinion.
Profile Image for Pol.
451 reviews9 followers
April 16, 2022
A gritty thriller, just wanted to keep reading. Looking forward to the next book
Profile Image for Gia.
193 reviews2 followers
April 29, 2019
It is 1914. World War I has just been declared. Poverty is the way of life for residents of Battersea. In a small, derelict room, with her final breath, young Sissy names her newborn baby girl. Georgina Garrett was born of pain and marked for suffering from her first mouthful of air.

Georgina is raised by her thieving father Jack, and her tough-as-nails grandmother Dulcie. They live hand- to-mouth off what Jack can steal, trade or sell. Their survival depends on it.

When the unthinkable happens to young Georgina, Jack enlists the help of Norman Wilcox, Battersea’s powerful strong-arm, to aid him in recovering her from certain danger. Norman Wilcox sees to the evil offender, but not before a heinous crime is committed. Traumatized, Jack resolves to safeguard Georgina and thus, George is born. Raised as a boy, hair cut short, dresses in boy’s clothing, trains to box and defend herself, and is taught her father’s art and skill of grafting, and how not to get caught.

Sam Michaels brings to life her many diverse characters. She creates a powerful female lead; George is fearless and bold, tenacious and passionate. And she watches over her loved ones, including her best friend, the sweet-tempered Molly, with the fierceness of a mother bear. George’s adversary and enemy, the merciless Billy Wilcox and his sadistic ways, is brilliantly characterized. You beg for the intense hostility towards each other to reach its breaking point and get to the battle you know is coming.

The historical depiction of the era is heart-wrenchingly realistic. I felt transported to the lawless privation of the slums and into the dilapidated condition of the homes. The dialoguing, the slang street talk of the time is real – colourful, and gaudy when it needed to be. The writing is clever, accomplished and impressive.

With a kicker twist, Sam Michaels closes with an excellent finish that leaves you in anticipation for much more of Georgina.

I highly recommend Trickster as a smashing debut read and, one of my new favourites. I cannot wait to see what Sam Michaels enthralls us with next.

Thank you to NetGalley and Aria for the read of Sam Michael’s, Trickster.

My opinions of this review are my own.
181 reviews2 followers
April 20, 2019
Trickster

A real heartwarming story of a woman having to defy the odds of standing up to bully men. George is brought in to the world in tragic circumstances and this continues to be the path that is laid out for her. The one thing is though George won’t stand and take it no matter what the cost.
155 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2019
Wow Wow what a brilliant book

I wish I you give this book more stars .I have never heard of this author before but thought I would give it ago Georgina Garrett well done the pages just went on and on and every chapter was brilliant I couldn't put the book down can't wait for her next novel I'm sure once I give a review more people will buy and certainly will not be disappointed.well done .
8 reviews
April 23, 2019
Absolutely loved it

You really felt for the characters, i was so engrossed.Sam has written this beautifully. There was no repetitiveness like with some recent books i have read by notable authors. I will be looking out for more of your books. Thankyou.
6 reviews
May 4, 2019
Superb

Loved this book recommend to anyone who likes a gritty story. Every page captivating reading. Great character Georgina Garrett. Can’t wait until her next thrilling instalment.
4 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2019
Brilliant, from the first page to the last!!! I recommend it to everyone to read it.

It certainly put my heart rate up many times. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
1 review
May 19, 2019
Fantastic read

Brilliant book, brilliant read couldn't put it down read it in two days !! Very empowering and uplifting ... Shows you how strong women can really be, a very fast paced book brilliantly wrote , true life strong characters really looking forward to the next book.... Defenetly worth reading.
Profile Image for kelly skelton.
2 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2019
Brilliant book highly recommend!

Great writing and storyline once started couldn't stop reading it always the sign of a good book highly recommend this book .
61 reviews1 follower
May 2, 2019
Good

Enjoyed the book hope there is a sequel to this love to find out what happens to them all especially Georgina and flash
174 reviews2 followers
May 26, 2019
Wow

What a brilliant debut novel. I loved it . What a evil person Billy was. He got his what he deserved in the end. Looking forward to the next book in the Georgina Garrett series
17 reviews3 followers
May 31, 2019
Emotionally honest

This story was amazing, about how a strong woman beats as the odds of a society which is against woman being more than tied to a kitchen sink
24 reviews
June 5, 2019
Brilliant

Could not put it down loved the story .Look forward to reading more of her books absolutely brilliant. Good story
107 reviews
June 5, 2019
Loved this book

Thoroughly enjoyed this book.great characters.just Loved George/georgina
I really Hope there is going to be a follow up to this book and soon
Profile Image for Samantha Tonge.
Author 33 books336 followers
October 13, 2019
Fast paced and dark with characters you'll love and hate! I totally invested in this!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews

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