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Maggie Costello #5
To Kill a Man
Tomorrow's most explosive thriller, today
Cynthia Wright is a rising star in American politics, strongly tipped as a future candidate for president. One night she is violently assaulted in her home by an intruder. She defends herself and minutes later, the intruder lies dead. Wright is hailed as a #MeToo heroine: the woman who fought back.
But inconsistencies emerge in Wright's story, suggesting that the attack might not have been as random as it first seemed.
When former White House troubleshooter Maggie Costello is drafted in to investigate, she finds intriguing gaps, especially over Wright's early life. She likes this woman, who she believes could - and should - be president. But she can't shake off the question: who exactly is Cynthia Wright?
A cat-and-mouse conspiracy thriller of rare intelligence, To Kill a Man explores an unsettling world in which justice is in the eye of the beholder and revenge seems to be the only answer.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2020
96 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Sam Bourne
46 books340 followersSam Bourne is the literary pseudonym of Jonathan Freedland, an award-winning British journalist and broadcaster. He has written a weekly column for The Guardian since 1997, having previously served as the paper's Washington correspondent. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, The New York Review of Books, the Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Newsweek, The New Republic, and The Jewish Chronicle, and he presents BBC Radio 4's contemporary-history series The Long View.
For nearly two decades he has covered the Middle East conflict, and in 2002 he chaired a three-day dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians, which was sponsored by The Guardian. The participants in that meeting went on to broker the 2003 Geneva Accord.
Freedland is the author of the New York Times bestselling novel The Righteous Men, also a number-one bestseller in the UK, which has been translated into thirty-one languages, and the nonfiction works Jacob's Gift and Bring Home the Revolution. He lives in London with his wife and two children.
For nearly two decades he has covered the Middle East conflict, and in 2002 he chaired a three-day dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians, which was sponsored by The Guardian. The participants in that meeting went on to broker the 2003 Geneva Accord.
Freedland is the author of the New York Times bestselling novel The Righteous Men, also a number-one bestseller in the UK, which has been translated into thirty-one languages, and the nonfiction works Jacob's Gift and Bring Home the Revolution. He lives in London with his wife and two children.
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May 22, 2020 A note: While the Goodreads site refers to the central victim/protagonist as Cynthia Wright, the book clearly calls her Natasha Winthrop. Therefore, I will use the latter Winthrop in my review.
A long-time fan of Sam Bourne, I was pleased to get my hands on this piece, which kept me devouring page after page throughout the reading experience. Natasha Winthrop is a powerful lawyer in DC, having worked within the congressional committee system, as well as the New York DA’s office. After a man broke into her home and raped her, Natasha fought back and ended up killing her assailant. As the news broke, many took to social media to offer their support through various messages and hashtags, particularly after it’s discovered that the assailant is a wanted killer and serial rapist. However, when someone leaked some of the more salacious browser history that Natasha Winthrop had on her computer, some of the sentiments changed, leaving some to wonder if she brought this on herself. Added to the mix is the fact that Winthrop is rumoured to be a likely candidate in the upcoming presidential race. While her reputation remains wobbly, Winthrop reaches out to DC situation manager, Maggie Costello, who has made quite the reputation for herself. While Costello is racing against the clock to help her client, she uncovers some interesting pieces to the puzzle that could change things significantly. The police want to take the high ground and not pre-judge anyone, but it could be difficult, as Winthrop has made no qualms about burying the cops through the legal system. Struggling as she is, Costello will stop at nothing until she has the entire story, which pits the acts of an assaulted woman against her past history and if she might have invited the attack. When all the stone are turned, Costello comes to some major revelations that will rock the case to its core. A must-read for series fans and those who want a mix of procedural and ‘torn from the headlines’ writing. Recommended to those who have one to enjoy Sam Bourne’s writing, as well as the reader who loves those ‘aha’ stories with twists they did not see coming.
I love a good story that resonates deeper than the simple good versus evil. Sam Bourne delivers that here, forcing the reader to think about what they are reading, rather than remain entirely passive. Maggie Costello may be the presumptive protagonist, but it is not her life that is on offer here, or added backstory and development. Instead, Natasha Winthrop receives a great deal of attention, from her privileged background to her powerful positions on things on and off Capitol Hill. The reader learns much about her, allowing them to serve as an omnipotent juror of sorts with all the facts on hand. Others complement the story well, in this piece that takes only a week to develop. Bourne tells the story from many angles, but does so in such a way that the reader cannot help but want to know more from all those involved. The story is both well-written and poignant during this #MeToo movement, pushing the envelop and touching on some controversies that have arises. Can a woman’s (or man’s) past be used against them when trying to determine the validity of victimhood? Bourne does not shy away from this, as the narrative pushes forward in this thickening plot, with chapters broken into parts than span a single week. Sure to leave the reader wondering where they ought to go with things, this is one book I hope creates some real chatter, as Bourne speaks of mixing fact and fiction herein.
Kudos, Mr. Bourne, for an entertaining read, as well as one that is full of needed information. I cannot wait to see what else you have in store for your fans.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
A long-time fan of Sam Bourne, I was pleased to get my hands on this piece, which kept me devouring page after page throughout the reading experience. Natasha Winthrop is a powerful lawyer in DC, having worked within the congressional committee system, as well as the New York DA’s office. After a man broke into her home and raped her, Natasha fought back and ended up killing her assailant. As the news broke, many took to social media to offer their support through various messages and hashtags, particularly after it’s discovered that the assailant is a wanted killer and serial rapist. However, when someone leaked some of the more salacious browser history that Natasha Winthrop had on her computer, some of the sentiments changed, leaving some to wonder if she brought this on herself. Added to the mix is the fact that Winthrop is rumoured to be a likely candidate in the upcoming presidential race. While her reputation remains wobbly, Winthrop reaches out to DC situation manager, Maggie Costello, who has made quite the reputation for herself. While Costello is racing against the clock to help her client, she uncovers some interesting pieces to the puzzle that could change things significantly. The police want to take the high ground and not pre-judge anyone, but it could be difficult, as Winthrop has made no qualms about burying the cops through the legal system. Struggling as she is, Costello will stop at nothing until she has the entire story, which pits the acts of an assaulted woman against her past history and if she might have invited the attack. When all the stone are turned, Costello comes to some major revelations that will rock the case to its core. A must-read for series fans and those who want a mix of procedural and ‘torn from the headlines’ writing. Recommended to those who have one to enjoy Sam Bourne’s writing, as well as the reader who loves those ‘aha’ stories with twists they did not see coming.
I love a good story that resonates deeper than the simple good versus evil. Sam Bourne delivers that here, forcing the reader to think about what they are reading, rather than remain entirely passive. Maggie Costello may be the presumptive protagonist, but it is not her life that is on offer here, or added backstory and development. Instead, Natasha Winthrop receives a great deal of attention, from her privileged background to her powerful positions on things on and off Capitol Hill. The reader learns much about her, allowing them to serve as an omnipotent juror of sorts with all the facts on hand. Others complement the story well, in this piece that takes only a week to develop. Bourne tells the story from many angles, but does so in such a way that the reader cannot help but want to know more from all those involved. The story is both well-written and poignant during this #MeToo movement, pushing the envelop and touching on some controversies that have arises. Can a woman’s (or man’s) past be used against them when trying to determine the validity of victimhood? Bourne does not shy away from this, as the narrative pushes forward in this thickening plot, with chapters broken into parts than span a single week. Sure to leave the reader wondering where they ought to go with things, this is one book I hope creates some real chatter, as Bourne speaks of mixing fact and fiction herein.
Kudos, Mr. Bourne, for an entertaining read, as well as one that is full of needed information. I cannot wait to see what else you have in store for your fans.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
March 14, 2020
To Kill a Man is Mr Bourne’s latest explosive political thriller with non-stop action and breakneck pace that is cleverly plotted and absolutely riveting from beginning to end. It isn’t necessary to have read any of the previous instalments in the Washington trouble-shooter Maggie Costello series as you are provided with plenty of backstory. It centres around high-flying, beautiful lawyer Natasha Winthrop who has everything going for her and possibly plans to run for president in the future. When she is violently attacked in her own home she manages to overpower the masked perpetrator and kill them in self-defence; he had planned on raping her. Before long it’s all over social media and people are quick to hail her as a courageous heroine having taken down a merciless rapist. However, when the police are called in to investigate a seemingly open and shut case they find many inconsistencies in Natasha’s account of what actually happened that night. The case flips completely on its head when it appears that the rapist was lured there by Natasha, but why?
This is a refreshingly original story that looks at the issues of toxic masculinity, when an act can be considered self-defence and when it falls outside of the legal definition. It’s thought-provoking, topical and an absolutely fascinating case to follow with you held captive every step of the way. It begins with one of the biggest, most shocking bangs I've come across of late and is raw and intense. Given the story addresses rape and sexual assault this is not for the faint of heart as although the descriptions are not gratuitous they are very detailed; Bourne also mentions the difficulty in prosecuting rapists. The author highlights just how terrifyingly easy it is to find information about people through technology and in particular social media if you know what you're doing. It's a disturbing, chilling and fast-flowing read with twists and turns aplenty and one that discusses timely, ripped from the headlines topics. This is a superbly written story and the characterisation is both vivid and vibrant. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
This is a refreshingly original story that looks at the issues of toxic masculinity, when an act can be considered self-defence and when it falls outside of the legal definition. It’s thought-provoking, topical and an absolutely fascinating case to follow with you held captive every step of the way. It begins with one of the biggest, most shocking bangs I've come across of late and is raw and intense. Given the story addresses rape and sexual assault this is not for the faint of heart as although the descriptions are not gratuitous they are very detailed; Bourne also mentions the difficulty in prosecuting rapists. The author highlights just how terrifyingly easy it is to find information about people through technology and in particular social media if you know what you're doing. It's a disturbing, chilling and fast-flowing read with twists and turns aplenty and one that discusses timely, ripped from the headlines topics. This is a superbly written story and the characterisation is both vivid and vibrant. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
March 4, 2020
Natasha Winthrope is a rising star in American politics. She hears an intruder at her home and she is violently assaulted by them. She gets something to defend herself with and the next thing she knows is that the intruder is dead. Natasha is called a have a go hero. A woman who fought back. But then inconsistencies start to appear in her story. It looks like this might ot be as random as it first appeared. Maggie Costello is called in to investigate. She finds intriguing gaps in Natasha's life
I have only read one other book by the author but I don't know why I never read anymore. This is a fast paced read wit a great plotline and characters. I like Maggie Costello. She's determined to find out the truth even though she becomes a target. I'm not usually keen on books that evolve politics. But when the book is well written, it doesn't seem so bad. The twists just kept coming. I was hooked from the beginning, needing to know what Natasha's secret (if any) was. I did not expect the ending either. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author Sam Bourne for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have only read one other book by the author but I don't know why I never read anymore. This is a fast paced read wit a great plotline and characters. I like Maggie Costello. She's determined to find out the truth even though she becomes a target. I'm not usually keen on books that evolve politics. But when the book is well written, it doesn't seem so bad. The twists just kept coming. I was hooked from the beginning, needing to know what Natasha's secret (if any) was. I did not expect the ending either. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author Sam Bourne for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2020
This is the first Sam Bourne book that I have read and it will not be my last!!
Natasha Winthrop is an up and coming Lawyer, when she is attacked by a masked intruder in her own home, she reaches out for the first object to defend herself, but ends up killing the intruder!!
When the police investigate, it seems like this simple case of a woman defending herself has inconsistencies, the intruder is wanted for rape and murder and had been lured to the house by Natasha.
Natasha seeks help from Maggie Costello, well known as a trouble shooter who looks into Natasha’s life, she feels like Natasha is hiding something and goes delving into her past. when Maggie is under attack she still carries on looking into the link between the attacker and Natasha.
This book had me in the edge of my seat, frantically turning the pages, gripped from start to finish. There are plenty of twists along the way leading to an unexpected ending.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
Natasha Winthrop is an up and coming Lawyer, when she is attacked by a masked intruder in her own home, she reaches out for the first object to defend herself, but ends up killing the intruder!!
When the police investigate, it seems like this simple case of a woman defending herself has inconsistencies, the intruder is wanted for rape and murder and had been lured to the house by Natasha.
Natasha seeks help from Maggie Costello, well known as a trouble shooter who looks into Natasha’s life, she feels like Natasha is hiding something and goes delving into her past. when Maggie is under attack she still carries on looking into the link between the attacker and Natasha.
This book had me in the edge of my seat, frantically turning the pages, gripped from start to finish. There are plenty of twists along the way leading to an unexpected ending.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
March 29, 2020
An intriguing tale with the web of deceit at every step. Some brilliant writing by author Sam Bourne.
Natasha was attacked at her home, whom she ended up killing. On investigation by the cops, her inconsistencies came to the forefront. Then came Maggie who investigated her past.
A twisty book which had my adrenaline soaring high. I was gripped by the winding road of the thriller. Swift paced and disturbing, this book kept my attention fixed to it in these tough times.
Detailed descriptions, the topic resonated with some disturbing truths. Quite an interesting read.
Natasha was attacked at her home, whom she ended up killing. On investigation by the cops, her inconsistencies came to the forefront. Then came Maggie who investigated her past.
A twisty book which had my adrenaline soaring high. I was gripped by the winding road of the thriller. Swift paced and disturbing, this book kept my attention fixed to it in these tough times.
Detailed descriptions, the topic resonated with some disturbing truths. Quite an interesting read.
August 16, 2020
Natasha Winthrop is a beautiful lawyer, who also aspires to run for Presidential candidacy. She soon becomes the talk of the town when she ends up killing a masked intruder in her home. Deemed a survivor of #metoo, she becomes the unprecedented heroine hailed by all. However police investigations later reveal that it was Natasha who had lured that intruder into her home.
The story takes on a drastic pace henceforth, with a strong backstory, shocking insights into Natasha's life and clever execution of drama.
With Maggie Costello's ingenious probe, the plot takes on a new direction and pieces begin falling into places.
What I loved most about this racy thriller is the message it conveys through its core. Social media these is quick to judge and has the power to intrude someone's life in ways more than one.
There was not a single moment when I stuttered or felt bored. I love political thrillers and this one happened to be one that resonated deeper.
To Kill A Man by Sam Bourne is captivating, pacey and action-packed thriller all set to amuse you with interluding revelations and an orchestrated climax.
The story takes on a drastic pace henceforth, with a strong backstory, shocking insights into Natasha's life and clever execution of drama.
With Maggie Costello's ingenious probe, the plot takes on a new direction and pieces begin falling into places.
What I loved most about this racy thriller is the message it conveys through its core. Social media these is quick to judge and has the power to intrude someone's life in ways more than one.
There was not a single moment when I stuttered or felt bored. I love political thrillers and this one happened to be one that resonated deeper.
To Kill A Man by Sam Bourne is captivating, pacey and action-packed thriller all set to amuse you with interluding revelations and an orchestrated climax.
November 7, 2021
Who is who - wer ist in Wirklichkeit Opfer und Täter?
Ein Angreifer verschafft sich Zugang zu Natascha Wintrops Haus. Doch die Anwältin schafft es sich zu verteidigen. Sie wird von der Polizei festgenommen und engagiert die Fallermittlerin Maggie Castello.
Diese stößt bei ihren Recherchen auf einige unschöne Details. Es scheint ebenfalls Verbindungen zu weiteren Überfällen zu geben. Sagt Natascha wirklich die Wahrheit? Und warum wird Maggie plötzlich selbst Opfer diverser Bedrohungen?
Natascha wird gleichzeitig noch als Präsidentschaftskandidatin gehandelt – ob es hier eine Verbindung zum Fall gibt? Maggie hat nicht viel Zeit und diese rinnt ihr geradezu durch die Finger...
Der Einstieg ins Buch ist mir gut gelungen, allerdings hatte ich ab und an mal die Schwierigkeit die vielen auf mich einprasselnden Informationen zu verarbeiten. Das hat mich ab und zu im Lesefluss stocken lassen. Man muss während dem Lesen wirklich viel mitdenken, es ist in meinen Augen kein Buch welches man mal einfach nebenher lesen kann. Der Schreibstil war ansprechend und flüssig zu lesen und meistens wollte man das Buch kaum aus der Hand legen.
Die Handlung hatte anfangs sehr viele nebenher laufende Handlungsstränge. Man wird direkt ins Geschehen hineingeworfen.
Ich hatte mit Natascha der Hauptfigur, von Beginn an so meine Probleme, gebessert hat sich das im Laufe der Handlung nicht wirklich. Sie war einfach zu unnahbar und manipulativ.
Auch mit Maggie hatte ich keine richtige Verbindung aufbauen können, dennoch habe ich zwischendurch wirklich Mitgefühl mit ihr.
Die Auflösung am Ende kam für mich sehr überraschend, alle Stränge wurden zusammengeführt und ergeben ein gesamt Bild. Die Spannung wurde teilweise eher durch die Charakterkonstellation aufgebaut anstelle von actionreichen Handlungen, wobei es von diesen auch reichlich gibt!
Der Autor gibt einen Einblick auf ein sehr wichtiges Thema: wie oft Vergewaltiger oder anderweitige Verbrecher ohne eine Bestrafung davonkommen.
Das Buch hat mir an sich sehr gut gefallen, gerade das letzte Drittel hatte es in sich (das habe ich auch in einer Nacht verschlungen). Der einzig störende Faktor für mich war die fehlende Verbindung zu den Charakteren und der manchmal zu schnelle Fluss von Informationen.
Ein Angreifer verschafft sich Zugang zu Natascha Wintrops Haus. Doch die Anwältin schafft es sich zu verteidigen. Sie wird von der Polizei festgenommen und engagiert die Fallermittlerin Maggie Castello.
Diese stößt bei ihren Recherchen auf einige unschöne Details. Es scheint ebenfalls Verbindungen zu weiteren Überfällen zu geben. Sagt Natascha wirklich die Wahrheit? Und warum wird Maggie plötzlich selbst Opfer diverser Bedrohungen?
Natascha wird gleichzeitig noch als Präsidentschaftskandidatin gehandelt – ob es hier eine Verbindung zum Fall gibt? Maggie hat nicht viel Zeit und diese rinnt ihr geradezu durch die Finger...
Der Einstieg ins Buch ist mir gut gelungen, allerdings hatte ich ab und an mal die Schwierigkeit die vielen auf mich einprasselnden Informationen zu verarbeiten. Das hat mich ab und zu im Lesefluss stocken lassen. Man muss während dem Lesen wirklich viel mitdenken, es ist in meinen Augen kein Buch welches man mal einfach nebenher lesen kann. Der Schreibstil war ansprechend und flüssig zu lesen und meistens wollte man das Buch kaum aus der Hand legen.
Die Handlung hatte anfangs sehr viele nebenher laufende Handlungsstränge. Man wird direkt ins Geschehen hineingeworfen.
Ich hatte mit Natascha der Hauptfigur, von Beginn an so meine Probleme, gebessert hat sich das im Laufe der Handlung nicht wirklich. Sie war einfach zu unnahbar und manipulativ.
Auch mit Maggie hatte ich keine richtige Verbindung aufbauen können, dennoch habe ich zwischendurch wirklich Mitgefühl mit ihr.
Die Auflösung am Ende kam für mich sehr überraschend, alle Stränge wurden zusammengeführt und ergeben ein gesamt Bild. Die Spannung wurde teilweise eher durch die Charakterkonstellation aufgebaut anstelle von actionreichen Handlungen, wobei es von diesen auch reichlich gibt!
Der Autor gibt einen Einblick auf ein sehr wichtiges Thema: wie oft Vergewaltiger oder anderweitige Verbrecher ohne eine Bestrafung davonkommen.
Das Buch hat mir an sich sehr gut gefallen, gerade das letzte Drittel hatte es in sich (das habe ich auch in einer Nacht verschlungen). Der einzig störende Faktor für mich war die fehlende Verbindung zu den Charakteren und der manchmal zu schnelle Fluss von Informationen.
December 26, 2020
To kill a man - Sam Bourne
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
I was intrigued by the blub for this book and looking forward to reading it.
I enjoyed the start and was quite a page turner, but the more I read the less interested I got.. Maybe it was the whole theme of the book, maybe the characters but sorry I just didn't enjoy it.
I would read more from Sam Bourne, so will try another time, but this was not one for me. Just a 2.5 rounded up to a 3.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
I was intrigued by the blub for this book and looking forward to reading it.
I enjoyed the start and was quite a page turner, but the more I read the less interested I got.. Maybe it was the whole theme of the book, maybe the characters but sorry I just didn't enjoy it.
I would read more from Sam Bourne, so will try another time, but this was not one for me. Just a 2.5 rounded up to a 3.
April 30, 2020
I received a copy of To Kill a Man from Hachette Australia to review.
Rating of 4.5.
Acclaimed thriller writer Sam Bourne delivers another captivating and intriguing novel about the dark side of American politics in his latest clever and exhilarating release, To Kill a Man.
In Washington DC, a woman is brutally assaulted in her own home by a masked intruder. Defending herself, she manages to kill her assailant, leaving him dead on the floor. While it seems to be a simple case of self-defence, the victim is no ordinary woman; instead, she is Natasha Winthrop, a high-flying lawyer whose highly publicised work during a House intelligence committee has many people wanting her to run for President of the United States.
As the events of this case are torn apart by the media, politicians and the general public, certain inconsistencies in Winthrop’s story emerge, and the police start to investigate the possibility that Winthrop knew her attacker and that she arranged the entire situation. With a hostile press and her potential political opponents swarming all around her, Winthrop calls in Maggie Costello, Washington’s top political troubleshooter for help.
Maggie eagerly takes on the case and quickly finds herself helping a woman at the centre of one of America’s most controversial and divisive news stories. While the country divides over whether Winthrop is innocent or guilty, and several violent retaliatory attacks against sexual offenders occur around the globe, Maggie is determined to find something that will prove her client’s innocence and allow her to keep her political future intact. However, the further Maggie digs, the more inconsistencies and surprises she uncovers. Who is Natasha Winthrop really, and what connections did she have to the man who attacked her? As the political sharks circle and the deadline for Winthrop’s announcement as a potential candidate gets closer, Maggie attempts to uncover the truth before it is too late. But what will Maggie do when the entire shocking truth comes to the surface?
To see the full review, click the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2020/04/30/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
Rating of 4.5.
Acclaimed thriller writer Sam Bourne delivers another captivating and intriguing novel about the dark side of American politics in his latest clever and exhilarating release, To Kill a Man.
In Washington DC, a woman is brutally assaulted in her own home by a masked intruder. Defending herself, she manages to kill her assailant, leaving him dead on the floor. While it seems to be a simple case of self-defence, the victim is no ordinary woman; instead, she is Natasha Winthrop, a high-flying lawyer whose highly publicised work during a House intelligence committee has many people wanting her to run for President of the United States.
As the events of this case are torn apart by the media, politicians and the general public, certain inconsistencies in Winthrop’s story emerge, and the police start to investigate the possibility that Winthrop knew her attacker and that she arranged the entire situation. With a hostile press and her potential political opponents swarming all around her, Winthrop calls in Maggie Costello, Washington’s top political troubleshooter for help.
Maggie eagerly takes on the case and quickly finds herself helping a woman at the centre of one of America’s most controversial and divisive news stories. While the country divides over whether Winthrop is innocent or guilty, and several violent retaliatory attacks against sexual offenders occur around the globe, Maggie is determined to find something that will prove her client’s innocence and allow her to keep her political future intact. However, the further Maggie digs, the more inconsistencies and surprises she uncovers. Who is Natasha Winthrop really, and what connections did she have to the man who attacked her? As the political sharks circle and the deadline for Winthrop’s announcement as a potential candidate gets closer, Maggie attempts to uncover the truth before it is too late. But what will Maggie do when the entire shocking truth comes to the surface?
To see the full review, click the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2020/04/30/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
August 17, 2020
So, I really enjoyed the first half of this book. I stumbled across it and it seemed right up my alley - political backdrop, straight into the action and interesting characters. But I personally found the twists to be totally unbelievable and my enthusiasm for it cooled rapidly at that point. It’s a good plot and Bourne writes female characters well but overall it wasn’t what I was hoping it would be.
February 18, 2020
Natasha Winthrop is a lawyer in Washington, has appeared on national televised hearings and its even been whispered that she could run for high office. She is also the target of hate tweets. Working at home one evening, she hears noises, and is attacked by a man dressed all in black. After freezing, too scared to move, she struggles desperately and manages to grab something to hit her attacker. He doesn’t move, and she realises he’s dead. At first she’s cited as a heroine, especially when it’s revealed that the man had a criminal history. However, things change when leaks come to the press - that Natasha knew the man, that she let him in, that she set it all up. When she’s arrested, she contacts Maggie Costello, well known in Washington as tenacious, a peace maker and troubleshooter. Maggie is given access to Natashas life, to help her find who is setting her up. But Maggie finds inconsistencies, feeling she’s not getting to the truth, but is determined to keep going, even when she becomes a target herself.
I’ve read previous books about Maggie, and this is as good as any of those. As always, it’s very well written, the characters are well rounded and believable, and the machinations of politics in the USA come over very strongly. I find the subject of rape always uncomfortable to read about and this was no different but it’s very believable especially at this time with the #me too campaign.. But the twists and turns along the way made me keep on to the unexpected ending.
Thanks to netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in return for an honest review.
I’ve read previous books about Maggie, and this is as good as any of those. As always, it’s very well written, the characters are well rounded and believable, and the machinations of politics in the USA come over very strongly. I find the subject of rape always uncomfortable to read about and this was no different but it’s very believable especially at this time with the #me too campaign.. But the twists and turns along the way made me keep on to the unexpected ending.
Thanks to netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in return for an honest review.
August 13, 2020
Also Posted on For The Love of Fictional Worlds
Disclaimer: A physical copy was provided via Hachette India as part of the Bookstagram Tour. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are therefore, my own.
This is the second book that I have read from Sam Bourne – fell quite possibly in love with his writing style with To Kill the Truth (Read My Review) – the author’s ability to use social and community issues of real life and using it as a foundation to a political fast paced thriller, you just can’t help but binge read!
To Kill A Man stands alone, even though it centres around the Washington trouble shooter Maggie Costello; an intelligent, smart and driven woman who tends to be the one high flying politicians and big wigs call to get ahead of the scandal they believe might be damaging to their reputation and career.
In this installment, Natasha Winthrop, a privileged white woman, slowly on the rise in the political world, is brutally sexually attacked in her own home; which ends in Natasha killing her own assailant. With the social media as it is, she is hailed as a heroine and a champion for not just the self defence rights but also those of the gun right activists!
But when the police start investigating this seemingly open and shut case; they not only find inconsistencies in her account of what happened that night, but also find some evidence that points to the simple fact that what Natasha wants the world to believe isn’t exactly the truth.
Natasha, being touted as a Presidential candidate, ropes in Maggie Costello to push in front of the scandal that seems to be erupting on the social media after some damning new evidence that comes to light. She gives full access to Maggie, for a deep dive into her past and her present – insisting that she has nothing to hide nor any secrets to protect.
What follows is a fast paced captivating political thriller with some twisted and shocking revelations that will keep you turning the pages until you have lost all sense of reality, time and space – because every single incident, every twist in the page would feel as if something that is absolutely and definitely possible in real life.
It isn’t just the way the author has shown the effect of #MeToo Movement, of how information is twisted for selfish purposes on social media, of how law/legality address the issue of rape and sexual assault, the reason why victims find it hard to come forward to report crimes; the small instances in a woman’s everyday life where her boundaries have been violated, yet somehow doubting if it had actually happened – if you are a woman/identify as a woman- then the instances, the helplessness expressed within this book will be a familiar aspect to you.
In the end, what Sam Bourne has done is written a political thriller that is disturbing and chilling in the simple fact that shows how absolutely easy it would be for all or any of this to happen to you too.
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April 23, 2020
I have been fortunate enough to never having been raped nor abused as a child – but too many of my friends were not so lucky, and I know only too well how much their trauma has continued to blight their lives. This book – possibly sparked by the Me-Too movement – shows the myriad of ways in which women and girls have their spirits crushed and their free will violated, by men who feel they have the right to take what they want, when they want it.
Thankfully, only a small minority of men are rapists – but even that minority is too large, and has too much influence on the well-being of their victims and – through ever-present fear – on those who dread becoming victims.
By definition, NO-ONE asks to be raped. An absence of ‘fighting-back’ or not screaming NO!, is not implicit consent. Each situation is different: “The woman was wary, but did not feel she could say no.”.
When someone breaks into Natasha Winthrop’s home and rapes her – she manages to kill him. I do not condone killing another human being, but as I read this, I could not help cheering. When the rape (and the murder) is publicised, the public cheer too. Natasha Winthrop becomes a heroine to millions of women, and not too few men – on all sides of the political spectrum. Natasha is attractive, intelligent, a high-profile lawyer and an advocate for women’s rights – she might also run for the US presidency. You cannot help but admire everything about her, and really want her to succeed.
But is she telling the whole truth about the rape? And about her past?
Political trouble-shooter Maggie is brought in to ‘manage’ the situation. Maggie, herself, has had to deal with the misogynist tendencies of political life, perpetually being side-lined (except when her expertise is essential) because of her gender. She – like the reader – hopes so much that Natasha will be the one to shake up the political system, and does everything in her power to make it happen.
As much as a book about the violation of women, this is also a book about the democratic political system. About how we all (whatever our political persuasion) want to believe in someone, someone who will make not only our lives, but everyone else’s lives better. Someone who believes in what is important to us, and will make everything ‘great again’. Once we have that belief, almost nothing will change our minds. Natasha could be that someone.
But to succeed politically, you first need the backing of an arch-manipulator of voter’s minds: “It wasn’t the weakness of your rival you needed to target. It was the weakness of your voters. It was their insecurity, paranoia or lack of self-esteem you had to home in on, ruthlessly.
There are so many twists and turns in this book. Natasha is perfect. One small flaw. Another flaw. Who cares – she is still perfect! What is the alternative?
And the ending – although extremely worrying – was faultless.
Highly recommended.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Thankfully, only a small minority of men are rapists – but even that minority is too large, and has too much influence on the well-being of their victims and – through ever-present fear – on those who dread becoming victims.
By definition, NO-ONE asks to be raped. An absence of ‘fighting-back’ or not screaming NO!, is not implicit consent. Each situation is different: “The woman was wary, but did not feel she could say no.”.
When someone breaks into Natasha Winthrop’s home and rapes her – she manages to kill him. I do not condone killing another human being, but as I read this, I could not help cheering. When the rape (and the murder) is publicised, the public cheer too. Natasha Winthrop becomes a heroine to millions of women, and not too few men – on all sides of the political spectrum. Natasha is attractive, intelligent, a high-profile lawyer and an advocate for women’s rights – she might also run for the US presidency. You cannot help but admire everything about her, and really want her to succeed.
But is she telling the whole truth about the rape? And about her past?
Political trouble-shooter Maggie is brought in to ‘manage’ the situation. Maggie, herself, has had to deal with the misogynist tendencies of political life, perpetually being side-lined (except when her expertise is essential) because of her gender. She – like the reader – hopes so much that Natasha will be the one to shake up the political system, and does everything in her power to make it happen.
As much as a book about the violation of women, this is also a book about the democratic political system. About how we all (whatever our political persuasion) want to believe in someone, someone who will make not only our lives, but everyone else’s lives better. Someone who believes in what is important to us, and will make everything ‘great again’. Once we have that belief, almost nothing will change our minds. Natasha could be that someone.
But to succeed politically, you first need the backing of an arch-manipulator of voter’s minds: “It wasn’t the weakness of your rival you needed to target. It was the weakness of your voters. It was their insecurity, paranoia or lack of self-esteem you had to home in on, ruthlessly.
There are so many twists and turns in this book. Natasha is perfect. One small flaw. Another flaw. Who cares – she is still perfect! What is the alternative?
And the ending – although extremely worrying – was faultless.
Highly recommended.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
April 7, 2020
This book is really difficult to get through, and it’s not because of the writing style or the characters, it’s because of the subject matter.
Since the #metoo movement began, many stories have come out about the vileness of rape culture and the ‘rich old white boys club’ that excuses and perpetuates sexual assault. They point the finger at what the victim was wearing, doing, saying, drinking, rather than what the perpetrator did to them without their consent. While sad and horrific, none of those other books I've read hold a candle to this one.
Peppered with real-life statistics and very graphic scenes, this book offers accounts of sexual assault with no fanfare, equally awful accounts of vigilante justice, and the futility of pursuing attackers due to the ‘evidence gap.’ And it’s a tough pill to swallow.
It should also come with a trigger warning.
Survivors of sexual assault (like myself) and those with sensitivities to graphic violence, be warned, this book is disturbing. Had I known that beforehand, I’m not sure I would have accepted the invitation to read this one. But I’m glad I did, it offered a unique and new perspective to the movement albeit producing chills down my spine and making me a little queasy.
Thank you to Sam Bourne, Quercus Books, and NetGalley for the invitation to read an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Since the #metoo movement began, many stories have come out about the vileness of rape culture and the ‘rich old white boys club’ that excuses and perpetuates sexual assault. They point the finger at what the victim was wearing, doing, saying, drinking, rather than what the perpetrator did to them without their consent. While sad and horrific, none of those other books I've read hold a candle to this one.
Peppered with real-life statistics and very graphic scenes, this book offers accounts of sexual assault with no fanfare, equally awful accounts of vigilante justice, and the futility of pursuing attackers due to the ‘evidence gap.’ And it’s a tough pill to swallow.
It should also come with a trigger warning.
Survivors of sexual assault (like myself) and those with sensitivities to graphic violence, be warned, this book is disturbing. Had I known that beforehand, I’m not sure I would have accepted the invitation to read this one. But I’m glad I did, it offered a unique and new perspective to the movement albeit producing chills down my spine and making me a little queasy.
Thank you to Sam Bourne, Quercus Books, and NetGalley for the invitation to read an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2020
I didn’t realise that this was the latest in a series of books until I finished it and read a few reviews. I may not have jumped to read it if I had realised that but as it turns out it read perfectly well as a standalone. Natasha Winthrop is assaulted in her home and her attacker dies as a result of her defending herself. Maggie Costello is called to investigate. This felt very current and there was certainly a #MeToo element to it. Both women were really great characters and I would like to read more of the Maggie Costello books. I don’t read many ‘political’ thrillers but I really enjoyed this and I think it will appeal to a broad band of readers. I am of course still left with the question Who exactly is Natasha Winthrop?
November 6, 2020
Easy read, initially enjoyable and entertaining, but ultimately disappointing. Mostly because the pacing in Act 3, with its flashbacks and fresh exposition seemed to be wildly offbeat.
What starts out as a more than decent thriller dissolves into less than the sum of its parts.
Bourne is an excellent writer, but this one seemed far less layered than others in the series, as if written in a hurry, with no inclination to polish and iron out the rush to resolution.
By the time I'd got to the end, I didn't really care who had done what do whom. Or why.
What starts out as a more than decent thriller dissolves into less than the sum of its parts.
Bourne is an excellent writer, but this one seemed far less layered than others in the series, as if written in a hurry, with no inclination to polish and iron out the rush to resolution.
By the time I'd got to the end, I didn't really care who had done what do whom. Or why.
June 15, 2022
I enjoyed this political thriller which had, as its background, the #metoo movement and the (worldwide?) failure to bring rapists and sexual predators to justice. The main characters are two fascinating women and the supporting cast includes a number of odious politicians and their staff. I suppose the plot takes it a bit of believing but it rattled along and found it exciting.
Earlier for some reason Goodreads wouldn’t allow me to send my review of Andrew Turpin’s 5* thriller The Confessor w hitch I commend to all of you.
Earlier for some reason Goodreads wouldn’t allow me to send my review of Andrew Turpin’s 5* thriller The Confessor w hitch I commend to all of you.
April 20, 2020
This is the first book i have read by this author ....
One unsuspecting night Natasha Winthorp was attacked in her home killing the man who did it but the police have other ideas and do not believe her story.....The dead man is wanted for rapes and murders but the media are saying that she knew the man which doesnt look good.....
She calls in Maggie Costello to help her but what maggie finds leads her to have some questions about Natasha .....A fast paced book great reading ....
One unsuspecting night Natasha Winthorp was attacked in her home killing the man who did it but the police have other ideas and do not believe her story.....The dead man is wanted for rapes and murders but the media are saying that she knew the man which doesnt look good.....
She calls in Maggie Costello to help her but what maggie finds leads her to have some questions about Natasha .....A fast paced book great reading ....
April 19, 2021
Brutal political thriller that is very much ripped from the headlines and thrown into one horror show. *A lot* is thrown into the plot, some of it really crazy and I do have some issues with the treatment of some things. Great premise that went wild before an incredibly unsatisfying ending.
December 6, 2021
Somewhat dark in places, so maybe not for everyone. But it was a brisk read that I enjoyed. Recommended.
May 12, 2020
Ok, I hate having to write reviews like this but sometimes it is needed. As always these are my own personal opinions, you might enjoy this book and if you do then that is awesome !
So the description of this book sounded like it was going to be a detective,mystery story surrounding a trial. It was not.
The book starts off following Natasha Winthrop , who I assumed was going to be a badass main character. She very quickly seemed to fade into the background and only came back right at the end in what felt like a very rushed way to tie off the loose ends
Mostly the story seems to follow a woman called Maggie Costello who pretty much is a ' fixer' for senators, politicians and a previous president .Maggie's story seemed to jump from one element to another link by a confusing inner monologue that went off on a tangent at every opportunity.
I struggled to grasp what the actual plot of this story was. I didn't care for for any of the characters and I feel that the way victims of sexual assault were portrayed within this book was honestly awful.
Sexual assault and rape are one of the main features of this book. Almost every chapter has a case of sexual assault and/or rape, it is not an light read.
These are my biggest issue with this book:
1. Natasha Winthrop was arrested for killing a man who broke into her home and attempted to rape her. The treatment she received from the police was unacceptable which unfortunately does happen in real life. Natasha was a victim and at the end of the book there is no apology or statement from the police and we are meant to just accept that Natasha is fine with it. I for one am not.
2.Natasha was quickly becoming a national favorite and it was assumed that she would start her own political campaign. The opposing candidate's ( who was a senator) campaign team were using a secret IT firm to arrange for sexual assaults to happen to Maggie Costello with virtually no repercussions!!!
3.The book mentions an " evidence gap " when it comes to sexual assault and rape cases and it gives the shocking statistics of how many of those cases goes to trial. It is good that the book mentions those things but the story itself goes in that direction! Only at the end of the book very quickly mention at the very end that the extra cases that are mention in the book are going to trial in a rushed and what felt like a brushed under the carpet way.
I don't have anything positive to say about this book and I am really disappointed that things were handled so poorly .
Thankyou to Netgalley and Quercus books for my copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This review will be posted on my blog ( thetwoquills.wordpress.com ) on may 15th 2020
So the description of this book sounded like it was going to be a detective,mystery story surrounding a trial. It was not.
The book starts off following Natasha Winthrop , who I assumed was going to be a badass main character. She very quickly seemed to fade into the background and only came back right at the end in what felt like a very rushed way to tie off the loose ends
Mostly the story seems to follow a woman called Maggie Costello who pretty much is a ' fixer' for senators, politicians and a previous president .Maggie's story seemed to jump from one element to another link by a confusing inner monologue that went off on a tangent at every opportunity.
I struggled to grasp what the actual plot of this story was. I didn't care for for any of the characters and I feel that the way victims of sexual assault were portrayed within this book was honestly awful.
Sexual assault and rape are one of the main features of this book. Almost every chapter has a case of sexual assault and/or rape, it is not an light read.
These are my biggest issue with this book:
1. Natasha Winthrop was arrested for killing a man who broke into her home and attempted to rape her. The treatment she received from the police was unacceptable which unfortunately does happen in real life. Natasha was a victim and at the end of the book there is no apology or statement from the police and we are meant to just accept that Natasha is fine with it. I for one am not.
2.Natasha was quickly becoming a national favorite and it was assumed that she would start her own political campaign. The opposing candidate's ( who was a senator) campaign team were using a secret IT firm to arrange for sexual assaults to happen to Maggie Costello with virtually no repercussions!!!
3.The book mentions an " evidence gap " when it comes to sexual assault and rape cases and it gives the shocking statistics of how many of those cases goes to trial. It is good that the book mentions those things but the story itself goes in that direction! Only at the end of the book very quickly mention at the very end that the extra cases that are mention in the book are going to trial in a rushed and what felt like a brushed under the carpet way.
I don't have anything positive to say about this book and I am really disappointed that things were handled so poorly .
Thankyou to Netgalley and Quercus books for my copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This review will be posted on my blog ( thetwoquills.wordpress.com ) on may 15th 2020
March 7, 2020
This is my first Maggie Costello book and when I realised it was part of a series I was a little apprehensive but I loved the blurb so was looking forward to reading it.
This is definitely a book with the finger on the pulse of the news & is very relevant in the #metoo age. I found it very refreshing to see a man write the struggles a woman has on a daily basis so well & it was dealt with very sensitively & accurately.
I love how Sam Bourne writes. I previously read and loved The Righteous Men. Straight away I was intrigued...it was an amazing opening and drew you right into the story.
Not knowing Maggie Costello before is no issue because Sam Bourne cleverly inserts little explanations about Maggie's character and career in job interviews and when meeting new characters. It was very well done and I appreciated it as a new reader.
Maggie was an intriguing and well developed character and you instantly felt like you knew what character she was and where she was coming from....I really liked her and this was important when I'm reading a book where her motives are the primary focus.
Natasha was also a great character. She was drawn exceptionally well and I could really picture her and how she was. I wasn't a huge fan but I liked that I didn't know what to make of her personality wise.
The only thing that was slightly unclear was what happened to Stuart?! However, rather than being annoying or distracting it just made me really want to read the other books to find out!
How come Liz could find things out in seconds that Maggie couldn't though? That really perplexed me!
However despite little nitpicking, I cannot state enough how well drawn these characters are...and I found them very relatable even though the careers & some situations they were in were not relatable at all and that's complete credit to the author for that.
Although I guessed some twists early on...there was alot that I couldn't piece together and was waiting eagerly to see what direction this was going in at all.
I also enjoyed the little snippets about the political climate...I knew straight away who they were indicating the president was and could see how it related to current news events...which I loved and felt like an "in joke" with both the author and the characters and the reader. I also thought the mention of the separation of parents and children on the borders was brilliant and something which is unbelievable that it has happened in this day and age and should be highlighted at every available opportunity...credit to Sam Bourne for doing just that.
During some of Maggie's investigation I did get a bit lost. I had literally no idea what she was looking at during her search of an office...and that's not something I usually struggle with. Think it was perhaps a little wordy and needed more hints of what was happening straight away so we could join the dots a little bit easier. The 2nd search made alot more sense! There was also flashes to other countries that were a little bit jarring & took you out of the narrative but when it all came together. .the excerpts were definitely worth that!
I did really struggle through certain descriptions of abuse in the book & there was a few harrowing chapters where I wasn't sure I could carry on. Sam Bourne is great at painting the picture but during those scenes I wish he wasn't so good....those chapters were really really hard going...which they are meant to be. I just wasn't expecting that horror.
The statistics he used were horrifying and being true...also something that everyone should be aware of. The way he wove them into the story was fantastic and again huge credit to him for highlighting this.
There is definitely a respect of women shown throughout his writing & the fb live bit is both harrowing, heart pounding & extremely relatable for most women. With so much media attention going to show us that there is absolutely no difference between the sexes (tho not getting into that debate here)...Sam Bourne shows both strength & weakness on both sides & dealt with both very respectfully & as a female reader I really appreciated that.
Overall the tone of the book is absolutely great and the story very intriguing and I hated having to put it down and looked forward to coming back to it.
Thank you to Netgalley & the publishers for an advance copy in return for an honest review
This is definitely a book with the finger on the pulse of the news & is very relevant in the #metoo age. I found it very refreshing to see a man write the struggles a woman has on a daily basis so well & it was dealt with very sensitively & accurately.
I love how Sam Bourne writes. I previously read and loved The Righteous Men. Straight away I was intrigued...it was an amazing opening and drew you right into the story.
Not knowing Maggie Costello before is no issue because Sam Bourne cleverly inserts little explanations about Maggie's character and career in job interviews and when meeting new characters. It was very well done and I appreciated it as a new reader.
Maggie was an intriguing and well developed character and you instantly felt like you knew what character she was and where she was coming from....I really liked her and this was important when I'm reading a book where her motives are the primary focus.
Natasha was also a great character. She was drawn exceptionally well and I could really picture her and how she was. I wasn't a huge fan but I liked that I didn't know what to make of her personality wise.
The only thing that was slightly unclear was what happened to Stuart?! However, rather than being annoying or distracting it just made me really want to read the other books to find out!
How come Liz could find things out in seconds that Maggie couldn't though? That really perplexed me!
However despite little nitpicking, I cannot state enough how well drawn these characters are...and I found them very relatable even though the careers & some situations they were in were not relatable at all and that's complete credit to the author for that.
Although I guessed some twists early on...there was alot that I couldn't piece together and was waiting eagerly to see what direction this was going in at all.
I also enjoyed the little snippets about the political climate...I knew straight away who they were indicating the president was and could see how it related to current news events...which I loved and felt like an "in joke" with both the author and the characters and the reader. I also thought the mention of the separation of parents and children on the borders was brilliant and something which is unbelievable that it has happened in this day and age and should be highlighted at every available opportunity...credit to Sam Bourne for doing just that.
During some of Maggie's investigation I did get a bit lost. I had literally no idea what she was looking at during her search of an office...and that's not something I usually struggle with. Think it was perhaps a little wordy and needed more hints of what was happening straight away so we could join the dots a little bit easier. The 2nd search made alot more sense! There was also flashes to other countries that were a little bit jarring & took you out of the narrative but when it all came together. .the excerpts were definitely worth that!
I did really struggle through certain descriptions of abuse in the book & there was a few harrowing chapters where I wasn't sure I could carry on. Sam Bourne is great at painting the picture but during those scenes I wish he wasn't so good....those chapters were really really hard going...which they are meant to be. I just wasn't expecting that horror.
The statistics he used were horrifying and being true...also something that everyone should be aware of. The way he wove them into the story was fantastic and again huge credit to him for highlighting this.
There is definitely a respect of women shown throughout his writing & the fb live bit is both harrowing, heart pounding & extremely relatable for most women. With so much media attention going to show us that there is absolutely no difference between the sexes (tho not getting into that debate here)...Sam Bourne shows both strength & weakness on both sides & dealt with both very respectfully & as a female reader I really appreciated that.
Overall the tone of the book is absolutely great and the story very intriguing and I hated having to put it down and looked forward to coming back to it.
Thank you to Netgalley & the publishers for an advance copy in return for an honest review
March 7, 2020
This is my first Maggie Costello book and when I realised it was part of a series I was a little apprehensive but I loved the blurb so was looking forward to reading it.
This is definitely a book with the finger on the pulse of the news & is very relevant in the #metoo age. I found it very refreshing to see a man write the struggles a woman has on a daily basis so well & it was dealt with very sensitively & accurately.
I love how Sam Bourne writes. I previously read and loved The Righteous Men. Straight away I was intrigued...it was an amazing opening and drew you right into the story.
Not knowing Maggie Costello before is no issue because Sam Bourne cleverly inserts little explanations about Maggie's character and career in job interviews and when meeting new characters. It was very well done and I appreciated it as a new reader.
Maggie was an intriguing and well developed character and you instantly felt like you knew what character she was and where she was coming from....I really liked her and this was important when I'm reading a book where her motives are the primary focus.
Natasha was also a great character. She was drawn exceptionally well and I could really picture her and how she was. I wasn't a huge fan but I liked that I didn't know what to make of her personality wise.
The only thing that was slightly unclear was what happened to Stuart?! However, rather than being annoying or distracting it just made me really want to read the other books to find out!
How come Liz could find things out in seconds that Maggie couldn't though? That really perplexed me!
However despite little nitpicking, I cannot state enough how well drawn these characters are...and I found them very relatable even though the careers & some situations they were in were not relatable at all and that's complete credit to the author for that.
Although I guessed some twists early on...there was alot that I couldn't piece together and was waiting eagerly to see what direction this was going in at all.
I also enjoyed the little snippets about the political climate...I knew straight away who they were indicating the president was and could see how it related to current news events...which I loved and felt like an "in joke" with both the author and the characters and the reader. I also thought the mention of the separation of parents and children on the borders was brilliant and something which is unbelievable that it has happened in this day and age and should be highlighted at every available opportunity...credit to Sam Bourne for doing just that.
During some of Maggie's investigation I did get a bit lost. I had literally no idea what she was looking at during her search of an office...and that's not something I usually struggle with. Think it was perhaps a little wordy and needed more hints of what was happening straight away so we could join the dots a little bit easier. The 2nd search made alot more sense! There was also flashes to other countries that were a little bit jarring & took you out of the narrative but when it all came together. .the excerpts were definitely worth that!
I did really struggle through certain descriptions of abuse in the book & there was a few harrowing chapters where I wasn't sure I could carry on. Sam Bourne is great at painting the picture but during those scenes I wish he wasn't so good....those chapters were really really hard going...which they are meant to be. I just wasn't expecting that horror.
The statistics he used were horrifying and being true...also something that everyone should be aware of. The way he wove them into the story was fantastic and again huge credit to him for highlighting this.
There is definitely a respect of women shown throughout his writing & the fb live bit is both harrowing, heart pounding & extremely relatable for most women. With so much media attention going to show us that there is absolutely no difference between the sexes (tho not getting into that debate here)...Sam Bourne shows both strength & weakness on both sides & dealt with both very respectfully & as a female reader I really appreciated that.
Overall the tone of the book is absolutely great and the story very intriguing and I hated having to put it down and looked forward to coming back to it.
This is definitely a book with the finger on the pulse of the news & is very relevant in the #metoo age. I found it very refreshing to see a man write the struggles a woman has on a daily basis so well & it was dealt with very sensitively & accurately.
I love how Sam Bourne writes. I previously read and loved The Righteous Men. Straight away I was intrigued...it was an amazing opening and drew you right into the story.
Not knowing Maggie Costello before is no issue because Sam Bourne cleverly inserts little explanations about Maggie's character and career in job interviews and when meeting new characters. It was very well done and I appreciated it as a new reader.
Maggie was an intriguing and well developed character and you instantly felt like you knew what character she was and where she was coming from....I really liked her and this was important when I'm reading a book where her motives are the primary focus.
Natasha was also a great character. She was drawn exceptionally well and I could really picture her and how she was. I wasn't a huge fan but I liked that I didn't know what to make of her personality wise.
The only thing that was slightly unclear was what happened to Stuart?! However, rather than being annoying or distracting it just made me really want to read the other books to find out!
How come Liz could find things out in seconds that Maggie couldn't though? That really perplexed me!
However despite little nitpicking, I cannot state enough how well drawn these characters are...and I found them very relatable even though the careers & some situations they were in were not relatable at all and that's complete credit to the author for that.
Although I guessed some twists early on...there was alot that I couldn't piece together and was waiting eagerly to see what direction this was going in at all.
I also enjoyed the little snippets about the political climate...I knew straight away who they were indicating the president was and could see how it related to current news events...which I loved and felt like an "in joke" with both the author and the characters and the reader. I also thought the mention of the separation of parents and children on the borders was brilliant and something which is unbelievable that it has happened in this day and age and should be highlighted at every available opportunity...credit to Sam Bourne for doing just that.
During some of Maggie's investigation I did get a bit lost. I had literally no idea what she was looking at during her search of an office...and that's not something I usually struggle with. Think it was perhaps a little wordy and needed more hints of what was happening straight away so we could join the dots a little bit easier. The 2nd search made alot more sense! There was also flashes to other countries that were a little bit jarring & took you out of the narrative but when it all came together. .the excerpts were definitely worth that!
I did really struggle through certain descriptions of abuse in the book & there was a few harrowing chapters where I wasn't sure I could carry on. Sam Bourne is great at painting the picture but during those scenes I wish he wasn't so good....those chapters were really really hard going...which they are meant to be. I just wasn't expecting that horror.
The statistics he used were horrifying and being true...also something that everyone should be aware of. The way he wove them into the story was fantastic and again huge credit to him for highlighting this.
There is definitely a respect of women shown throughout his writing & the fb live bit is both harrowing, heart pounding & extremely relatable for most women. With so much media attention going to show us that there is absolutely no difference between the sexes (tho not getting into that debate here)...Sam Bourne shows both strength & weakness on both sides & dealt with both very respectfully & as a female reader I really appreciated that.
Overall the tone of the book is absolutely great and the story very intriguing and I hated having to put it down and looked forward to coming back to it.
March 23, 2020
I love the Maggie Costello series from Sam Bourne, aka Jonathan Freedland, and To Kill A Man is a terrific read that works perfectly as a stand-alone. Bourne takes real life contemporary events and weaves them into politically charged thrillers that are perfect for keeping the reader hooked and which are intelligent and utterly compulsive.
Maggie Costello, our protagonist, is a foreign policy expert, but these days her skills are far more in demand as a fixer; a skilled PR expert who can anticipate and defuse crises before they happen.
Maggie is being courted by the front runner for President of the United States of America, but though he is a popular candidate, Maggie doesn’t take to him. He is slightly too familiar and yet he won’t pin down his offer to Maggie and all that is combining to make her feel uneasy.
Natasha Winthrop is a human rights lawyer who has recently been quoted as a potential Presidential candidate. A high-flyer, her recent performances in front of a Senate committee have led to her being widely tipped as a candidate for the Presidential race. It doesn’t hurt that she is both young and attractive.
Then Natasha is violently attacked in her own home by a masked intruder. In the process of defending herself she kills her attacker. In this age of #MeToo it does not take long before she is being hailed as something of a heroine which only ramps up when it is revealed that her would-be rapist was wanted for multiple rapes and murder. Then leaks start appearing all over the media that can only have come from inside the investigation and none of them reflect well on Natasha. She drafts Maggie in to help her manage the process and her profile. The unspoken aim is to make sure she is still able to run for President if she chooses to do so.
With a narrative that is both tense and fast paced, this is a brilliant thriller that goes inside the murky world of political campaigning, data mining and fake news all wrapped up in the horrifying truth that is the real statistical evidence of rape in the Unites States.
This is one of Bourne’s real strengths. He builds on a base of actuality to extrapolate a thesis that becomes all too plausible and that makes his novels all the more thrilling and not a little frightening. The reader will recognise similarities to real life events when reading this explosive thriller.
As Maggie investigates Natasha’s life and background, she finds a lot to trouble her and make her re-evaluate her first impressions. What she finds out leads her to a fascinating moral dilemma and will certainly keep the reader poised on tenterhooks.
Sometimes the book will take a slightly fantastical turn, but that just makes it the more exciting and I’m more than happy to let it carry me away, because as we have recently learned, today’s fantasy is tomorrow’s horrible reality.
Verdict: This book carried me with it all the way. I love this series and Maggie Costello is a brilliant character and this book is one of the best political thrillers I have read. Intelligent, plausible and thought provoking, it’s a must read for me.
Maggie Costello, our protagonist, is a foreign policy expert, but these days her skills are far more in demand as a fixer; a skilled PR expert who can anticipate and defuse crises before they happen.
Maggie is being courted by the front runner for President of the United States of America, but though he is a popular candidate, Maggie doesn’t take to him. He is slightly too familiar and yet he won’t pin down his offer to Maggie and all that is combining to make her feel uneasy.
Natasha Winthrop is a human rights lawyer who has recently been quoted as a potential Presidential candidate. A high-flyer, her recent performances in front of a Senate committee have led to her being widely tipped as a candidate for the Presidential race. It doesn’t hurt that she is both young and attractive.
Then Natasha is violently attacked in her own home by a masked intruder. In the process of defending herself she kills her attacker. In this age of #MeToo it does not take long before she is being hailed as something of a heroine which only ramps up when it is revealed that her would-be rapist was wanted for multiple rapes and murder. Then leaks start appearing all over the media that can only have come from inside the investigation and none of them reflect well on Natasha. She drafts Maggie in to help her manage the process and her profile. The unspoken aim is to make sure she is still able to run for President if she chooses to do so.
With a narrative that is both tense and fast paced, this is a brilliant thriller that goes inside the murky world of political campaigning, data mining and fake news all wrapped up in the horrifying truth that is the real statistical evidence of rape in the Unites States.
This is one of Bourne’s real strengths. He builds on a base of actuality to extrapolate a thesis that becomes all too plausible and that makes his novels all the more thrilling and not a little frightening. The reader will recognise similarities to real life events when reading this explosive thriller.
As Maggie investigates Natasha’s life and background, she finds a lot to trouble her and make her re-evaluate her first impressions. What she finds out leads her to a fascinating moral dilemma and will certainly keep the reader poised on tenterhooks.
Sometimes the book will take a slightly fantastical turn, but that just makes it the more exciting and I’m more than happy to let it carry me away, because as we have recently learned, today’s fantasy is tomorrow’s horrible reality.
Verdict: This book carried me with it all the way. I love this series and Maggie Costello is a brilliant character and this book is one of the best political thrillers I have read. Intelligent, plausible and thought provoking, it’s a must read for me.
April 5, 2020
To kill a man by Sam Bourne is a fast-paced political thriller with a twist as sinister as it can get!
Natasha Winthorp is a high-class lawyer who aspires to become the President of America. One unsuspecting night, she was attacked in her house. The intruder tried to sexually assault her. While defending herself, she kills the man. But police don’t believe her story and arrests her.
Maggie Costello, an ex-White House official, is hired. She is also known as the “Troubleshooter”. As Maggie digs deeper, things aren’t like as they are told by Natasha. They are more dubious and sinister than she thought.
The story starts with murders of the unknown intruder attacking Natasha.
The chapters shuttle between Maggie & Natasha’s narratives. There’s a sharp contrast between both the characters.
There are multiple incidents keep happening in the background. While you are reading, it keeps you intrigued how it played out at the end. The author tied up these backstories at the end like a perfect bow.
Maggie and Natasha are the chief characters. And I admired Maggie. She has unwavering patience and survives the toughest places. She doesn’t bend rules, stands firm on her decision, no matter what’s the consequences. Liz, her sister and Jake are her support.
The central theme is sexual assault and rape. There are subtexts on fake news, and rumours used to manipulate political campaigns. The author has done full-on constructive research on both themes. The author has also inserted subtle thoughts on how society is looking into crimes against women. There is a dialogue between Natasha and Maggie that is deep and thought-provoking, bound make you ponder on the topic.
If society essentially shrugs its shoulders at a certain act, then it is signalling it has made a decision……… a man is permitted to force a woman to have sex with him. It is tolerated……… like hitting eighty on the interstate. Technically a crime, but not really.
This is my first book in the Maggie Costello series (I didn’t know this until I finished) and by the author. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much, just a usual political thriller. But it was thrilling and filled with suspense.
The ending is befitting the book and comes as a surprise and sinister. There couldn’t have been a better ending.
To kill a man by Sam Bourne is a thought-provoking thriller with punches of suspense and mystery that will keep you hooked until the very end.
My rating 3.5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Natasha Winthorp is a high-class lawyer who aspires to become the President of America. One unsuspecting night, she was attacked in her house. The intruder tried to sexually assault her. While defending herself, she kills the man. But police don’t believe her story and arrests her.
Maggie Costello, an ex-White House official, is hired. She is also known as the “Troubleshooter”. As Maggie digs deeper, things aren’t like as they are told by Natasha. They are more dubious and sinister than she thought.
The story starts with murders of the unknown intruder attacking Natasha.
The chapters shuttle between Maggie & Natasha’s narratives. There’s a sharp contrast between both the characters.
There are multiple incidents keep happening in the background. While you are reading, it keeps you intrigued how it played out at the end. The author tied up these backstories at the end like a perfect bow.
Maggie and Natasha are the chief characters. And I admired Maggie. She has unwavering patience and survives the toughest places. She doesn’t bend rules, stands firm on her decision, no matter what’s the consequences. Liz, her sister and Jake are her support.
The central theme is sexual assault and rape. There are subtexts on fake news, and rumours used to manipulate political campaigns. The author has done full-on constructive research on both themes. The author has also inserted subtle thoughts on how society is looking into crimes against women. There is a dialogue between Natasha and Maggie that is deep and thought-provoking, bound make you ponder on the topic.
If society essentially shrugs its shoulders at a certain act, then it is signalling it has made a decision……… a man is permitted to force a woman to have sex with him. It is tolerated……… like hitting eighty on the interstate. Technically a crime, but not really.
This is my first book in the Maggie Costello series (I didn’t know this until I finished) and by the author. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much, just a usual political thriller. But it was thrilling and filled with suspense.
The ending is befitting the book and comes as a surprise and sinister. There couldn’t have been a better ending.
To kill a man by Sam Bourne is a thought-provoking thriller with punches of suspense and mystery that will keep you hooked until the very end.
My rating 3.5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2021
Having been a regular contributor to The Guardian since 1997, Jonathan Freedland is one of the leading left-wing voices in UK journalism. Writing under the pseudonym Sam Bourne, Freedland has also put out many an intriguing thriller with a heavy dose of realism to boot. With his latest book, “To Kill A Man”, he turns his attention to the #MeToo movement which serves a guiding focus for the story.
Natasha Winthrop (Known as Cynthia Wright in other versions) is a shrewd and dedicated lawyer; she’s also being tipped as the next big presidential nominee for the United States. When she kills a sadistic rapist in her own home, questions arise over the true nature of her ordeal and her actions to defend herself. With political opponents and the police circling her personal affairs, she hires the political trouble-shooter Maggie Costello to uncover the answers and clear her name. The book unfolds from an array of perspectives; while we start off in Winthrop’s shoes, the story moves over to Costello who conducts her one-woman investigation. The national heroine at the book’s centre is very idealistic, a progressive role
model seemingly in the same vein as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Many contemporary political issues including fake news, rampant misogyny and the onset ofdata manipulation and dark ads are a regular presence. It’s meant to tie in closely with real events which will diminish the book’s edge for those familiar with the real events. What the book does do very well is shift the tone towards a female-oriented narrative. The many obstacles and deceitful treatment both Natasha and Maggie go through are displayed in uncomfortable detail. The horrors of sexual abuse are laid bare and an onset of vigilantism ensues. As the information slowly comes to light, you root for both lead characters, not to mention the wider struggles they look to tackle. The slow reveal of Winthrop’s backstory is a particular highlight.
Recommended?
MAYBE: While I found the political elements of To Kill a Man more than a bit predictable, the book’s feminist take on the thriller genre was still engaging. The alternative perspectives could have used some tuning up; the side of the opposing President Harrison and Winthrop’s time out of the spotlight could have played larger roles to build further intrigue. Instead they are mostly put aside to focus mainly on Maggie Costello’s investigation. Be that as it may, the author’s direct experience of the Washington setting translates through nicely.
Natasha Winthrop (Known as Cynthia Wright in other versions) is a shrewd and dedicated lawyer; she’s also being tipped as the next big presidential nominee for the United States. When she kills a sadistic rapist in her own home, questions arise over the true nature of her ordeal and her actions to defend herself. With political opponents and the police circling her personal affairs, she hires the political trouble-shooter Maggie Costello to uncover the answers and clear her name. The book unfolds from an array of perspectives; while we start off in Winthrop’s shoes, the story moves over to Costello who conducts her one-woman investigation. The national heroine at the book’s centre is very idealistic, a progressive role
model seemingly in the same vein as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Many contemporary political issues including fake news, rampant misogyny and the onset ofdata manipulation and dark ads are a regular presence. It’s meant to tie in closely with real events which will diminish the book’s edge for those familiar with the real events. What the book does do very well is shift the tone towards a female-oriented narrative. The many obstacles and deceitful treatment both Natasha and Maggie go through are displayed in uncomfortable detail. The horrors of sexual abuse are laid bare and an onset of vigilantism ensues. As the information slowly comes to light, you root for both lead characters, not to mention the wider struggles they look to tackle. The slow reveal of Winthrop’s backstory is a particular highlight.
Recommended?
MAYBE: While I found the political elements of To Kill a Man more than a bit predictable, the book’s feminist take on the thriller genre was still engaging. The alternative perspectives could have used some tuning up; the side of the opposing President Harrison and Winthrop’s time out of the spotlight could have played larger roles to build further intrigue. Instead they are mostly put aside to focus mainly on Maggie Costello’s investigation. Be that as it may, the author’s direct experience of the Washington setting translates through nicely.
March 11, 2020
TO KILL A MAN
by
Sam Bourne
It seems appropriate that I began this book on Woman’s day as this superb tale features a subject relevant, awkward and newsworthy, rape!
Natasha Winthrop is at the top of her game. A smart , good looking top attorney who has the respect of her peers, tipped to be a candidate for presidency. The opening chapter is an edge of the seat intro to an intricately written and plotted tale. When a masked man gains access to Natasha’s home and is killed in the ensuing struggle as she fights off his attempt to rape her surely it is self defence? The police appear sceptical, finding holes in Natasha’s testimony, suggesting that the dead man was the victim, in the flat by invitation.
Natasha calls in Maggie Costello to assist her fight for justice. An experienced ‘fixer’and researcher, and a solver of political crises, Maggie is a woman to have on your side. Familiar with the Senate and the White House and their occupants she is a woman who takes no prisoners.
Maggie is immediately intrigued with Natasha’s predicament. Why are the police spending more time talking Natasha’s evidence apart than is seemingly necessary. The victim is named as a renowned rapist who has never been found guilty. They rarely are! Why? Lack of evidence as the only witness is the victim of sexual assault.
When Natasha is taken into custody, she gives Maggie total access to her records including passwords. A woman with nothing to hide? Maggie has a sneaking doubt that there must be clues in the vast organised files she trawls through.
This is one of the best books I have read of late. It is a wonderful story that twists and turns taking the reader on a twisting fascinating route to find the truth. And when the truth is revealed it is not at all as expected. The finale is stupendous!
Writing is of the highest standard as one would expect from this skilled writer and journalist with wonderful characterisation, vivid and interesting. This is thriller writing at its best without the over stressing of blood and gore. I found I related to this story more than I usually would do with a thriller. It is different, riveting, absorbing and revealing. I cannot wait to read another of Sam Bourne’s books.
by
Sam Bourne
It seems appropriate that I began this book on Woman’s day as this superb tale features a subject relevant, awkward and newsworthy, rape!
Natasha Winthrop is at the top of her game. A smart , good looking top attorney who has the respect of her peers, tipped to be a candidate for presidency. The opening chapter is an edge of the seat intro to an intricately written and plotted tale. When a masked man gains access to Natasha’s home and is killed in the ensuing struggle as she fights off his attempt to rape her surely it is self defence? The police appear sceptical, finding holes in Natasha’s testimony, suggesting that the dead man was the victim, in the flat by invitation.
Natasha calls in Maggie Costello to assist her fight for justice. An experienced ‘fixer’and researcher, and a solver of political crises, Maggie is a woman to have on your side. Familiar with the Senate and the White House and their occupants she is a woman who takes no prisoners.
Maggie is immediately intrigued with Natasha’s predicament. Why are the police spending more time talking Natasha’s evidence apart than is seemingly necessary. The victim is named as a renowned rapist who has never been found guilty. They rarely are! Why? Lack of evidence as the only witness is the victim of sexual assault.
When Natasha is taken into custody, she gives Maggie total access to her records including passwords. A woman with nothing to hide? Maggie has a sneaking doubt that there must be clues in the vast organised files she trawls through.
This is one of the best books I have read of late. It is a wonderful story that twists and turns taking the reader on a twisting fascinating route to find the truth. And when the truth is revealed it is not at all as expected. The finale is stupendous!
Writing is of the highest standard as one would expect from this skilled writer and journalist with wonderful characterisation, vivid and interesting. This is thriller writing at its best without the over stressing of blood and gore. I found I related to this story more than I usually would do with a thriller. It is different, riveting, absorbing and revealing. I cannot wait to read another of Sam Bourne’s books.
March 20, 2020
To Kill a Man is a terrific and gripping thriller that I devoured with relish. If I could award this ten stars I would!!
Following in the wake of the #MeToo movement,the storyline is so relevant and empowering with two female characters who are strong independent women with high flying careers. Both of them but particularly Natasha Winthrop make ideal role models for younger generations; Natasha is a human rights lawyer and a rising star, possibly in the running as a candidate for presidency whilst Maggie Costello is formidable in her role as troubleshooter in the world of politics. Kick ass women you do not want to mess with and I loved them both!
When these two women’s worlds collide following Natasha’s arrest for killing an intruder/sexual attacker in her home, the race is on to discover what really lies behind the events of that fateful evening. A random act of violence or something else?????
With a narrative that is fast paced and tense this thriller tackles the world of politics where the stakes are high and fake news and data hacking are the order of the day. Whilst this dark side of the internet is exposed I found myself easily drawn into this murky world of political intrigue and male abuses of power, rapidly turning the pages, loving each turn of events. This is primarily about women taking back control from men who think they have the right to act and treat women in any way they please. The author pulls no punches in detailing the extent of sexual violence, assault and rape that goes unpunished; the statistics are shocking. Be warned as some of the scenes in this thriller are graphic but are in keeping and necessary to the plot. I found this to be a highly addictive read and a brilliant piece of fiction yet never lost sight of the very real nature of this type of offence and the important messages being conveyed. The way the plot unfolds means you are constantly intrigued and there are a couple of twists thrown into the mix which make this thriller an exceptional read.
The publisher Quercus kindly invited me to read this title and I can’t thank them enough for the privilege and opportunity to discover a ‘new’ author. Cannot recommend this highly enough!! My thanks also to Netgalley for providing a platform to review this book.
Following in the wake of the #MeToo movement,the storyline is so relevant and empowering with two female characters who are strong independent women with high flying careers. Both of them but particularly Natasha Winthrop make ideal role models for younger generations; Natasha is a human rights lawyer and a rising star, possibly in the running as a candidate for presidency whilst Maggie Costello is formidable in her role as troubleshooter in the world of politics. Kick ass women you do not want to mess with and I loved them both!
When these two women’s worlds collide following Natasha’s arrest for killing an intruder/sexual attacker in her home, the race is on to discover what really lies behind the events of that fateful evening. A random act of violence or something else?????
With a narrative that is fast paced and tense this thriller tackles the world of politics where the stakes are high and fake news and data hacking are the order of the day. Whilst this dark side of the internet is exposed I found myself easily drawn into this murky world of political intrigue and male abuses of power, rapidly turning the pages, loving each turn of events. This is primarily about women taking back control from men who think they have the right to act and treat women in any way they please. The author pulls no punches in detailing the extent of sexual violence, assault and rape that goes unpunished; the statistics are shocking. Be warned as some of the scenes in this thriller are graphic but are in keeping and necessary to the plot. I found this to be a highly addictive read and a brilliant piece of fiction yet never lost sight of the very real nature of this type of offence and the important messages being conveyed. The way the plot unfolds means you are constantly intrigued and there are a couple of twists thrown into the mix which make this thriller an exceptional read.
The publisher Quercus kindly invited me to read this title and I can’t thank them enough for the privilege and opportunity to discover a ‘new’ author. Cannot recommend this highly enough!! My thanks also to Netgalley for providing a platform to review this book.
April 9, 2024
to kill a man, sam bourne
CW; SEXUAL ASSAULT, RAPE
⭐⭐
2/5
my reaction to this book is pretty much summed up in the last slide. this one was a speed read, mostly because i wanted to just get through this novel so i can go onto others. i just want to preface this by saying that thriller is not my genre of choice, but the blurb sounded interesting so i gave it a shot. i kind of wish i didn't. that being said, i do like the look of 'to kill a president', so i am willing to give him another shot.
'to kill a man' follows Natasha Winthrop, a lawyer and potential future presidential candidate, who is sexually assaulted in her own home and defends herself, leaving her attacker dead. she installs the help of Maggie Costello, a 'fixer' in an attempt to save her candidacy and reputation, thus uncovering the truth as to what happened that night.
my main qualms with this book do not lie with how it is written. sam bourne can write, and i felt that this was well paced. the characters were interesting and at moments i thought they were cool. the issues that i have with it regard the subject matter and how it was dealt with. the first half had me intrigued, and then it swiftly depleted in credibility in the second half.
sexual assault is a difficult subject matter to deal with, but the random snippets of sexual assaults happening every other chapter seemed overboard. i understand that they meant to represent the pretty universal experience of sexual violence at the hands of powerful men, but they seemed to be unnecessary detail, and detracted attention from Natasha and her story of sexual violence. i did not want to read about an underage girl in Moscow being sexually assaulted when i was reading it for the fallout around the protagonist being sexually assaulted. it (tenuously) connected at the end, which seemed rushed, but then the plot twists seemed to be in the wrong places, far-fetched and jumbled the plot. they took me to places i did not want to go. it detracted from the story of a survivor of attempted rape.
maybe i just had high hopes, or thrillers aren't my genre, but this had massive potential and fell flat.
(instagram; @avareads)
CW; SEXUAL ASSAULT, RAPE
⭐⭐
2/5
my reaction to this book is pretty much summed up in the last slide. this one was a speed read, mostly because i wanted to just get through this novel so i can go onto others. i just want to preface this by saying that thriller is not my genre of choice, but the blurb sounded interesting so i gave it a shot. i kind of wish i didn't. that being said, i do like the look of 'to kill a president', so i am willing to give him another shot.
'to kill a man' follows Natasha Winthrop, a lawyer and potential future presidential candidate, who is sexually assaulted in her own home and defends herself, leaving her attacker dead. she installs the help of Maggie Costello, a 'fixer' in an attempt to save her candidacy and reputation, thus uncovering the truth as to what happened that night.
my main qualms with this book do not lie with how it is written. sam bourne can write, and i felt that this was well paced. the characters were interesting and at moments i thought they were cool. the issues that i have with it regard the subject matter and how it was dealt with. the first half had me intrigued, and then it swiftly depleted in credibility in the second half.
sexual assault is a difficult subject matter to deal with, but the random snippets of sexual assaults happening every other chapter seemed overboard. i understand that they meant to represent the pretty universal experience of sexual violence at the hands of powerful men, but they seemed to be unnecessary detail, and detracted attention from Natasha and her story of sexual violence. i did not want to read about an underage girl in Moscow being sexually assaulted when i was reading it for the fallout around the protagonist being sexually assaulted. it (tenuously) connected at the end, which seemed rushed, but then the plot twists seemed to be in the wrong places, far-fetched and jumbled the plot. they took me to places i did not want to go. it detracted from the story of a survivor of attempted rape.
maybe i just had high hopes, or thrillers aren't my genre, but this had massive potential and fell flat.
(instagram; @avareads)
May 10, 2021
American political thrillers aren’t my usual genre at all, but I thought I would try something different.
This book opens with a harrowing scene. Natasha Winthrop, a young lawyer, is being violently sexually assaulted by a masked intruder. Seemingly in an act of self-defence, the intruder ends up dead. Natasha is arrested as the police aren’t convinced by her story.
It turns out that the intruder is a wanted rapist and suspected killer. The media has a field day and a lot of people are on Natasha’s side.
Maggie is a “political troubleshooter” and Natasha has hired her to help with the situation as Natasha intends to run for president.
I really liked Maggie’s character and I felt she drove the story.
The story takes place over a week and the chapters are relatively short.
To begin with, I found I was interested to find out what was going to happen and this kept me reading.
However, the story soon started to tail off and I found the pacing very strange. At times it felt really slow going and almost boring. There’s an awful lot going on and I wonder if there’s just too many different threads within the story.
In addition to the story from Maggie and Natasha’s point of view, there are also previous cases mentioned and the story jumps around quite a lot. I felt this really interrupted the flow of the story and made it feel quite disjointed.
I had guessed a couple of parts so this meant it lacked suspense for me.
Many parts of the book go into detail about sexual assault and the poor conviction rate of rapists. Although difficult to read, this is unfortunately based on fact and the author has tried to raise awareness of this.
Overall, I think this book has potential and Natasha’s real motive for involving Maggie is quite clever. Unfortunately it just felt too slow for me and not as pacy as I had hoped.
This book opens with a harrowing scene. Natasha Winthrop, a young lawyer, is being violently sexually assaulted by a masked intruder. Seemingly in an act of self-defence, the intruder ends up dead. Natasha is arrested as the police aren’t convinced by her story.
It turns out that the intruder is a wanted rapist and suspected killer. The media has a field day and a lot of people are on Natasha’s side.
Maggie is a “political troubleshooter” and Natasha has hired her to help with the situation as Natasha intends to run for president.
I really liked Maggie’s character and I felt she drove the story.
The story takes place over a week and the chapters are relatively short.
To begin with, I found I was interested to find out what was going to happen and this kept me reading.
However, the story soon started to tail off and I found the pacing very strange. At times it felt really slow going and almost boring. There’s an awful lot going on and I wonder if there’s just too many different threads within the story.
In addition to the story from Maggie and Natasha’s point of view, there are also previous cases mentioned and the story jumps around quite a lot. I felt this really interrupted the flow of the story and made it feel quite disjointed.
I had guessed a couple of parts so this meant it lacked suspense for me.
Many parts of the book go into detail about sexual assault and the poor conviction rate of rapists. Although difficult to read, this is unfortunately based on fact and the author has tried to raise awareness of this.
Overall, I think this book has potential and Natasha’s real motive for involving Maggie is quite clever. Unfortunately it just felt too slow for me and not as pacy as I had hoped.
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