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Bad Blood #1
The Boss
He’s inside. She’s running the family. But now he’s back – only one can boss the streets of Liverpool.
Packed with twists, turns and deceit, get ready for the first novel in an explosive new gangland crime series.
HE’S OUT FOR BLOOD
After a stint inside, notorious gangster Nathan Conlon is back. He says he’s a changed man, but old habits die hard on Liverpool’s gritty streets. He’ll stop at nothing to reclaim his formidable criminal empire – and his long-suffering ex-wife, Grace.
SHE’S OUT FOR REVENGE
Grace once kissed the ground that Nathan walked on, but not anymore. She’s head of the firm now, commanding respect from the best of them, and she’ll do anything to protect her family – even if it means beating Nathan at the dirtiest of games . . .
WHO WILL COME OUT ON TOP?
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2019
222 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
About the author
Caz Finlay
9 books57 followersCaz Finlay lives in Liverpool with her husband, two children, and a grumpy dog named Bert. She has two BA Hons in Criminal Justice and Community Justice.
A Probation Officer for fourteen years, Caz has always been fascinated by the psychology of human behaviour and the reasons people do the things they do.
However, it was the loss of her son in 2016 which prompted her to rediscover her love of writing and write her first novel, The Boss.
A Probation Officer for fourteen years, Caz has always been fascinated by the psychology of human behaviour and the reasons people do the things they do.
However, it was the loss of her son in 2016 which prompted her to rediscover her love of writing and write her first novel, The Boss.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
June 17, 2019
“Man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides.”
― André Malraux
I seem to be saying this a lot just recently, but what a terrific debut novel this is!
Nathan Conlon was a notorious Liverpool gangster before he was put behind bars for 12 years. Now he’s out, and he intends to take up where he left off, and that includes trying to win back his ex wife Grace, who divorced him while he was inside. Grace however has other ideas, she’s not the cowering complicit wife that she once was, she’s been running her own successful empire without any help from Nathan, in fact she’s determined to take revenge on him for the way he treated her in the past. She’s the boss now - the head of the ‘firm’ and there can only be one boss! Grace doesn’t intend to suffer his psychological cruelty or the physical beatings ever again. And so begins the war between the two of them, where secrets and betrayals are all part of the game!
Raw and gritty, ‘The Boss’ is a real page turner, with some truly frightening gangland characters, the storyline was compelling, and there was a great twist to come! Highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for my ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
― André Malraux
I seem to be saying this a lot just recently, but what a terrific debut novel this is!
Nathan Conlon was a notorious Liverpool gangster before he was put behind bars for 12 years. Now he’s out, and he intends to take up where he left off, and that includes trying to win back his ex wife Grace, who divorced him while he was inside. Grace however has other ideas, she’s not the cowering complicit wife that she once was, she’s been running her own successful empire without any help from Nathan, in fact she’s determined to take revenge on him for the way he treated her in the past. She’s the boss now - the head of the ‘firm’ and there can only be one boss! Grace doesn’t intend to suffer his psychological cruelty or the physical beatings ever again. And so begins the war between the two of them, where secrets and betrayals are all part of the game!
Raw and gritty, ‘The Boss’ is a real page turner, with some truly frightening gangland characters, the storyline was compelling, and there was a great twist to come! Highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for my ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
June 23, 2019
The Boss is a crime syndicate novel which has a good story, strong characters and pace. The development & unveiling of Grace’s character through the novel is especially good.
Grace falls for Nathan, who runs a gang which does drugs and has other businesses. He is good looking and a charmer. Once married, however, there is a violent streak to Nathan which terrifies Grace. She learns later that Nathan has had a difficult childhood – adopted and also faces abuse. There is very little she can do, but she also knows she cannot survive her marriage. Nathan goes to prison and Grace has her freedom for a few years. She uses the period to fortify her position – divorces Nathan, builds - mental strength, contacts, friends and a business. She also has her son Jake who provides her purpose and determination. As Nathan comes out of prison though, and continues to meet her regularly, she is not sure how she is going to cope. Nathan knows her weaknesses, and is ruthless.
The story shuffles between past and present and converges very well towards the end. The build-up and the ending are very good as well. The development of Grace’s character, and her determination to cope with her position makes for excellent reading.
My rating: 4.5 / 5.
I had quite recently read Boss Girl which also had a crime syndicate backdrop, and liked that as well. The stories are quite different, and yet both have good characters & pace.
My thanks to NetGalley, Killer Reads and the author for providing me a free copy for a review.
Grace falls for Nathan, who runs a gang which does drugs and has other businesses. He is good looking and a charmer. Once married, however, there is a violent streak to Nathan which terrifies Grace. She learns later that Nathan has had a difficult childhood – adopted and also faces abuse. There is very little she can do, but she also knows she cannot survive her marriage. Nathan goes to prison and Grace has her freedom for a few years. She uses the period to fortify her position – divorces Nathan, builds - mental strength, contacts, friends and a business. She also has her son Jake who provides her purpose and determination. As Nathan comes out of prison though, and continues to meet her regularly, she is not sure how she is going to cope. Nathan knows her weaknesses, and is ruthless.
The story shuffles between past and present and converges very well towards the end. The build-up and the ending are very good as well. The development of Grace’s character, and her determination to cope with her position makes for excellent reading.
My rating: 4.5 / 5.
I had quite recently read Boss Girl which also had a crime syndicate backdrop, and liked that as well. The stories are quite different, and yet both have good characters & pace.
My thanks to NetGalley, Killer Reads and the author for providing me a free copy for a review.
June 13, 2019
5☆ A Gritty, Full of Twists, Spine Tingling Must Read!
WOW Oh Wow what a gripping start to a new Ganglit Series.
Right from the first chapter I was hooked and drawn in.
It's hard to believe this is Caz Finlay's Debut book!
Grace hasn't always been strong, she is the ex wife to Nathan a notorious gangster, manipulative and a Bully.
Nathan has just got out of prison and he's back on the scene wanting to have a better relationship with his Son Jake.
But Grace knows what Nathan is like and she has her guard up!
See Grace has changed alot since Nathan was inside!
She's become stronger and wiser with the help from a special friend!
Grace will stop at nothing to protect everything she has worked so hard to build, and she is determined to make sure Nathan doesn't lead their son astray or hurt him!
Wow I loved every minute of this Gritty, fast paced, dramatic, twisty Ganglit story.
It was everything you come to expect and more from this genre.
It had plenty of juicy twists, the characters were very well developed that evoked the right emotions for example I loved Grace but detested Nathan! Perfect!
I really appreciated the past and present storyline, as i really got to delve into why Grace was the way she was and I was rooting for her the whole way through.
There is enough suspense, tension, intrigue and drama to keep you turning the pages,
I for one devoured this book in just two days I was so caught up in the lives of Grace and Nathan!
So if you are looking for a gritty, fast paced, spine tingling, twisty Gangland Thriller then you need to read THE BOSS by Caz Finlay.
I am so excited to read more of this series, if this is just Caz's debut book.... then I am eager to see what's next!
Caz Finley is definitely an Author to put on your Watch Out for List!
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
WOW Oh Wow what a gripping start to a new Ganglit Series.
Right from the first chapter I was hooked and drawn in.
It's hard to believe this is Caz Finlay's Debut book!
Grace hasn't always been strong, she is the ex wife to Nathan a notorious gangster, manipulative and a Bully.
Nathan has just got out of prison and he's back on the scene wanting to have a better relationship with his Son Jake.
But Grace knows what Nathan is like and she has her guard up!
See Grace has changed alot since Nathan was inside!
She's become stronger and wiser with the help from a special friend!
Grace will stop at nothing to protect everything she has worked so hard to build, and she is determined to make sure Nathan doesn't lead their son astray or hurt him!
Wow I loved every minute of this Gritty, fast paced, dramatic, twisty Ganglit story.
It was everything you come to expect and more from this genre.
It had plenty of juicy twists, the characters were very well developed that evoked the right emotions for example I loved Grace but detested Nathan! Perfect!
I really appreciated the past and present storyline, as i really got to delve into why Grace was the way she was and I was rooting for her the whole way through.
There is enough suspense, tension, intrigue and drama to keep you turning the pages,
I for one devoured this book in just two days I was so caught up in the lives of Grace and Nathan!
So if you are looking for a gritty, fast paced, spine tingling, twisty Gangland Thriller then you need to read THE BOSS by Caz Finlay.
I am so excited to read more of this series, if this is just Caz's debut book.... then I am eager to see what's next!
Caz Finley is definitely an Author to put on your Watch Out for List!
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
May 30, 2019
This story alternates between the past and present, giving an insight of what life had been like when Grace and Nathan were married. Nathan has just been released after serving twelve years in prison. Although Grace was the daughter of a well known gangster, she was a bit gullible in her younger years. She falls in love with Nathan, but soon discovers after marrying him, that everything in the garden was not going to be rosy. The story mainly focuses on Grace and Nathan's relationship and Nathan trying to build a relationship and get on his side, their son Jake. The one thing that Nathan did not realise was that Grace had built a backbone whilst he was serving his time. With a lot of menacing characters on her payroll, Grace has a lot of lucrative businesses. I was drawn in quickly to this story, rooting for Grace all the way, wanting Nathan to get his comeuppance. There's twist and turns galore that will make you keep turning the pages. A gritty, well written de ut novel. Another author to look out for.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Harper Impulse and Killer Reads and the author Caz Findlay for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Harper Impulse and Killer Reads and the author Caz Findlay for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2019
The Boss is the first book in a brand new gangland crime series by debut author Caz Finlay featuring Grace Sumner and set in Liverpool, and if this is anything to go by this is indeed an author to keep an eye on. As a qualified Probation Officer, Caz has always been fascinated by the psychology of human behaviour and the reasons people do the things they do, and this feeds beautifully into making a very readable and compulsive story. It has it all — a gripping well-executed plot, a thought through & thrilling backstory, palpable tension and concludes in a truly epic showdown in famous gangland stylee.
The writing flows superbly from one page to the next and once I started reading I was effectively held captive for the afternoon as it was so easy to fly through the short, snappy chapters. Grace is a feisty, strong female and I found myself cheering for her numerous times throughout. At its heart, this is her story and a family drama enriched by the gangland connections her father has. It alternates between past and present telling her story as she struggles to wriggle from her ex-husband Nathan's manipulative grasp. It's absolutely nail-biting and all-consuming with unexpected twists left, right and centre. A truly excellent, must-read thriller.
Recommended, especially to fans of Martina Cole, Jessie Keane, Kimberly Chambers, Casey Kelleher and Jackie Rose. Many thanks to Killer Reads for an ARC.
The writing flows superbly from one page to the next and once I started reading I was effectively held captive for the afternoon as it was so easy to fly through the short, snappy chapters. Grace is a feisty, strong female and I found myself cheering for her numerous times throughout. At its heart, this is her story and a family drama enriched by the gangland connections her father has. It alternates between past and present telling her story as she struggles to wriggle from her ex-husband Nathan's manipulative grasp. It's absolutely nail-biting and all-consuming with unexpected twists left, right and centre. A truly excellent, must-read thriller.
Recommended, especially to fans of Martina Cole, Jessie Keane, Kimberly Chambers, Casey Kelleher and Jackie Rose. Many thanks to Killer Reads for an ARC.
May 9, 2019
The story alternates between past and present, giving us more insight into what life was like when Grace and Nathan were together before he gets put in prison. It’s understandable why Grace wants nothing to do with her ex husband and my dislike for him grew the further into the story we get.
You can understand why someone like Grace would fall for Nathan. He is good looking and very charismatic. He is also someone who likes to be in control at all times and thinks he is unbreakable. There are glimpses of his past that did make me feel slightly sorry for him but his constant arrogance made sure that didn’t last for long.
Whilst this is a gangland novel and you can very much see that throughout the story, the author has focused on the relationship between Grace and Nathan with tensions getting higher the further into it we get. Boy did it have me hooked and I was dying to pick my kindle back up at every opportunity I could to see what was going to happen next and whether Grace could ever be free from this monster.
The Boss is a truly nail biting and gripping read. The build up of tension was sending my emotions into over drive. The story is set at a steady pace which then sent me hurtling towards the end at full speed whilst it took unexpected twists and turns. All I can say is what an ending and I can still fill my heart thumping now just thinking about it. What a brilliant debut novel!
My thanks to NetGalley and Killer Reads for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
You can understand why someone like Grace would fall for Nathan. He is good looking and very charismatic. He is also someone who likes to be in control at all times and thinks he is unbreakable. There are glimpses of his past that did make me feel slightly sorry for him but his constant arrogance made sure that didn’t last for long.
Whilst this is a gangland novel and you can very much see that throughout the story, the author has focused on the relationship between Grace and Nathan with tensions getting higher the further into it we get. Boy did it have me hooked and I was dying to pick my kindle back up at every opportunity I could to see what was going to happen next and whether Grace could ever be free from this monster.
The Boss is a truly nail biting and gripping read. The build up of tension was sending my emotions into over drive. The story is set at a steady pace which then sent me hurtling towards the end at full speed whilst it took unexpected twists and turns. All I can say is what an ending and I can still fill my heart thumping now just thinking about it. What a brilliant debut novel!
My thanks to NetGalley and Killer Reads for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
May 7, 2019
I was lucky enough to have a proof copy of this book and read it over the weekend. It's such a powerful book - hard to believe it's a debut novel. The characters are really well-drawn - Grace is someone we can identify with but she is SO tough! She's had to be, given her marriage to Nathan, who is both charismatic and terrifying. There's an on-going battle for power between the two of them and I was rooting for Grace right through, though I was shocked at how far she'd go to win. I'm from the Liverpool area and loved reading a book set there. Fantastic story, great characters and so many twists and turns - a really great read.
April 22, 2020
5 Stars
Set in Liverpool, Grace has been dreading this day, her ex Nathan Conlon was out, released from prison and wanting to see their son Jake.
But Grace wasn't the same timid girl anymore, 12 years before the girl that put up with his controlling, manipulative and abusive way was not going to stand there this time. This was a different Grace wanting to protect her 18 year old son, that looked like him so much. She was not going to let him become like him and get mixed up in his business.
Was there a better way to protect Jake? Or herself? Particularly from Nathan. Was the only way to defeat the monster to become one yourself?
Whilst Nathan had been doing a 12 year stretch she had been building her own empire. Grace has been collecting secrets, secrets she may need to tell, she is now The Boss
Nathan however has one thing on his mind and that's to win his ex wife back. And take everything along the way including their son.
I absolutely loved this.
It was gritty, fast paced and I couldn't put it down.
Told in a past and present tense it flowed really well.
I loved Grace and Nathan was a fantastic character and his possessiveness towards Grace could be terrifying one minute and endearing the next.... a true psychopath.
The plot was full of secrets, twists and turns as Grace fights back.
Kept my attention from start to finish.
This is my first book by Caz Finlay but it won't be my last.
Set in Liverpool, Grace has been dreading this day, her ex Nathan Conlon was out, released from prison and wanting to see their son Jake.
But Grace wasn't the same timid girl anymore, 12 years before the girl that put up with his controlling, manipulative and abusive way was not going to stand there this time. This was a different Grace wanting to protect her 18 year old son, that looked like him so much. She was not going to let him become like him and get mixed up in his business.
Was there a better way to protect Jake? Or herself? Particularly from Nathan. Was the only way to defeat the monster to become one yourself?
Whilst Nathan had been doing a 12 year stretch she had been building her own empire. Grace has been collecting secrets, secrets she may need to tell, she is now The Boss
Nathan however has one thing on his mind and that's to win his ex wife back. And take everything along the way including their son.
I absolutely loved this.
It was gritty, fast paced and I couldn't put it down.
Told in a past and present tense it flowed really well.
I loved Grace and Nathan was a fantastic character and his possessiveness towards Grace could be terrifying one minute and endearing the next.... a true psychopath.
The plot was full of secrets, twists and turns as Grace fights back.
Kept my attention from start to finish.
This is my first book by Caz Finlay but it won't be my last.
May 7, 2019
I was lucky enough to get my grubby little mitts on an early copy of this and I was blown away. This is a stormer of read, a gritty, gripping page-turner that will keep you up all night! The absolute best thing (though it’s all amazing) about Caz Finlay’s debut is the central female character, Grace. Steely-with-a-soft-centre Grace is utterly one-of-a-kind, a woman who has been through the mill and come out the other side stronger, who will take no nonsense from anyone and will do everything to protect her freedom and her son. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to find out what she was going to do.
Then there's a surrounding cast of deftly-drawn and suitably menacing characters in a brilliantly dark and atmospheric milieu…and (gulp) then there’s Nathan. I have no words! Well, I do actually: this man is charismatically terrifying and the type of man you really don’t want knocking on your door – ever - as you won’t know whether you’ll hate him or fall in love with him, until it’s far too late!
A Five Star stonker of a debut! Loved it and can’t wait to read more in this series.
Then there's a surrounding cast of deftly-drawn and suitably menacing characters in a brilliantly dark and atmospheric milieu…and (gulp) then there’s Nathan. I have no words! Well, I do actually: this man is charismatically terrifying and the type of man you really don’t want knocking on your door – ever - as you won’t know whether you’ll hate him or fall in love with him, until it’s far too late!
A Five Star stonker of a debut! Loved it and can’t wait to read more in this series.
May 7, 2019
What a brilliant book i have loved being drawn into Grace's fight to be rid of Nathan,her life in her pub with friends by her side and with her son Jake.Grace was young and got fooled by Nathan and then went on to live a life so unexpected.I won't say any more as it would spoil the book for others.I can highly recommend this book.Well done to Caz Finlay 5*
May 8, 2019
what a book what a story . this is authors 1st book and its a must read she will go far grace is one sassy lady would do anything to protect her son . but there s Nathan her ex-husband and he is coming out of prison. and grace is not the woman he remembers will say no more I so recommend a must read. so cant wait for next book you will be gripped from page 1
May 26, 2019
Ohhh my dayzzzz. What a read!
Loved this book, absolutely loved it. I wanted to follow Grace's life forever, I wanted to part of it. Hell there were times in this book I actually felt like I was sat on the bar stool in the Rose & Crown listening and watching the comings and goings.
I really felt like I'd walked into this book, the moment I started reading it, I knew it was one I was going to be lost in.
Grace is taking back her life. Little by little. Having suffered in an abusive marriage it's time for Grace to put on her big girl knickers and tackle the monster that was once her husband, Nathan.
Nathan is a nasty, sly piece of work and you can really see the damage he has done to Grace. He's a typical charismatic villain Unfortunately he's also controlling and manipulative. The good looks, the gift of the gab, but no more, it's now graces to turn to show who is the boss. This is a fight for the top and you won't want to miss out on being part of it.
Set in Liverpool this Gangland thriller has everything you want from a book that is going to keep you reading until the early hours. Great twists and characters you will either love or hate. A fantastic story line with plenty packed into the pages that will keep you rooted.
I'm not always a fan of books that go from past to present, but this was done perfectly to help you get to know the characters and their back story.
Suffering with a chronic illness sometimes has it's advantages as I woke twice during the night, got up made a cuppa and got back in bed with my kindle. It didn't take me to long to get through this bad boy. Trust me when I say 'it's a book that's not to be missed'
Caz Finlay is going to be an author to watch for in this genre. She will soon be up there with some of the best. I really look forward to reading a lot more from this author. Fans of Jessie Keane, Jacqui Rose and Casey Kelleher will absolutely love this book.
Loved this book, absolutely loved it. I wanted to follow Grace's life forever, I wanted to part of it. Hell there were times in this book I actually felt like I was sat on the bar stool in the Rose & Crown listening and watching the comings and goings.
I really felt like I'd walked into this book, the moment I started reading it, I knew it was one I was going to be lost in.
Grace is taking back her life. Little by little. Having suffered in an abusive marriage it's time for Grace to put on her big girl knickers and tackle the monster that was once her husband, Nathan.
Nathan is a nasty, sly piece of work and you can really see the damage he has done to Grace. He's a typical charismatic villain Unfortunately he's also controlling and manipulative. The good looks, the gift of the gab, but no more, it's now graces to turn to show who is the boss. This is a fight for the top and you won't want to miss out on being part of it.
Set in Liverpool this Gangland thriller has everything you want from a book that is going to keep you reading until the early hours. Great twists and characters you will either love or hate. A fantastic story line with plenty packed into the pages that will keep you rooted.
I'm not always a fan of books that go from past to present, but this was done perfectly to help you get to know the characters and their back story.
Suffering with a chronic illness sometimes has it's advantages as I woke twice during the night, got up made a cuppa and got back in bed with my kindle. It didn't take me to long to get through this bad boy. Trust me when I say 'it's a book that's not to be missed'
Caz Finlay is going to be an author to watch for in this genre. She will soon be up there with some of the best. I really look forward to reading a lot more from this author. Fans of Jessie Keane, Jacqui Rose and Casey Kelleher will absolutely love this book.
May 20, 2019
Grace Sumner is a respected crime boss in her own right. Her husband Nathan has just been released from prison. He's a nasty piece of work who beat, abused and belittled Grace before his prison sentence. He's not happy she held him to ransom whilst in prison, threatening to take their son Jake and disappear off the face of the earth if he didn't grant her a divorce. Now after 12 years Grace is no longer the weak woman she once was and is ready to give Nathan a taste of his own medicine.
She owns the Rose & Crown pub, left to her by her parents and after Nathan ran it into the ground, bringing in his violent cronies, she has rebuilt it into a very popular establishment.
.
Nathan soon makes his appearance back into her life and it seems at first he is a changed man, he sweet talks and woos Grace, making her promises. He is looking to step back into his old gangland shoes and take back what she has worked so hard achieved. But Grace has other ideas, she just wants rid of him once and for all.
I loved this story and the characters, but I wasn't to keen on the flashbacks, I would rather it started at the beginning and flowed smoothly as it became a little confusing at times.
She owns the Rose & Crown pub, left to her by her parents and after Nathan ran it into the ground, bringing in his violent cronies, she has rebuilt it into a very popular establishment.
.
Nathan soon makes his appearance back into her life and it seems at first he is a changed man, he sweet talks and woos Grace, making her promises. He is looking to step back into his old gangland shoes and take back what she has worked so hard achieved. But Grace has other ideas, she just wants rid of him once and for all.
I loved this story and the characters, but I wasn't to keen on the flashbacks, I would rather it started at the beginning and flowed smoothly as it became a little confusing at times.
June 8, 2019
This kind of books is really my cup of tea. Due to the short chapters the story is very fast paced and the twisted ending is surely doing what it is meant to be doing : keeping the readers on the edge of their chairs and counting the days untill they can put their hands on the next part.
The author shows us that it is perfectly possible to be hard and loving at the same time depending on who you are dealing with and how a lack of love in one's childhood (once again) can seriously damage one's future and those in the neighbourhood.
I had a love-hate relationship with Nathan as well as with Grace. I can understand where they both were coming from, but that does not mean by far that I agree with how the acted. It sure made this book in to a very good one.
Nathan did not have a good start at all and when he explained his feelings, my heart broke. Grace had a wonderfull childhood but went through a lot afterwards. That explains why she found it in her heart to help others, while Nathan's number one was Nathan himself.
If this first part has set the pace for the rest of the series, the readers will be in for a treat. 5 stars.
Thank you, Caz Finlay and Book On The Bright Side Publicity & Promo
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
The author shows us that it is perfectly possible to be hard and loving at the same time depending on who you are dealing with and how a lack of love in one's childhood (once again) can seriously damage one's future and those in the neighbourhood.
I had a love-hate relationship with Nathan as well as with Grace. I can understand where they both were coming from, but that does not mean by far that I agree with how the acted. It sure made this book in to a very good one.
Nathan did not have a good start at all and when he explained his feelings, my heart broke. Grace had a wonderfull childhood but went through a lot afterwards. That explains why she found it in her heart to help others, while Nathan's number one was Nathan himself.
If this first part has set the pace for the rest of the series, the readers will be in for a treat. 5 stars.
Thank you, Caz Finlay and Book On The Bright Side Publicity & Promo
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
June 22, 2019
WOW! I love this book, Caz has excelled herslf with this, her debut novel within one of my favourite genres. A gritty tale of family treachery, bonds and the love that lies side by side with cruelty too. It will have you on the edge of your chair till you reach the end. It is a fantastically gripping story and then there is the end! If you are like me and Martina Cole, Kimberley Chambers and Mandasue Heller are your go to authors for gritty crime then Caz Finlay should most definitely be your next stop! Congratulations Caz, cannot wait for your next one!
June 5, 2019
What a great read. The only complaint I have is I didn’t want to put it down once I started reading it. Grace try’s to break free from Nathan her gangster husband. While he’s in prison she try’s to beat him at his own game. The only problem is once he’s out he worms his way back into her life through their son Jake. A page turning read as you wait to see who will come out on top Nathan or Grace. I highly recommend this book
June 5, 2019
This is a great first book and I look forward to reading more from Caz Finlay.
Grace has been getting on with her life since her husband went to prison and she has made her own mark in the criminal world.
She’s learnt from Nathan’s mistakes and is making a success of things until he’s released from prison.
Now her ex husband, he still thinks he’s got a hold over her and starts to make her life a misery.
They have a teenage son together who is keen to get to know his Dad but Grace is very wary of this.
Grace has a good support network and any one of them would kill for her but she realises she’s got to be clever to get rid of Nathan once and for all.
The final few chapters will take your breath away and will have you racing to the end to see what happens.
I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more from this author.
Thanks to Harper Impulse Killer Reads and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Grace has been getting on with her life since her husband went to prison and she has made her own mark in the criminal world.
She’s learnt from Nathan’s mistakes and is making a success of things until he’s released from prison.
Now her ex husband, he still thinks he’s got a hold over her and starts to make her life a misery.
They have a teenage son together who is keen to get to know his Dad but Grace is very wary of this.
Grace has a good support network and any one of them would kill for her but she realises she’s got to be clever to get rid of Nathan once and for all.
The final few chapters will take your breath away and will have you racing to the end to see what happens.
I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more from this author.
Thanks to Harper Impulse Killer Reads and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
April 15, 2020
Grace wants rid of her ex husband Nathan so she can be free to move on with Jake, their son, and her beloved pub. Nathan thinks he loves Grace despite being divorced and he will go to any length to prove his love and control over her. Grace is far from being the mild mannered landlady he thinks she is.
Yes!!! This was brilliant. I mistakenly read the second book first but this did not detract at all from the story and because I loved Grace as a ferocious, strong character this story made me love her more and countdown to the next book!
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Yes!!! This was brilliant. I mistakenly read the second book first but this did not detract at all from the story and because I loved Grace as a ferocious, strong character this story made me love her more and countdown to the next book!
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
October 28, 2019
It is not very often that i read a story based on a crime syndicate, mainly because gang stories don't usually appeal to me. 'The Boss' was one of those exceptions whereby i thought i would give it a try and found much to my surprise as to just how much i enjoyed reading it. This is one of those books that i found difficult to put down until i had turned the last page. I hope it's not too long before there is another book by Caz Finlay. Recommended.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy. This is my honest review, which i have voluntarily given.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy. This is my honest review, which i have voluntarily given.
June 23, 2020
I'm always a bit hesitant trying new Authors, but soon as I see the cover alone I knew this was the book for me.
Right up my street, this is totally my kind of book.
Packs a punch, killings and twists to keep you guessing, gritty gangland at it's best.
I have just brought the 2nd installment can't wait to get stuck in.
Wow just amazing.
What a debut from Caz. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Right up my street, this is totally my kind of book.
Packs a punch, killings and twists to keep you guessing, gritty gangland at it's best.
I have just brought the 2nd installment can't wait to get stuck in.
Wow just amazing.
What a debut from Caz. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 9, 2019
Great read
Read it in a day. Could not put it down.
Enjoyed every minute of it. Can't wait for her next book
Read it in a day. Could not put it down.
Enjoyed every minute of it. Can't wait for her next book
June 20, 2019
Fab
A great first novel from kaz Finley. I can see how a follow on novel is on the cards. Many twists that will keep you guessing.
A great first novel from kaz Finley. I can see how a follow on novel is on the cards. Many twists that will keep you guessing.
July 25, 2019
Loved reading about Grace's transformation from a scared abuse victim into a smart badass crime boss.
TW: Multiple scenes of intense domestic abuse
TW: Multiple scenes of intense domestic abuse
June 12, 2020
WOW, What a debut Novel from this Author.. Had me gripped from the first page. Cannot wait to read the 2nd book in this series about Grace Sumner.
December 5, 2020
Brilliant!
Great characters and great storyline that kept my attention throughout. I actually gasped out loud at one point with the brilliant twist. Fantastic! This is the first book I've read by this author, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and it certainly won't be the last.
Great characters and great storyline that kept my attention throughout. I actually gasped out loud at one point with the brilliant twist. Fantastic! This is the first book I've read by this author, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and it certainly won't be the last.
January 11, 2024
Perfection
I absolutely love the world building that takes place in this book. There are enough loose ends so that stories can be built on, but nothing feels unfinished.
Caz did a wonderful job creating characters that you will actively root for and against simultaneously.
I absolutely love the world building that takes place in this book. There are enough loose ends so that stories can be built on, but nothing feels unfinished.
Caz did a wonderful job creating characters that you will actively root for and against simultaneously.
June 15, 2019
Good story
Grace Sumner running The Rose And Crown pub in Smithfield street Liverpool , she is The Boss.. divorce from her gangster bullying ex husband Nathan Conlon who's banged up. She and her beloved son Jake are ticking along fine, Nathan is released from prison wanting to get to know his son and won't leave Grace alone. Grace won't let him change their son's ways she wants him to go to university have a better start in life. A proper gangland world book to be enjoyed, unbelievable that this is this author's first, fast pace, drink, drugs, and sex all rolled up. Nathan Conlon is evil and needs finishing off for good, and I did enjoy it.
Grace Sumner running The Rose And Crown pub in Smithfield street Liverpool , she is The Boss.. divorce from her gangster bullying ex husband Nathan Conlon who's banged up. She and her beloved son Jake are ticking along fine, Nathan is released from prison wanting to get to know his son and won't leave Grace alone. Grace won't let him change their son's ways she wants him to go to university have a better start in life. A proper gangland world book to be enjoyed, unbelievable that this is this author's first, fast pace, drink, drugs, and sex all rolled up. Nathan Conlon is evil and needs finishing off for good, and I did enjoy it.
February 3, 2021
An easy read with plenty of action.
May 10, 2019
The Boss – Caz Finlay
This is a really good debut novel from Caz Finlay. I think that this author is one to watch. Its been written in the local family/gangland saga genre. So if you like authors like Martina Cole, Kimberley Chambers and Anna Smith you will enjoy this.
I found myself getting caught up in this novel and really wanting things to go the right way for the main protagonist Grace Sumner, Grace is the daughter of a well known Liverpudian gangster and as such receives respect as a given but then again she’s earned it in her own right. Grace is a strong independent woman surviving in a mans world and is treated as an equal.
As a young girl I felt that she was rather gullible and naïve, especially where men are concerned. She met and married a typical gorgeous bad guy Nathan Conlon and believed that he was everything that she needed to be happy. In truth she should have ran a mile in the opposite direction, he turned out to be everything that she didn’t need and then some. The only good thing to come out of the marriage was her son Jake.
I have to say that I thought was Nathan was a complete and utter fud, I couldn’t see any redeeming qualities in him. He was nothing but a controlling bully who used intimidation and violence to get what he wanted. Nathan really thought that he was untouchable, that he could do exactly as he pleased with no consequences. Not even the glimpses into his childhood could either explain or excuse his behaviour. On saying that it also showed in some respects how and why he’s the way he is. (I’m not making excuses for him).
Things began to spiral almost out of control when Nathan gets an early release from prison. One of the biggest problems for Grace was finding out her son has been communicating with him over the years she had tried her hardest to stop it. On his release he was ostensibly trying to make up for lost time with Jake coming round to see him, taking him to his club etc. I have to be honest and say that from the beginning it’s obvious you can see that all he’s really interested in is Grace, Grace and everything that she has because he’s damn sure he’s going to take it from her.
There’s a battle coming, a battle for survival it’ll be a fight to the death. Nathan had better watch his back. I really didn’t think that Grace had biggest balls of all but she proved me wrong.
Read for an honest review. Thank you Netgalley and Killer Reads
This is a really good debut novel from Caz Finlay. I think that this author is one to watch. Its been written in the local family/gangland saga genre. So if you like authors like Martina Cole, Kimberley Chambers and Anna Smith you will enjoy this.
I found myself getting caught up in this novel and really wanting things to go the right way for the main protagonist Grace Sumner, Grace is the daughter of a well known Liverpudian gangster and as such receives respect as a given but then again she’s earned it in her own right. Grace is a strong independent woman surviving in a mans world and is treated as an equal.
As a young girl I felt that she was rather gullible and naïve, especially where men are concerned. She met and married a typical gorgeous bad guy Nathan Conlon and believed that he was everything that she needed to be happy. In truth she should have ran a mile in the opposite direction, he turned out to be everything that she didn’t need and then some. The only good thing to come out of the marriage was her son Jake.
I have to say that I thought was Nathan was a complete and utter fud, I couldn’t see any redeeming qualities in him. He was nothing but a controlling bully who used intimidation and violence to get what he wanted. Nathan really thought that he was untouchable, that he could do exactly as he pleased with no consequences. Not even the glimpses into his childhood could either explain or excuse his behaviour. On saying that it also showed in some respects how and why he’s the way he is. (I’m not making excuses for him).
Things began to spiral almost out of control when Nathan gets an early release from prison. One of the biggest problems for Grace was finding out her son has been communicating with him over the years she had tried her hardest to stop it. On his release he was ostensibly trying to make up for lost time with Jake coming round to see him, taking him to his club etc. I have to be honest and say that from the beginning it’s obvious you can see that all he’s really interested in is Grace, Grace and everything that she has because he’s damn sure he’s going to take it from her.
There’s a battle coming, a battle for survival it’ll be a fight to the death. Nathan had better watch his back. I really didn’t think that Grace had biggest balls of all but she proved me wrong.
Read for an honest review. Thank you Netgalley and Killer Reads
June 10, 2019
Wow. What an amazing story from this debut author.
Grace is a brilliant character. Strong willed and very likeable. She has been through so much yet she’s still fighting strong. She will do anything to keep her son safe. Now she’s got a big battle ahead as her ex husband is out of prison early.
Nathan is out of prison and wants Grace back. He’s a heartless, horrid person.
I found this read to be unputdownable. I really enjoyed it. I’ll certainly be looking to read more from this author in the future.
Grace is a brilliant character. Strong willed and very likeable. She has been through so much yet she’s still fighting strong. She will do anything to keep her son safe. Now she’s got a big battle ahead as her ex husband is out of prison early.
Nathan is out of prison and wants Grace back. He’s a heartless, horrid person.
I found this read to be unputdownable. I really enjoyed it. I’ll certainly be looking to read more from this author in the future.
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