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Casey Benedict #1
To The Lions
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2019 CWA IAN FLEMING STEEL DAGGER
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2019 WILBUR SMITH ADVENTURE WRITING PRIZE
A journalist must follow the clues, no matter how far that takes her.
Casey Benedict, star reporter at the Post, has infiltrated the lives and exposed the lies of countless politicians and power players. Using her network of contacts, Casey is always on the search for the next big story, no matter how much danger this might place her in, no matter what cost emotionally.
Tipped off by an overheard conversation at an exclusive London nightclub, she begins to investigate the apparent suicide of a wealthy young British man, whose death has left his fiancée and family devastated.
Casey's determined hunt for the truth will take her from the glitz of St-Tropez to the deserts of Libya and on to the very darkest corners of the human mind.
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2019 WILBUR SMITH ADVENTURE WRITING PRIZE
A journalist must follow the clues, no matter how far that takes her.
Casey Benedict, star reporter at the Post, has infiltrated the lives and exposed the lies of countless politicians and power players. Using her network of contacts, Casey is always on the search for the next big story, no matter how much danger this might place her in, no matter what cost emotionally.
Tipped off by an overheard conversation at an exclusive London nightclub, she begins to investigate the apparent suicide of a wealthy young British man, whose death has left his fiancée and family devastated.
Casey's determined hunt for the truth will take her from the glitz of St-Tropez to the deserts of Libya and on to the very darkest corners of the human mind.
445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2019
208 people are currently reading
3180 people want to read
About the author
Holly Watt
9 books70 followersHello!
My name is Holly Watt. The Last Truths We Told is out now!
My first novel - To The Lions - won the CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger for the best thriller of the year. My second book, The Dead Line, was named one of the Thrillers of the Year by The Times and the FT. The Casey Benedict series continues with The Hunt and The Kill and The End of the Game.
Before writing novels, I was an investigative journalist. I started at the Sunday Times (long, complicated story), before moving to the Daily Telegraph.
During six years at the Telegraph, I was the Whitehall Editor and jointly ran the investigations team. I then moved to work on the Guardian's investigations team (yes, a bit of a leap politically...).
I worked on stories including MPs’ Expenses at the Telegraph and the Panama Papers at the Guardian and I also did lots of undercover work.
I've reported from countries all around the world, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Libya, Jordan and Lebanon (some of which appear in my books).
My name is Holly Watt. The Last Truths We Told is out now!
My first novel - To The Lions - won the CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger for the best thriller of the year. My second book, The Dead Line, was named one of the Thrillers of the Year by The Times and the FT. The Casey Benedict series continues with The Hunt and The Kill and The End of the Game.
Before writing novels, I was an investigative journalist. I started at the Sunday Times (long, complicated story), before moving to the Daily Telegraph.
During six years at the Telegraph, I was the Whitehall Editor and jointly ran the investigations team. I then moved to work on the Guardian's investigations team (yes, a bit of a leap politically...).
I worked on stories including MPs’ Expenses at the Telegraph and the Panama Papers at the Guardian and I also did lots of undercover work.
I've reported from countries all around the world, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Libya, Jordan and Lebanon (some of which appear in my books).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
December 31, 2018
Holly Watt writes a fast paced political thriller that focuses on one of our biggest contemporary global crises, that of the growth of the huge numbers of refugees and migrants that is proving to be a testing issue. Unusually, it delves into some of the causes that lie behind the forced flight of so many people to leave their home and country. After all, no-one would actually choose to put themselves in such a precarious and dangerous position, would they??? Watt provides us with insights and observations into the horrors of refugee camps. Casey Benedict is a renowned investigative journalist with a formidable reputation for getting exclusives, she is willing to go over and beyond in her determination to land that story.
Always alert to the potential of story, Casey happens to be in a London nightclub when she happens to overhear a conversation that puts her on the path of great danger, dangling the opportunity of the story of a lifetime. Casey delves into what looks like the suicide of a wealthy young man that is to take her into such disparate locations such as Libya and St Tropez. The novel touches on conflicts, mercenaries, powerful and ruthless secretive groups, and moral and ethical dilemmas. There are authenticity issues when it comes to plotting and characterisation, but this gripping political thriller just happens to have its pulse on such relevant themes in our world that makes it so worth reading. Many thanks to Bloomsbury for an ARC.
Always alert to the potential of story, Casey happens to be in a London nightclub when she happens to overhear a conversation that puts her on the path of great danger, dangling the opportunity of the story of a lifetime. Casey delves into what looks like the suicide of a wealthy young man that is to take her into such disparate locations such as Libya and St Tropez. The novel touches on conflicts, mercenaries, powerful and ruthless secretive groups, and moral and ethical dilemmas. There are authenticity issues when it comes to plotting and characterisation, but this gripping political thriller just happens to have its pulse on such relevant themes in our world that makes it so worth reading. Many thanks to Bloomsbury for an ARC.
February 14, 2019
The best word to sum up this book is fascinating, or is it intriguing, or horrifying or......, you get the picture, many words come to mind to describe what I have just read
The basics are that Casey and Miranda are investigative journalists for The Post, Casey stumbles ( while on another job ) upon what she thinks is a story.....the story turns out to be very rich and powerful people, worldwide, going on ‘human safaris’ to refugee camps, I did say horrifying!
But it is so much more than that short synopsis, the author has ‘previous’ as a journalist and this shows in the wonderful descriptions of life in a major newspaper’s newsroom, what happens, who does what, the ‘politics’ and the lives of the journalists are truly brilliantly written about and it built a clear picture in my mind the whole way through
The characters ranged from the determined pair above to the evil, shadier than shady men who ran and ‘enjoyed’ these activities
Much of the book was based in Libya where the refugee camp was based and again the descriptive writing had me believing I was in the Sahara and travelling through these hideous yet beautiful landscapes, the history on Libya and Gadaffi and what went on after he was deposed was again just fascinating and factual
The story, in its nature, is dark, you dont want to believe it and yet I did and felt at all times I was in the battle with them to pursue this evil
and help stop it, the writing ‘involved’ you at every stage
There was, surprisingly but welcome, humour, often dark but just the odd sentence of Casey’s thoughts that brought a wry smile, I thought that was very clever to add to the book
I loved the end being set in my area and being able to visualise step by step what was happening and the ending was an ending and a great one,but I wonder if we will see these 2 again...?
Outstanding
10/10 5 Stars
February 20, 2019
To the Lions, the first novel in the Investigative Journalist Casey Benedict International Thriller Series, has some original and interesting features to it. I am a strong believer that a good thriller can excite but also contain more substantial topical issues and explorations as it did here. The major talking point of immigration was broached, as well as commentary on the political sphere and the underhand goings-on that likely takes place within it, doing things for the greater good, journalistic ethics, privacy vs public interest, all of which intrigue me a great deal, but we're only touched on lightly and symbolically than with any real merit.
It stretches credulity quite a bit and has some minor editing, formatting and plot hole problems, but it explores a lot of the buzzwords and hot potato topics of our time - conflicts, mercenaries, proxy wars, deceit, abuse of power, powerful and ruthless secretive groups, and moral and ethical dilemmas. I felt Casey was a realistic character with Watt deciding to write what she knows, being an investigative journalist for The Guardian herself. It's fast-paced, fun and entertaining, and does try to highlight weightier themes but should be taken with a pinch of salt perhaps. Overall, a mixed bag which grips you and keeps you reading. I look forward to the second instalment.
Many thanks to Raven Books for an ARC.
It stretches credulity quite a bit and has some minor editing, formatting and plot hole problems, but it explores a lot of the buzzwords and hot potato topics of our time - conflicts, mercenaries, proxy wars, deceit, abuse of power, powerful and ruthless secretive groups, and moral and ethical dilemmas. I felt Casey was a realistic character with Watt deciding to write what she knows, being an investigative journalist for The Guardian herself. It's fast-paced, fun and entertaining, and does try to highlight weightier themes but should be taken with a pinch of salt perhaps. Overall, a mixed bag which grips you and keeps you reading. I look forward to the second instalment.
Many thanks to Raven Books for an ARC.
September 7, 2019
4.5⭐️s!
Okay, I’ve decided I’m not going to write a description of this novel because you can just read that in the blurb on goodreads or amazon, etc. I’m going to stick to what I thought about it, because that’s why we read reviews, right? But, just in case you haven’t read the blurb, I’ll just say this real quick.. the story revolves around a couple of British journalists who are determined to break a story involving refugee camps that are worlds away from their safe, beautiful homes and they will do ANYTHING to get it...
So, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, the story was a fast-paced political thriller; one of those that you say ‘just one more chapter’ and 15 chapters later, when your eyes feel like sandpaper, you are still telling yourself that.
This was quite a terrifying read, as it was so very realistic and I could absolutely see something similar happening in real life. In the West we have a bad habit of turning a blind eye to ugly things that are going on across the world. Refugee camps that are filled with thousands of terrified & exhausted people, are dotted all over the place and yet we rarely hear about them. So it’s quite easy to imagine terrible things happening in them that just magically disappear.
This story also brings to mind one of the first questions from your philosophy 101 class: “if you had the chance to save just one person, but in doing so know others will die, what do you do?” That may sound simple enough to answer, but could you truly stand back and watch someone die, knowing you could have saved them?
This book was so thought provoking ,horrifying and disturbing. The author’s career as a journalist brings a rare sense of authenticity to the story. You can easily picture every setting she describes. From the ever expanding, beautiful (but desolate) sand dunes of the Sahara in Libya, to the sprawling Thames flowing under Lambeth Bridge in London. She touches on some of the most desperate of humanitarian crises happening right now and teaches us some of the history that has caused them. I learned so much in these jam packed 386 pages. While this is Holly Watt’s first novel, I certainly hope it will not be her last! I was lucky enough to have won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Okay, I’ve decided I’m not going to write a description of this novel because you can just read that in the blurb on goodreads or amazon, etc. I’m going to stick to what I thought about it, because that’s why we read reviews, right? But, just in case you haven’t read the blurb, I’ll just say this real quick.. the story revolves around a couple of British journalists who are determined to break a story involving refugee camps that are worlds away from their safe, beautiful homes and they will do ANYTHING to get it...
So, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, the story was a fast-paced political thriller; one of those that you say ‘just one more chapter’ and 15 chapters later, when your eyes feel like sandpaper, you are still telling yourself that.
This was quite a terrifying read, as it was so very realistic and I could absolutely see something similar happening in real life. In the West we have a bad habit of turning a blind eye to ugly things that are going on across the world. Refugee camps that are filled with thousands of terrified & exhausted people, are dotted all over the place and yet we rarely hear about them. So it’s quite easy to imagine terrible things happening in them that just magically disappear.
This story also brings to mind one of the first questions from your philosophy 101 class: “if you had the chance to save just one person, but in doing so know others will die, what do you do?” That may sound simple enough to answer, but could you truly stand back and watch someone die, knowing you could have saved them?
This book was so thought provoking ,horrifying and disturbing. The author’s career as a journalist brings a rare sense of authenticity to the story. You can easily picture every setting she describes. From the ever expanding, beautiful (but desolate) sand dunes of the Sahara in Libya, to the sprawling Thames flowing under Lambeth Bridge in London. She touches on some of the most desperate of humanitarian crises happening right now and teaches us some of the history that has caused them. I learned so much in these jam packed 386 pages. While this is Holly Watt’s first novel, I certainly hope it will not be her last! I was lucky enough to have won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
September 13, 2019
"To the Lions" is the phrase journalists use when talking about who they are going to rip apart and throw to the lions next. To that end, this is a story about how far a journalist will go to get a story and the hip, young journalists portrayed here who work undercover in disguise and secret identities like secret agents test those limits. They get word overhearing a conversation in a posh London nightclub that rich first-worlders jetsettting off for one last thrill are going on safari in the third world with refugee camps filled with the unwanted as their game preserve. To get the goods on one of these " masters of the universe," they go undercover in Libya and join an expedition and the question is how far they'll take it to get the scoop and the expose. Will they take their turn at this twisted form of evil. The writing is, at least at first, quick, fresh, and snappy. In the end, the suspense just ain't there.
February 27, 2019
To The Lions is just my kind of book, strong realistic characters, a tense and thought provoking story with perfectly immersive writing and a page turning quality that grips you throughout.
Investigative journalism sits at the centre of Holly Watt’s considered thriller as Casey Benedict, our main protagonist, stumbles into a dark possibility. Instincts kicking in, she sets out to expose the truth, but danger lurks around every corner.
There are some heart breaking truths ingrained into the narrative, the journalism backdrop is entirely fascinating and there is a huge dose of authenticity to boot making To The Lions a classically absorbing read that works on every level.
A snapshot view behind the scenes of those big breaking news stories, intelligent and intriguing from first page to last, I have no problem highly recommending this one. Quality fiction, the type I read for, right here. I’m very much hoping there is lots more to come.
Investigative journalism sits at the centre of Holly Watt’s considered thriller as Casey Benedict, our main protagonist, stumbles into a dark possibility. Instincts kicking in, she sets out to expose the truth, but danger lurks around every corner.
There are some heart breaking truths ingrained into the narrative, the journalism backdrop is entirely fascinating and there is a huge dose of authenticity to boot making To The Lions a classically absorbing read that works on every level.
A snapshot view behind the scenes of those big breaking news stories, intelligent and intriguing from first page to last, I have no problem highly recommending this one. Quality fiction, the type I read for, right here. I’m very much hoping there is lots more to come.
February 7, 2019
To the Lions, Holly Watt's debut novel, stars Casey, an investigative journalist working in close collaboration with her friend and colleague Miranda. When Casey gets wind of an undercover operation that allows wealthy men to travel to Libya and shoot refugees for fun, she knows she must track down the truth - for the sake of the story, but also for justice. However, her pursuit takes her into some very dangerous places, as well as into the path of people from her past that she thought she'd never meet again. Ultimately, Casey is faced with a moral dilemma that will define who she is as a person - is she a witness, a watcher, or a martyr?
To the Lions is unevenly paced, taking some time to get going, largely due to the constant intercuts and shifts in its first half. Once the plot gets going in its second half, it becomes a gripping thriller, presenting some genuinely interesting questions - although the time-wasting in the first half means that it doesn't have enough space to explore the aftermath of events, and the novel feels weirdly unfinished. I liked Casey, though she's a bit 'not like other girls' - this is counterbalanced somewhat by her partnership with Miranda, though the balance is still tipped towards Casey simply because Miranda doesn't have a lot of personality of her own. Watt's writing is always serviceable and occasionally distinctive, with some great turns of phrase. I loved the satirical bits on working in a newspaper office, although they jarred rather with the overall tone of the book. I'd happily read what Watt writes next, even though this didn't blow me away. Three and a half stars.
I received a free proof copy of this novel from the publisher for review.
To the Lions is unevenly paced, taking some time to get going, largely due to the constant intercuts and shifts in its first half. Once the plot gets going in its second half, it becomes a gripping thriller, presenting some genuinely interesting questions - although the time-wasting in the first half means that it doesn't have enough space to explore the aftermath of events, and the novel feels weirdly unfinished. I liked Casey, though she's a bit 'not like other girls' - this is counterbalanced somewhat by her partnership with Miranda, though the balance is still tipped towards Casey simply because Miranda doesn't have a lot of personality of her own. Watt's writing is always serviceable and occasionally distinctive, with some great turns of phrase. I loved the satirical bits on working in a newspaper office, although they jarred rather with the overall tone of the book. I'd happily read what Watt writes next, even though this didn't blow me away. Three and a half stars.
I received a free proof copy of this novel from the publisher for review.
September 23, 2020
I don't know where to start with this gripping political thriller, it was such an incredible read, but I fear my review will just fall short in describing the talent Holly Watt presents in the pages. Told from the perspective of journalist Casey Benedict, To the Lions follows Casey and her investigative journalist crew as they dive into a story about the influx of migrants, wealthy hedge fund and political leaders, and the depraved desires these men seek to fulfill. A secret hunt, one man's apparent suicide, and a beautiful journalist who knows how to slip into any character for the scoop. To the Lions is a fast-paced read with one horrifying plot and yet I couldn't put it down.
I could feel the power rolling of the wealthy magnates in waves, I could understand how their cracks appeared, how the corruption leaked in like black gas turning them into blood hungry monsters. The public doesn't see it, they don't want to, but Casey wants to get to the bottom of whatever the hunt is. I loved Casey as a character, though she certainly has some holes in her background that would have made the story a 5 star read for me. She's imaginative, driven to a fault, and truly has the best interest of the world at heart. She's an authentic journalist and I so appreciated her perspective. She felt authentic and that lent itself to every character and every situation encountered in this novel. It made the far off lands of Libya and Africa come to life, the desperation of the migrant families was palpable, and the terrifying events felt as though I'd read them in a newspaper and not a novel.
Thought-provoking, intriguing, and far more horrifying than I can put to words, To the Lions is one of those reads that takes current political issues just one step further, to the point of making you question if you can even imagine it. Holly Watt makes it so you can.
I could feel the power rolling of the wealthy magnates in waves, I could understand how their cracks appeared, how the corruption leaked in like black gas turning them into blood hungry monsters. The public doesn't see it, they don't want to, but Casey wants to get to the bottom of whatever the hunt is. I loved Casey as a character, though she certainly has some holes in her background that would have made the story a 5 star read for me. She's imaginative, driven to a fault, and truly has the best interest of the world at heart. She's an authentic journalist and I so appreciated her perspective. She felt authentic and that lent itself to every character and every situation encountered in this novel. It made the far off lands of Libya and Africa come to life, the desperation of the migrant families was palpable, and the terrifying events felt as though I'd read them in a newspaper and not a novel.
Thought-provoking, intriguing, and far more horrifying than I can put to words, To the Lions is one of those reads that takes current political issues just one step further, to the point of making you question if you can even imagine it. Holly Watt makes it so you can.
February 15, 2019
In the end I’m afraid I found To The Lions pretty hard going. Holly Watt is a fine investigative journalist, but doesn’t really manage to make the transition from journalism to fiction.
It begins very well as Casey (an investigative journalist) overhears something very disturbing while in a nightclub following another story and decides to follow it up. Watt is excellent in her descriptions of the process of investigative journalism and I was very involved as the process began. However, other aspects of the book were far less successful and, sadly, crammed with cliché both in the story and often in the prose – something I would expect an experienced journalist to avoid like the plague. :o) Things began to go wrong for me when Casey’s love interest becomes involved, which I found thoroughly unconvincing both in content and description. At around the same time, the book starts to get bogged down in worthy journalistic exposition. Watt makes very serious and important points...but she doesn’t really do it as a novelist and it doesn’t make good reading.
I found myself less and less involved. I wasn’t convinced by any aspect of the storytelling and found the style increasingly off-putting. It’s a pity after a promising start, but this one wasn’t for me.
(My thanks to Raven Books for an ARC via NetGalley.)
It begins very well as Casey (an investigative journalist) overhears something very disturbing while in a nightclub following another story and decides to follow it up. Watt is excellent in her descriptions of the process of investigative journalism and I was very involved as the process began. However, other aspects of the book were far less successful and, sadly, crammed with cliché both in the story and often in the prose – something I would expect an experienced journalist to avoid like the plague. :o) Things began to go wrong for me when Casey’s love interest becomes involved, which I found thoroughly unconvincing both in content and description. At around the same time, the book starts to get bogged down in worthy journalistic exposition. Watt makes very serious and important points...but she doesn’t really do it as a novelist and it doesn’t make good reading.
I found myself less and less involved. I wasn’t convinced by any aspect of the storytelling and found the style increasingly off-putting. It’s a pity after a promising start, but this one wasn’t for me.
(My thanks to Raven Books for an ARC via NetGalley.)
October 9, 2019
If you are a fan of Gregg Hurwitz' Orphan X, you might love To the Lions. I am an outlier in terms of that series as well -- readers still want to argue with my 1-star rating, notwithstanding the overwhelming success of Hurwitz' series and my ignorable, amateur reviewer status -- and I got a strong and very similar vibe from this one in the admittedly 50 pages I gave it. The vast majority of readers rate the Evan Smoak series highly and wait impatiently for each next series entrant. I can easily imagine Holly Watt's To The Lions exploding on the suspense/thriller scene and wowing millions. I was not a fan of the protagonist or the writing, and the conduct of the characters in the first several scenes just didn't ring true for me, but I have a strong feeling that other readers should follow the crowd on this one and give Ms. Watt's novel a try, ignoring the occasional naysayer like myself. It's me, not To the Lions.
Thanks to Edelweiss+ and Dutton for offering me an ecopy of this novel.
Thanks to Edelweiss+ and Dutton for offering me an ecopy of this novel.
January 7, 2021
This is such a stylish thriller, and it is a journalistic thriller a style I really like. Some of the scenes in this are so horrifying that it really made me stop and contemplate the hideous nature of some of our fellow humans. Yes, it is fiction, but could it be true? Could there really be such callousness in real life? I hope not.
Casey and Miranda are investigative journalists, working for a large newspaper. They go undercover to get the back story, they lurk in bars trying to hear the private conversations of those around them and when they hear something that warrants follow up, they infiltrate, set themselves up to accidentally meet those with a story to tell. they are ruthless in pursuit of the story. Casey hears one such conversation in a popular bar in trendy Soho in London. It seems that rich people are able to organise 'hunting trips' where the prey is not animal, it is human. The details are sketchy at first but it gradually evolves that if you know the right people you can get the opportunity to kill someone in cold blood just for the thrill. Like sport.
This book is so well written, it really had me totally hooked, I desperately needed to know what was going to happen to Casey. Would she survive? Would she become a victim of her own success in tracking these hideous people down?
This book depicts the plight of the refugees who search for a place to be, who build a semblance of a society inside a refugee camp, these people who have fought so hard to escape the awfulness of their homelands, to rescue their families to have a better life. It also depicts very well the awful entitledness of those who have enough money and ambition to do exactly what they like whenever and to whomever they like. It is sometimes hard reading. But in a good way.
It isn't for the faint hearted as it is properly grueling in parts, but it is super good. Lots to ponder and think about and the tension is so well written. Loved it.
Casey and Miranda are investigative journalists, working for a large newspaper. They go undercover to get the back story, they lurk in bars trying to hear the private conversations of those around them and when they hear something that warrants follow up, they infiltrate, set themselves up to accidentally meet those with a story to tell. they are ruthless in pursuit of the story. Casey hears one such conversation in a popular bar in trendy Soho in London. It seems that rich people are able to organise 'hunting trips' where the prey is not animal, it is human. The details are sketchy at first but it gradually evolves that if you know the right people you can get the opportunity to kill someone in cold blood just for the thrill. Like sport.
This book is so well written, it really had me totally hooked, I desperately needed to know what was going to happen to Casey. Would she survive? Would she become a victim of her own success in tracking these hideous people down?
This book depicts the plight of the refugees who search for a place to be, who build a semblance of a society inside a refugee camp, these people who have fought so hard to escape the awfulness of their homelands, to rescue their families to have a better life. It also depicts very well the awful entitledness of those who have enough money and ambition to do exactly what they like whenever and to whomever they like. It is sometimes hard reading. But in a good way.
It isn't for the faint hearted as it is properly grueling in parts, but it is super good. Lots to ponder and think about and the tension is so well written. Loved it.
October 3, 2019
This book appeared in my library and I picked it up. I don't really read contemporary thrillers but since it's about a journalist travelling around the world to try and break a story I thought it could be fun.
It was good. It's pretty heavy handed with it's commentary on refugees and North African politics. There's a chase scene near the end which is supposed to be thrilling but it's clear the good guys will get away from the bad guys. There's a bit of romance as well which I didn't care for. The actual investigation work and travelling around dangerous areas was great.
December 7, 2020
On the one hand the idea behind the book is great. Journalist over hears finance bozos boasting of a crime and gets stuck in. The authors own experience as an investigative journal is used for good effect and the crime investigated is an attention getter. The problem is that it then gets really stupid. The two journalists are the best, they can do everything, to the extent that the whole book tips into the dreaded zone of unintentional comedy as everything possible gets thrown in. Self mythologising press check, sermonising and general emoting double check, being hit over the head repeatedly check.
I have to say at the end I was torn between frustration at what could have been good book going so wrong and a certain enjoyment of its awfulness.
I have to say at the end I was torn between frustration at what could have been good book going so wrong and a certain enjoyment of its awfulness.
May 30, 2019
This was a fast-paced political thriller. It touched on ruthless secretive groups, conflicts and moral and ethical dilemmas with regard to the growth of the huge numbers of refugees and migrants that has become such a debatable issue.
"To the Lions" was an incredibly intense and highly relevant, fascinating read.
It was well worth picking this up. Rating: 4 Stars
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from Bloomsbury Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
"To the Lions" was an incredibly intense and highly relevant, fascinating read.
It was well worth picking this up. Rating: 4 Stars
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from Bloomsbury Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 11, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Dutton Books for granting my wish on my request for this book.
To The Lions is a debut novel by Holly Watt, who is a UK based investigative reporter who has written for The Sunday Times, The Telegraph, and The Guardian.
The story is about Casey Benedict, a star reporter for The Post who is looking for the best story in a dog eat dog and cutthroat world of journalism, where you are only as good as your last story. She overhears about a recent scandal and a game being played by the uber wealthy on unsuspecting refugees in Libya. She partners with a fellow reporter Miranda and combat veteran Ed by her side following the story from the UK to St. Tropez to Libya.
The book could only be told with so much grit and gore of the subject matter based on the writer's experience first hand when she was in Libya reporting, and have experienced first hand government uprisings and corporate greed and disloyalty for money, greed and power. The story is very suspenseful and thrilling. The writing has a lot of elements that are terrifying, heartbreaking, dark and chilling. However, I found it thought provoking and still shocking. I love that there are two strong female protagonist that would do whatever it takes to expose how people with money and privilege can use and abuse their power.
I think that Holly Watt was able to accomplish what she wanted to throw To The Lions in this gripping tale of terrifying proportions I recommend this book for fans of political thrillers and strong female characters.
Thank you for the ecopy provided in exchange for unsolicited and objective review of this book.
To The Lions is a debut novel by Holly Watt, who is a UK based investigative reporter who has written for The Sunday Times, The Telegraph, and The Guardian.
The story is about Casey Benedict, a star reporter for The Post who is looking for the best story in a dog eat dog and cutthroat world of journalism, where you are only as good as your last story. She overhears about a recent scandal and a game being played by the uber wealthy on unsuspecting refugees in Libya. She partners with a fellow reporter Miranda and combat veteran Ed by her side following the story from the UK to St. Tropez to Libya.
The book could only be told with so much grit and gore of the subject matter based on the writer's experience first hand when she was in Libya reporting, and have experienced first hand government uprisings and corporate greed and disloyalty for money, greed and power. The story is very suspenseful and thrilling. The writing has a lot of elements that are terrifying, heartbreaking, dark and chilling. However, I found it thought provoking and still shocking. I love that there are two strong female protagonist that would do whatever it takes to expose how people with money and privilege can use and abuse their power.
I think that Holly Watt was able to accomplish what she wanted to throw To The Lions in this gripping tale of terrifying proportions I recommend this book for fans of political thrillers and strong female characters.
Thank you for the ecopy provided in exchange for unsolicited and objective review of this book.
January 26, 2020
I love the idea of an investigative journalist as the heroine of this story and the core idea is horribly plausible - it's a shame then that there are so many plot holes and clichés of the thriller genre from the beautiful, ruthless yet vulnerable Carey to the PTSD-suffering ex-Marine who almost strangles her in her sleep (how many times have we seen that scene played out in books and films and TV?)
I don't want to reveal spoilers but just some of the WTF? moments come from the fact that the ultra-secret organisation is ready to kill anyone who stumbles over their existence yet doesn't think about checking for encrypted mobiles or notice the laptop-sized satellite transmitter our heroine is carrying and using in their secret hideaway - and that a group of hard-core South African mercenaries use Shakespeare's plays to code their activities!
The writing can be a bit flabby with some grammatical muddles over 'I' and 'me' ('if you don't get Ed and I on that trip' - no!) and people being described as whippet thin, or soldiers who moved like a panther - a sharp edit might get rid of these infelicities before publication.
To compensate there are important political observations being made about the plight of refugees and some of the causes, like western capitalist strip-mining, that drive mass immigration but which rarely make it into the popular press.
Definitely worth a read but this is more of a fast-moving thriller which requires a necessary suspension of disbelief than something more weighty.
I don't want to reveal spoilers but just some of the WTF? moments come from the fact that the ultra-secret organisation is ready to kill anyone who stumbles over their existence yet doesn't think about checking for encrypted mobiles or notice the laptop-sized satellite transmitter our heroine is carrying and using in their secret hideaway - and that a group of hard-core South African mercenaries use Shakespeare's plays to code their activities!
The writing can be a bit flabby with some grammatical muddles over 'I' and 'me' ('if you don't get Ed and I on that trip' - no!) and people being described as whippet thin, or soldiers who moved like a panther - a sharp edit might get rid of these infelicities before publication.
To compensate there are important political observations being made about the plight of refugees and some of the causes, like western capitalist strip-mining, that drive mass immigration but which rarely make it into the popular press.
Definitely worth a read but this is more of a fast-moving thriller which requires a necessary suspension of disbelief than something more weighty.
August 30, 2019
Does the end always justify the means?? This debut novel addresses this question and many others as Watt delves into the lives of investigative journalism. Casey and Miranda who both work for the Post, find sketchy evidence of a manhunt in Libya and are determined to expose the truth (think The Most Dangerous Game with unsuspecting victims). With combat veteran Ed in tow, the three travel to Libya and use subterfuge and other talents they've gleaned to become part of this chilling "tour." I'll be honest; it's a difficult read because of the subject matter, as it's terrifying and heartbreakingly dark. But in today's political climate, it's both relevant and shockingly real.
It's even more so for us as we live in San Diego, mere minutes from the border where thousands of refugees are seeking asylum and are living in deplorable conditions, suffering from a multitude of injustices and not knowing what fate awaits them. I shudder each day as I open the newspaper or watch the news on TV and witness what is happening (and yes, on both sides). The answers aren't easy I know. Today's news is about the outbreak of mumps in 57 detention centers affecting both children and adults.
So yes, this book is painful but it also addresses concepts we can't hide from. Watt shows us the underpinnings of investigative journalism, both its pitfalls and successes through two incredibly strong female protagonists. My heart was in my throat for most of the book but I liked it much more than I anticipated!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for granting my wish!
It's even more so for us as we live in San Diego, mere minutes from the border where thousands of refugees are seeking asylum and are living in deplorable conditions, suffering from a multitude of injustices and not knowing what fate awaits them. I shudder each day as I open the newspaper or watch the news on TV and witness what is happening (and yes, on both sides). The answers aren't easy I know. Today's news is about the outbreak of mumps in 57 detention centers affecting both children and adults.
So yes, this book is painful but it also addresses concepts we can't hide from. Watt shows us the underpinnings of investigative journalism, both its pitfalls and successes through two incredibly strong female protagonists. My heart was in my throat for most of the book but I liked it much more than I anticipated!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for granting my wish!
October 15, 2021
I’m glad I finally got around to reading this book. Although it’s pretty far-fetched, I really enjoyed it. The premise is incredibly messed up and slightly disturbing, but I enjoyed the girl power and found the whole thing very gripping (and pretty stressful at times)!
February 6, 2019
‘To The Lions’ is everything a thriller should be. It’s a gripping, convincing thriller and mixes a dynamite plot with believable detail. Holly Watt has delivered an extremely impressive first novel that I struggled to put down.
The plot is simple, but powerful and effective. Journalist Casey, who works for fictitious London paper The Post, overhears a conversation in a bar that suggests that rich businessmen are committing murder for kicks. The book follows her investigation as it crosses continents and, inevitably, puts her own life in danger. It’s a brilliantly paced book and heart-stoppingly exciting at times, whilst never using cheap gimmicks to achieve its thrills. The prose is distinctive and punchy, with a sometimes aggressive rhythm that suits the subject matter perfectly.
What impressed me most, though, was the human angle. This extends both to the cast of believable characters and to the excruciating dilemmas Casey has to face as she tries to uncover and document the truth. She’s an easy character to identify with, facing the classic modern quandary of having to balance her career with her private life. Her determination puts her in horrific situations, but I never found myself doubting her motivations. Whilst the villains of the piece are far from sympathetic, they are similarly convincing. So too are the rich cast of lesser characters, Casey’s colleagues at the post and the innocents whose lives are touched by her investigation.
That investigation is itself fascinating. Watt is a journalist by trade and it shows. The book is packed with fascinating detail on the tricks of the trade. Much of it is incidental to the plot, but I found every titbit a delight.
At its heart this is a book about the nature of human evil in the modern world. Watt spends time covering the vast gulf between rich and poor, but the book never feels preachy. Instead it’s powerful and effective and made me think more than a thriller has for a while. Make no mistakes though, this is a thriller. It’s a page turning tour de force told with passion and conviction and one of the most impressive debuts I’ve read for a while.
The plot is simple, but powerful and effective. Journalist Casey, who works for fictitious London paper The Post, overhears a conversation in a bar that suggests that rich businessmen are committing murder for kicks. The book follows her investigation as it crosses continents and, inevitably, puts her own life in danger. It’s a brilliantly paced book and heart-stoppingly exciting at times, whilst never using cheap gimmicks to achieve its thrills. The prose is distinctive and punchy, with a sometimes aggressive rhythm that suits the subject matter perfectly.
What impressed me most, though, was the human angle. This extends both to the cast of believable characters and to the excruciating dilemmas Casey has to face as she tries to uncover and document the truth. She’s an easy character to identify with, facing the classic modern quandary of having to balance her career with her private life. Her determination puts her in horrific situations, but I never found myself doubting her motivations. Whilst the villains of the piece are far from sympathetic, they are similarly convincing. So too are the rich cast of lesser characters, Casey’s colleagues at the post and the innocents whose lives are touched by her investigation.
That investigation is itself fascinating. Watt is a journalist by trade and it shows. The book is packed with fascinating detail on the tricks of the trade. Much of it is incidental to the plot, but I found every titbit a delight.
At its heart this is a book about the nature of human evil in the modern world. Watt spends time covering the vast gulf between rich and poor, but the book never feels preachy. Instead it’s powerful and effective and made me think more than a thriller has for a while. Make no mistakes though, this is a thriller. It’s a page turning tour de force told with passion and conviction and one of the most impressive debuts I’ve read for a while.
September 2, 2019
Holy Molly! This book was soooo good! What a ride! Casey and Miranda are journalists for The Post. While doing some investigative work at a bar, Casey overhears a conversation between two men about a manhunt at a refugee camp. Someone can pay a lot of money to be transported near a camp and shoot any refugee without retaliation. Casey and Miranda launch the biggest journalistic investigation of their career to uncover who is organizing these manhunts and bring them to justice. This will be a very dangerous mission. Stopping at nothing, Casey will go deep undercover but at what cost?
This book is exciting, thrilling and non-stop action. The writing and the plot are top notch. I can see this book becoming a movie.
🙋🏼♀️ Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada for sending me a final copy of this exhilarating book. To the Lions by Holly Watt will be available at your favourite bookstore on September 3, 2019.
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April 15, 2019
This is a power punch of a debut!
With incredible scene illustration, true-to-life correspondent backing, and a thrilling sense of narrative adventure – this story of espionage, journalistic investigation, and female driven suspense keeps you fully enthralled.
From London to Africa, and each nail biting moment in between, you feel like this author has the chops to deliver an authentic behind-the-scenes story, that reads like a movie.
Nicely balanced for literary and commercial fans alike; just like Black Mirror - it entertains as it opens your unseeing eyes.
Galley borrowed from the publisher.
With incredible scene illustration, true-to-life correspondent backing, and a thrilling sense of narrative adventure – this story of espionage, journalistic investigation, and female driven suspense keeps you fully enthralled.
From London to Africa, and each nail biting moment in between, you feel like this author has the chops to deliver an authentic behind-the-scenes story, that reads like a movie.
Nicely balanced for literary and commercial fans alike; just like Black Mirror - it entertains as it opens your unseeing eyes.
Galley borrowed from the publisher.
December 1, 2019
The subject-matter of this international socio-political thriller is pretty dark, but it was a rollicking good read. A couple of ambitious and sassy UK investigative journalists pursue a horrifying but very newsworthy story - someone is selling "human safari" experiences to those who have the right connections and the money to pay. The chase takes them from London to the French Riviera, Geneva, Lebanon and ultimately North Africa, where the majority of the action takes place. The tension is palpable and I found the exploration of the lengths a good journalist will go to in order to get the story quite fascinating.
March 11, 2019
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I received an uncorrected proof of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"You could tell a man from the woman he live with. The person they chose was a window to the soul."
To The Lions begins with Casey and her tip to a bar. There is a particular company she is looking into and her source at the bar informed her of his presence. And that is how one of the biggest, and the scariest adventures of her life begins. It was all about a conversation she heard, a conversation she wasn't meant to hear and everything in her life changes. From chasing sources to finding out more about it, Casey finds herself in one of the biggest death traps there ever could be—a refuge camp in the middle of nowhere. And that too, right next to a freakingly huge mansion.
When I started reading this book, all that I knew was that the book was about a journalist who is putting her life in jeopardy for a single story, for finding out what the truth is. But as I read, I realized this was so much more than that. I mean, there was so much going on in the book. I cannot even imagine what would happen if it was all real. Who knows, maybe what Watt described in her book pretty much is real. But merely to think about it freaks me out! (Now don't worry, I won't go all spoiler queen on you and reveal what the story is about. I am better than that, haha! But you must try it out because man, did it blow my mind over!)
What I loved the most about this book was the beautiful writing style. In her debut novel, Watt takes the voice of Casey, our protagonist. There are instances where she shifts her focus to the other characters as well but Casey is the focaliser for 90% of the book. And the way she describes Casey's thoughts is mind-blowing. The sentences are short. And I believe mentioning this is a piece of importance because short sentences really help us relate to the character. I can understand Casey from the chaotic thoughts going through her mind. And it all makes sense.
Through this thrilling piece of fiction, Watt has created a new image about the refugee camps in our minds. There is a dark side to everything and she has brought out the darkness of the refugee camps in full light. I mean, don't get me wrong—I know refugee camps are no place to party. Having lived in a country like India, that was partitioned not more than a hundred years ago, I have often heard of what my grandparents went through when they left their homeland in Punjab (now in Pakistan) to come and live in India. I have heard some tragic stories about the partition and many old people around me still experience those horrors in their dreams. So yes, I know. And living it all through Casey's eyes just brought a plethora of emotions through me.
So all in all, To The Lions is a dark thriller revolving around incidents and actions that we don't want to believe (because really, who can be that heartless?) and incidents that we find ourselves forced to believe in.
I received an uncorrected proof of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"You could tell a man from the woman he live with. The person they chose was a window to the soul."
To The Lions begins with Casey and her tip to a bar. There is a particular company she is looking into and her source at the bar informed her of his presence. And that is how one of the biggest, and the scariest adventures of her life begins. It was all about a conversation she heard, a conversation she wasn't meant to hear and everything in her life changes. From chasing sources to finding out more about it, Casey finds herself in one of the biggest death traps there ever could be—a refuge camp in the middle of nowhere. And that too, right next to a freakingly huge mansion.
When I started reading this book, all that I knew was that the book was about a journalist who is putting her life in jeopardy for a single story, for finding out what the truth is. But as I read, I realized this was so much more than that. I mean, there was so much going on in the book. I cannot even imagine what would happen if it was all real. Who knows, maybe what Watt described in her book pretty much is real. But merely to think about it freaks me out! (Now don't worry, I won't go all spoiler queen on you and reveal what the story is about. I am better than that, haha! But you must try it out because man, did it blow my mind over!)
What I loved the most about this book was the beautiful writing style. In her debut novel, Watt takes the voice of Casey, our protagonist. There are instances where she shifts her focus to the other characters as well but Casey is the focaliser for 90% of the book. And the way she describes Casey's thoughts is mind-blowing. The sentences are short. And I believe mentioning this is a piece of importance because short sentences really help us relate to the character. I can understand Casey from the chaotic thoughts going through her mind. And it all makes sense.
Through this thrilling piece of fiction, Watt has created a new image about the refugee camps in our minds. There is a dark side to everything and she has brought out the darkness of the refugee camps in full light. I mean, don't get me wrong—I know refugee camps are no place to party. Having lived in a country like India, that was partitioned not more than a hundred years ago, I have often heard of what my grandparents went through when they left their homeland in Punjab (now in Pakistan) to come and live in India. I have heard some tragic stories about the partition and many old people around me still experience those horrors in their dreams. So yes, I know. And living it all through Casey's eyes just brought a plethora of emotions through me.
So all in all, To The Lions is a dark thriller revolving around incidents and actions that we don't want to believe (because really, who can be that heartless?) and incidents that we find ourselves forced to believe in.
September 5, 2019
This amazing debut is my favorite book of 2019. So far.
The story is so gripping, the writing so razor-sharp that the compulsion to read is undeniable.
Holly Watt uses her knowledge of investigative journalism to infuse the tale with fascinating information on the techniques used in going undercover for a story and what it's like to be there.
It's brilliant.
Casey Benedict is a star reporter for the London Post.
One night, in a club, she overhears on conversation that will lead her to one of the most harrowing stories of her career.
It will lead her to the hills above a refugee camp in Lybia, where she witnesses something so horrific and shocking that her life, and others, will be in danger.
But she must get this story out. She MUST.
This international thriller is as exciting as it gets. There is a particular chase scene through some caves that will leave absolutely breatless and gnawing your nails.
The whole book is great. Sociologically timely and reaching into the dark corners of the human mind and soul, I couldn't put it down.
I like how the ending doesn't tie everything up in a nice little bow...just like in real life, things aren't always that simple.
This deserves to be a bestseller and then a major film.
Well done, Ms. Watt!
This was an ARC giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
The story is so gripping, the writing so razor-sharp that the compulsion to read is undeniable.
Holly Watt uses her knowledge of investigative journalism to infuse the tale with fascinating information on the techniques used in going undercover for a story and what it's like to be there.
It's brilliant.
Casey Benedict is a star reporter for the London Post.
One night, in a club, she overhears on conversation that will lead her to one of the most harrowing stories of her career.
It will lead her to the hills above a refugee camp in Lybia, where she witnesses something so horrific and shocking that her life, and others, will be in danger.
But she must get this story out. She MUST.
This international thriller is as exciting as it gets. There is a particular chase scene through some caves that will leave absolutely breatless and gnawing your nails.
The whole book is great. Sociologically timely and reaching into the dark corners of the human mind and soul, I couldn't put it down.
I like how the ending doesn't tie everything up in a nice little bow...just like in real life, things aren't always that simple.
This deserves to be a bestseller and then a major film.
Well done, Ms. Watt!
This was an ARC giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2023
To The Lions by Holly Watt
To the Lions, Holly Watt's debut novel, stars Casey, an investigative journalist working in close collaboration with her friend and colleague Miranda. When Casey gets wind of an undercover operation that allows wealthy men to travel to Libya and shoot refugees for fun, she knows she must track down the truth - for the story, but also for justice. However, her pursuit takes her into some very dangerous places, as well as into the path of people from her past that she thought she'd never meet again. Ultimately, Casey is faced with a moral dilemma that will define who she is as a person - is she a witness, a watcher, or a martyr?
Casey and her investigative journalist crew dive into a story about the influx of migrants, wealthy hedge fund and political leaders, and the depraved desires these men seek to fulfill. A secret hunt, one man's apparent suicide, and a beautiful journalist who knows how to slip into any character for the scoop. This is a political thriller.
To the Lions, Holly Watt's debut novel, stars Casey, an investigative journalist working in close collaboration with her friend and colleague Miranda. When Casey gets wind of an undercover operation that allows wealthy men to travel to Libya and shoot refugees for fun, she knows she must track down the truth - for the story, but also for justice. However, her pursuit takes her into some very dangerous places, as well as into the path of people from her past that she thought she'd never meet again. Ultimately, Casey is faced with a moral dilemma that will define who she is as a person - is she a witness, a watcher, or a martyr?
Casey and her investigative journalist crew dive into a story about the influx of migrants, wealthy hedge fund and political leaders, and the depraved desires these men seek to fulfill. A secret hunt, one man's apparent suicide, and a beautiful journalist who knows how to slip into any character for the scoop. This is a political thriller.
May 31, 2020
Casey works for the Post as an investigative reporter. Whilst in a club in London for a story she overhears something intriguing in the next booth. This nugget of information leads her into undercover work to discover who is killing people for kicks. This was one of those unputdownable books because the writing was so absorbing and the story reels you in. Amazing debut and I will definitely look out for the next book in the series when it's published.
August 28, 2019
I received an advanced reader copy of To the Lions from a Goodreads Giveaway. This is NOT the type of book I normally read. I like my books romantic and my tv full of crime, lol. I have to say though, this book was incredibly well written. Despite the book focusing nearly entirely on the story the main character is trying to crack, I still really cared for all the characters even though there wasn't much character development and at the end of the book I wanted to know what happens next for them. If you enjoy thrillers, crime novels, etc. this would be a good pick for you. The premise is horrifying, the writing is top notch, and the story quickly pulls you in and gets faster and faster paced until the conclusion. Five Stars
September 3, 2019
To the Lions is a stunning book.
Holly Watt has created a story that will pull you in, that will haunt you, that will make you think about horrific things that could so easily be reality. And maybe they are. I wouldn’t be surprised.
This thriller, seemingly the start of a series, focuses on Casey Benedict. Casey is an investigative reporter based in London who is adept at going undercover for the sorts of stories that do capture the attention of the world as they are released in troves and mountains of information that bring down the powerful, wealthy people around the world.
Watt is herself is an investigative reporter in England who worked on many exposes that have grabbed the headlines for weeks at a time. This lends a deeper layer to the novel, because it is easy to see the truth and reality in the detail she goes into. And it isn’t a level of detail that even comes close to dull or boring. It is intense.
I’m going to say a little bit about the plot that drives the story. It is not a spoiler, because it is made very clear from very early on that it happens. The purpose of the story, the thing that carries the narrative, is how Casey and Ed, who is inherently fascinating, uncover the the horrifying plot and how far it reaches.
Also intense is the plot itself – one in which the ultra-wealthy, for reasons that appear to be little more than the proverbial ‘keeping up with the Joneses’, travel to Libya to hunt. They hunt humans. Refugees, to be specific. They stay in one of Muammar Gaddafi’s former palaces and then use high-powered rifles to shoot refugees in a refuge camp in the valley below.
Can’t you imagine that happening today?
I can.
I received a copy of To the Lions through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest and original review. All thoughts are my own.
Holly Watt has created a story that will pull you in, that will haunt you, that will make you think about horrific things that could so easily be reality. And maybe they are. I wouldn’t be surprised.
This thriller, seemingly the start of a series, focuses on Casey Benedict. Casey is an investigative reporter based in London who is adept at going undercover for the sorts of stories that do capture the attention of the world as they are released in troves and mountains of information that bring down the powerful, wealthy people around the world.
Watt is herself is an investigative reporter in England who worked on many exposes that have grabbed the headlines for weeks at a time. This lends a deeper layer to the novel, because it is easy to see the truth and reality in the detail she goes into. And it isn’t a level of detail that even comes close to dull or boring. It is intense.
I’m going to say a little bit about the plot that drives the story. It is not a spoiler, because it is made very clear from very early on that it happens. The purpose of the story, the thing that carries the narrative, is how Casey and Ed, who is inherently fascinating, uncover the the horrifying plot and how far it reaches.
Also intense is the plot itself – one in which the ultra-wealthy, for reasons that appear to be little more than the proverbial ‘keeping up with the Joneses’, travel to Libya to hunt. They hunt humans. Refugees, to be specific. They stay in one of Muammar Gaddafi’s former palaces and then use high-powered rifles to shoot refugees in a refuge camp in the valley below.
Can’t you imagine that happening today?
I can.
I received a copy of To the Lions through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest and original review. All thoughts are my own.
March 8, 2019
Disclaimer: I received this book published by Bloomsbury Publishing courtesy of Pansing Distributors in exchange for my honest review.
Casey Benedict is a star reporter at the Post and is constantly in search for the next breaking story, regardless of how dangerous the situation may be.
She overhears a conversation at an exclusive London nightclub about an apparent suicide of a wealthy young British man, whose death has left his family devastated. She goes undercover, with the help of her peers and connections, to investigate the story. Casey’s hunt for the truth will bring her to the deserts of Libya, through to the darkest corners of the human mind.
I’d usually hinder from reading books that are over 400 pages but I’m really glad I read this one.
It’s a rollercoaster, a crazy good keeps-you-wanting-more kind of rollercoaster. It’s insightful, detailed and the story flows well. There’s a lot going on, and some scenes in the book are emotionally challenging because it deals with some serious, terrible events, which I will not spoil for readers (you'll be suprised).
Casey’s character is determined, hardworking and unafraid of taking risks for a story, even if it could kill her.
The setting is so realistic, and I can truly imagine it because I’ve been in a newsroom before, chaotic one even, and can see how the idea of this investigative story is so important in order to shed light on topics or happenings that are unlawful yet haven’t been exposed in order for justice to prevail.
As a reader, you really get to follow and experience Casey’s drive to investigate, infiltrate and expose the dirty deeds of individuals who have too much power to get caught.
I really enjoyed the plot, the characters present were spot on and overall it is the perfect book for those interested in investigative stories, journalism, and especially both.
I rate it, 4.5 /5 stars
Casey Benedict is a star reporter at the Post and is constantly in search for the next breaking story, regardless of how dangerous the situation may be.
She overhears a conversation at an exclusive London nightclub about an apparent suicide of a wealthy young British man, whose death has left his family devastated. She goes undercover, with the help of her peers and connections, to investigate the story. Casey’s hunt for the truth will bring her to the deserts of Libya, through to the darkest corners of the human mind.
I’d usually hinder from reading books that are over 400 pages but I’m really glad I read this one.
It’s a rollercoaster, a crazy good keeps-you-wanting-more kind of rollercoaster. It’s insightful, detailed and the story flows well. There’s a lot going on, and some scenes in the book are emotionally challenging because it deals with some serious, terrible events, which I will not spoil for readers (you'll be suprised).
Casey’s character is determined, hardworking and unafraid of taking risks for a story, even if it could kill her.
The setting is so realistic, and I can truly imagine it because I’ve been in a newsroom before, chaotic one even, and can see how the idea of this investigative story is so important in order to shed light on topics or happenings that are unlawful yet haven’t been exposed in order for justice to prevail.
As a reader, you really get to follow and experience Casey’s drive to investigate, infiltrate and expose the dirty deeds of individuals who have too much power to get caught.
I really enjoyed the plot, the characters present were spot on and overall it is the perfect book for those interested in investigative stories, journalism, and especially both.
I rate it, 4.5 /5 stars
February 21, 2019
“Remind me - who are we throwing to the lions today?” - Ross, News Editor in ‘To the Lions’.
My thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing/Raven Books for an eARC via NetGalley of Holly Watt’s debut novel.
Overhearing a snippet of conversation in a crowded London club Investigative Journalist Casey Benedict realised that it may lead to an explosive expose. She manages to convince her editor to back an undercover operation in North Africa. She is teamed with Miranda, another reporter at The London Post, and Ed, a former Royal Marine with whom Casey almost had a relationship some years previously.
In order to get the evidence they need to run the story they place themselves in mortal danger. Given that this is a dark political thriller I am not going to say too much about the plot. Watt, herself a former investigative journalist, confidently taps into contemporary global issues.
The narrative combines the economical style that I find is often a trait of journalists who turn to novel writing with beautiful descriptions and in places a quite poetic quality. Casey’s humanity shines through even when witnessing horrific events.
Part of me wondered whether any story would be worth risking so much. Yet I recalled not that long ago watching CNN journalists going undercover to expose the underground slave trade in Libya, a location that features here. So yes, journalists do risk their safety in war zones and to expose human rights violations.
On a side note I liked that a number of times lions were used as metaphors and that the hunting of lions in ‘canned hunts’ was also mentioned, highlighting that deeply cowardly practice.
A powerful, well plotted and fast paced thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. A very promising debut and I was pleased to read that a sequel is expected in 2020.
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