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Bram Carver #1
Second Chance
He gave up his identity and renounced his family to serve his country as an undercover military agent. Now condemned to Rikers Prison for a murder he can’t remember, Bram Carver’s luck has run out.
The job: infiltrate a criminal gang to stop a rogue soldier selling weapons of mass destruction to an unknown terrorist group.
The problem: he’s stuck in Rikers and the evidence against him can’t be denied.
Bram has renounced his family, but have they renounced him? Guilty or innocent, his sister, Detective Bex Wynter, will not give up on the big brother she adored. Together they learn that appearances are deceptive while loyalties will be tested.
But Bram’s life is not the only one in the crosshairs. Someone’s sights are set on a thirteen-year-old slum brat who holds the key to stop thousands of innocent deaths. Bram knows one wrong foot will put them both in the firing line. The mystery deepens and the consequences become deadlier with each new clue Bex uncovers.
When the hunters become the hunted, one false move will kill them all.
Second Chance is the first electrifying book in the Bram Carver Thriller series. If you like page-turning suspense, globetrotting action, and gripping plot twists that leave you breathless, then you’ll love this exciting new series from Elleby Harper.
Scroll up to buy Second Chance to experience this thrilling page-turner today!
The job: infiltrate a criminal gang to stop a rogue soldier selling weapons of mass destruction to an unknown terrorist group.
The problem: he’s stuck in Rikers and the evidence against him can’t be denied.
Bram has renounced his family, but have they renounced him? Guilty or innocent, his sister, Detective Bex Wynter, will not give up on the big brother she adored. Together they learn that appearances are deceptive while loyalties will be tested.
But Bram’s life is not the only one in the crosshairs. Someone’s sights are set on a thirteen-year-old slum brat who holds the key to stop thousands of innocent deaths. Bram knows one wrong foot will put them both in the firing line. The mystery deepens and the consequences become deadlier with each new clue Bex uncovers.
When the hunters become the hunted, one false move will kill them all.
Second Chance is the first electrifying book in the Bram Carver Thriller series. If you like page-turning suspense, globetrotting action, and gripping plot twists that leave you breathless, then you’ll love this exciting new series from Elleby Harper.
Scroll up to buy Second Chance to experience this thrilling page-turner today!
The Bram Carver thrillers are recommended for fans of Lee Child's Jack Reacher, Mark Dawson’s John Milton, Tim Tigner’s Kyle Achilles and Jason Kasper’s David Rivers series.
What Amazon readers are saying about Second Chance:
"This book blew through the pages like a bomb going off! What a stunningly brilliant beginning to Elleby Harper’s new series!" ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Elleby is one of the very rare gifted writers who not only opens a vivid window to the world she is writing about but plants you dead smack in the middle of it. I literately had a physical reaction to what I was reading…" ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The author has an eye for interesting and complex characters, and this book has no shortage. Rich details of the underside of New York add to the total experience of the book. I have enjoyed all of the Bex Wynter books, but I think this one is the best so far. The plot is full of twists, and many subplots provide a very engrossing experience.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Another scorcher from Elleby." ★ ★ ★ ★
“Wonderful read. VERY well developed characters and a fantastic plot and a really great and exciting read. Everything about Second Chance screams grab a copy and read to your delight. A book that carries the reader along page by page turner page…” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Elleby Harper has another winner on her hands.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Books in the Detective Bex Wynter Files
Driven to Death
Stolen Girls
Courting Death
Death for Sale
Blood Lines
Killing Time
Bram Carver Mystery Thrillers
Second Chance
Hunt for Justice
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2019
146 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Elleby Harper
35 books105 followersElleby Harper was born in England and raised in Australia. She has also lived in North America. She has previously worked as a medical receptionist, a croupier in a casino, an exhibition curator, a librarian and a journalist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 27, 2022
I was gifted this first of a series by the author, Elleby Harper. I have read this novel of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am always pleased to recommend Elleby Harper's works to friends and family. Her books are peopled with honest, well-rounded protagonists with an intriguing mystery and occasionally a touch of romance, plus a clear and exciting look at NYC or London.
Second Chance is the first of the Bram Carver series, but Bram Carver is an active participant in the Detective Bex Wynters series, so we already know him. Second Chance is, however, a completely stand-alone novel, so if you can't read the backstories of either series, you will still enjoy meeting those protagonists here. Bingeing the full series however is an interesting experience. Many are available in Kindle Unlimited.
Bex Wynter is back home in NYC on leave from her British DI job as she is recovering from a broken arm. This is convenient, as her brother Bram Carver is currently locked up in Riker's, held on charges for a murder taking place while he was drugged out of his mind. Only his sister won't believe he has reverted to the opioid addiction he came home with after being severely injured in the service overseas. This is an exciting mystery, convoluted and complex, and one that keeps you rooting for underdog Bram and awed by the mind of Bex. Elleby Harper is going to keep me under a blanket in my reading chair until full spring. Both of these series have new books in the offing and Bex Wynter has many in the rear-view mirror.
Reviewed on January 27, 2022 at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and Barnes&Noble. Not available for review on BookBub, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
Second Chance is the first of the Bram Carver series, but Bram Carver is an active participant in the Detective Bex Wynters series, so we already know him. Second Chance is, however, a completely stand-alone novel, so if you can't read the backstories of either series, you will still enjoy meeting those protagonists here. Bingeing the full series however is an interesting experience. Many are available in Kindle Unlimited.
Bex Wynter is back home in NYC on leave from her British DI job as she is recovering from a broken arm. This is convenient, as her brother Bram Carver is currently locked up in Riker's, held on charges for a murder taking place while he was drugged out of his mind. Only his sister won't believe he has reverted to the opioid addiction he came home with after being severely injured in the service overseas. This is an exciting mystery, convoluted and complex, and one that keeps you rooting for underdog Bram and awed by the mind of Bex. Elleby Harper is going to keep me under a blanket in my reading chair until full spring. Both of these series have new books in the offing and Bex Wynter has many in the rear-view mirror.
Reviewed on January 27, 2022 at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and Barnes&Noble. Not available for review on BookBub, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
January 27, 2020
This is the first book in a new series about Bex’s brother Bram. Unknown to anyone but his direct superiors, he has infiltrated a minor street gang whose leader tries to broker a 100 million dollar arms deal. One eighty (his gang name) has to deliver the messages between the secretive buyer and seller. Something goes wrong with the dropping of the intel and the info ends up in the hands of a young ghetto boy who doesn’t know what he has. Even worse, after being injected with an OD, Bram passes out and when he wakes up the police is at his door and his handler is murdered in his flat. He can’t remember anything but doesn’t know who set him up. His own gang? A rival gang? One of the arms deal parties? Or is it possible that he is guilty? Bex happens to be in New York and finds out about his ordeal (they’re not in touch with each other) and wants to help him out.
It’s a clever idea to start a new series with some of the characters of your other series in it. It works fantastic here. But it’s not necessary to have read the books about Bex. And although she’s not the leading lady here, it’s nice to learn more about her family background. I’m sure that the books about Bram will be as enjoyable as those about his sister. I just hope that Elleby doesn’t give up on her. Both series are very well written and balanced between action and storylines. Just a shame it took me not long enough to read the book. I really couldn’t put it down and read it in a day. This is a fast-paced exciting thriller and I can only wait for more of this, please!
It’s a clever idea to start a new series with some of the characters of your other series in it. It works fantastic here. But it’s not necessary to have read the books about Bex. And although she’s not the leading lady here, it’s nice to learn more about her family background. I’m sure that the books about Bram will be as enjoyable as those about his sister. I just hope that Elleby doesn’t give up on her. Both series are very well written and balanced between action and storylines. Just a shame it took me not long enough to read the book. I really couldn’t put it down and read it in a day. This is a fast-paced exciting thriller and I can only wait for more of this, please!
September 2, 2019
Although there is loads of action (always,when Bex is around) Elleby Harper managed to show the sad side of poverty, and the horrors addicts will go through for their next fix.
All this starts when a hungry teen looks for a bit of food for himself and his siblings in rubbish containers, at the exact spot where Bram has to make a desperate decision that changes his life forever.
Very good read (no pun intended) - about the darker side of families, the divide between rich and poor and the difference between decisions made out of kindness and those made to hurt.
I received an ARC copy from the author, and try to review every book I read.
All this starts when a hungry teen looks for a bit of food for himself and his siblings in rubbish containers, at the exact spot where Bram has to make a desperate decision that changes his life forever.
Very good read (no pun intended) - about the darker side of families, the divide between rich and poor and the difference between decisions made out of kindness and those made to hurt.
I received an ARC copy from the author, and try to review every book I read.
March 23, 2020
NYC Intrigue
An undercover military agent infiltrates a rough hang in the Bronx. The author builds a convincing scene with descriptors using argot and grit as the novel progresses through miscues, mistakes and misadventures. A clever resolution ends the story satisfying this reader.
As I am a gatherer of books, I collect books and ebooks from a variety of sources: Goodreads wins, Bookhub, BookFunnel, emails from authors and publishers, and others. I do lose track of their sources. But, as a reader, I feel I should give an honest, unencumbered review for all I read.
An undercover military agent infiltrates a rough hang in the Bronx. The author builds a convincing scene with descriptors using argot and grit as the novel progresses through miscues, mistakes and misadventures. A clever resolution ends the story satisfying this reader.
As I am a gatherer of books, I collect books and ebooks from a variety of sources: Goodreads wins, Bookhub, BookFunnel, emails from authors and publishers, and others. I do lose track of their sources. But, as a reader, I feel I should give an honest, unencumbered review for all I read.
April 7, 2020
Great mystery by Elleby Harper. I enjoyed understanding more about Bex Wynter's life through the backstory of her brother Bram. After years of estrangement, Bex sees her brother Bram and finds that he is in terrible trouble. Arrested for murder and unable to remember the details of the night that the crime was committed, Bram is unable to aid in his defense. Bex and Bram must combine forces to find out what really happened, before Bram ends up in prison for life.
August 4, 2020
Bran is a gem!
It took me a couple of chapters of #secondchance to warm up to Bram but once that happened I was as thrilled with this book as I have been with all of the Bex Wynter novels! This is smart, has an interesting plot with many twists and introduces a cast of supporting characters that I want to learn more about. I can’t wait to read the next one in the Bram Carver series.
It took me a couple of chapters of #secondchance to warm up to Bram but once that happened I was as thrilled with this book as I have been with all of the Bex Wynter novels! This is smart, has an interesting plot with many twists and introduces a cast of supporting characters that I want to learn more about. I can’t wait to read the next one in the Bram Carver series.
July 15, 2020
Reliable author.
Good story involving deep undercover agent Bram and his sister Bex who is on recuperate leave from London. Much against his will, Bram is forced to take her offer of help after being framed for a murder. Slowly we find out what this operation is all about and follow the twists and turns to the end. Liked it!!
Good story involving deep undercover agent Bram and his sister Bex who is on recuperate leave from London. Much against his will, Bram is forced to take her offer of help after being framed for a murder. Slowly we find out what this operation is all about and follow the twists and turns to the end. Liked it!!
August 8, 2020
First Officer?
I only gave this book four stars because I've never heard of the term "First Officer" in the army before. Why would the First Officer be a NonCom?
Other than that there is plenty of action and suspense to enjoy!
I only gave this book four stars because I've never heard of the term "First Officer" in the army before. Why would the First Officer be a NonCom?
Other than that there is plenty of action and suspense to enjoy!
September 28, 2020
Bex Wynter adored her brother but his time in prison left some big holes in their relationship. Too many secrets. She tried to help him but the closer she gets the further he pushes her away. He made too many mistakes to drag her down with him and he still has one secret he won’t tell her.
March 12, 2023
Does no one edit books anymore? Very one dimensional characters and the story line is lame.
November 21, 2025
A really twisty thriller with two lead characters. Bram and his sister Bex although separated for a long period finally reunite with some unexpected results. Another good read by Elleby Harper.
September 16, 2019
This is book one of the author’s Bram Carver Thriller series and a break off character, as the long disappeared brother of Detective Bex Wynter, who has her own series of books by the author. Her brother Bram left the family at a young age and went into the military to serve, but Bex has only managed to track some of his movements since, never managing to see him or speak to him in years. She moved to the UK to take up a new position at Scotland Yard and came home to the US to deal with an issue around her husband’s death. While there, she learns her brother has been incarcerated at Rykers for murder!
Bram gave up his own identity all those years ago, to work as an undercover military agent, but Bex knows nothing of this. She finds recent trace of him with some bad people. His job is to infiltrate a criminal gang who is trading drugs and stop a rogue soldier from selling off weapons of mass destruction to an unknown terrorist group. His job is dangerous and he has sacrificed a lot to live this life and get justice in his own way. Being accused of the murder of someone, when he can’t remember anything about it, is hard to understand. He is capable of killing, as he did in his military service, but in civilian life, he isn’t so sure. What he doesn’t know, is that he is being framed and his having no memory of events, is all part of what was done.
Bex won’t desert her brother Bram, now she has finally located him and sets to discover who was behind getting him imprisoned and accused of murder. But Bram isn’t the only one she finds is in danger, there is a young street kid who is being hunted down, who holds the key to stopping thousands of innocents being killed. The halfway home for boys that Bex set up in her husband’s memory is also part of the story and a key place for new beginnings. Bram tried to connect with his handler to pass over information, but failed twice and asked a street kid to pass it to her, but this transaction never happened, even though Bram thought it had. This placed the kid, Usher in danger, as he had a vital piece of data in his hands.
Someone wants that data and Bram is thought to have gone rogue after not handing it over. Bring in another villain, who sets him up in a brilliant manner and Bram is in prison, till his sister can figure out what really happened. Bram is hit with some further news, after some testing due to his recent drug exposure, which brings up his questions of family. Another rip roaring set of situations for Bex and her older brother Bram to be exposed to and have to overcome. Mixing in a terrorist threat, drug culture and homeless kids needing a helping hand. It all adds up to a great hotchpotch of criminal investigation and justice, but with a sense of help to those that need it. The priest in the story is a lovey character and one you would like to have by your elbow, when you need it most.
I have read all of the Bex Wynter books, written so far, and knew the author was going to do a separate series on Bex’s older brother Bram. They have different fathers but were brought up together by the Kerwins and Bex has always looked up to him. His backstory is not straight forward and can leave you wondering if he is a good guy or mixed up in bad things. It all adds to an exciting read and a new character to find out more about as his own series is launched. I will certainly look out for more as Bram searches for Justice! I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but have also bought it to add to my collection. I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Bram gave up his own identity all those years ago, to work as an undercover military agent, but Bex knows nothing of this. She finds recent trace of him with some bad people. His job is to infiltrate a criminal gang who is trading drugs and stop a rogue soldier from selling off weapons of mass destruction to an unknown terrorist group. His job is dangerous and he has sacrificed a lot to live this life and get justice in his own way. Being accused of the murder of someone, when he can’t remember anything about it, is hard to understand. He is capable of killing, as he did in his military service, but in civilian life, he isn’t so sure. What he doesn’t know, is that he is being framed and his having no memory of events, is all part of what was done.
Bex won’t desert her brother Bram, now she has finally located him and sets to discover who was behind getting him imprisoned and accused of murder. But Bram isn’t the only one she finds is in danger, there is a young street kid who is being hunted down, who holds the key to stopping thousands of innocents being killed. The halfway home for boys that Bex set up in her husband’s memory is also part of the story and a key place for new beginnings. Bram tried to connect with his handler to pass over information, but failed twice and asked a street kid to pass it to her, but this transaction never happened, even though Bram thought it had. This placed the kid, Usher in danger, as he had a vital piece of data in his hands.
Someone wants that data and Bram is thought to have gone rogue after not handing it over. Bring in another villain, who sets him up in a brilliant manner and Bram is in prison, till his sister can figure out what really happened. Bram is hit with some further news, after some testing due to his recent drug exposure, which brings up his questions of family. Another rip roaring set of situations for Bex and her older brother Bram to be exposed to and have to overcome. Mixing in a terrorist threat, drug culture and homeless kids needing a helping hand. It all adds up to a great hotchpotch of criminal investigation and justice, but with a sense of help to those that need it. The priest in the story is a lovey character and one you would like to have by your elbow, when you need it most.
I have read all of the Bex Wynter books, written so far, and knew the author was going to do a separate series on Bex’s older brother Bram. They have different fathers but were brought up together by the Kerwins and Bex has always looked up to him. His backstory is not straight forward and can leave you wondering if he is a good guy or mixed up in bad things. It all adds to an exciting read and a new character to find out more about as his own series is launched. I will certainly look out for more as Bram searches for Justice! I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but have also bought it to add to my collection. I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
February 29, 2020
Exceptional writing and great character building. Once you start you can't put it down, it keeps you on the edge of your seat right until the end. A definite must read!!
September 12, 2019
Bram is involved in drugs; he is told by his drug boss to pick up and deliver a package. This leads to him waking with a dead body in his apartment. Being held at Rikers and no memory whether he is responsible.
So Bex is in the USA and remembers her older brother, as having a drug problem when he got out of the service hurting their mother and other things the last time the family interacted with him. She sees him while serving food to the needy. Notified that Bram is in trouble and uses her old NYPD connections to get info to help him.
Now add to that the military and its usual SNAFU.
Also add a child living with parents who are addicts and in trouble with the law. He is the oldest and is the 'parent ' that takes care of his siblings.
No child should ever have to live like that. Hungry and in such severe poverty. Voice of experience.
Harper does a great job of tying all this into a story that has so many twist and turns , even at the end, that you have to wait till the end of the book to figure out what is going on.
Spinoff series from from Detective Bex Winter Files (or British Crime with an American Twist -originally) series. Check them out will not regret it.
Now I have just a few things I was looking for more of in the story. Bex's stepson gets pushed aside to deal with Bram. I felt that there could have been a side story of that dynamic also going on. Especially since each event was told by each character in the story. Only one small comment about her job in London and policing. Bex and Bram never made time to catch up and talk about Zane and other things. Yes I know this is Bram's story but still just a bit more would have been nice. Guess I am too involved with the characters.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
So Bex is in the USA and remembers her older brother, as having a drug problem when he got out of the service hurting their mother and other things the last time the family interacted with him. She sees him while serving food to the needy. Notified that Bram is in trouble and uses her old NYPD connections to get info to help him.
Now add to that the military and its usual SNAFU.
Also add a child living with parents who are addicts and in trouble with the law. He is the oldest and is the 'parent ' that takes care of his siblings.
No child should ever have to live like that. Hungry and in such severe poverty. Voice of experience.
Harper does a great job of tying all this into a story that has so many twist and turns , even at the end, that you have to wait till the end of the book to figure out what is going on.
Spinoff series from from Detective Bex Winter Files (or British Crime with an American Twist -originally) series. Check them out will not regret it.
Now I have just a few things I was looking for more of in the story. Bex's stepson gets pushed aside to deal with Bram. I felt that there could have been a side story of that dynamic also going on. Especially since each event was told by each character in the story. Only one small comment about her job in London and policing. Bex and Bram never made time to catch up and talk about Zane and other things. Yes I know this is Bram's story but still just a bit more would have been nice. Guess I am too involved with the characters.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
October 5, 2021
5/17, Cue Ball (thug) & One Eighty (thug) came to collect from Irvin Clay (husband/father).
Usher (son) & Laila Clay (wife/mother) were petrified.
Kristian, Detective Bex Wynter (NYPD Homicide), & Peyton Perez served the homeless at Principal Father Ken Lingenfelter soup kitchen.
Detective Harding (55th Precinct) & Detective Clifton (55th Precinct) were interrogating Abraham Carver.
Rikers Island Manhattan, Bronx, Queens boroughs, NYC. Sergeant Erica Lazenby (Military Police Special Agent, aka Detective Bex Wynter went to see Abraham Carver.
Detective Bex Wynter, Detective Bram, & Detective Lazenby arrived.
Principal Father Ken Lingenfelter runs a breakfast club also at St. Clements’ Parish School Southview/Mott Haven.
Irvin Clay is charged with stealing 12 new phones from T-Rex’s cell phone store in the West Village.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written urban crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great urban crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. It was just OK for me so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Usher (son) & Laila Clay (wife/mother) were petrified.
Kristian, Detective Bex Wynter (NYPD Homicide), & Peyton Perez served the homeless at Principal Father Ken Lingenfelter soup kitchen.
Detective Harding (55th Precinct) & Detective Clifton (55th Precinct) were interrogating Abraham Carver.
Rikers Island Manhattan, Bronx, Queens boroughs, NYC. Sergeant Erica Lazenby (Military Police Special Agent, aka Detective Bex Wynter went to see Abraham Carver.
Detective Bex Wynter, Detective Bram, & Detective Lazenby arrived.
Principal Father Ken Lingenfelter runs a breakfast club also at St. Clements’ Parish School Southview/Mott Haven.
Irvin Clay is charged with stealing 12 new phones from T-Rex’s cell phone store in the West Village.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written urban crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great urban crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. It was just OK for me so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
August 29, 2019
He gave up his identity and renounced his family to serve his country as an undercover military agent. Now condemned to Rikers Prison for a murder he can’t remember, Bram Carver’s luck has run out.
The job: infiltrate a criminal gang to stop a rogue soldier selling weapons of mass destruction to an unknown terrorist group.
The problem: he’s stuck in Rikers and the evidence against him can’t be denied.
Bram has renounced his family, but have they renounced him? Guilty or innocent, his sister, Detective Bex Wynter, will not give up on the big brother she adored. Together they learn that appearances are deceptive while loyalties will be tested.
But Bram’s life is not the only one in the crosshairs. Someone’s sights are set on a thirteen-year-old slum brat who holds the key to stop thousands of innocent deaths. Bram knows one wrong foot will put them both in the firing line. The mystery deepens and the consequences become deadlier with each new clue Bex uncovers.
When the hunters become the hunted, one false move will kill them all.
WOW!!! This is a great start to a new series from this author.
Fast paced, full of action.
Well written characters.
A plot and story line that keeps you gripped to the very end.
Has left me wanting more now to see where the author is going to take us.
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The job: infiltrate a criminal gang to stop a rogue soldier selling weapons of mass destruction to an unknown terrorist group.
The problem: he’s stuck in Rikers and the evidence against him can’t be denied.
Bram has renounced his family, but have they renounced him? Guilty or innocent, his sister, Detective Bex Wynter, will not give up on the big brother she adored. Together they learn that appearances are deceptive while loyalties will be tested.
But Bram’s life is not the only one in the crosshairs. Someone’s sights are set on a thirteen-year-old slum brat who holds the key to stop thousands of innocent deaths. Bram knows one wrong foot will put them both in the firing line. The mystery deepens and the consequences become deadlier with each new clue Bex uncovers.
When the hunters become the hunted, one false move will kill them all.
WOW!!! This is a great start to a new series from this author.
Fast paced, full of action.
Well written characters.
A plot and story line that keeps you gripped to the very end.
Has left me wanting more now to see where the author is going to take us.
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 29, 2019
Compelling read with everything possible in this book, Second Chance, which was a superb read! Elleby Harper gripped this reader from start to finish. Exciting mystery and Bes, (main character), does her wonderful best for the brother she grew up adoring, who has been judged guilty, and cannot remember the “why”. Intrigue abounds in the book, and has twists and turns which gets the reader THERE. In synopsis of book it was said by great Author Elleby Harper that “When the hunter becomes the hunted, one false move will kill them all”, so the stakes were HIGH, but not as high as this reader recommends Second Chance with. Wonderful read. Very well developed characters, and a fantastic plot, and really great and exciting read. Everything about Second Chance screams...grab a copy and read to your delight, a book that carries the reader along page by page turner page, while being fully entertained throughout the book. I HIGHLY recommend Second Chance by Elleby Harper as a very satisfying read for those who love mystery, intrigue, twists and turns, and all parts flowing with no saggy beginning, ending, or in between! Flows magically and very smoothly. Elleby Harper proves great penmanship is wonderful with this book, Second Chance.
September 9, 2019
Oh! My! Stars! What an amazing read! Ms. Harper has the ability to grab her reader by the throat and not let go. The story here is simply extremely well-written. I know that sounds over-simplified, but there's not a higher compliment I can pay. The dialogue flows almost effortlessly, the action is non-stop, the emotional components ring true and aren't overdone, and there are more twists and turns than a bag of pretzels!!! This is another typical Elleby Harper book in that she invariably gets me into trouble with my husband. I'll be in the middle of reading and he has the audacity to want me to stop and cook dinner! What is the man thinking? Or he'll be ready to call it a night and doesn't believe me when I say, "Just one more chapter." (I can't say I blame him. I wouldn't believe me either!) So be forewarned. Once you pick up Second Chance everything else in your life will fall by the wayside. Make sure you have the children home before you pick up the book. It would be a crying shame for the school to call 2 hours after pick-up time to remind you to come get them. And this book is THAT good!!!!
August 27, 2019
Second Chance by Elleby Harper
Another scorcher from Elleby. Having made an attempt at writing myself, I am amazed when I read a new book in a series - hoping it will not be a rehash of ideas I’ve heard before, and being excited by the result. This book is a spin-off but has characters in common with another series by this author.
Plots and twists are interesting and different enough to keep me reading up until 1.30 in the morning. (I was supposed to be awake again at 6.00am.)
Characters are engaging and that includes the baddies. One of my pet hates is characters that I don’t care about one way or the other. All good here.
Settings described so that I could clearly envisage the spot and in some cases even see in my mind's eye a place I had visited.
A great read. Thank you
Another scorcher from Elleby. Having made an attempt at writing myself, I am amazed when I read a new book in a series - hoping it will not be a rehash of ideas I’ve heard before, and being excited by the result. This book is a spin-off but has characters in common with another series by this author.
Plots and twists are interesting and different enough to keep me reading up until 1.30 in the morning. (I was supposed to be awake again at 6.00am.)
Characters are engaging and that includes the baddies. One of my pet hates is characters that I don’t care about one way or the other. All good here.
Settings described so that I could clearly envisage the spot and in some cases even see in my mind's eye a place I had visited.
A great read. Thank you
August 28, 2019
Does Bex still have the abilities and support of the NYC police dept?
Ms. Harper again 'hits the ball out of the park' as she presents a hard-case druggie working as muscle for a New York City gang leader. Unfortunately, the gang only needs him for his white skin. He is to deliver a message concerning a high dollar sale between a person with military-grade weapons and a possible terrorist group. Nothing goes right and Bex is involved because the messenger is someone she used to be close to. This is another winner from this author, the only place where I would like improvement is when the culprit is confronted much of the plot is revealed by the dialog between the participants. The reasoning of the culprit seems a bit fuzzy as named accomplices shift during the dramatic take-down. Recommended primarily in order to provide further background and strength to the Bex Wynter story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ms. Harper again 'hits the ball out of the park' as she presents a hard-case druggie working as muscle for a New York City gang leader. Unfortunately, the gang only needs him for his white skin. He is to deliver a message concerning a high dollar sale between a person with military-grade weapons and a possible terrorist group. Nothing goes right and Bex is involved because the messenger is someone she used to be close to. This is another winner from this author, the only place where I would like improvement is when the culprit is confronted much of the plot is revealed by the dialog between the participants. The reasoning of the culprit seems a bit fuzzy as named accomplices shift during the dramatic take-down. Recommended primarily in order to provide further background and strength to the Bex Wynter story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 30, 2019
Exceptional thriller
Bram Carter, secret undercover agent for a special unit of the United States Army, is found drugged, bloody and standing over a dead body that has been brutally murdered. When his sister, former homicide detective of the NYPD, finds out she bails him out of Rikers Island Prison. Between the two of them and a female army sargent, they are on the hunt for a disc drive that could blow this whole case wife open and save the United States from betrayal by a vigilante group. There is incredible action throughout this book and it ends with an explosive and surprising conclusion. This book shows another side of Bex Wynter, former New York cop who is now an inspector for England. I love series latest edition to her story with the incredible addition of her brother who she hasn't seen in years. I highly recommend this book and this author to all thriller readers.
Bram Carter, secret undercover agent for a special unit of the United States Army, is found drugged, bloody and standing over a dead body that has been brutally murdered. When his sister, former homicide detective of the NYPD, finds out she bails him out of Rikers Island Prison. Between the two of them and a female army sargent, they are on the hunt for a disc drive that could blow this whole case wife open and save the United States from betrayal by a vigilante group. There is incredible action throughout this book and it ends with an explosive and surprising conclusion. This book shows another side of Bex Wynter, former New York cop who is now an inspector for England. I love series latest edition to her story with the incredible addition of her brother who she hasn't seen in years. I highly recommend this book and this author to all thriller readers.
January 26, 2020
Another great series that ties in with the Bex Wynter series. In this book, Bex is back in New York to help her stepson get his act together after his mother dies. Kristian Wynter is 14 years old and has seen more than any 14 year old should see. His mother took him when he was very young and kept him away from his father. She lied to him and used him to help her get her drugs. When she dies on the street from an overdoes, Kristian is taken in by Bex and his father's best friend. This book introduces Bex's brother, Bram, who is the main character in this new series. He is estranged from his father and as a result has not seen Bex is many years. This book brings the siblings together again to solve a murder that is being blamed on Bram. The characters are likable and the action is intense. Book 2 is now available and I recommend that you get Book 2 handy before starting Book 1 because you will want to continue reading this series.
August 29, 2019
Elleby Harper breaks us into this new series with confidence and skill, never getting hooked on ‘world building’, there’s no words wasted telling us what we need to know. I’ve rated all of Elleby Harper’s books highly as they’ve been gripping entertaining page turners but I’d say this might just be her best yet. It’s full of great characters each with excellent development through the story. It’s well paced moving from scene to scene avoiding any kind of lull, everything happens to further the story. Despite there being a lot going on it’s never overwhelming and all the strands are pulled together brilliantly to reveal who is up to what and why. A cracking mystery thriller that’s a great opener for the series. If this proves to be like the majority of other series and gets better with each book then we’re going to get something quite brilliant.
August 29, 2019
Bex is still in New York with a broken arm. While helping out at Father Ken's soup kitchen, she's sure she sees her older brother, Bram, and attempts to chase him down. Bram was in the military when he was hurt badly and afterwards he ended up addicted to drugs. He estranged himself from the whole family years ago. Bex is very worried about him and what he's up to now. When Bram ends up in Rikers Prison under an assumed name, Bex finds out and goes to see him. The things she finds out are startling and downright scary. There's lots of thrills, intrigue and action in this book. It looks like Bram's new series is going to be every bit as good as Bex's. I love this book, it's definitely a page turner that will keep you reading until your eyes can't stay open anymore! I highly recommend it!
September 17, 2019
Sale of plutonium has Bex Wynters and her brother Bram figuring out who the bad guys are - 4.5 stars
High energy story is staged in New York City. Starts with drug ring enforcers shaking down a family in public housing and wraps up as a Catholic priest gets shot as he tries to protect a child.
Not a gratuitous shoot-em-up but rather a story of personal greed trumping duty to country. You cannot be sure who is trustworthy until the end.
The back story of Bex's family history is nicely woven into the plot.
Bex calls in favors from her previous stint in NYPD trying to dig deeper into the forensic evidence. Pin holes were found in a blood-soaked shirt.
I enjoyed this page-turner thriller; not knowing where the loyalties were until the end was cleverly done.
High energy story is staged in New York City. Starts with drug ring enforcers shaking down a family in public housing and wraps up as a Catholic priest gets shot as he tries to protect a child.
Not a gratuitous shoot-em-up but rather a story of personal greed trumping duty to country. You cannot be sure who is trustworthy until the end.
The back story of Bex's family history is nicely woven into the plot.
Bex calls in favors from her previous stint in NYPD trying to dig deeper into the forensic evidence. Pin holes were found in a blood-soaked shirt.
I enjoyed this page-turner thriller; not knowing where the loyalties were until the end was cleverly done.
August 28, 2019
As Bex is in New York recovering from a broken arm, her brother reenters her life. He is working as an undercover gent for the Army, but all she knows is that he is estranged from the family and believed to be a drug addict. Some familiar characters and several new characters are involved in a dramatic mystery that will entrap you immediately. The author has an eye for interesting and complex characters, and this book has no shortage. Rich details of the underside of New York add to the total experience of the book. I have enjoyed all of the Bex Wynter books, but I think this one is the best so far. The plot is full of twists, and many subplots provide a very engrossing experience.
September 4, 2019
Wow, Elleby has done it again! Such a gripping story I couldn't put it down. A real page turner. Second Chance sees Bex back in New York to tie up loose ends and catch up with Walt, who runs the youth centre in which Bex invested. She also wants to find her Brother, Bram, with whom she has lost touch, as well as helping Kristian - her deceased husband's son - to get back on his feet after the recent death of his mother. All this before she has to return to her role in the London Metropolitan Police. To say more would spoil the story but, believe me, it's a real page turner.
September 7, 2019
Ok before this review I have to say that when I started I was a bit confused (brain fog) and had to go back
a chapter to re-read it. Then the light came on and I totally understood what I had mis-read.
Then bang! Omg this book is totally fabulous!.. It is a new series tied into the Bex Wynter' series.
So many twists and turns and surprises that were totally unexpected!. I can't wait to see what the
next book in this series brings.. And can't wait to see if it continues to tie into the Bex Wynter series,
or takes off on its own~
a chapter to re-read it. Then the light came on and I totally understood what I had mis-read.
Then bang! Omg this book is totally fabulous!.. It is a new series tied into the Bex Wynter' series.
So many twists and turns and surprises that were totally unexpected!. I can't wait to see what the
next book in this series brings.. And can't wait to see if it continues to tie into the Bex Wynter series,
or takes off on its own~
September 3, 2019
A thriller that is sure to please. Never a spoiler in my reviews, this book is well written with a GREAT cast of characters that have depth and substance; twists and turns galore in this top-notch thriller! If this is the first time you've read this author, this is a wonderful introduction to masterful writing; gripping, fast-paced, easy to get into, and does well as a stand-alone. So, don't hesitate, get it now.
September 6, 2019
Great story.
I absolutely loved the Bex Winters series and this book introduces her brother in the first book of a new series
I enjoyed every page of it. I don't want to give any spoilers so I'll just say I couldnt put the book do×n and the end which was fantastic by the way, was better than I could have hoped for. Loved the entire book and all the characters and their great personalities.
I absolutely loved the Bex Winters series and this book introduces her brother in the first book of a new series
I enjoyed every page of it. I don't want to give any spoilers so I'll just say I couldnt put the book do×n and the end which was fantastic by the way, was better than I could have hoped for. Loved the entire book and all the characters and their great personalities.
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