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Jay Qasim #1
East of Hounslow
Meet Jay.
Small-time dealer.
Accidental jihadist.
The one man who can save us all?
Javid – call him Jay – is a dope dealer living in West London. He goes to mosque on Friday, and he’s just bought his pride and joy – a BMW. He lives with his mum, and life seems sweet.
But his world is about to turn upside-down. Because MI5 have been watching him, and they think he’s just the man they need for a delicate mission.
One thing’s for sure: now he’s a long way East of Hounslow, Jay’s life will never be the same again.
Small-time dealer.
Accidental jihadist.
The one man who can save us all?
Javid – call him Jay – is a dope dealer living in West London. He goes to mosque on Friday, and he’s just bought his pride and joy – a BMW. He lives with his mum, and life seems sweet.
But his world is about to turn upside-down. Because MI5 have been watching him, and they think he’s just the man they need for a delicate mission.
One thing’s for sure: now he’s a long way East of Hounslow, Jay’s life will never be the same again.
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2017
236 people are currently reading
3867 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
December 11, 2017
East of Hounslow is a cracking debut thriller that speaks of contemporary issues in our world. Set in Hounslow and Pakistan, it is a smart, comic and witty story featuring Javid Qasim, aka Jay, living at home with his mum, a low level drug dealer, who is about to find out that he has a lot of growing up to do when his whole world turns upside down. Jay knows his neighbourhood, is a Muslim whose only nod to his religion is his Friday attendance for prayers at his local mosque in Sutton, otherwise he is your everyday Brit lad. Then his mosque get attacked and Jay helps clean up and attends a meeting, which goes on to lead to a major bust up when he tries to protect his childhood friend. Parvez. Then everything goes to hell in a handcart, his new BMW has been jacked, he has no insurance, but what is worse is that his gear and cash, to the tune of £9000 was stashed in the car. He faces a scary future as his supplier will not let this go, and Jay's life is on the line. If that was not enough, MI5 have been keeping an eye on him, and Kingsley Parker want him to spy on mosque attendees and report back on suspicious individuals and activities.
Jay is in no position to refuse with the threat of prison hanging over his head, additionally he makes a detailed statement about his supplier to the police. Before you know it, he is enthusiastically fulfilling his mission, particularly after seeing an jihadi attack in Edmonton which kills numerous children on the news. He finds himself alone as his mum and the fella she is seeing move to Qatar. His long time friend Chief Inspector Idris Zaidi, tells him he can no longer see him. Using his wits and street smarts, Jay finds himself being welcomed into a jihadi group, develops relationships with those involved and tries to look out for and protect Parvaz. The imam, the head of the group, sees Jay as a special addition according him unheard of privileges, sparking resentment and curiosity from the more long standing members. Matters come to a head when Jay is placed in a training camp in Pakistan where the group are entrusted with a covert mission. Will Jay be able to survive and foil the planned atrocity?
This is a story that speaks to us of the issues confronting the society we live in. Rahman has written a complex tale that is full of tension, gripping and compelling. It all feels so desperately real and authentic as Rahman reveals the anger and motivations of young Muslims and how they might get involved in the jihadi movements. It takes in the roles and actions taken by the intelligence agencies, and how Jay is manipulated by the senior ranks, and his close relationship with his handler, Kingsley Parker. The real strength of the novel is the winning creation and development of Jay, facing a complicated personal history, living in a time where life for many Muslims is not easy in the face of anti-Muslim hysteria. Jay is your ordinary Joe who finds there is much more to him that he had ever imagined. An extraordinarily pertinent and brilliant read that I recommend highly. Many thanks to Harlequin for an ARC.
Jay is in no position to refuse with the threat of prison hanging over his head, additionally he makes a detailed statement about his supplier to the police. Before you know it, he is enthusiastically fulfilling his mission, particularly after seeing an jihadi attack in Edmonton which kills numerous children on the news. He finds himself alone as his mum and the fella she is seeing move to Qatar. His long time friend Chief Inspector Idris Zaidi, tells him he can no longer see him. Using his wits and street smarts, Jay finds himself being welcomed into a jihadi group, develops relationships with those involved and tries to look out for and protect Parvaz. The imam, the head of the group, sees Jay as a special addition according him unheard of privileges, sparking resentment and curiosity from the more long standing members. Matters come to a head when Jay is placed in a training camp in Pakistan where the group are entrusted with a covert mission. Will Jay be able to survive and foil the planned atrocity?
This is a story that speaks to us of the issues confronting the society we live in. Rahman has written a complex tale that is full of tension, gripping and compelling. It all feels so desperately real and authentic as Rahman reveals the anger and motivations of young Muslims and how they might get involved in the jihadi movements. It takes in the roles and actions taken by the intelligence agencies, and how Jay is manipulated by the senior ranks, and his close relationship with his handler, Kingsley Parker. The real strength of the novel is the winning creation and development of Jay, facing a complicated personal history, living in a time where life for many Muslims is not easy in the face of anti-Muslim hysteria. Jay is your ordinary Joe who finds there is much more to him that he had ever imagined. An extraordinarily pertinent and brilliant read that I recommend highly. Many thanks to Harlequin for an ARC.
August 27, 2023
The minority are not with the majority
A great book. It feels a bit like Snatch with muslin narration. Three things I really like about this book are:
The characters. Everything about this book feels authentic. I really like the characters struggling with their identity, values, and living their everyday lives. I think everybody who grew up in London could find the character traits from the characters here in someone they knew. Just normal everyday Londoners.
The locations. If you have been to London, you will know what every place in this story looks like. The touches of the London tragic and getting a Death in the train brilliant.
Separating the terrorists from the Muslim community. Yes, unfortunately, these people exist, but they are in the minority. Also, really highlighting their hypocrisy. One of the most powerful chapters of this book is when a character gives a very positive lecture (for appearance sake), then turns it round to justify the evil act in his mind.
It is a great book, a good message, and educational about Islamic practices as well. If there are more books to come in this series, I can't wait to read them.
A great book. It feels a bit like Snatch with muslin narration. Three things I really like about this book are:
The characters. Everything about this book feels authentic. I really like the characters struggling with their identity, values, and living their everyday lives. I think everybody who grew up in London could find the character traits from the characters here in someone they knew. Just normal everyday Londoners.
The locations. If you have been to London, you will know what every place in this story looks like. The touches of the London tragic and getting a Death in the train brilliant.
Separating the terrorists from the Muslim community. Yes, unfortunately, these people exist, but they are in the minority. Also, really highlighting their hypocrisy. One of the most powerful chapters of this book is when a character gives a very positive lecture (for appearance sake), then turns it round to justify the evil act in his mind.
It is a great book, a good message, and educational about Islamic practices as well. If there are more books to come in this series, I can't wait to read them.
November 9, 2017
Javid Qasim, ‘Call me Jay,’ is a small time drug dealer, living in Hounslow with his mum. The great love of his life is his new car and he is comfortable in his world. However, life for Jay is about to become quite complicated. Firstly, there is the fact that his local mosque has been desecrated, causing some hot headed young men to look for trouble, which Jay finds himself caught up in. Secondly, his drug supplier, Silas Drakos, is expecting to be paid, but Jay suddenly finds himself without funds. Thirdly, MI5 have their eyes on him…
This is an excellent debut novel. The writing is assured, the plot interesting, the characters well drawn and realistic. Of course, the main character is Jay and he is smart, sharp, funny and doing his best to retain some normality in a world which seems to have gone crazy around him. There is something quite daring in using a small time crook and putting him in a scenario where, despite his faults, he is – and quickly becomes – our hero. From the first page you are cheering for Jay, as he does his best to respond to unfolding events.
As well as Jay, there are a good cast of supporting characters. Jay’s school friend, turned police officer, Idris Zaidi, his neighbour, the intense Parvez, the vicious and unpredictable, Silas Drakos, and Kingsley Parker, who is Jay’s MI5 handler. This is a novel about growing up, about modern issues, such as radicalisation, and of the real concerns that communities have about the way they are viewed. Khurrum Rahman is a new author, but we will be hearing more of him, I hope, and I will certainly be reading his next novel. If you like modern spy novels, such as the excellent, “Slow Horses,” series, by Mick Herron, then you will enjoy this. Realistic, intelligent, moving and also full of humour, this is a great read.
This is an excellent debut novel. The writing is assured, the plot interesting, the characters well drawn and realistic. Of course, the main character is Jay and he is smart, sharp, funny and doing his best to retain some normality in a world which seems to have gone crazy around him. There is something quite daring in using a small time crook and putting him in a scenario where, despite his faults, he is – and quickly becomes – our hero. From the first page you are cheering for Jay, as he does his best to respond to unfolding events.
As well as Jay, there are a good cast of supporting characters. Jay’s school friend, turned police officer, Idris Zaidi, his neighbour, the intense Parvez, the vicious and unpredictable, Silas Drakos, and Kingsley Parker, who is Jay’s MI5 handler. This is a novel about growing up, about modern issues, such as radicalisation, and of the real concerns that communities have about the way they are viewed. Khurrum Rahman is a new author, but we will be hearing more of him, I hope, and I will certainly be reading his next novel. If you like modern spy novels, such as the excellent, “Slow Horses,” series, by Mick Herron, then you will enjoy this. Realistic, intelligent, moving and also full of humour, this is a great read.
December 14, 2017
“Everyone’s worried about stopping terrorism. Well, there’s really an easy way: Stop participating in it.”
----Noam Chomsky
Khurrum Rahman, a Pakistan-born, British author, has penned a pot-boiling thriller, East of Hounslow that revolves around a low-key 30-something Muslim drug dealer, who still lives with his mum in the British town, Hounslow, who is not very religious, yet for the sake of religion, he attends the Friday prayers at a local mosque, but little did he knew that he has been on the radar of MI5 for a very long time, so when he loses the deadly supplier's money, this drug dealer gets caught up as a pawn in the war between religious extremists who wants the world to teach a lesson in the name of Allah and the MI5's one-man team who wants to stop the jihadists at any cost.
Synopsis:
Meet Jay.
Small-time dealer.
Accidental jihadist.
The one man who can save us all?
Javid – call him Jay – is a dope dealer living in West London. He goes to mosque on Friday, and he’s just bought his pride and joy – a BMW. He lives with his mum, and life seems sweet.
But his world is about to turn upside-down. Because MI5 have been watching him, and they think he’s just the man they need for a delicate mission.
One thing’s for sure: now he’s a long way East of Hounslow, Jay’s life will never be the same again.
With the edgy humor of Four Lions and the pulse-racing tension of Nomad, East of Hounslow is the first in a series of thriller starring Jay Qasim.
Javid Qasim, a.k.a, Jay (and trust me, he would love you if you call him Jay) is a Muslim small-time drug dealer living with his widowed mother in a small town in London, who spent his life's earning on a BMW car. But sadly, on a revenge mission to teach the white guys a lesson for destroying their local mosque where every Friday Jay goes for evening prayers just for the sake of his religion, Jay's car get stolen along with the cash that he owed to his creepy and deadly drug supplier. Little did Jay knew that he was on the radar of MI5's one-man team who is on a mission to curb terrorism from the face of his country. So when he is given a choice to betray his Muslim friends to become a spy for MI5, Jay realizes that he has become a pawn in this wild game of terrorism. Can he survive the mission of the jihads' as well as of the MI5's?
Honestly, while reading I felt like reading a book by not some debut author, but by a seasoned author. My god, the plot is simply brilliant and it kept me hooked on to the story line till the very last page. Laced with funny anecdotes, this fast-paced thriller is really one of its kind. Even though the book addresses the issues with Muslim religion's extremists and with their ideals and the misguiding in the name of the Holy book, with lots of sensitivity and thoughtfully. The author's perception of this story proves that he is a man whose imagination knows no bounds and that can drown the readers deeply and intensely through his vivid story-telling.
The author's writing style is excellent, in one word. Laced with dry humor and subtle sarcasm, the narrative is engaging to its very core and will keep the readers turning the pages of this book till the very end. The pacing is really fast, considering its tightly packed plot that has intense mystery to keep the readers intrigued. And not to mention, the story is narrated from the perspective of a grown yet a bit immature man, who will non-stop tickle the funny bones of the readers despite of the threat and the danger he is undergoing in the story.
The mystery concocted by the author is really smart, strong and clever enough, laced perfectly with enough twists and turns to keep the readers anticipating till the very end. Thy edgy suspense and the gripping tension is laced flawlessly into the plot. Although, for seasoned crime fiction readers, I bet, they can easily figure out the major twist pretty easily, just like me. Otherwise, its a captivating thriller with so many elements like adrenaline rushing actions, high paced religious extremists' drama to give that rushing feel to those who will read this book.
The characters are amazing, not the lot, just the protagonist, who is realistic and authentic enough to keep the readers gripped to the story line. The main character, named, Jay is one hell of a protagonist, who will not will crack up the readers like anything now-and-then, but will also challenge them all throughout the story line, His sense of humor is super amazing and so his not-so-mature mind, yet his determination and his curiosity will make the readers fall for him. The rest of the supporting cast of okay, sort of interesting, but could have been much better if their demeanor was explored a little bit more.
In a nutshell, this turned out to be an engrossing read till the very last page and I would suggest all the crime-fic lovers to grab a copy of this book upon its release.
Verdict: Often funny, absolutely riveting and adrenaline-rushing thriller into the dark world of terrorism.
Courtesy: Thanks to the publishers from Harper Collins India for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
----Noam Chomsky
Khurrum Rahman, a Pakistan-born, British author, has penned a pot-boiling thriller, East of Hounslow that revolves around a low-key 30-something Muslim drug dealer, who still lives with his mum in the British town, Hounslow, who is not very religious, yet for the sake of religion, he attends the Friday prayers at a local mosque, but little did he knew that he has been on the radar of MI5 for a very long time, so when he loses the deadly supplier's money, this drug dealer gets caught up as a pawn in the war between religious extremists who wants the world to teach a lesson in the name of Allah and the MI5's one-man team who wants to stop the jihadists at any cost.
Synopsis:
Meet Jay.
Small-time dealer.
Accidental jihadist.
The one man who can save us all?
Javid – call him Jay – is a dope dealer living in West London. He goes to mosque on Friday, and he’s just bought his pride and joy – a BMW. He lives with his mum, and life seems sweet.
But his world is about to turn upside-down. Because MI5 have been watching him, and they think he’s just the man they need for a delicate mission.
One thing’s for sure: now he’s a long way East of Hounslow, Jay’s life will never be the same again.
With the edgy humor of Four Lions and the pulse-racing tension of Nomad, East of Hounslow is the first in a series of thriller starring Jay Qasim.
Javid Qasim, a.k.a, Jay (and trust me, he would love you if you call him Jay) is a Muslim small-time drug dealer living with his widowed mother in a small town in London, who spent his life's earning on a BMW car. But sadly, on a revenge mission to teach the white guys a lesson for destroying their local mosque where every Friday Jay goes for evening prayers just for the sake of his religion, Jay's car get stolen along with the cash that he owed to his creepy and deadly drug supplier. Little did Jay knew that he was on the radar of MI5's one-man team who is on a mission to curb terrorism from the face of his country. So when he is given a choice to betray his Muslim friends to become a spy for MI5, Jay realizes that he has become a pawn in this wild game of terrorism. Can he survive the mission of the jihads' as well as of the MI5's?
Honestly, while reading I felt like reading a book by not some debut author, but by a seasoned author. My god, the plot is simply brilliant and it kept me hooked on to the story line till the very last page. Laced with funny anecdotes, this fast-paced thriller is really one of its kind. Even though the book addresses the issues with Muslim religion's extremists and with their ideals and the misguiding in the name of the Holy book, with lots of sensitivity and thoughtfully. The author's perception of this story proves that he is a man whose imagination knows no bounds and that can drown the readers deeply and intensely through his vivid story-telling.
The author's writing style is excellent, in one word. Laced with dry humor and subtle sarcasm, the narrative is engaging to its very core and will keep the readers turning the pages of this book till the very end. The pacing is really fast, considering its tightly packed plot that has intense mystery to keep the readers intrigued. And not to mention, the story is narrated from the perspective of a grown yet a bit immature man, who will non-stop tickle the funny bones of the readers despite of the threat and the danger he is undergoing in the story.
The mystery concocted by the author is really smart, strong and clever enough, laced perfectly with enough twists and turns to keep the readers anticipating till the very end. Thy edgy suspense and the gripping tension is laced flawlessly into the plot. Although, for seasoned crime fiction readers, I bet, they can easily figure out the major twist pretty easily, just like me. Otherwise, its a captivating thriller with so many elements like adrenaline rushing actions, high paced religious extremists' drama to give that rushing feel to those who will read this book.
The characters are amazing, not the lot, just the protagonist, who is realistic and authentic enough to keep the readers gripped to the story line. The main character, named, Jay is one hell of a protagonist, who will not will crack up the readers like anything now-and-then, but will also challenge them all throughout the story line, His sense of humor is super amazing and so his not-so-mature mind, yet his determination and his curiosity will make the readers fall for him. The rest of the supporting cast of okay, sort of interesting, but could have been much better if their demeanor was explored a little bit more.
In a nutshell, this turned out to be an engrossing read till the very last page and I would suggest all the crime-fic lovers to grab a copy of this book upon its release.
Verdict: Often funny, absolutely riveting and adrenaline-rushing thriller into the dark world of terrorism.
Courtesy: Thanks to the publishers from Harper Collins India for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
December 20, 2022
Javid Qasim (Jay to his friends) is a low level drug dealer who lives with his mum in Hounslow, a suburb in west London. He has never had to experience much in the way of racial discrimination, and although he goes to the mosque on Fridays his religion has never been a significant feature in his life. That is until there is an attack on his mosque and he gets involved in the clean up and tries to protect an over-zealous friend during a retaliatory attack. Then suddenly his life becomes a lot more complicated and will never be the same again.
This is a terrific debut novel. Smart and edgy with a comic undertone, it deals with contemporary issues of racial hate, violence and extremist ideology. The scenario it paints is very real and uncomfortably close to actual events around the world. It’s a gripping tale that draws you in to read to the suspense filled ending.
This is a terrific debut novel. Smart and edgy with a comic undertone, it deals with contemporary issues of racial hate, violence and extremist ideology. The scenario it paints is very real and uncomfortably close to actual events around the world. It’s a gripping tale that draws you in to read to the suspense filled ending.
November 30, 2017
This book was ALL the brilliant. Seriously. It is one of those books that creeps up on you - you start it, and you are enjoying it and then you realise it is consuming your thoughts and even when you are not reading it you are thinking about it.
So we meet Javid (call him Jay) , a Jack the lad, a decent guy in lots of ways (but also, you know, drug dealer but you soon forgive him) and despite his faults you immediately fall in love with his banter and his humour and get a real feel for the community in which he lives, his thoughts about being a Muslim and his actually quite normal life - then suddenly he is recruited by MI5, for reasons that elude him and we are off on a journey of often very funny, always insightful, very socially relevant mayhem.
The dialogue sparkles, the scene setting is totally immersive, Jay is just endlessly endearing throughout and you root for him, you feel all his emotions, the highs, the lows as he struggles to assess not only those around him but also his own reactions to the things he is learning. Many people seek to manipulate him and one of the huge strengths of this story is the absolute authenticity the author brings to it, this is very real, no holds barred, no punches pulled storytelling.
It is a multi-layered character drama, a coming of age tale in a lot of ways and an often edge of the seat thriller - I held my breath through the last few chapters only to be hit with an ending so gut wrenching that I actually let out a little cry.
Basically I loved it.
Highly Recommended.
So we meet Javid (call him Jay) , a Jack the lad, a decent guy in lots of ways (but also, you know, drug dealer but you soon forgive him) and despite his faults you immediately fall in love with his banter and his humour and get a real feel for the community in which he lives, his thoughts about being a Muslim and his actually quite normal life - then suddenly he is recruited by MI5, for reasons that elude him and we are off on a journey of often very funny, always insightful, very socially relevant mayhem.
The dialogue sparkles, the scene setting is totally immersive, Jay is just endlessly endearing throughout and you root for him, you feel all his emotions, the highs, the lows as he struggles to assess not only those around him but also his own reactions to the things he is learning. Many people seek to manipulate him and one of the huge strengths of this story is the absolute authenticity the author brings to it, this is very real, no holds barred, no punches pulled storytelling.
It is a multi-layered character drama, a coming of age tale in a lot of ways and an often edge of the seat thriller - I held my breath through the last few chapters only to be hit with an ending so gut wrenching that I actually let out a little cry.
Basically I loved it.
Highly Recommended.
October 2, 2018
East of Hounslow by Khurrum Rahman is the first book I've read by this author and it was a breath of fresh air considering the storyline.
I started this a while ago and put it down as it was a slow start but I wanted to bare with it as I've never read an MI5 cat and mouse book quite like this,its was a change to have it from a Muslim point of view and to see Javid (Jay) recruited by the MI5.
Even thou this is a work of fiction you do get a feel of real life when reading it , Khurrum Rahman writes in such away you believe this happens all the time.
It does start off slow but when this story starts it starts.
It's an exciting, gripping and pulse racing thriller which I would recommend.
I started this a while ago and put it down as it was a slow start but I wanted to bare with it as I've never read an MI5 cat and mouse book quite like this,its was a change to have it from a Muslim point of view and to see Javid (Jay) recruited by the MI5.
Even thou this is a work of fiction you do get a feel of real life when reading it , Khurrum Rahman writes in such away you believe this happens all the time.
It does start off slow but when this story starts it starts.
It's an exciting, gripping and pulse racing thriller which I would recommend.
Read
January 1, 2019A cracking modern-day thriller starring a British Muslim, small-time cannabis dealer and all-round wastrel who is recruited by MI5 to infiltrate a jihadi cell. Jay is a terrific character with a moral core deep (very deep) down, an often hilarious voice, and a dogged resilience that keeps him going.
The setting deals with some pretty grim themes but never loses sight of anyone's humanity. We see the moral weakness and selfishness of the planners, the pains and obsessions of the jihadis, the brainwashing effects of radicalisation, and the wrongs inflicted on a lot of people by racism and Western political violence, which partially explain but don't excuse the vileness of those attacks. It's a massive quagmire, and it's very clear that Jay's "just ignore oppression" and his policeman friend's "change the system from within" attitudes don't work any better either. This is heavy stuff, handled lightly enough to make for an enjoyable read, which is something of a triumph. I think that's because Jay never comes to see the world as a play of opposing forces, or people as pieces on the board--even in the middle of spy games and manouevring, he is vividly aware of those around him as people and loves them (in their and his way). That profound humanity may not save us but at least it makes it worth trying to do so.
HarperCollins but not fantastically edited and the ebook has quite a few missing line breaks that run lines of dialogue together. The book deserved better. Apparently this will be a series, very much looing forward to seeing more.
The setting deals with some pretty grim themes but never loses sight of anyone's humanity. We see the moral weakness and selfishness of the planners, the pains and obsessions of the jihadis, the brainwashing effects of radicalisation, and the wrongs inflicted on a lot of people by racism and Western political violence, which partially explain but don't excuse the vileness of those attacks. It's a massive quagmire, and it's very clear that Jay's "just ignore oppression" and his policeman friend's "change the system from within" attitudes don't work any better either. This is heavy stuff, handled lightly enough to make for an enjoyable read, which is something of a triumph. I think that's because Jay never comes to see the world as a play of opposing forces, or people as pieces on the board--even in the middle of spy games and manouevring, he is vividly aware of those around him as people and loves them (in their and his way). That profound humanity may not save us but at least it makes it worth trying to do so.
HarperCollins but not fantastically edited and the ebook has quite a few missing line breaks that run lines of dialogue together. The book deserved better. Apparently this will be a series, very much looing forward to seeing more.
November 15, 2017
This zings with freshness, primarily from the voice of Jay, a small-time dope dealer, laddish layabout - and the newest recruit to MI5 sent to infiltrate a terrorist plot that originates at his mosque.
Rahman writes in an assured manner and deals with complex questions of identity, loyalties and moralities without simplifying or preaching - even bringing a self-deprecating humour and groundedness to what is sometimes grim subject matter.
The first part is a little slow, there's a twist in the tale that had me groaning a little at the 'it's personal' cliche, the switching POV from first to third person feels a little clumsy at times - and the last-page flourish is a bit flashy given that there's an intended two further installments to make up a trilogy. Despite some picky niggles, however, the last third or so comes together beautifully and is brilliantly tense and terrifying.
Overall, a book packed with personality.
ARC via Amazon Vine.
Rahman writes in an assured manner and deals with complex questions of identity, loyalties and moralities without simplifying or preaching - even bringing a self-deprecating humour and groundedness to what is sometimes grim subject matter.
The first part is a little slow, there's a twist in the tale that had me groaning a little at the 'it's personal' cliche, the switching POV from first to third person feels a little clumsy at times - and the last-page flourish is a bit flashy given that there's an intended two further installments to make up a trilogy. Despite some picky niggles, however, the last third or so comes together beautifully and is brilliantly tense and terrifying.
Overall, a book packed with personality.
ARC via Amazon Vine.
January 9, 2023
This was a mix of family drama and spy thriller that is completely out of the ordinary.
Jay is a low level drug dealer with all the mouth and a cushy life who gets dragged into an MI5 investigation. The mosque he attends is attacked and his fury & concern for his childhood friend leads him to retaliate...but this is nothing compared to the payback that is planned by his peers...and MI5 need his intel.
Jay is then torn between his anger at the people who attacked his mosque, but then again at the severity of the retaliation. He gets drawn in further until he is unsure where his allegiance lies.
Jay is such an excellent character; slyly humorous, sharp and caring. Everything about him is contradictory and real.
I will definitely be reading more in this series and I highly recommend it.
Jay is a low level drug dealer with all the mouth and a cushy life who gets dragged into an MI5 investigation. The mosque he attends is attacked and his fury & concern for his childhood friend leads him to retaliate...but this is nothing compared to the payback that is planned by his peers...and MI5 need his intel.
Jay is then torn between his anger at the people who attacked his mosque, but then again at the severity of the retaliation. He gets drawn in further until he is unsure where his allegiance lies.
Jay is such an excellent character; slyly humorous, sharp and caring. Everything about him is contradictory and real.
I will definitely be reading more in this series and I highly recommend it.
July 22, 2021
3.5 stars
February 25, 2021
I grew up reading Cold War thrillers and this book hauls the thriller genre right into the new millennium. Jay is the classic reluctant spy and it is his personal connection to the plot that provides the story with additional depth. Interesting characters and a solid plot, I look forward to more in the series.
November 11, 2017
I thought East Of Hounslow was excellent. I half expected it to be yet another generic, slightly formulaic thriller, but it turned out to be gripping, witty and to make some very shrewd observations.
The set-up is good: Javid ("Jay") Qasim is a small-time drug dealer living with his mum in West London. Through a series of entertaining and sometimes very exciting events, he is recruited by MI5 and also into a jihadi group on whom he is to spy. This sounds like a pretty conventional basis for a spy novel, but it's very well done, taking unexpected turns while always remaining plausible – in fact, a lot of the unexpected turns are precisely because they're plausible rather than following the conventions of thrillers.
Two things make this stand out, I think: Jay's narrative voice and the thoughtful balance of the observations about the politics behind jihad and counterterrorism. Jay's street-smart, often out-of-his-depth take on things was excellent and gave the book genuine wit in places and a terrific narrative drive so I found it genuinely hard to put down. His predicament and other scenes in the book carry some very thoughtful reflections on behaviour on both sides of the War On Terror, and on things like the way both use the hateful actions of an extreme few on the other side to justify their own hateful actions. Seeing it from the point of view of an ordinary young British muslim man gives a fascinating perspective which, because of Jay's character and style, never becomes preachy or heavy.
In short, this is an excellent espionage thriller with important things to say. It is well written, very gripping and very readable. Warmly recommended.
(I received an ARC via NetGalley.)
The set-up is good: Javid ("Jay") Qasim is a small-time drug dealer living with his mum in West London. Through a series of entertaining and sometimes very exciting events, he is recruited by MI5 and also into a jihadi group on whom he is to spy. This sounds like a pretty conventional basis for a spy novel, but it's very well done, taking unexpected turns while always remaining plausible – in fact, a lot of the unexpected turns are precisely because they're plausible rather than following the conventions of thrillers.
Two things make this stand out, I think: Jay's narrative voice and the thoughtful balance of the observations about the politics behind jihad and counterterrorism. Jay's street-smart, often out-of-his-depth take on things was excellent and gave the book genuine wit in places and a terrific narrative drive so I found it genuinely hard to put down. His predicament and other scenes in the book carry some very thoughtful reflections on behaviour on both sides of the War On Terror, and on things like the way both use the hateful actions of an extreme few on the other side to justify their own hateful actions. Seeing it from the point of view of an ordinary young British muslim man gives a fascinating perspective which, because of Jay's character and style, never becomes preachy or heavy.
In short, this is an excellent espionage thriller with important things to say. It is well written, very gripping and very readable. Warmly recommended.
(I received an ARC via NetGalley.)
December 13, 2019
East of Hounslow by Khurrum Rahman
3,5 out of 5 stars
A fun, enjoyable read, with a superbly ingenuous and well crafted plot!
From the cover :
Meet Jay.
Small-time dealer.
Accidental jihadist.
The one man who can save us all?
East of Housnlow is a fun, vastly unserious yet compelling read. There were times, at the start at least, where I found myself wondering what gear we were in, but on the whole, East of Hounslow reads as a gripping, entertaining and humorous thriller.
It is narrated in the 1st person by Javid Qasim, a 2nd generation Muslim in his late twenties living with his mother in East Hounslow. "Call me Jay" Jay's constant piss take dialogue has the effect of being laugh out loud funny at times, but every so often, Rahman diverts into the more earnest, only to pull us back straight into the burlesque. I found this at times, a bit disconcerting, these bids at more serious narrative, which made me wonder where he was trying to take us... was it ever going to climb into something more discerning. No. It's a romp from East Hounslow to Afghanistan and back, from good to bad, to well... I'm actually not too sure... this doesn't seem to resolve either.
It's also a bit of a coming of age tale. Jay is simply a bit of a spoilt brat Mommy's boy and his character arc is somewhat erratic, which adds to the feelings I had that sides aren't really taken in this 1, and that any moral deliberations are left entirely unresolved.
The ending is certainly not your average ending, but all in all it succeeds in exposing the view that the act of waging war really can fall accidentally to your inconspicuous regular neighbour of a guy, that anyone accidentally or not, is capable of acts of Jihadism.
3,5 out of 5 stars
A fun, enjoyable read, with a superbly ingenuous and well crafted plot!
From the cover :
Meet Jay.
Small-time dealer.
Accidental jihadist.
The one man who can save us all?
East of Housnlow is a fun, vastly unserious yet compelling read. There were times, at the start at least, where I found myself wondering what gear we were in, but on the whole, East of Hounslow reads as a gripping, entertaining and humorous thriller.
It is narrated in the 1st person by Javid Qasim, a 2nd generation Muslim in his late twenties living with his mother in East Hounslow. "Call me Jay" Jay's constant piss take dialogue has the effect of being laugh out loud funny at times, but every so often, Rahman diverts into the more earnest, only to pull us back straight into the burlesque. I found this at times, a bit disconcerting, these bids at more serious narrative, which made me wonder where he was trying to take us... was it ever going to climb into something more discerning. No. It's a romp from East Hounslow to Afghanistan and back, from good to bad, to well... I'm actually not too sure... this doesn't seem to resolve either.
It's also a bit of a coming of age tale. Jay is simply a bit of a spoilt brat Mommy's boy and his character arc is somewhat erratic, which adds to the feelings I had that sides aren't really taken in this 1, and that any moral deliberations are left entirely unresolved.
The ending is certainly not your average ending, but all in all it succeeds in exposing the view that the act of waging war really can fall accidentally to your inconspicuous regular neighbour of a guy, that anyone accidentally or not, is capable of acts of Jihadism.
November 30, 2017
I was initially invited to read just the first chapter of this novel to see if I was interested in reading more - and I definitely was! I was hooked from the start and the story just kept on getting better! I’m amazed that this is a debut novel, so huge congratulations to the author - I can’t wait to discover what his future books will be like!
The story is centred around Javid Qasim, a relatively small time drug dealer and Del boy type of character. He always attends mosque on Fridays and lives with his Mum. His best friend is a police detective - which sometimes makes life difficult with Jay’s other activities. When he’s bribed into working for MI5, going on a mission for them, life is definitely going to change for him and those around him!
The story is packed with humour - I found myself laughing out loud at some of the superbly portrayed scenarios. It is a portrayal of contemporary life, reflecting what is going on in the world and involves some relatively heavy issues, such as jihad and counterterrorism, which are handled superbly with that aforementioned humour and understanding. Seeing the events from the point of view of Jay, a young British muslim man, gives a very different perspective on the events, characters and scenarios. It is a well crafted espionage thriller, written with humour and understanding, making it an enthralling read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending. It is a real page turner and, as I typed previously, I can’t wait to read more from this author in future!
I requested and received a copy of this novel after reading the first chapter and wanting to read more. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
The story is centred around Javid Qasim, a relatively small time drug dealer and Del boy type of character. He always attends mosque on Fridays and lives with his Mum. His best friend is a police detective - which sometimes makes life difficult with Jay’s other activities. When he’s bribed into working for MI5, going on a mission for them, life is definitely going to change for him and those around him!
The story is packed with humour - I found myself laughing out loud at some of the superbly portrayed scenarios. It is a portrayal of contemporary life, reflecting what is going on in the world and involves some relatively heavy issues, such as jihad and counterterrorism, which are handled superbly with that aforementioned humour and understanding. Seeing the events from the point of view of Jay, a young British muslim man, gives a very different perspective on the events, characters and scenarios. It is a well crafted espionage thriller, written with humour and understanding, making it an enthralling read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending. It is a real page turner and, as I typed previously, I can’t wait to read more from this author in future!
I requested and received a copy of this novel after reading the first chapter and wanting to read more. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
March 21, 2021
I really enjoyed this.
Characters are extremely important to me. In this book I became emotionally invested in the main character
The author deals with Important topics such as religion, racism, radicalization, plus many others, with raw honesty, and somehow manages to mix in some brilliantly dry humour
I loved was that it wasn’t just your run-of-the-mill trope ending, which made me love him even more, and want to know more about the main character
I do wish that some of the storylines were expanded upon, and developed more but as this is book 1 of 3 I imagine there will be more developments in 2 & 3.
overall I really loved this book.
I enjoyed the writing style, the humor, the way the author deals with many important issues that people find it difficult to run comfortable to speak about, and really believed in the main character.
Something stopped me rating this higher, I think it’s because there were questions unanswered, some characters and storylines didn’t feel necessary or complete, but I am very much looking forward to reading the next two books in the series and have high hopes for these based on this particular book.
I would recommend this book
Characters are extremely important to me. In this book I became emotionally invested in the main character
The author deals with Important topics such as religion, racism, radicalization, plus many others, with raw honesty, and somehow manages to mix in some brilliantly dry humour
I loved was that it wasn’t just your run-of-the-mill trope ending, which made me love him even more, and want to know more about the main character
I do wish that some of the storylines were expanded upon, and developed more but as this is book 1 of 3 I imagine there will be more developments in 2 & 3.
overall I really loved this book.
I enjoyed the writing style, the humor, the way the author deals with many important issues that people find it difficult to run comfortable to speak about, and really believed in the main character.
Something stopped me rating this higher, I think it’s because there were questions unanswered, some characters and storylines didn’t feel necessary or complete, but I am very much looking forward to reading the next two books in the series and have high hopes for these based on this particular book.
I would recommend this book
December 21, 2019
Book blurb: Meet Jay. Small-time dealer. Accidental jihadist. The one man who can save us all?
I really enjoyed the first half of this story, but things seem to bog down a bit after that. Jay's voice is distinctive, snarky, and fun. He's a late 20s Muslim guy who is happily settled with his Mum in West London. He's not religious, but does attend Friday prayers. Things are going so well, until they don't. He's suddenly in trouble, and MI5 has had their eye on him. Will he betray his community?
It's strange to have a coming of age story for a guy not in his teens, but that is what this is. I enjoyed the humor and the insider look at his community. This is a fast paced story, without much character development. I saw some of the twists coming, but overall this is a refreshingly different take on the spy/espionage/terrorist genre.
I really enjoyed the first half of this story, but things seem to bog down a bit after that. Jay's voice is distinctive, snarky, and fun. He's a late 20s Muslim guy who is happily settled with his Mum in West London. He's not religious, but does attend Friday prayers. Things are going so well, until they don't. He's suddenly in trouble, and MI5 has had their eye on him. Will he betray his community?
It's strange to have a coming of age story for a guy not in his teens, but that is what this is. I enjoyed the humor and the insider look at his community. This is a fast paced story, without much character development. I saw some of the twists coming, but overall this is a refreshingly different take on the spy/espionage/terrorist genre.
October 20, 2020
(Thanks to the publisher for this book). I did not finish this book - the rampant F-bombs, cussing, and crude writing was an immediate turn-off. This may work for some people, but it's definitely not to my taste.
June 25, 2018
A superb debut. Can't wait to encounter Jay again.
April 7, 2021
Apolitical drug dealer recruited by MI5 to infiltrate a terrorist group. Ends in a cliffhanger.
November 9, 2017
This is my 257th book read in 2017 and it has just flown into my top five of the year. I will now try and tell you why but I doubt I will be able to do the book the kind of justice it deserves.
Javid (Jay) is a bit of a wide boy. Small-ish-time dealer, he still reserves Fridays for mosque, taking that very seriously. His best friend is a police detective, a turbulent relationship given Jay's extra-curricular activities. But as we meet him, things are rocking along OK for our hero. he has just scored himself a new car - a Beemer no less - his pride and joy. But then things take a weird turn as he takes part in a bit of a retaliative skirmish, losing not only his car but also his stash and cash at the same time. As you can imagine, this causes him a bit (world) of pain both with his supplier and the cops. But the cops have a deal for him. It seems he is wanted by MI5. No, not for being a small time drug dealer, no, they want him to work for them. They have a secret scary mission and they reckon Jay's the man for the job. Backed into a corner somewhat, Jay agrees. Will this really be the lesser of the two evils he had to pick from though?
I finished this book at three o'clock am. On a school night too. I was pretty tired next day at work I can tell you but... I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
I took to Jay right from page one. Yes he's a bit of a bad boy but he walks the right side of the line insofar as his principles are concerned. He has his own rules and standards and he sticks to them admirably. One of the things I really loved about him is the way he taught me about his religion. Slipping in the odd word or tradition and then explaining it without it distracting me from the main story that was unfolding so that it actually became part of the story rather than an educational course; Muslim-101. To be honest the majority of what was being explained was pertinent to and backed-up what was going on in the book anyway.
The story itself was absolutely brilliant; tight and very well plotted. It was also very interesting insofar as what is going on in the world today. Bit of an eye opener at times really but extremely well and sensitively handled. There was also a fair bit of well placed, well natured humour thrown in which kept the book from being too heavy, important especially given the topics covered.
It's funny though, as I was reading there were a few things that kept on popping into my head as being a bit - hold that thought and trust the author - if you know what I mean by that. I am not going into detail as this would be spoilery and that's not the done thing at all. But suffice to say that the author came through on every single niggle I maybe had. To my complete satisfaction.
But, you know the most important thing about this book? It only book one of a series. YES. That means there's more of the same (similar) to come. Now that's something I am really hanging out waiting for. Do yourself a favour and climb on board the Jay-Train!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Javid (Jay) is a bit of a wide boy. Small-ish-time dealer, he still reserves Fridays for mosque, taking that very seriously. His best friend is a police detective, a turbulent relationship given Jay's extra-curricular activities. But as we meet him, things are rocking along OK for our hero. he has just scored himself a new car - a Beemer no less - his pride and joy. But then things take a weird turn as he takes part in a bit of a retaliative skirmish, losing not only his car but also his stash and cash at the same time. As you can imagine, this causes him a bit (world) of pain both with his supplier and the cops. But the cops have a deal for him. It seems he is wanted by MI5. No, not for being a small time drug dealer, no, they want him to work for them. They have a secret scary mission and they reckon Jay's the man for the job. Backed into a corner somewhat, Jay agrees. Will this really be the lesser of the two evils he had to pick from though?
I finished this book at three o'clock am. On a school night too. I was pretty tired next day at work I can tell you but... I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
I took to Jay right from page one. Yes he's a bit of a bad boy but he walks the right side of the line insofar as his principles are concerned. He has his own rules and standards and he sticks to them admirably. One of the things I really loved about him is the way he taught me about his religion. Slipping in the odd word or tradition and then explaining it without it distracting me from the main story that was unfolding so that it actually became part of the story rather than an educational course; Muslim-101. To be honest the majority of what was being explained was pertinent to and backed-up what was going on in the book anyway.
The story itself was absolutely brilliant; tight and very well plotted. It was also very interesting insofar as what is going on in the world today. Bit of an eye opener at times really but extremely well and sensitively handled. There was also a fair bit of well placed, well natured humour thrown in which kept the book from being too heavy, important especially given the topics covered.
It's funny though, as I was reading there were a few things that kept on popping into my head as being a bit - hold that thought and trust the author - if you know what I mean by that. I am not going into detail as this would be spoilery and that's not the done thing at all. But suffice to say that the author came through on every single niggle I maybe had. To my complete satisfaction.
But, you know the most important thing about this book? It only book one of a series. YES. That means there's more of the same (similar) to come. Now that's something I am really hanging out waiting for. Do yourself a favour and climb on board the Jay-Train!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
February 1, 2021
I bought this book in July 2019 when I saw Khurrum Rahman at Harrogate Crime Festival on a panel of debut authors talking about his book and to my shame I completely forgot about it until recently.
This books is wonderful, it’s funny, it’s thought-provoking, it’s a thriller, it’s a tale of friendship and it’s absolutely brilliant.
Meet Javid Quasim, (but call him Jay) a small time drug-dealer, living with his mum in Hounslow, he attends the local mosque once a week, drinks alcohol and takes drugs the rest of the time. He is the absolute STAR of this book, a charming, comedic and endearing young man who is relatively happy with his way of life when he accidentally finds himself employed by M15 with a handler and a mission to take down a huge terrorist cell.
The writing is spot on, the humour is wonderful and the writer has brought Jay to life in such detail that I really felt I knew and understood him. I’m not going to waffle on about the book because all you need to know is that it’s topical, thought-provoking, very funny, the dialogue is fabulous and all the characters are marvellous too.
I am so pleased that I read this book and am absolutely delighted to see there are 2 more books in the series. Highly recommended by me.
This books is wonderful, it’s funny, it’s thought-provoking, it’s a thriller, it’s a tale of friendship and it’s absolutely brilliant.
Meet Javid Quasim, (but call him Jay) a small time drug-dealer, living with his mum in Hounslow, he attends the local mosque once a week, drinks alcohol and takes drugs the rest of the time. He is the absolute STAR of this book, a charming, comedic and endearing young man who is relatively happy with his way of life when he accidentally finds himself employed by M15 with a handler and a mission to take down a huge terrorist cell.
The writing is spot on, the humour is wonderful and the writer has brought Jay to life in such detail that I really felt I knew and understood him. I’m not going to waffle on about the book because all you need to know is that it’s topical, thought-provoking, very funny, the dialogue is fabulous and all the characters are marvellous too.
I am so pleased that I read this book and am absolutely delighted to see there are 2 more books in the series. Highly recommended by me.
November 14, 2018
This is an excellent book, with rich characters. It deals with the struggles for identity of young Muslims in England. No stereotypes here. J wants to just be a young man who happens to be Muslim. NOT a Muslim young man. It’s a voice that needs to be heard! And both sides want to claim him, exploit him. The mystery was captivating and at times funny (that cafe scene...) and the conclusion made sense. Some plot twists, which one could guess at, were a little bit too convenient, so probably 4.5.
February 24, 2021
Gripping, funny, sad, wonderful.
September 24, 2021
I was absorbed in this debut crime novel and read it in three days. The author did a fantastic job of getting into the heads of all of his characters; he understood and expertly outlined the psychology of each, whether terrorists or members of MI-5. He did an exceptional job of illustrating how the cumulative tragedies of war, torture, death, and displacement in the Middle East might drive otherwise decent people to do unspeakable things; some of this was only revealed near the end, as the reader learns more about the backstories of each character. We follow the protagonist, Jay Qasim, on a fascinating journey from low-level drug dealer to MI-5 agent, and see how he is torn between loyalties and manipulated by all sides. Entertaining but complex, extremely fast-paced, and with a stunning ending not to be missed. Looking forward to the next book in the series: Homegrown Hero, followed by Ride or Die.
December 26, 2019
When we first meet Jay he's feeling smug. He's got the black second-hand BMW, a successful drug-dealing business and he's living with his mum in Hounslow. He goes to mosque on Friday but his religion is not front of mind. He goes through the motions but he's a London boy, a modern boy, with a good friend who's a policeman and a very dangerous man (with an 'assistant' called Staples - due to his creative and violent use of office equipment) as his drug supplier. It's maybe not quite 'living the dream' but Jay's doing OK.
Suddenly, that all changes.
His mosque gets attacked and he goes along to keep an eye on a friend who wants to get revenge. He loses his car and his stash and the money he owes to his supplier.
Suddenly, he's in big trouble.
His dealer wants his money by Friday or Staples will sort him out with his stapler. Meanwhile, two groups have their eyes on Jay. MI5 think he's just what they need to infiltrate a terrorist cell. The leader of the terrorist group also thinks Jay is just what he wants. And Jay's mum is moving to Dubai with her new boyfriend so he's going to have to live his own life. It's all got very complicated.
The remarkable thing is that despite the sometimes quite ludicrous coincidences the book does feel very authentic and quite believable. It's perhaps not as 'funny' as the cover blurb suggests. It's not the written equivalent of the film 'Four Lions' (which must be the funniest and most disrespectfully side-burstingly hilarious film ever made about domestic terrorism) but it's compelling. The reader can't help but get sucked into Jay's new life and wonder which side he's going to choose when the chips are down.
I struggle to imagine this as the first in a series, but I probably will read the next one just to see if it can work.
Suddenly, that all changes.
His mosque gets attacked and he goes along to keep an eye on a friend who wants to get revenge. He loses his car and his stash and the money he owes to his supplier.
Suddenly, he's in big trouble.
His dealer wants his money by Friday or Staples will sort him out with his stapler. Meanwhile, two groups have their eyes on Jay. MI5 think he's just what they need to infiltrate a terrorist cell. The leader of the terrorist group also thinks Jay is just what he wants. And Jay's mum is moving to Dubai with her new boyfriend so he's going to have to live his own life. It's all got very complicated.
The remarkable thing is that despite the sometimes quite ludicrous coincidences the book does feel very authentic and quite believable. It's perhaps not as 'funny' as the cover blurb suggests. It's not the written equivalent of the film 'Four Lions' (which must be the funniest and most disrespectfully side-burstingly hilarious film ever made about domestic terrorism) but it's compelling. The reader can't help but get sucked into Jay's new life and wonder which side he's going to choose when the chips are down.
I struggle to imagine this as the first in a series, but I probably will read the next one just to see if it can work.
August 28, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and HQ for an advance copy of East of Hounslow, the first of a projected trilogy featuring low level drug dealer Javid Qasim.
Javid or, as he much prefers, Jay is living a life of Riley. Mosque and observances on Friday otherwise he drinks, smokes, puffs and sees the ladies as he likes and at 28 has no plans to leave his mum or her cooking. This changes when MI5 takes an interest in him and sees him as the ideal informant. They set him up and he has no choice but to become involved with a jihadist group.
I thoroughly enjoyed East of Hounslow as it has a bit of everything, a clever plot, an engaging protagonist, humour, a glimpse of the extremist mindset and some sad scenes. It flows and reads well as it builds to a crescendo at the end. There are a couple of interesting twists as well.
The plot is interesting. Obviously as it is fiction Jay's recruitment as a jihadist is condensed time wise but the basic premise is sound - try to convert the devout and slowly indoctrinate them into the extremist point of view. Their viewpoint, devotion and arguments are fascinating with Jay's cynicism and horror acting as counterpoints. It is extremely well done.
The novel, however, is all about Jay. He is a jack the lad character, initially carefree with a healthy dose of wit and cynicism and a well hidden consideration of others and kind heart who becomes sickened as events overcome him. His patter is highly amusing and had me laughing out loud at some points. As his situation becomes darker his decency shines through.
I am probably not part of the intended demographic being Scottish, 50+ and female but I really like the novel and would urge any waverers to give it a go as it is excellent entertainment.
Javid or, as he much prefers, Jay is living a life of Riley. Mosque and observances on Friday otherwise he drinks, smokes, puffs and sees the ladies as he likes and at 28 has no plans to leave his mum or her cooking. This changes when MI5 takes an interest in him and sees him as the ideal informant. They set him up and he has no choice but to become involved with a jihadist group.
I thoroughly enjoyed East of Hounslow as it has a bit of everything, a clever plot, an engaging protagonist, humour, a glimpse of the extremist mindset and some sad scenes. It flows and reads well as it builds to a crescendo at the end. There are a couple of interesting twists as well.
The plot is interesting. Obviously as it is fiction Jay's recruitment as a jihadist is condensed time wise but the basic premise is sound - try to convert the devout and slowly indoctrinate them into the extremist point of view. Their viewpoint, devotion and arguments are fascinating with Jay's cynicism and horror acting as counterpoints. It is extremely well done.
The novel, however, is all about Jay. He is a jack the lad character, initially carefree with a healthy dose of wit and cynicism and a well hidden consideration of others and kind heart who becomes sickened as events overcome him. His patter is highly amusing and had me laughing out loud at some points. As his situation becomes darker his decency shines through.
I am probably not part of the intended demographic being Scottish, 50+ and female but I really like the novel and would urge any waverers to give it a go as it is excellent entertainment.
February 6, 2018
It’s such a pleasure to see Islamist terror dealt with intelligently. The state is not doing a terrific job in understanding the problem. Maybe it’s time for novelists to have a go. Rahman gives us a witty and fast-paced thriller, yes. But he also gives us a look at the anger and humiliation which provides the hothouse for terror. Jay, his unlikely MI5 asset, is an affectionately rendered small-time Hounslow drug dealer manipulated into a date with history. Jay’s, slightly opaque, motivation offers the reader a “will-he-won’t-he” roller coaster ride. If I were going to quibble, I could complain about motivation, and about some of the proof-reading. But I enjoyed the book, and its unconventional hero too much. And I especially enjoyed what makes the novel special – its portrait of angry young British Muslims.
July 7, 2018
I was not sure whether i would like this. How wrong i was! One the best fiction books i have read this year.
All characters are well written, the story well paced and the ending fitting, if a little unexpected.
All characters are well written, the story well paced and the ending fitting, if a little unexpected.
March 11, 2020
An immensely impressive piece of work, which never lets up on intensity, even at the end. It challenges preconceptions, and sends you to seek answers to questions you didn't know you should be asking.
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