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When a prominent fashion designer falls beneath a train on Berlin’s U-Bahn, everything points to suicide. But his family aren’t convinced. They thought he was happy, successful and had everything going for him. Then, there’s the answerphone message he left the night before he died…
Arriving home after a tortuous time in Hong Kong, all Leo and Allissa need is rest. But, with Allissa invited to reconnect with her estranged family at a birthday party, and an unsolicited stranger turning up at their door, relaxation will have to wait.
Keen to prove he’s over his past and has a handle on his anxiety, Leo heads to Berlin alone. When the investigation leads from a late-night techno club to a shop run by gangsters and finally onto the sinister wreck of a Cold War spy station, it may be a decision he stands to regret.
With the trail of the truth fraught with deception, difficult decisions and their future more uncertain than ever, can Leo and Allissa find their target before someone beats them to it?
Arriving home after a tortuous time in Hong Kong, all Leo and Allissa need is rest. But, with Allissa invited to reconnect with her estranged family at a birthday party, and an unsolicited stranger turning up at their door, relaxation will have to wait.
Keen to prove he’s over his past and has a handle on his anxiety, Leo heads to Berlin alone. When the investigation leads from a late-night techno club to a shop run by gangsters and finally onto the sinister wreck of a Cold War spy station, it may be a decision he stands to regret.
With the trail of the truth fraught with deception, difficult decisions and their future more uncertain than ever, can Leo and Allissa find their target before someone beats them to it?
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2020
208 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Luke Richardson
80 books215 followersWANTED, adventure lovers for hazardous journey. Must be prepared for nail-biting action, constant danger, fear around every corner, with safe return doubtful.
If that sounds like your sort of thing, in your choice of books at least, then come with me...
Hey there, I’m Luke Richardson, and I’m applying for the job as your next favorite author!
As an Amazon bestselling author, I've had the honour of sharing my stories with readers all around the world. Whether you're a history buff, a travel addict, or just looking for a little excitement in your reading, my books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
I write books that take you on a journey to foreign and exotic places, blending history, adventure, and suspense into a gripping tale.
In my books, you'll find yourself transported to places like the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the glitzy skyscrapers of Hong Kong, or the shady backstreets of Kathmandu in Nepal. But it's not just about the locations; my stories are also filled with fascinating characters, unexpected twists, and edge-of-your-seat action.
It was visiting India for the first time that actually made me want to start writing. The sun had just risen as we landed at Mumbai airport. The taxi journey that followed was one of the most incredible of my life. I watched the city unfold like a story. People washing, children playing, chickens, cows, goats, all beside an eight-lane motorway.
I love sharing my stories and am proud to say that my books have been well-received by readers and reviewers. One of the greatest compliments I get is when people say that my books transport them to a new place. Although people often comment on the loveable characters, intricate plots, and fast-paced storytelling too. And I'm always working hard to bring you even more thrilling adventures.
So, if you're looking for a page-turning read that will take you on a journey to far-off lands, look no further than my books. I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
If that sounds like your sort of thing, in your choice of books at least, then come with me...
Hey there, I’m Luke Richardson, and I’m applying for the job as your next favorite author!
As an Amazon bestselling author, I've had the honour of sharing my stories with readers all around the world. Whether you're a history buff, a travel addict, or just looking for a little excitement in your reading, my books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
I write books that take you on a journey to foreign and exotic places, blending history, adventure, and suspense into a gripping tale.
In my books, you'll find yourself transported to places like the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the glitzy skyscrapers of Hong Kong, or the shady backstreets of Kathmandu in Nepal. But it's not just about the locations; my stories are also filled with fascinating characters, unexpected twists, and edge-of-your-seat action.
It was visiting India for the first time that actually made me want to start writing. The sun had just risen as we landed at Mumbai airport. The taxi journey that followed was one of the most incredible of my life. I watched the city unfold like a story. People washing, children playing, chickens, cows, goats, all beside an eight-lane motorway.
I love sharing my stories and am proud to say that my books have been well-received by readers and reviewers. One of the greatest compliments I get is when people say that my books transport them to a new place. Although people often comment on the loveable characters, intricate plots, and fast-paced storytelling too. And I'm always working hard to bring you even more thrilling adventures.
So, if you're looking for a page-turning read that will take you on a journey to far-off lands, look no further than my books. I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 22, 2020
This being the 3rd instalment for me within a couple of weeks the first 2 books and characters were fresh in my mind and so it was good to see Theo again (with all his insecurities and panic yet bravery) and Allissa, who he met in Kathmandu, ( Book 1 ) they now work as a team finding missing people and no surprise ( re the title ) this book finds them in Berlin
They are on the trail of a Brighton fashion designer ( called Minty, not my choice of a character name for a book but once got past that was ok ) who has got involved with shady Russians and gangsters, in a bid to make more money
The writing style followed the first 2 books and is easy to read and visualise what is happening, the action is there as in previous books and my only criticism is at 242 pages it is quite a short book and thus everything from start to finish happens rapidly and before you know it it is over, still I enjoyed it and look forward to the prequel to the series which is out next month called ‘ Koh Tao’ the place Leo lost his girlfriend and all his adventures started
A good series that I have really enjoyed and so based on that its a
9/10
5 Stars for this book
They are on the trail of a Brighton fashion designer ( called Minty, not my choice of a character name for a book but once got past that was ok ) who has got involved with shady Russians and gangsters, in a bid to make more money
The writing style followed the first 2 books and is easy to read and visualise what is happening, the action is there as in previous books and my only criticism is at 242 pages it is quite a short book and thus everything from start to finish happens rapidly and before you know it it is over, still I enjoyed it and look forward to the prequel to the series which is out next month called ‘ Koh Tao’ the place Leo lost his girlfriend and all his adventures started
A good series that I have really enjoyed and so based on that its a
9/10
5 Stars for this book
February 24, 2021
People don’t change for no reason. ......The 3rd book in the thriller series about Leo Keane, contains a number of different, often intertwining, threads. I’ve only awarded It four stars, as I felt it took longer to draw me in than Kathmandu and Hong Kong. I did enjoy watching Leo working alone again to see how he’d operate, without Alissa, in challenging and terrifying circumstances.....Now I’m ready to go to New York with them - together.
March 12, 2021
Berlin - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Book 3, Berlin, in the Leo and Allissa International Thrillers Series by Luke Richardson, sees Leo having to head for Berlin alone, as Allissa reaches out to her estranged family, having accepted the proffered party invitation.
Twin themes are entwined throughout the text as Russian gangsters fall out and there's a late night message to his brother, from fashion designer Minty Rolleston, who comes to the agency, asking for the Leo's help...but by the time Leo gets told about it, Rolleston could be dead...can Leo make it in time?
Only getting yourself a copy of Berlin, by Luke Richardson, will reveal the convoluted path to the truth and give you all the answers you want.
Go get it today - and tell all your friends!
Book 3, Berlin, in the Leo and Allissa International Thrillers Series by Luke Richardson, sees Leo having to head for Berlin alone, as Allissa reaches out to her estranged family, having accepted the proffered party invitation.
Twin themes are entwined throughout the text as Russian gangsters fall out and there's a late night message to his brother, from fashion designer Minty Rolleston, who comes to the agency, asking for the Leo's help...but by the time Leo gets told about it, Rolleston could be dead...can Leo make it in time?
Only getting yourself a copy of Berlin, by Luke Richardson, will reveal the convoluted path to the truth and give you all the answers you want.
Go get it today - and tell all your friends!
June 2, 2020
This is the third book in the Leo Keane series and the best so far. You could probably read this as a standalone, but worth reading Kathmandu and Hong Kong first. A very different case, story and location to the aforementioned novels. What makes Berlin a good read? Its pace, the characters we meet and the intrigue!
The stakes are higher than ever when Leo and Allissa are contacted by a desperate Charles Rolleston. His brother, Minty a fashion designer, has tragically taken his own life in Berlin, but Charles refuses to believe it. There is a voicemail that sounds a lot like a suicide note and there’s been no contact with Minty since. However, the police haven’t released the body and next of kin haven’t been informed. This, and his gut instincts, tells him that his flamboyant brother just couldn’t have taken his own life. It doesn’t make any sense - Minty wasn’t in any financial difficulty, business was good and he always was enjoying work and play. All of this reasoning has got Charles nowhere and keeps replaying the voicemail. He needs Leo and Allissa’s expertise, but will he regret knowing the truth?
Luke has done it again! Following the success of his debut novel and the brilliant follow up, he’s produced a novel which is believable and distinctly different. I’ve come to really enjoy Luke’s story telling style because it is full of description that makes it easy to immerse myself. Just like with the previous books, the author’s extensive travel experience is used to build the landscape for the reader.
One difference with the previous books is the marked increase in intensity which is definitely welcomed. It isn’t incredibly violent, and that isn’t the aim. The output is a well-balanced story that is believable and keeps you turning the pages in anticipation to find out whether it’s ‘mission accomplished’ and who survives another day. All three books have been of a similar nature, but I feel this is the best so far, because I feel like it reads slightly better and the balance between describing the scene and the punchy action is on the money. I think the author is developing and refining his writing style as well as content. This one had more of a conspiracy element which now and then, reminded me of scenes from Homeland or 24. I’m looking forward to the next part of Leo’s (and Luke’s) journey!
The stakes are higher than ever when Leo and Allissa are contacted by a desperate Charles Rolleston. His brother, Minty a fashion designer, has tragically taken his own life in Berlin, but Charles refuses to believe it. There is a voicemail that sounds a lot like a suicide note and there’s been no contact with Minty since. However, the police haven’t released the body and next of kin haven’t been informed. This, and his gut instincts, tells him that his flamboyant brother just couldn’t have taken his own life. It doesn’t make any sense - Minty wasn’t in any financial difficulty, business was good and he always was enjoying work and play. All of this reasoning has got Charles nowhere and keeps replaying the voicemail. He needs Leo and Allissa’s expertise, but will he regret knowing the truth?
Luke has done it again! Following the success of his debut novel and the brilliant follow up, he’s produced a novel which is believable and distinctly different. I’ve come to really enjoy Luke’s story telling style because it is full of description that makes it easy to immerse myself. Just like with the previous books, the author’s extensive travel experience is used to build the landscape for the reader.
One difference with the previous books is the marked increase in intensity which is definitely welcomed. It isn’t incredibly violent, and that isn’t the aim. The output is a well-balanced story that is believable and keeps you turning the pages in anticipation to find out whether it’s ‘mission accomplished’ and who survives another day. All three books have been of a similar nature, but I feel this is the best so far, because I feel like it reads slightly better and the balance between describing the scene and the punchy action is on the money. I think the author is developing and refining his writing style as well as content. This one had more of a conspiracy element which now and then, reminded me of scenes from Homeland or 24. I’m looking forward to the next part of Leo’s (and Luke’s) journey!
October 4, 2020
This is the third book in the Leo Keane series and I found myself just as gripped as I was in the previous books. This time, Leo and Allissa find themselves in Berlin with the task of finding someone's brother; a guy who is believed to have ended his life by throwing himself under a train, but that his family feel is unlikely and need confirmation of this or of his safety. Leo initially travels out to Berlin on his own, whilst Allissa attends a family party at an attempt to regain her links with them. Within 24 hours of Leo being in the city of Berlin he finds himself caught up in the events of a Russian drug gang, will Allissa be able to catch up with him in time? Again, the book is fast and pacey, with short chapters told from various characters actions and events running parallel to one another, but with the end of each chapter leaving you to turn that page quickly and find out more. The descriptions once again give a real sense of Berlin, with parts of the newly developed city amongst old political buildings of the past. A great third book in the series, where we also see the relationship between Allissa and Leo develop, whilst not detracting or overtaking the main storyline. I look forward to seeing where this takes us in Richardson's next book in the series, 'New York'.
June 5, 2020
Just finished reading Berlin by Luke Richardson ,the 3rd in the Leo Keane series. What a page turner.
When Leo and Allissa come home from Hong Kong after their last investigation all they wanted to do was relax and for Allissa go to her sister's birthday party, Allissa has not seen her half sister or brother for a couple of years since their father was sent to prison and she was looking forward to connecting with them again.
They haven't even unpacked when the doorbell rings and its Charles Rolleston a new client looking for his missing brother Minty who lives in Berlin. Charles gets them to listen to the last voice message he sent him at 4am on Sunday in the underground station in Berlin saying that he was wrong and he shouldn't believe everything.
Leo goes to Berlin on his own and trying to control his own anxiety he wants to prove to himself that he can do this without Allissa.
What he finds in Berlin and Minty's life takes him to a high techno nightclub and the wrong side of the Russian Mob. He also believes that Minty is still alive but where?
Can he find Minty before the mob catches up with him?
When Leo and Allissa come home from Hong Kong after their last investigation all they wanted to do was relax and for Allissa go to her sister's birthday party, Allissa has not seen her half sister or brother for a couple of years since their father was sent to prison and she was looking forward to connecting with them again.
They haven't even unpacked when the doorbell rings and its Charles Rolleston a new client looking for his missing brother Minty who lives in Berlin. Charles gets them to listen to the last voice message he sent him at 4am on Sunday in the underground station in Berlin saying that he was wrong and he shouldn't believe everything.
Leo goes to Berlin on his own and trying to control his own anxiety he wants to prove to himself that he can do this without Allissa.
What he finds in Berlin and Minty's life takes him to a high techno nightclub and the wrong side of the Russian Mob. He also believes that Minty is still alive but where?
Can he find Minty before the mob catches up with him?
June 10, 2020
Berlin, the book has a very similar pace as Berlin, the city. It´s fast paced, full of information, full of people, strong night life, multicultural. Leo and Allissa have developed as partners, their friendship is also evolving as well as their hunting people business. Although the plot is less dense than in the other previous books it´s compensated by the fast moving scenes and actions. Very good entertaining material and easy to read.
I received a free copy of this book as a member of the author´s ARC team in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book as a member of the author´s ARC team in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2020
This is the first book I have read in this series. It is short but intense and makes me want to go back and read the other two! It starts with concurrent storylines that flow together seamlessly. The intricacy of the plot will have you reading this in one sitting.
I was gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2020
Third book of his series which started with Kathmandu and went onto Hong Kong. More adventures and action here, clever plot and wonderful setting in the city of Berlin.Night clubs, drugs, smuggling its all going on. Very atmospheric and a real page turner of a book. Luke is really good at writing these books, I love his style you get totally immersed in the place. Clever! Recommended.
June 5, 2020
Great story, enjoyed the characters. I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary review.
June 7, 2020
A missing man, a fake death, drug deals. A man wanting to get out of the drug business, but you cannot escape. A very exciting novel to read with a heart pounding finish. Hard to put down.
August 1, 2020
Another triumph.
Very well written, from Katmandu to Hong Kong and now Berlin, I can't wait for New York.
As a relatively new author this young man is outstanding.
Follow the trail.
Very well written, from Katmandu to Hong Kong and now Berlin, I can't wait for New York.
As a relatively new author this young man is outstanding.
Follow the trail.
March 19, 2022
This was my least favourite book of the series so far.
I found this one a little too confusing and disjointed to easily follow and some of the situations and people a bit too stereotypical to 'real'. I also did not like the absence of Allissa for most of the book.
What I did like was the opportunity Leo had to step outside his comfort zone and grow into himself (which, ironically, wouldn't have been able to happen with Allissa being absent). I also liked learning more about the pasts and personal relationships of both Leo and Allissa.
So, in short, good character development but a little 'tv-melodrama' in the plot.
I listened to the Audio version of this book, which is narrated by the author himself. It's definitely not the same as when a book is performed by a professional narrator but Luke proves himself to be an adequate narrator.
Am I glad I read it - yes, I enjoyed it
Was it a waste of my time - no
Would I sit down and read it all over again - yes
Would I read more by this author based on this book - I would and did move on to the next book in the series
I found this one a little too confusing and disjointed to easily follow and some of the situations and people a bit too stereotypical to 'real'. I also did not like the absence of Allissa for most of the book.
What I did like was the opportunity Leo had to step outside his comfort zone and grow into himself (which, ironically, wouldn't have been able to happen with Allissa being absent). I also liked learning more about the pasts and personal relationships of both Leo and Allissa.
So, in short, good character development but a little 'tv-melodrama' in the plot.
I listened to the Audio version of this book, which is narrated by the author himself. It's definitely not the same as when a book is performed by a professional narrator but Luke proves himself to be an adequate narrator.
Am I glad I read it - yes, I enjoyed it
Was it a waste of my time - no
Would I sit down and read it all over again - yes
Would I read more by this author based on this book - I would and did move on to the next book in the series
September 21, 2021
In a setting not as exotic as in the other books in the series, Leo tackles a job alone in Berlin, a city both modern and struggling to redevelop the concrete monoliths of the communist regime.
Flashing thru this jumbled cityscape, Leo’s job to find a man who may have committed suicide becomes entangled with the Russian mob. With mob members seeking their own fortunes, and diverted drug shipments to pay for it, Leo’s job may just turn fatal with his client stuck in the middle of the mob factions.
This is book three in the series. It is both a continuation and a change of pace to keep the series fresh.
Flashing thru this jumbled cityscape, Leo’s job to find a man who may have committed suicide becomes entangled with the Russian mob. With mob members seeking their own fortunes, and diverted drug shipments to pay for it, Leo’s job may just turn fatal with his client stuck in the middle of the mob factions.
This is book three in the series. It is both a continuation and a change of pace to keep the series fresh.
March 20, 2021
Another mighty fine novel in the Leo Keane series. This time, Leo and his ‘Not-yet-but-almost-yes - ALMOST’ - lover Allissa travel to Berlin, the capital of Germany. Leo’s in search of the truth about Minty, a man who seemingly committed suicide by jumping in front of a train. But did he really?
Cleverly alternating between the storylines about Minty and about Leo and Allissa, this novel keeps you interested all the way to the end. Extremely well done, I loved it. Next, New York !
Cleverly alternating between the storylines about Minty and about Leo and Allissa, this novel keeps you interested all the way to the end. Extremely well done, I loved it. Next, New York !
May 15, 2021
Good story but too short. Leo and Allissa are asked to find a man in Berlin who was supposed to have committed suicide. Drugs and money along with some dodgy Russians make up the the rest of the novel. Enjoyable though.
June 3, 2021
All 3 plots in the series (so far) are engaging and exciting. All have defined sexual scenes, mostly no profanity or anti-religion. I invested in the next in series already. Clearly narrated by the author.
October 15, 2022
enjoyed the first two but this one lost me when early on Leo ignored Alissa's texts and calls for how long after arriving in Berlin? How many seconds would it take to text "I'm here" just extremely inconsiderate in my view.
May 8, 2024
sehr gut, mein Herr!
Another fun romp with nasty criminals in downtown Berlin. A lot of incredible things happening in a rush, but the heroes come through unscathed. Light reading and a bit of escapism. Now, on to the next adventure!
Another fun romp with nasty criminals in downtown Berlin. A lot of incredible things happening in a rush, but the heroes come through unscathed. Light reading and a bit of escapism. Now, on to the next adventure!
August 17, 2024
Review of this book.
Very well written. It felt like I was right there. The plot was well thought out and the drama never let up. Good to the last page. I like the author's style of writing.
Very well written. It felt like I was right there. The plot was well thought out and the drama never let up. Good to the last page. I like the author's style of writing.
Read
February 26, 2022I read this book while in Berlin. It was great to match some of the locations described with the city. A well plotted thriller that I would recommend.
December 12, 2022
Love that each book is set in a different country. Fantastic read.
November 15, 2023
Great but ending is rushed
I love this series and this book was no different ….. until the end. It wrapped too quickly and easily and left some questions.
I love this series and this book was no different ….. until the end. It wrapped too quickly and easily and left some questions.
January 1, 2021
Loved the characters in Berlin. Exciting and fast paced novel. Another great read and couldn't put it down once I started reading it.
July 9, 2020
Cliche
Russian mobsters, violence and clueless people running around in circles. I enjoyed the previous books in the series, but this was a waste of time. Just silly and predictable as if the author ran out of plausible ideas for his characters.
Russian mobsters, violence and clueless people running around in circles. I enjoyed the previous books in the series, but this was a waste of time. Just silly and predictable as if the author ran out of plausible ideas for his characters.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews