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Axe to Grind
Dragged up in virtual isolation, no friends, no real family and not even knowing his full name. This how the boy known simply as Frankie was raised, living on the desolate moors in a house that was slowly crumbling around him, living a life crammed with misery, uncertainty and violence. Then the men started to visit and on one terror-fuelled night Frankie's fears were realised and the real nightmare began. After the horrific events at Black Crow Farm young Frankie spends the next six years incarcerated, answering endless questions about what happened in the blood-spattered bedroom of the old house. Though six years is plenty of time to think things through and slowly he comes to realise that there is only one person responsible for all the horror, one person he has to find and make him pay for the things he had done. The man had only ever called him 'boy', never 'son' or 'Frankie'. So starts the search as Frank Grey hunts for his father, a search that will lead him into the dangerous underworld of organised crime. Though Grey is more than equipped to survive in the harsh world of dealers and killers while he follows the leads. Years pass, the fury grows, yet he always seems to be one step behind his quarry. As the past and present collide, Frank Grey relentlessly continues his search, his determination never wavering, his resolve iron-hard as the net slowly closes on the man he hates above all others. The question is what answers will he receive when he eventually has the man in front of him and what horrors will be revealed before the end?
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2020
11 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Robin Roughley
46 books152 followersRob Roughley lives in the North West of England (God's coal bunker,the land of the wedding cake made by placing three meat pies on top of one another and whippets on lengths of string)
He is the author of eight crime/thriller novels featuring DS Lasser. The novels are set between the run down streets of a northern town and the beautiful yet desolate west Pennine moors.
If you love your crime fiction crammed with square jawed heroes driving flash cars and glorious women who shimmer with inner light, then the DS Lasser novels are not for you.
However, if you prefer your characters to be flawed, with a sprinkling of dandruff and old acne scars,the plots to be laced with dark humour, then give them a try.
1 The Needle House
2 The Way that it Falls
3 Tethered to the Dead.
4 Twisted
Coming soon:
5 More Equal than Others
6 Vanished Beneath
7 Riven
8 Bad Self
He is the author of eight crime/thriller novels featuring DS Lasser. The novels are set between the run down streets of a northern town and the beautiful yet desolate west Pennine moors.
If you love your crime fiction crammed with square jawed heroes driving flash cars and glorious women who shimmer with inner light, then the DS Lasser novels are not for you.
However, if you prefer your characters to be flawed, with a sprinkling of dandruff and old acne scars,the plots to be laced with dark humour, then give them a try.
1 The Needle House
2 The Way that it Falls
3 Tethered to the Dead.
4 Twisted
Coming soon:
5 More Equal than Others
6 Vanished Beneath
7 Riven
8 Bad Self
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 7, 2024
I found Robin Roughley’s books through his Lasser series, which I enjoyed immensely. I then followed on from there with his Plymouth books and then to his stand-alone books.
Robin Roughley is a fantastic writer; I have enjoyed each and everyone of his books. I highly recommend them to all.
This book is another amazing read. It is based on Frankie who has had a tough and horrendous start in life, it takes us on a journey with Frankie that really makes you think about how lives are shaped.
Frankie is one of those characters that stay with you long after you have finished reading the book.
I was totally engrossed in this book and did not want it to end, it is a real unputdownable read.
Happy Reading.
Robin Roughley is a fantastic writer; I have enjoyed each and everyone of his books. I highly recommend them to all.
This book is another amazing read. It is based on Frankie who has had a tough and horrendous start in life, it takes us on a journey with Frankie that really makes you think about how lives are shaped.
Frankie is one of those characters that stay with you long after you have finished reading the book.
I was totally engrossed in this book and did not want it to end, it is a real unputdownable read.
Happy Reading.
December 21, 2020
Powerful and riveting that tests your resolve - Victim or perpetrator?
Again this author gives us another insight into his writing talents, being a stand alone thriller told through the eyes of the killer himself or is he the victim? Written in chapters of past and present leading you from his earliest memories to the here and now, visiting past events explains the present, gripping and deeply emotional!
From birth we are conditioned and taught by those around us, love, hate, indifference, cruelty they all imprint on our brains making us what we are!
Frankie Grey has the most horrendous heartbreaking start in life, and it doesn't improve as he grows, his only saving grace is his intelligence his smile and his huge size. He's my vision of a modern day Robin Hood type of protagonist, not sure if that was the author's intention or my rose tinted glasses, but he certainly made a lasting impression!
Following his search for answers, and the people who made his life a living hell mostly his father whom he believed was a business man who walked away from their Black Crow Farm home when Frankie was 11 years old never to be heard from again, starts a string of events that escalates the storm clouds following Frankie's life as he searches for answers and his father!
This is a powerfully written story of injustice, retribution, psychological, in almost hypnotic proportions that rips at you emotions and heartstrings. It tests your own outlook on right and wrong, ask yourself at the end of the book if you condone the killer's actions or otherwise?
Fantastic characterization of all the characters, the author's writing is simply astonishing he must have unlimited access to all personalities running around in his head as he always seems to marry the right personality to the visual picture he teleports into your head. The storyline and plot keep you guessing from start to finish, as each chapter past and present reveals a little more of Fankie Grey's turbulent, horrific and emotional life!
There's some violence and gore along the way , but it certainly isn't disproportionate by any means only what's needed in the plot. When I read the last page my heart sank I wanted more, lots more than the 360 page's this book consists of. It's a super powerful story almost hypnotic that borrows its way into the crevices of your mind!
There's a shocking mind blowing revelation towards the end I didn't see coming too!
I can't recommend this book highly enough, don't be put off by the past and present chapters, as quite frankly it works and the strong storyline benefits, making it perfectly executed!
Absolutely loved it!!
Again this author gives us another insight into his writing talents, being a stand alone thriller told through the eyes of the killer himself or is he the victim? Written in chapters of past and present leading you from his earliest memories to the here and now, visiting past events explains the present, gripping and deeply emotional!
From birth we are conditioned and taught by those around us, love, hate, indifference, cruelty they all imprint on our brains making us what we are!
Frankie Grey has the most horrendous heartbreaking start in life, and it doesn't improve as he grows, his only saving grace is his intelligence his smile and his huge size. He's my vision of a modern day Robin Hood type of protagonist, not sure if that was the author's intention or my rose tinted glasses, but he certainly made a lasting impression!
Following his search for answers, and the people who made his life a living hell mostly his father whom he believed was a business man who walked away from their Black Crow Farm home when Frankie was 11 years old never to be heard from again, starts a string of events that escalates the storm clouds following Frankie's life as he searches for answers and his father!
This is a powerfully written story of injustice, retribution, psychological, in almost hypnotic proportions that rips at you emotions and heartstrings. It tests your own outlook on right and wrong, ask yourself at the end of the book if you condone the killer's actions or otherwise?
Fantastic characterization of all the characters, the author's writing is simply astonishing he must have unlimited access to all personalities running around in his head as he always seems to marry the right personality to the visual picture he teleports into your head. The storyline and plot keep you guessing from start to finish, as each chapter past and present reveals a little more of Fankie Grey's turbulent, horrific and emotional life!
There's some violence and gore along the way , but it certainly isn't disproportionate by any means only what's needed in the plot. When I read the last page my heart sank I wanted more, lots more than the 360 page's this book consists of. It's a super powerful story almost hypnotic that borrows its way into the crevices of your mind!
There's a shocking mind blowing revelation towards the end I didn't see coming too!
I can't recommend this book highly enough, don't be put off by the past and present chapters, as quite frankly it works and the strong storyline benefits, making it perfectly executed!
Absolutely loved it!!
December 23, 2020
Brilliant
This is a stand alone book written by Robin Roughley. We follow the main character Frank Grey from his early years were he is used as a punch bag by his father and mentally abused by the woman his father eventually left him with. He has little choice to commit murder at an early age and committed to a mental institution for many years . On release he becomes a sort of vigilante and kills more people who are guilty of various crimes against frank and others. It goes from present to past times to explain various parts of the story. I must admit that it's not a storyline that I would normally read , but as its written by Robin Roughley who is one of my favourite authors I thought I'd give it ago .I'm certainly glad I did it's a brilliant book easy to follow it just flows along from beginning to the end .In fact I'll go as far to say it's the best book I've read in 2020( That's my opinion anyway)
This is a stand alone book written by Robin Roughley. We follow the main character Frank Grey from his early years were he is used as a punch bag by his father and mentally abused by the woman his father eventually left him with. He has little choice to commit murder at an early age and committed to a mental institution for many years . On release he becomes a sort of vigilante and kills more people who are guilty of various crimes against frank and others. It goes from present to past times to explain various parts of the story. I must admit that it's not a storyline that I would normally read , but as its written by Robin Roughley who is one of my favourite authors I thought I'd give it ago .I'm certainly glad I did it's a brilliant book easy to follow it just flows along from beginning to the end .In fact I'll go as far to say it's the best book I've read in 2020( That's my opinion anyway)
August 21, 2021
The epitome of the anti hero, Frankie somehow taps into our sympathy and, unbelievably, I found myself rooting for him. The violence is unrelenting, yet is weirdly offset by Frankie’s appalling childhood and the fact that all his victims are criminals of the worst sort. Unrelenting is definitely the word that describes the action, with only small shafts of softness attached to Frankie’s relationship with Harley x but still difficult to put down. This is the first thing I’ve read by Robin Roughly, and the quality of the writing definitely makes me want more.
February 3, 2021
A complete change from Robin's Lasser books, but just as enjoyable. The violence is necessary and well written, but add a little romance to the mix and you get a story that you was not expecting.
As usual, an unexpected ending, which arrived too soon.
Will there be a follow up, you can only hope.
I have now read the Lasser books four times and I keep finding bits I had not thought of before.
A better writer I think will be hard to find.
As usual, an unexpected ending, which arrived too soon.
Will there be a follow up, you can only hope.
I have now read the Lasser books four times and I keep finding bits I had not thought of before.
A better writer I think will be hard to find.
Read
January 20, 2021Devoured in one sitting
Robin Roughley has the knack of being able to create a lovable monster. This particular character has you cheering him on even though he is behaving in the most shocking and disturbing way. You are able to understand every element of his character. This book didn't end, it left the door wide open, and I can't wait to read the return of Frankie Grey.
Robin Roughley has the knack of being able to create a lovable monster. This particular character has you cheering him on even though he is behaving in the most shocking and disturbing way. You are able to understand every element of his character. This book didn't end, it left the door wide open, and I can't wait to read the return of Frankie Grey.
December 27, 2020
Axe to Grind
Well that wad a roller coaster not sure if I will sleep tonight.Still trying to take it all in and how I can be so taken with a character like Frankie Grey.All I can say is Read It.
Well that wad a roller coaster not sure if I will sleep tonight.Still trying to take it all in and how I can be so taken with a character like Frankie Grey.All I can say is Read It.
December 31, 2020
Read it in a couple of days!
Wasn’t sure about this one until I had read just a few pages, excellent story, good pace and flow. Doing good work Mr Roughley, please keep it up. I’m a big fan, thank you.
Wasn’t sure about this one until I had read just a few pages, excellent story, good pace and flow. Doing good work Mr Roughley, please keep it up. I’m a big fan, thank you.
February 26, 2021
Good read
Really enjoyed this book good story and kept you wanting to know what was next it did not disappoint brilliant from beginning right to the end will definitely be reading more books by this author
Really enjoyed this book good story and kept you wanting to know what was next it did not disappoint brilliant from beginning right to the end will definitely be reading more books by this author
December 22, 2021
Wow, did he have an Axe to Grind
Absolutely brilliant. Frank Grey was definitely a man on a mission. Unfortunately no chance of a sequel. Robin Roughly knows how to keep his readers gripped to the very last page
Absolutely brilliant. Frank Grey was definitely a man on a mission. Unfortunately no chance of a sequel. Robin Roughly knows how to keep his readers gripped to the very last page
December 22, 2020
Brilliant
You have done it again . Created a strong caricature good and bad at the same time. A really amazing book.
You have done it again . Created a strong caricature good and bad at the same time. A really amazing book.
December 24, 2020
Axe to Grind
Omg where do I start Robin Roughley you have done it again I loved this from the start and I knew it could only get better hope more to follow
Omg where do I start Robin Roughley you have done it again I loved this from the start and I knew it could only get better hope more to follow
December 25, 2020
Amazing author
I have read all of robin's books so far and he is a very talented writer, the plots he come up with and there locations are truly amazing.
I have read all of robin's books so far and he is a very talented writer, the plots he come up with and there locations are truly amazing.
December 27, 2020
Very well told story
Different from Lasser, but in a good way. The dialog, the plot, the way it made you question right and wrong..good book.
Different from Lasser, but in a good way. The dialog, the plot, the way it made you question right and wrong..good book.
December 30, 2020
Axe To Grind⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I started this book last night& have read it today,I enjoyed the book though the story's so sad, dark & not an easy subject to write about .I love Robin Roughly ,I have read most of his book books .I hope there is more to come
I started this book last night& have read it today,I enjoyed the book though the story's so sad, dark & not an easy subject to write about .I love Robin Roughly ,I have read most of his book books .I hope there is more to come
December 31, 2020
Looking forward to more
Great new character, hope to read more soon..
Could be the start of something good, will he go and see his grandfather??
Great new character, hope to read more soon..
Could be the start of something good, will he go and see his grandfather??
January 6, 2021
Wow
This is a very powerful book....not for the faint hearted! Written by the author of the Lasser series.
A stand alone book...hard to put down and worthy of 5*s
This is a very powerful book....not for the faint hearted! Written by the author of the Lasser series.
A stand alone book...hard to put down and worthy of 5*s
January 8, 2021
Another fab read
This book is fab a good read for anyone well written and engaging through out I can highly recommend hope you enjoy it
This book is fab a good read for anyone well written and engaging through out I can highly recommend hope you enjoy it
January 8, 2021
Excellent enjoyed reading it ,think maybe Frankie will be back .Highly recommended.
February 2, 2021
An excellent read. It took me a few chapters to get in to it but then I was hooked. A dark Reacher and a good partner for Pilgrim.
February 5, 2021
Absolutely brilliant
Wow just finished reading 📚 Axe to grind..I was mesmerised from the first page..and to the last. Hopefully there will be more to Frank Grey 🙏
Wow just finished reading 📚 Axe to grind..I was mesmerised from the first page..and to the last. Hopefully there will be more to Frank Grey 🙏
March 15, 2021
Fantastic Read
I was already an avid fan of Robin with the Ladder series and the his other publications but Axe to Grind was superb I did not want it to end.
I was already an avid fan of Robin with the Ladder series and the his other publications but Axe to Grind was superb I did not want it to end.
September 9, 2021
Absolutely Brilliant
I've read a couple of Robin,s books before , but this was the best ever
I hope he keeps Frank alive
I've read a couple of Robin,s books before , but this was the best ever
I hope he keeps Frank alive
December 28, 2020
What a emotional ride from start to end really great read Robin is a excellent writer didn't want this book to end and a very unexpected end it was .
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews