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Jay Qasim #0.5
The Motive
A Jay Qasim short story and prequel to EAST OF HOUNSLOW written for Quick Reads 2021Business has been slow for Hounslow’s small time dope-dealer, Jay Qasim. A student house party means quick easy cash but it also means breaking his own rules. But desperate times lead him there – and Jay finds himself in the middle of a crime scene.
Idris Zaidi, a Police Constable and Jay’s best friend, is having a quiet night when he gets a call out following a noise complaint at a house party. Fed up with the lack of excitement in his job, he visits the scene and quickly realises that people are in danger after a stabbing.
Someone will stop at nothing to get revenge . . .
Don’t miss Jay Qasim’s next East of Hounslow2. Homegrown Hero3. Ride or Die
Idris Zaidi, a Police Constable and Jay’s best friend, is having a quiet night when he gets a call out following a noise complaint at a house party. Fed up with the lack of excitement in his job, he visits the scene and quickly realises that people are in danger after a stabbing.
Someone will stop at nothing to get revenge . . .
Don’t miss Jay Qasim’s next East of Hounslow2. Homegrown Hero3. Ride or Die
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2021
9 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
September 3, 2022
This is a prequel to a series but it's a great story in itself. Set in Hounslow 2016. Jay is a drug dealer and his best friend Idris is a police officer. Their worlds collide as violence breaks out at a student house party.
The question of motive resonates throughout as the different stories unfold against the backdrop of the Brexit referendum.
I'll be adding the first book in this series to my tbr!
The question of motive resonates throughout as the different stories unfold against the backdrop of the Brexit referendum.
I'll be adding the first book in this series to my tbr!
October 31, 2021
Not really for me, would appeal to a younger audience. Seemed far fetched in places and a poor ending.
September 26, 2021
I just couldn't engage with this at all although it wasn't badly written. Maybe it all just felt a little flippant. Just one of those things... some you love, some you dislike.
December 31, 2024
The story unfolds as Jay a British Pakistani dope dealer visits a polling station to cast his vote in order to either remain or stay in Brexit. Whilst there there are two queues and luckily for him there was no trouble and he came away safely after casting his vote to remain.
Jay is a dope dealer dealing in weed or skunk and is not far off saving for a new state of the art car which he has dreamed about owning. He receives a phone call asking him to go to a student house party as the host wanted dope.
Conrad is white and son to wealthy parents who is in a relationship with a muslim girlfriend called Sahira but he wants to keep their relationship secret because he does not want there to be any racial repercussions. Sahira on the other hand wants their relationship to be out in the open and whilst having refreshments and a chat about what they were going to do Sahira drops a bombshell to Conrad and one of his many girlfriends called Hannah spots the two of them and is taken aback that Conrad is with an Asian girlfriend.
On the same evening that Jay gets the call to go to the student house party which is hosted by none other than Conrad. Jay phones his long time friend Idris who is a cop asking him what he was up to and Idris tells that he and his partner, Jennifer Stepson were on a call to a very noisy house party.
Someone gets stabbed at the student house party and there are quite a few suspects but who has the motive.
Jay is a dope dealer dealing in weed or skunk and is not far off saving for a new state of the art car which he has dreamed about owning. He receives a phone call asking him to go to a student house party as the host wanted dope.
Conrad is white and son to wealthy parents who is in a relationship with a muslim girlfriend called Sahira but he wants to keep their relationship secret because he does not want there to be any racial repercussions. Sahira on the other hand wants their relationship to be out in the open and whilst having refreshments and a chat about what they were going to do Sahira drops a bombshell to Conrad and one of his many girlfriends called Hannah spots the two of them and is taken aback that Conrad is with an Asian girlfriend.
On the same evening that Jay gets the call to go to the student house party which is hosted by none other than Conrad. Jay phones his long time friend Idris who is a cop asking him what he was up to and Idris tells that he and his partner, Jennifer Stepson were on a call to a very noisy house party.
Someone gets stabbed at the student house party and there are quite a few suspects but who has the motive.
December 28, 2021
A small-time dope dealer. A house party. A police officer. A stabbing. Someone wants revenge but who ends up getting hurt?
A short read that was just okay. 2 🌟
A short read that was just okay. 2 🌟
August 27, 2021
This book was about the clash between British-Asian Muslims and White British people and some of the underlying tensions between these groups.
Can’t say it was very good. I thought it started off quite promising and full of excitement, but the portrayal of the police officers was so unrealistic it just annoyed me (boy gets stabbed and police make no effort to request back up or medical help even when a member of the public offered to do this as their radios had been taken).
My favourite character was Jay as he had a good heart and compassion.
Anyway, an okay read but nothing special and rather far-fetched at times.
Can’t say it was very good. I thought it started off quite promising and full of excitement, but the portrayal of the police officers was so unrealistic it just annoyed me (boy gets stabbed and police make no effort to request back up or medical help even when a member of the public offered to do this as their radios had been taken).
My favourite character was Jay as he had a good heart and compassion.
Anyway, an okay read but nothing special and rather far-fetched at times.
July 5, 2022
A fast paced short story that had me guessing until the end.
May 29, 2021
A prequel is such an ideal way to introduce new readers to a much-loved character and has the added bonus of delighting those who are already fans. At just over a hundred pages long, The Motive is definitely correctly billed as a 'quick read', with the slightly larger font making it more accessible for those who find it harder to read because of a reduced eyesight. I was pleased to see that there is an audiobook version available too.
There are little glimpses of what the future holds for Jay which will raise a smile for those who have read the other books and hopefully tempt others to read on but The Motive also works perfectly as a complete story. It tackles some important issues in a way that's easy to understand, with the book set on the eve of the Brexit referendum when there are already signs of the upcoming divisions - something which is felt even more by those communities who fear what the outcome will mean for them.
However, it's not heavy-handed - the dialogue is realistic and often humorous, with the short, dynamic chapters shared between local dope dealer, Jay Qasim and his best mate, Idris who is a rookie police officer. They have very different reasons for ending up at the same student house party but when somebody is stabbed, they are both involved and I loved seeing how they interacted with each other.
I tried to read The Motive with two hats on; one as a returning reader and the other as somebody new to the series and who perhaps finds reading more difficult and so doesn't read for pleasure. I'm delighted to say that in my opinion Khurrum Rahman has nailed it here. What this isn't is a patronising, dumbed-down story; it tackles some real issues but is never too densely written to make it difficult to understand or so complex, it becomes a slog for those who need a shorter, easily absorbed story. It's a fresh, contemporary book which will appeal to those who have perhaps been put off reading by more formal texts, this is an engaging, authentic read. I highly recommend it.
There are little glimpses of what the future holds for Jay which will raise a smile for those who have read the other books and hopefully tempt others to read on but The Motive also works perfectly as a complete story. It tackles some important issues in a way that's easy to understand, with the book set on the eve of the Brexit referendum when there are already signs of the upcoming divisions - something which is felt even more by those communities who fear what the outcome will mean for them.
However, it's not heavy-handed - the dialogue is realistic and often humorous, with the short, dynamic chapters shared between local dope dealer, Jay Qasim and his best mate, Idris who is a rookie police officer. They have very different reasons for ending up at the same student house party but when somebody is stabbed, they are both involved and I loved seeing how they interacted with each other.
I tried to read The Motive with two hats on; one as a returning reader and the other as somebody new to the series and who perhaps finds reading more difficult and so doesn't read for pleasure. I'm delighted to say that in my opinion Khurrum Rahman has nailed it here. What this isn't is a patronising, dumbed-down story; it tackles some real issues but is never too densely written to make it difficult to understand or so complex, it becomes a slog for those who need a shorter, easily absorbed story. It's a fresh, contemporary book which will appeal to those who have perhaps been put off reading by more formal texts, this is an engaging, authentic read. I highly recommend it.
August 22, 2021
The Motive is a terrific short story packed with wit and energy that builds into a genuinely tense and intriguing scenario and introduces the inimitable Javid (“Call me Jay”) Qasim, a British born Muslim and small-time dope dealer living with his mum in Hounslow. It also serves as the prequel to East of Hounslow, which is the first full length novel to feature Jay and after this 110 page introduction to him I’m signed up!
It’s the night of the EU referendum with the nation more divided than ever and exams are finished for students at the University of West London when twenty-year-old Muslim, Sahira, drops a bombshell on her wealthy white boyfriend and fellow student, Conrad. Enter wisecracking Jay, a surprisingly likeable dope only dealer just trying to sell enough gear to upgrade to a BMW 5 Series at a loose end with a rucksack full of weed. When a stranger calls him looking to score it goes against Jay’s instincts to get involved, but when they mention a student house party its manna from heaven for a dealer sitting on a stash. The party at a double-fronted house with a host wearing suede loafers isn’t Jay’s scene but just as he is about the head out the door his best mate and rookie copper, PC Idris Zaidi, arrives. Paired with an older partner demoted after a racist complaint and all too willing to use force, Idris has his hands full when a violent incident breaks out. Fortunately, having spent his evening observing events wide boy Jay knows the lay of the land and is in a position to lend Idris a hand.
Jay’s first-person narrative is not only wryly amusing but it’s also refreshingly realistic and I loved his sense of perspective. Short chapters that are full of action alternate between Jay and Idris and the writing is tight with dialogue that rings true and Idris’s input adds depth, with thoughts on his police career and bond with Jay. A genuinely entertaining, relevant and involving short story with a slick plot.
It’s the night of the EU referendum with the nation more divided than ever and exams are finished for students at the University of West London when twenty-year-old Muslim, Sahira, drops a bombshell on her wealthy white boyfriend and fellow student, Conrad. Enter wisecracking Jay, a surprisingly likeable dope only dealer just trying to sell enough gear to upgrade to a BMW 5 Series at a loose end with a rucksack full of weed. When a stranger calls him looking to score it goes against Jay’s instincts to get involved, but when they mention a student house party its manna from heaven for a dealer sitting on a stash. The party at a double-fronted house with a host wearing suede loafers isn’t Jay’s scene but just as he is about the head out the door his best mate and rookie copper, PC Idris Zaidi, arrives. Paired with an older partner demoted after a racist complaint and all too willing to use force, Idris has his hands full when a violent incident breaks out. Fortunately, having spent his evening observing events wide boy Jay knows the lay of the land and is in a position to lend Idris a hand.
Jay’s first-person narrative is not only wryly amusing but it’s also refreshingly realistic and I loved his sense of perspective. Short chapters that are full of action alternate between Jay and Idris and the writing is tight with dialogue that rings true and Idris’s input adds depth, with thoughts on his police career and bond with Jay. A genuinely entertaining, relevant and involving short story with a slick plot.
May 17, 2021
Jay’s evening will be more exciting than he anticipated.
Before commenting on the narrative of The Motive, I must comment on the perfect font and text size in the book. It is accessible to more reluctant readers, including those who have difficulty in reading.
The Motive starts off in a seemingly innocuous manner with Conrad and Sahira chatting together and builds throughout into an exciting and fast paced drama that would make a fabulous television story. In around 110 pages, Khurrum Rahman packs a huge punch; both literally in the story and metaphorically in reader enjoyment. Whilst the scenario and plot are very much outside my own experience, I loved the way drug dealing, violence, racism and corruption are woven in to the story because I think these are topics young men in particular can relate to, making the Quick Read purpose of the book completely fulfilled. However, that isn’t to say The Motive isn’t a captivating and heart racing story for those of us who love to read – it is!
The characterisation is compelling. Khurrum Rahman made me back Jay all the way even though his actions are not entirely legal. Now I have been introduced to him, and to Idris, I really want to know what other adventures and experiences they will have because I feel I have only just begun to know them and they have a depth I want to uncover. Consequently, The Motive is a tantalising read as well as an engaging one.
I also thought the frequent use of expletives actually worked really well. The direct speech is natural so that the characters feel real and vivid to the reader. Indeed, the brilliance of The Motive is that Khurrum Rahman doesn’t patronise his readers or present difficult issues like interracial relationships in an idealised way. Rather, the real-life issues of society are played out on the page in an authentic manner. This is a story that is eye opening and thought provoking as well as hugely entertaining.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Motive and think it is a great addition to the Quick Reads series. It’s cracking crime fiction for all readers.
Before commenting on the narrative of The Motive, I must comment on the perfect font and text size in the book. It is accessible to more reluctant readers, including those who have difficulty in reading.
The Motive starts off in a seemingly innocuous manner with Conrad and Sahira chatting together and builds throughout into an exciting and fast paced drama that would make a fabulous television story. In around 110 pages, Khurrum Rahman packs a huge punch; both literally in the story and metaphorically in reader enjoyment. Whilst the scenario and plot are very much outside my own experience, I loved the way drug dealing, violence, racism and corruption are woven in to the story because I think these are topics young men in particular can relate to, making the Quick Read purpose of the book completely fulfilled. However, that isn’t to say The Motive isn’t a captivating and heart racing story for those of us who love to read – it is!
The characterisation is compelling. Khurrum Rahman made me back Jay all the way even though his actions are not entirely legal. Now I have been introduced to him, and to Idris, I really want to know what other adventures and experiences they will have because I feel I have only just begun to know them and they have a depth I want to uncover. Consequently, The Motive is a tantalising read as well as an engaging one.
I also thought the frequent use of expletives actually worked really well. The direct speech is natural so that the characters feel real and vivid to the reader. Indeed, the brilliance of The Motive is that Khurrum Rahman doesn’t patronise his readers or present difficult issues like interracial relationships in an idealised way. Rather, the real-life issues of society are played out on the page in an authentic manner. This is a story that is eye opening and thought provoking as well as hugely entertaining.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Motive and think it is a great addition to the Quick Reads series. It’s cracking crime fiction for all readers.
December 23, 2021
I am NOT a fan of quick reads or short stories because in my opinion they are too short and tend to end too soon, but I was lucky enough to receive a copy of The Motive in the post and as my reading mojo had temporarily disappeared I thought that a little bit of Khurrum was exactly what I needed and I was right.
I have read and loved all 3 of Khurrum’s books about Jay Qasim, part-time drug dealer and reluctant M15 spy and therefore went into this short story with the knowledge of Jay’s personality and background which, in my personal opinion, is really important to read before you start this prequel.
In The Motive, Jay finds himself at the centre of a violent attack on a young white man whilst dealing drugs at a house party and when his best friend and police officer Idris turns up things become even more tense and potentially fatal.
With Khurrum’s usual dry wit, observational humour, topical and thought-provoking themes, The Motive doesn’t disappoint. A great quick read but I strongly recommend you read the trilogy first.
Book 1: East of Hounslow. Book 2: Homegrown Hero. Book 3: Ride or Die.
I have read and loved all 3 of Khurrum’s books about Jay Qasim, part-time drug dealer and reluctant M15 spy and therefore went into this short story with the knowledge of Jay’s personality and background which, in my personal opinion, is really important to read before you start this prequel.
In The Motive, Jay finds himself at the centre of a violent attack on a young white man whilst dealing drugs at a house party and when his best friend and police officer Idris turns up things become even more tense and potentially fatal.
With Khurrum’s usual dry wit, observational humour, topical and thought-provoking themes, The Motive doesn’t disappoint. A great quick read but I strongly recommend you read the trilogy first.
Book 1: East of Hounslow. Book 2: Homegrown Hero. Book 3: Ride or Die.
September 23, 2021
Two friends meet at a house party. One of them is selling drugs; the other is a police officer there to break up the party. But a larger crime has been committed.
THE MOTIVE is the first book I've read by Khurrum Rahman. I enjoyed the author's writing style in this novella and its ending left me wanting more.
THE MOTIVE is the first book I've read by Khurrum Rahman. I enjoyed the author's writing style in this novella and its ending left me wanting more.
June 4, 2021
I listened to this Quick Reads on audio. Because there are a lot of details to take in in this one I think perhaps an ebook or paperback would've been a better way to consume this. I will give you a full review in my Quick Reads reading vlog coming up on my channel soon!
January 7, 2022
I enjoyed the style of writing and the themes of division. My only criticism is that it ended far too quickly.
January 31, 2025
Good quick while having a bath.
To the point, sharp and witty despite its more serious tone. Fantastic quick read.
To the point, sharp and witty despite its more serious tone. Fantastic quick read.
October 24, 2021
I enjoyed all the other books.
I did not enjoy this one.
I did not enjoy this one.
May 24, 2021
The Jay Qasim series by Khurrum Rahman has become a firm favourite of mine in the last year as I read all 3 books in the stellar series.
In the Motive, Rahman has joined forces with Quick Reads and The Reading Agency to come up with a short story based on the brilliant series - a prequel of sorts.
First things first you don’t need to read the series to pick up and enjoy this cracking Little novella.
Set against the back drop of the brexit referendum, Jay, a small time drug dealer sees a chance to make a quick Buck at student house party when asked to supply some drugs fir the party, Ever the opportunist, Jay invites himself to the party to sell some weed, nothing more, nothing harsh, that’s not Jay Qasim.
The party soon descends into chaos when a stabbing takes place, and with police on the scene, a frantic fast paced tale plays out.
Khurrum Rahman does a superb job in making this story feels completely accessible to both new readers and old, as the story whips along at frenetic pace.
Easy to read, short, punchy chapters make this quick read a perfect entrance to reading and the series, and for me, sat on holiday in rainy blustery Torquay, this was a complete joy and re entry to Jay’s manic life.
The Brexit back drop is handled with a satirical yet serious feel. Whatever we all think of it, I enjoyed the relevance throughout Rahman’s superb short.
A five 🔥 read from a simply brilliant author and protagonist, there is so much to enjoy about this quick fire look into Jay Qasim’s world for fans old and New, I imagine and hope this will encourage new readers to read not only the rest of the Jay Qasim series, but pick up the other books in the brilliant quick read series.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
October 14, 2022
The Motive by Khurrum Rahman is a Quick Read short story 2021 and is the prequel to East of Hounslow. The story unfolds as Jay a British Pakistani dope dealer visits a polling station to cast his vote in order to either remain or stay in Brexit. Whilst there there are two queues and luckily for him there was no trouble and he came away safely after casting his vote to remain.
Jay is a dope dealer dealing in weed or skunk and is not far off saving for a new state of the art car which he has dreamed about owning. He receives a phone call asking him to go to a student house party as the host wanted dope.
Conrad is white and son to wealthy parents who is in a relationship with a muslim girlfriend called Sahira but he wants to keep their relationship secret because he does not want there to be any racial repercussions. Sahira on the other hand wants their relationship to be out in the open and whilst having refreshments and a chat about what they were going to do Sahira drops a bombshell to Conrad and one of his many girlfriends called Hannah spots the two of them and is taken aback that Conrad is with an Asian girlfriend.
On the same evening that Jay gets the call to go to the student house party which is hosted by none other than Conrad. Jay phones his long time friend Idris who is a cop asking him what he was up to and Idris tells that he and his partner, Jennifer Stepson were on a call to a very noisy house party.
Someone gets stabbed at the student house party and there are quite a few suspects but who has the motive.
Jay is a dope dealer dealing in weed or skunk and is not far off saving for a new state of the art car which he has dreamed about owning. He receives a phone call asking him to go to a student house party as the host wanted dope.
Conrad is white and son to wealthy parents who is in a relationship with a muslim girlfriend called Sahira but he wants to keep their relationship secret because he does not want there to be any racial repercussions. Sahira on the other hand wants their relationship to be out in the open and whilst having refreshments and a chat about what they were going to do Sahira drops a bombshell to Conrad and one of his many girlfriends called Hannah spots the two of them and is taken aback that Conrad is with an Asian girlfriend.
On the same evening that Jay gets the call to go to the student house party which is hosted by none other than Conrad. Jay phones his long time friend Idris who is a cop asking him what he was up to and Idris tells that he and his partner, Jennifer Stepson were on a call to a very noisy house party.
Someone gets stabbed at the student house party and there are quite a few suspects but who has the motive.
June 2, 2021
RTC but, dang it, I'm going to have to read the rest of the series now, aren't I? *eyes East of Hounslow and UK Kindle*
Review Taken from The Pewter Wolf Reads
***QuickRead Given by Midas PR working on behalf with QuickReads and Reading Agency in exchange for an honest review/reaction***
The Motive acts as a short story and a prequel to the first book in the Jay Qasim series.
It's the eve of the Brexit referendum and business is slow for small time drugs dealer, Jay Qasim. So when he hears about a student house party, he decides to break his own rule and go, selling weed to make quick easy cash. But before he can leave, Jay finds himself in the middle of a crime scene. One of the party goers has been stabbed...
Jay's best friend, Idris Zaidi, is a Police Constable. He was meant to have a quiet night on patrol, but when he's called out a noise complaint at a house party. When he gets there, though, he finds Jay and, before he has the chance to tell Jay to leave, a party goer with a knife sticking out of him.
Tensions are running high, not only with the UK decided to stay or leave in the UK, but someone at the party is an attempted murderer...
Damn it, I'm going to have to buy the rest of the series now, aren't I? I had such a blast reading this. Jay's humour was a joy and it carries the story along nicely. Plus, I haven't read a character like Jay in a UK thriller: British Muslim, dope-selling, runs his mouth off, but is very observant young man.
Idris is very different, but his character was a nice contrast. Quieter, focused on the job, but his chapters hinted at Police brutality and racism within the Force and if he's as big a character in the series as I hope, I think reading these aspects are going to be enlightening (and yes, uncomfortable) reading...
The crime itself, for me, was a bit thin (for me, anyway), but I was in this for Jay and Idris. I loved them separately and then together. I can't wait to start this series! A nice addition to the Quick Reads selection!
EDIT: Just checked my kindle and randomly discovered that I have the third book in the series, Ride or Die: The fast-paced, unputdownable thriller featuring MI5’s most reluctant spy.
Review Taken from The Pewter Wolf Reads
***QuickRead Given by Midas PR working on behalf with QuickReads and Reading Agency in exchange for an honest review/reaction***
The Motive acts as a short story and a prequel to the first book in the Jay Qasim series.
It's the eve of the Brexit referendum and business is slow for small time drugs dealer, Jay Qasim. So when he hears about a student house party, he decides to break his own rule and go, selling weed to make quick easy cash. But before he can leave, Jay finds himself in the middle of a crime scene. One of the party goers has been stabbed...
Jay's best friend, Idris Zaidi, is a Police Constable. He was meant to have a quiet night on patrol, but when he's called out a noise complaint at a house party. When he gets there, though, he finds Jay and, before he has the chance to tell Jay to leave, a party goer with a knife sticking out of him.
Tensions are running high, not only with the UK decided to stay or leave in the UK, but someone at the party is an attempted murderer...
Damn it, I'm going to have to buy the rest of the series now, aren't I? I had such a blast reading this. Jay's humour was a joy and it carries the story along nicely. Plus, I haven't read a character like Jay in a UK thriller: British Muslim, dope-selling, runs his mouth off, but is very observant young man.
Idris is very different, but his character was a nice contrast. Quieter, focused on the job, but his chapters hinted at Police brutality and racism within the Force and if he's as big a character in the series as I hope, I think reading these aspects are going to be enlightening (and yes, uncomfortable) reading...
The crime itself, for me, was a bit thin (for me, anyway), but I was in this for Jay and Idris. I loved them separately and then together. I can't wait to start this series! A nice addition to the Quick Reads selection!
EDIT: Just checked my kindle and randomly discovered that I have the third book in the series, Ride or Die: The fast-paced, unputdownable thriller featuring MI5’s most reluctant spy.
May 18, 2022
I am not the biggest fan of short stories. I am a voracious reader and they just don't really suit me. That said I do think they have a great place in promoting reading for those of us who do not yet have that passion.
Also that said, I am a huge fan of all things Jay Qasim and this series so, of course, all bets are off whether it be a short or a long and most of my objections around short stories fly outta the window when it is a short in a series that I already read. Like this is...
So, Jay is a bit down on his uppers but gets to hear of a small house party. One where he can sell his wares! Not his usual scene but... needs must.
Sadly it isn't the gig he thinks it is as it all soon degenerates into scenes that are way more serious that him peddling a bit of dope to a few students... There's a clash of cultures, a knife, and his best mate Idris, the Police Officer, is called... But I will leave it to you to discover all the gory details for yourself.
Suffice to say, it definitely packs a punch as well as being a cracking introduction to Jay and the world in which he operates. If you have read the rest of the series (and I hope, if you haven't, you go on and do so) you'll maybe find delight in seeing where he started.
Yes, it's a tad political, but that's the world in which Jay lives. And one he describes very well indeed. It was lovely for me to dip my toe in his world once again and I hope it won't be long before I can get my teeth into another full length book.
Also that said, I am a huge fan of all things Jay Qasim and this series so, of course, all bets are off whether it be a short or a long and most of my objections around short stories fly outta the window when it is a short in a series that I already read. Like this is...
So, Jay is a bit down on his uppers but gets to hear of a small house party. One where he can sell his wares! Not his usual scene but... needs must.
Sadly it isn't the gig he thinks it is as it all soon degenerates into scenes that are way more serious that him peddling a bit of dope to a few students... There's a clash of cultures, a knife, and his best mate Idris, the Police Officer, is called... But I will leave it to you to discover all the gory details for yourself.
Suffice to say, it definitely packs a punch as well as being a cracking introduction to Jay and the world in which he operates. If you have read the rest of the series (and I hope, if you haven't, you go on and do so) you'll maybe find delight in seeing where he started.
Yes, it's a tad political, but that's the world in which Jay lives. And one he describes very well indeed. It was lovely for me to dip my toe in his world once again and I hope it won't be long before I can get my teeth into another full length book.
February 1, 2023
I have never read anything by Khurrum Rahman before but as I have enjoyed the majority of the Quick Reads books, I thought I would give his book a go too. I was pleasantly surprised at how easily he drew me in and how quickly I came to know the characters of Jay and Idris through their own chapters.
Although the book starts with a chapter about a girl called Sahira and her boyfriend Conrad as she tried to get him to marry her and finally announces that she’s pregnant. The problem being that Sahira is a muslim and it will bring shame on her family that she is pregnant out of wedlock and with a white man as the father of her child.
Jay is a local drug dealer, but refuses to deal anything other than weed while Idris is his best friend but also a police officer. They both end up at the same house party - Jay selling his goods and Idris has been called there for a noise complaint. But what follows is a situation that no one expected… Conrad is stabbed, and although they think they have their suspect, is it the right suspect?
I enjoyed the writing of this book, and found it so easy to get into and care about what happened to the characters. I read the first two chapters of East of Hounslow which were included at the end of this book and it has definitely peaked my interest, so I will be looking out for that one in the future.
Although the book starts with a chapter about a girl called Sahira and her boyfriend Conrad as she tried to get him to marry her and finally announces that she’s pregnant. The problem being that Sahira is a muslim and it will bring shame on her family that she is pregnant out of wedlock and with a white man as the father of her child.
Jay is a local drug dealer, but refuses to deal anything other than weed while Idris is his best friend but also a police officer. They both end up at the same house party - Jay selling his goods and Idris has been called there for a noise complaint. But what follows is a situation that no one expected… Conrad is stabbed, and although they think they have their suspect, is it the right suspect?
I enjoyed the writing of this book, and found it so easy to get into and care about what happened to the characters. I read the first two chapters of East of Hounslow which were included at the end of this book and it has definitely peaked my interest, so I will be looking out for that one in the future.
April 19, 2022
I enjoyed meeting Jay, Hounslow’s small time drug dealer. I liked his friendship with a local police officer. A friendship that has lasted since primary schools and which continues despite them choosing different sides of the law to follow.
A student house party is too good an occasion for Jay to turn down. When he gets to the house, this is no usual student digs but a palatial family home. Jay is thinking his time has come. He will turn all his drugs into money quickly. He can’t believe his luck.
However, the son of the home who is holding the party is in a relationship with a Muslim girl and things have just got serious. Baby serious. The clash between British Asian Muslims and White British people bubbles to the surface as a relative of the wronged girl turns up uninvited.
The house soon turns into a crime scene. Jay needs to be anywhere but here, but he can’t leave his friend, the police officer, at such a time. Unfortunately the ending wasn’t great, but overall a realistic take on street politics today.
A student house party is too good an occasion for Jay to turn down. When he gets to the house, this is no usual student digs but a palatial family home. Jay is thinking his time has come. He will turn all his drugs into money quickly. He can’t believe his luck.
However, the son of the home who is holding the party is in a relationship with a Muslim girl and things have just got serious. Baby serious. The clash between British Asian Muslims and White British people bubbles to the surface as a relative of the wronged girl turns up uninvited.
The house soon turns into a crime scene. Jay needs to be anywhere but here, but he can’t leave his friend, the police officer, at such a time. Unfortunately the ending wasn’t great, but overall a realistic take on street politics today.
September 6, 2022
I wanted to read this as I really like Khurrum Rahman’s writing style. I’ve already read “East of Hounslow” and was impressed, so I was interested in knowing what came before.
This quick read (and it is quick at only 116 pages of larger print), really packed a punch. The writing was tight, and the plot controlled.
The story started with a third person set up of the situation of the victim, but the rest is told in first person, swapping between Jay the drug dealer, and Idris the police constable. The strength of their friendship is important in “East of Hounslow”, but here it really shines through, the characters are clearly best friends even when they know they shouldn’t be any longer.
The story itself is about family and loyalty, but because it’s set to the backdrop of the Brexit vote, there’s a strong tinge of politics and some very strong racism. It shows, as the vote did, the best and worst of what life is like in the UK.
Believable, entertaining, and wonderfully written.
This quick read (and it is quick at only 116 pages of larger print), really packed a punch. The writing was tight, and the plot controlled.
The story started with a third person set up of the situation of the victim, but the rest is told in first person, swapping between Jay the drug dealer, and Idris the police constable. The strength of their friendship is important in “East of Hounslow”, but here it really shines through, the characters are clearly best friends even when they know they shouldn’t be any longer.
The story itself is about family and loyalty, but because it’s set to the backdrop of the Brexit vote, there’s a strong tinge of politics and some very strong racism. It shows, as the vote did, the best and worst of what life is like in the UK.
Believable, entertaining, and wonderfully written.
December 20, 2022
A house party turns into a callout for police due to a noise complaint but little could they imagine what the callout will ultimately lead to. A simple call to ask for music to be turned down ends up with a search of upstairs and a much bigger crime being uncovered but understanding the motive is going to be the only way they can find who the perpetrator really is.
This is a well written piece that I found myself drawn into early on and finishing very quickly as the story flowed well and had a good depth despite being written as part of the quick reads collection. Is this an author I will check out more from? Based on this I can say that it definitely is.
This is a well written piece that I found myself drawn into early on and finishing very quickly as the story flowed well and had a good depth despite being written as part of the quick reads collection. Is this an author I will check out more from? Based on this I can say that it definitely is.
April 19, 2023
Brilliant and Thrilling short story of Jay Qasim!!!
This book was well written and was energetic in its pace and gripping to read. I am a newcomer to Khurrum Rahman's books but this proved to be a great start. It was great that the main character is a British Asian Muslim and not which is commonly found in British books, of white extraction. The short story was compelling to be read in one sitting as it is about 140 pages. It was dramatic and never dull. I look forward to reading East of Hounslow.
This book was well written and was energetic in its pace and gripping to read. I am a newcomer to Khurrum Rahman's books but this proved to be a great start. It was great that the main character is a British Asian Muslim and not which is commonly found in British books, of white extraction. The short story was compelling to be read in one sitting as it is about 140 pages. It was dramatic and never dull. I look forward to reading East of Hounslow.
September 13, 2021
Thanks, I hated it.
A book about a police officer who doesn’t know the basics of policing (including but not limited to: readings rights?????, bodyworn cameras, calling for back up, maybe trying to help someone who’s been stabbed??) and a drug dealer who calls weed “skunk”.
The only reason it’s not a 1 star was I thought revolving it around the Brexit referendum was quite an interesting time plot to pick.
A book about a police officer who doesn’t know the basics of policing (including but not limited to: readings rights?????, bodyworn cameras, calling for back up, maybe trying to help someone who’s been stabbed??) and a drug dealer who calls weed “skunk”.
The only reason it’s not a 1 star was I thought revolving it around the Brexit referendum was quite an interesting time plot to pick.
February 12, 2022
Fancying a quick read last night I picked up The Motive, which has been on my #tbr since last year.
I read East of Hounslow some time ago now so was interested to see how Jay's character would be portrayed in a Quick Read. I found it an ideal way for new readers to be introduced to Jay and it set scene for the books to come. At just over 100 pages, it's definitely a quick read. Easy to read with short punchy chapters. Enjoyable and a great one to read in one evening.
I read East of Hounslow some time ago now so was interested to see how Jay's character would be portrayed in a Quick Read. I found it an ideal way for new readers to be introduced to Jay and it set scene for the books to come. At just over 100 pages, it's definitely a quick read. Easy to read with short punchy chapters. Enjoyable and a great one to read in one evening.
May 8, 2022
Interesting characters and dynamics, brilliant to have the backdrop be the Brexit vote. The plot felt a bit messy at times. The twist surprised me, but there is a reason for that. spoiler: The ending is a bit open-ended, and when it did end it was a bit unexpected, although thinking about it was ok.
I was motivated to think about it, enjoy it, and give it some rumination.
I was motivated to think about it, enjoy it, and give it some rumination.
June 6, 2021
Who did it?
A very good short story introducing Jay and Idris. Works as a great prequel to Homegrown Hero. Even though the story is short it still has plenty of twists and turns. Having if during the Brexit referendum in the background was a nice touch, adding to the feelings coming to the surface.
A very good short story introducing Jay and Idris. Works as a great prequel to Homegrown Hero. Even though the story is short it still has plenty of twists and turns. Having if during the Brexit referendum in the background was a nice touch, adding to the feelings coming to the surface.
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