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The Grifter
One will rise. The other will fall.
Kent Bancroft’s rise to fame and fortune was nothing short of meteoric. Once a simple teacher in London’s East End, he’s now on course to become Britain’s youngest billionaire.
But his success has come on the back of those he’s trodden upon to get there. Among them is a man whose fall was as swift as Kent’s rise. He used to be a sparky until a freak accident robbed him of one leg.
And then Kent Bancroft robbed him of everything else.
Forget forgiveness. Forget turning the other cheek. And forget waiting for karma.
This is a victim who won’t stand idly by.
He wants revenge.
And he’s going to get it.
Kent Bancroft will never see him coming.
Kent Bancroft’s rise to fame and fortune was nothing short of meteoric. Once a simple teacher in London’s East End, he’s now on course to become Britain’s youngest billionaire.
But his success has come on the back of those he’s trodden upon to get there. Among them is a man whose fall was as swift as Kent’s rise. He used to be a sparky until a freak accident robbed him of one leg.
And then Kent Bancroft robbed him of everything else.
Forget forgiveness. Forget turning the other cheek. And forget waiting for karma.
This is a victim who won’t stand idly by.
He wants revenge.
And he’s going to get it.
Kent Bancroft will never see him coming.
408 pages, Paperback
Published August 12, 2021
59 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 19, 2021
Superb!
Without doubt one of my fav read’s so far of the year
Meet 2 men, Kent and James, in completely different worlds, 1 a billionaire, 1 homeless living in an alley on his wits……and never the twain should meet, but there is a reason, a massive reason why they will, why they have to
The alternate chapters are brilliantly done, the difference in their lives could not be bigger, one is organising his spoilt brat of a daughter’s wedding, the other is trying to find a room to live in for £15 a night, the contrast is amazingly narrated and done so well by both
You can probably tell I loved the characters, EVERY one in the book is brilliant, in so many different ways, each unique
The book is heartfelt, at times funny, at times very sad, it’s real, poignant, gets under your skin and impossible not to turn ( or flick ) to the next chapter
There are detailed bits on ‘money’ things but it is so well explained it’s fascinating and not a chore
This is a brilliant, one sitting read that I actually didn’t want to end, even though the ending was great
Loved it
10/10
5 Stars
Without doubt one of my fav read’s so far of the year
Meet 2 men, Kent and James, in completely different worlds, 1 a billionaire, 1 homeless living in an alley on his wits……and never the twain should meet, but there is a reason, a massive reason why they will, why they have to
The alternate chapters are brilliantly done, the difference in their lives could not be bigger, one is organising his spoilt brat of a daughter’s wedding, the other is trying to find a room to live in for £15 a night, the contrast is amazingly narrated and done so well by both
You can probably tell I loved the characters, EVERY one in the book is brilliant, in so many different ways, each unique
The book is heartfelt, at times funny, at times very sad, it’s real, poignant, gets under your skin and impossible not to turn ( or flick ) to the next chapter
There are detailed bits on ‘money’ things but it is so well explained it’s fascinating and not a chore
This is a brilliant, one sitting read that I actually didn’t want to end, even though the ending was great
Loved it
10/10
5 Stars
August 29, 2021
The Grifter is a financial thriller, set in London.
James is homeless and lives on the streets; he lost all of his money after he put it into a financial scheme run by ‘Mr Safe Hands’: Kent Bancroft.
Kent is extraordinary wealthy; the media is calling him a billionaire. He has risen from the life of a humble school teacher to a famous stocks and shares trader. His daughter’s wedding is so extravagant that it is called ‘The Wedding Of the Year’, and no expense is spared.
However, beneath this shiny façade lies a fraud; Kent cheats people like James out of their life savings. This is the story of his revenge.
The story is told from dual points of view; James and Kent. It dots back and forth between them as the narrative takes the reader through two very different lives.
I would describe this as a mild thriller; not really edge of your seat stuff, as I could guess where the story was heading, it was more about the journey than the destination. I didn’t particularly empathise with either character; I was just happy to watch from afar as their lives wound towards each other and the denouement.
James is homeless and lives on the streets; he lost all of his money after he put it into a financial scheme run by ‘Mr Safe Hands’: Kent Bancroft.
Kent is extraordinary wealthy; the media is calling him a billionaire. He has risen from the life of a humble school teacher to a famous stocks and shares trader. His daughter’s wedding is so extravagant that it is called ‘The Wedding Of the Year’, and no expense is spared.
However, beneath this shiny façade lies a fraud; Kent cheats people like James out of their life savings. This is the story of his revenge.
The story is told from dual points of view; James and Kent. It dots back and forth between them as the narrative takes the reader through two very different lives.
I would describe this as a mild thriller; not really edge of your seat stuff, as I could guess where the story was heading, it was more about the journey than the destination. I didn’t particularly empathise with either character; I was just happy to watch from afar as their lives wound towards each other and the denouement.
August 18, 2021
What a good read that was. Brilliantly written from the perspective of the two main protagonists. Two men who inhabit very different worlds albeit their paths crossed once. Once was enough.
Briefly, James/Jamie is living on the streets. Compensation received after a workplace accident was invested with Kent Bancroft’s company and he lost it all. Not just his money but his family and his livelihood. Kent is a billionaire after a meteoric rise from a schoolteacher in the East End of London to owning a financial services company. The only problem is that he is also a thief. Stealing from his clients to fund his ostentatious lifestyle. But Jamie wants revenge and will stop at nothing to get it.
The characterisations in this book are excellent. Some really despicable characters who I loved to hate and other who you really felt for; genuine despite their human flaws. Who hasn’t got those? An original and thought provoking book. How far would you go to to right a wrong? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, James/Jamie is living on the streets. Compensation received after a workplace accident was invested with Kent Bancroft’s company and he lost it all. Not just his money but his family and his livelihood. Kent is a billionaire after a meteoric rise from a schoolteacher in the East End of London to owning a financial services company. The only problem is that he is also a thief. Stealing from his clients to fund his ostentatious lifestyle. But Jamie wants revenge and will stop at nothing to get it.
The characterisations in this book are excellent. Some really despicable characters who I loved to hate and other who you really felt for; genuine despite their human flaws. Who hasn’t got those? An original and thought provoking book. How far would you go to to right a wrong? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 14, 2021
This was such an exciting book to read it certainly kept hold of my attention all the way through it !
This is a really great thriller to read , it is from 2 different views but everything ties together nicely. The way the author has written the book keeps you guessing what is going to happen , it isn't one that you can read too quickly as there is a lot to digest in it which keeps your mind busy as you are reading it.
In this book it follows Kent as rich man who I feel thinks he is better than everyone else , and when the 'little man' who he ended up making homeless is out to get his revenge , which to be honest I totally agree with him , I would feel the same! But possibly not do what he does ! I won't say too much about the plot so I don't ruin it but it is a really great read , and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who enjoys thriller type books
This is a really great thriller to read , it is from 2 different views but everything ties together nicely. The way the author has written the book keeps you guessing what is going to happen , it isn't one that you can read too quickly as there is a lot to digest in it which keeps your mind busy as you are reading it.
In this book it follows Kent as rich man who I feel thinks he is better than everyone else , and when the 'little man' who he ended up making homeless is out to get his revenge , which to be honest I totally agree with him , I would feel the same! But possibly not do what he does ! I won't say too much about the plot so I don't ruin it but it is a really great read , and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who enjoys thriller type books
August 17, 2021
I loved this book and how original it is.
The book is told from two completely different points of view, from men at opposite ends at the spectrum. One is a millionaire and one is homeless. However when you tread on people to get success, someday they may want to get even.
This is a brilliant story of revenge and retribution.
I can not wait to read more by these authors.
The book is told from two completely different points of view, from men at opposite ends at the spectrum. One is a millionaire and one is homeless. However when you tread on people to get success, someday they may want to get even.
This is a brilliant story of revenge and retribution.
I can not wait to read more by these authors.
August 14, 2021
I have a little confession to make. Although I have books written by both authors, I haven’t actually read one…..until now that is. I was invited to take part in the blog tour for their first collaborative book called ‘The Grifter’. I thought that I wouldn’t get a better opportunity to acquaint myself with their work. Having enjoyed reading ‘The Grifter’ as much as I did, I am now rather ticked off at myself that I left it this long to discover how flipping fantastic both authors are. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Grifter’ but more about that in a bit.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into ‘The Grifter’. In fact by the time I had finished reading the synopsis, I knew that I had a treat in store. So without further ado, I dived straight in. After a while, it was obvious that I had become addicted to the story and that I was finding it increasingly difficult to put the book down for any length of time. I was intrigued by the characters and to see in which direction the story was going to go in. I had to keep reading and the pages turned over that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. I managed to finish the book in a day which is good going for me. I found ‘The Grifter’ to be a gripping read, which kept me on my toes and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The Grifter’ is well written. The authors certainly know how to grab the reader’s attention and reel them in like a fisherman reels in a catch. For me, the story hits the ground running and maintains a fairly fast pace throughout. The story is written with certain chapters focusing on Kent, who is on the way to becoming a billionaire and James, who is one of many that Kent trampled on to get where he is today. I was silently cheering James on in his efforts to get his revenge. Reading ‘The Grifter’ felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with many twists and turns along the way. I felt as though I was part of the story and at the heart of the action, which is thanks to the very vivid and realistic storytelling from both authors.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Grifter’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from both authors in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into ‘The Grifter’. In fact by the time I had finished reading the synopsis, I knew that I had a treat in store. So without further ado, I dived straight in. After a while, it was obvious that I had become addicted to the story and that I was finding it increasingly difficult to put the book down for any length of time. I was intrigued by the characters and to see in which direction the story was going to go in. I had to keep reading and the pages turned over that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. I managed to finish the book in a day which is good going for me. I found ‘The Grifter’ to be a gripping read, which kept me on my toes and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The Grifter’ is well written. The authors certainly know how to grab the reader’s attention and reel them in like a fisherman reels in a catch. For me, the story hits the ground running and maintains a fairly fast pace throughout. The story is written with certain chapters focusing on Kent, who is on the way to becoming a billionaire and James, who is one of many that Kent trampled on to get where he is today. I was silently cheering James on in his efforts to get his revenge. Reading ‘The Grifter’ felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with many twists and turns along the way. I felt as though I was part of the story and at the heart of the action, which is thanks to the very vivid and realistic storytelling from both authors.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Grifter’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from both authors in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
October 25, 2021
3.5*
An action packed tale about James, whose life was ruined by crooked financier Kent Bancroft, and his plans to retrieve his lost half a million pounds. It's also about Kent himself, and how the life of a rich man does not always run as smoothly as you might think.
What I liked about this book:
The structure - ever since reading Jeffrey Archer's Kane and Abel decades ago, I've adored alternate POV books, especially when, as with this, the lives are poles apart.
The pace - the book marches along with just the right amount of inner narrative versus events - there are no boring waffle bits, the characters are well-developed, and all the backstory is nicely woven in at just the right time. This is something that you may not notice unless it isn't right (like how you don't notice if something is clean, but you do notice if it isn't) - getting it spot on is an art.
The writing style - flowing and so readable, so much so that I wasn't tempted to skip-read even when I wasn't too sure about the content itself.
The quality of the research that had clearly taken place, about the financial detail, life as a homeless person, the art world and other aspects throughout the book.
The basic storyline, which appealed to me as soon as I read about it.
What I was not so sure about:
There were way too many errors that editor/proofreader should have picked up on, such as the phrase 'the gig is up' instead of 'the jig is up', Marlborough cigarettes instead of Marlboro, multiple instances of the word 'invite' that should have been 'invitation' (unlikely to occur at this level of society), numerous backwards apostrophes at the beginning of words.
I wasn't convinced that an exclusive gym patronised by the aristocracy would be called 'MuscleBound', which sounds more like an establishment owned by Phil Mitchell from EastEnders. It's only a small thing but it really stood out to me.
The story development, which I thought needed more thinking through; many developments/details seemed a tad unfeasible. An example: a rich financier sharp enough to con thousands of people out of millions but doesn't have an efficient alarm and CCTV system at his house.
To sum up, if you're willing to suspend your disbelief, it's a jolly good, fun book that zips along, entertains and keeps you turning the pages, and for this I commend it; being able to tell a story that amuses and keeps the attention is indeed a talent worthy of note. Everyone has different levels of belief suspension, and mine are particularly low; most of the reviews for this book are very positive indeed.
An action packed tale about James, whose life was ruined by crooked financier Kent Bancroft, and his plans to retrieve his lost half a million pounds. It's also about Kent himself, and how the life of a rich man does not always run as smoothly as you might think.
What I liked about this book:
The structure - ever since reading Jeffrey Archer's Kane and Abel decades ago, I've adored alternate POV books, especially when, as with this, the lives are poles apart.
The pace - the book marches along with just the right amount of inner narrative versus events - there are no boring waffle bits, the characters are well-developed, and all the backstory is nicely woven in at just the right time. This is something that you may not notice unless it isn't right (like how you don't notice if something is clean, but you do notice if it isn't) - getting it spot on is an art.
The writing style - flowing and so readable, so much so that I wasn't tempted to skip-read even when I wasn't too sure about the content itself.
The quality of the research that had clearly taken place, about the financial detail, life as a homeless person, the art world and other aspects throughout the book.
The basic storyline, which appealed to me as soon as I read about it.
What I was not so sure about:
There were way too many errors that editor/proofreader should have picked up on, such as the phrase 'the gig is up' instead of 'the jig is up', Marlborough cigarettes instead of Marlboro, multiple instances of the word 'invite' that should have been 'invitation' (unlikely to occur at this level of society), numerous backwards apostrophes at the beginning of words.
I wasn't convinced that an exclusive gym patronised by the aristocracy would be called 'MuscleBound', which sounds more like an establishment owned by Phil Mitchell from EastEnders. It's only a small thing but it really stood out to me.
The story development, which I thought needed more thinking through; many developments/details seemed a tad unfeasible. An example: a rich financier sharp enough to con thousands of people out of millions but doesn't have an efficient alarm and CCTV system at his house.
To sum up, if you're willing to suspend your disbelief, it's a jolly good, fun book that zips along, entertains and keeps you turning the pages, and for this I commend it; being able to tell a story that amuses and keeps the attention is indeed a talent worthy of note. Everyone has different levels of belief suspension, and mine are particularly low; most of the reviews for this book are very positive indeed.
August 15, 2021
Kent Bancroft is a multimillionaire, heading towards billionaire status. But how exactly did a former teacher rise to such lofty levels? Is his rise purely down to his own endeavours or is there something less savoury behind his wealth and influence?
Enter James, once a simple electrician, now homeless and holding Kent responsible for his situation. He wants revenge, but how can he topple someone with Kent's power and reputation? While pondering how, James comes into possession of Kent's wallet and while the money within it allows him to get off the streets, if only for a time, is there something else which will help his cause?
I loved the way the authors developed the characters and storyline, the plot built steadily until the finale, which saw twists and turns a plenty. Definitely a fabulous read.
I received this book as an advance reader copy from the authors and I am voluntarily posting an honest review
Enter James, once a simple electrician, now homeless and holding Kent responsible for his situation. He wants revenge, but how can he topple someone with Kent's power and reputation? While pondering how, James comes into possession of Kent's wallet and while the money within it allows him to get off the streets, if only for a time, is there something else which will help his cause?
I loved the way the authors developed the characters and storyline, the plot built steadily until the finale, which saw twists and turns a plenty. Definitely a fabulous read.
I received this book as an advance reader copy from the authors and I am voluntarily posting an honest review
August 15, 2021
I am lucky that I get to read an awful lot of books and think I can be a fairly good judge when something special comes along.
The Grifter would be one of those special books, that just floors you, takes you out of your comfort zone somewhat.
This is a slightly different format I that it is told from the perspective of 2 men, who couldn't be more different.
One is a billionaire in charge of a business ess trading stocks in the city. He is married and his only daughter is getting married.
The other is a homeless man who has lost everything. His home, his wife, his kids, one of his legs. He is at the lowest point.
However, as you learn, these two men are connected.
You feel little sympathy for Kent, who despite being obscenely rich (on the outside at least) seems rather naive.
I was absolutely hooked once I got going and absolutely had to find out what happened.
I loved story of James and his "mates" Baz and Filcher.
The Grifter would be one of those special books, that just floors you, takes you out of your comfort zone somewhat.
This is a slightly different format I that it is told from the perspective of 2 men, who couldn't be more different.
One is a billionaire in charge of a business ess trading stocks in the city. He is married and his only daughter is getting married.
The other is a homeless man who has lost everything. His home, his wife, his kids, one of his legs. He is at the lowest point.
However, as you learn, these two men are connected.
You feel little sympathy for Kent, who despite being obscenely rich (on the outside at least) seems rather naive.
I was absolutely hooked once I got going and absolutely had to find out what happened.
I loved story of James and his "mates" Baz and Filcher.
August 16, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. It is very different, very clever and very funny. There were some amazing lines such as ���snitches get stitches” and “my favourite designer Florence and Fred”. It is written in the first person by the two main characters, who appear in alternate chapters and I thought this worked well. I felt that I really got to know them. The plot was genius and I had to keep reading, reading to find out how it was all going to work out. Right up until the last page I could not see where this was going. There is a bit of everything , comedy, romance, a thrilling, original story line and some amazing characters, Fat Baz, Filcher, Ottolie and Rima. Pure comedy gold. I really hope to be reading more books by Sean Campbell and Ali Gunn.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 9, 2021
"The bigger they are the greater they fall!"
A compelling psychological thriller that grows momentum to the end and leaves you holding your breath.
What I love about this book is the characters aren't based on highly intelligent sociopaths. Ultimately this book is based on how a nobody aims to take down the biggest shark in London. You get a glimpse at the two extremes of London. The language is down to earth and the plot is just simply brilliant, and on par with the characters. There is even time for a bit of humour.
I was gifted an ARC by the authors for a honest review should I choose to. I have read Ali Gunn's other works, and have to say he is a fantastic author. Would definitely, definitely recommend.
A compelling psychological thriller that grows momentum to the end and leaves you holding your breath.
What I love about this book is the characters aren't based on highly intelligent sociopaths. Ultimately this book is based on how a nobody aims to take down the biggest shark in London. You get a glimpse at the two extremes of London. The language is down to earth and the plot is just simply brilliant, and on par with the characters. There is even time for a bit of humour.
I was gifted an ARC by the authors for a honest review should I choose to. I have read Ali Gunn's other works, and have to say he is a fantastic author. Would definitely, definitely recommend.
August 7, 2021
This book is fabulous. It is a story about 2 very different men. The first man has lost everything and lives on the street. The second man is a billionaire who plays fast and loose with the rules. The plot moves along at a great pace with each man being the subject of alternating chapters. The character development is great as the reader learns much about what motivates each man and how their lives intersect.
This story is told in a very unique and engaging manner building to a great climax and ending.
This story is told in a very unique and engaging manner building to a great climax and ending.
July 31, 2021
The contrasting main characters had a tale between them which was fun to see how they fitted together.
The female secondary characters were strong. In my head, I pictured some of them wearing shoulder pads like the story was set in the 80s but with the addition of modern technology.
Great scenery/settings: I’d love to go to the event in the book and not only for venue but the hidden comedy!
I’m not sure of the accents of the characters, especially as the “not posh” one had a moderately posh history!
I was expecting a different ending which turned out to be quite pedestrian to my imagination.
I really loved the overall feel of the book: the humour; the way I felt sorry for a character who I definitely did not feel sorry for; the moments of tension and the diversity.
July 19, 2021
We have two different points of view here, but it’s not long before we find the connection between them. Kent Bancroft is obscenely rich, but most of it is acquired illegally. One of the ‘little people’ he robbed, now homeless, is determined to make him pay – and not just in money.
It’s a really good story that contrasts a homeless and crippled man’s life with that of a billionaire to great effect. Jimmy, our homeless man, finds from the newspapers how much Kent is spending on his daughter’s wedding. Getting both points of view really makes Jimmy’s quest seem hopeless. He finds an ally on the way, but stupidly alienates her. I loved the ending. Superb storytelling.
I received an advance review copy of this book.
It’s a really good story that contrasts a homeless and crippled man’s life with that of a billionaire to great effect. Jimmy, our homeless man, finds from the newspapers how much Kent is spending on his daughter’s wedding. Getting both points of view really makes Jimmy’s quest seem hopeless. He finds an ally on the way, but stupidly alienates her. I loved the ending. Superb storytelling.
I received an advance review copy of this book.
January 2, 2022
This is a brilliantly written book.
The two main characters are worlds apart. James a homeless man living in alleyways and shop doorways in the heart of London.
Kent a self made billionaire who has everything a man can desire.
James has lost everything his home his wife and his children whilst Kent is trying to rein in his spoilt daughter spending millions on her wedding.
Worlds apart right?
But they are destined to meet for James has a score to settle.
The characters are outstanding and the chapters just flow and the authors have done an amazing job working together
The two main characters are worlds apart. James a homeless man living in alleyways and shop doorways in the heart of London.
Kent a self made billionaire who has everything a man can desire.
James has lost everything his home his wife and his children whilst Kent is trying to rein in his spoilt daughter spending millions on her wedding.
Worlds apart right?
But they are destined to meet for James has a score to settle.
The characters are outstanding and the chapters just flow and the authors have done an amazing job working together
August 15, 2021
The grifter by Sean Campbell &Ali Gunn is a standalone crime thriller by new authors to me. The cover and the synopsis enticed me in and I am glad they did! What a superb book.
The synopsis is so good I am sharing it in full with you
One will rise. The other will fall.
Kent Bancroft’s rise to fame and fortune was nothing short of meteoric. Once a simple teacher in London’s East End, he’s now on course to become Britain’s youngest billionaire.
But his success has come on the back of those he’s trodden upon to get there. Among them is a man whose fall was as swift as Kent’s rise. He used to be a sparky, honest and hard-working. Now, he’s homeless, drunk, and down one leg.
And he blames Kent for everything.
Forget forgiveness. Forget turning the other cheek. And forget waiting for karma.
This is a victim who won’t stand idly by.
He wants revenge.
And he’s going to get it.
Kent Bancroft will never see him coming.
Well, with that I started this book and I was so interested in this story I read it in two lots. Such an excellent thriller to read. Two men, two tales. Kent Bancroft, a rich man who made himself rich with the blood and sweat of others. A man who I am sure could have a God complex and feels he is above everyone else. Then there is the man who lost everything due to Mr Kent Bancroft. Absolutely everything. What Kent doesn't know is the 'little man' is determined to get revenge and with everything Kent did to get where he is, I really can't say I blame him. I felt for him.
Sean Campbell and Ali Gunn have created two characters that put my emotions through the ringer in this book. Kent Bancroft is someone everyone loves to hate and boy, did I! Our 'avenging angel' the little man took me right back to my childhood, when my parents had a really bad time. All my memories rose back up to the surface. We couldn't afford to pay the electric, we moved out of our family home just before it was repossessed. I could really empathise with him. Although his revenge is not one I could take...
An intriguing story that keeps you turning to pages just because you need to know if your guesses are correct, or not. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves an intelligent thriller, it is a great read.
Thanks to Zoé of ZooLoo's Book Tours, Sean Campbell and Ali Gunn for the gifted copy of the book.
The synopsis is so good I am sharing it in full with you
One will rise. The other will fall.
Kent Bancroft’s rise to fame and fortune was nothing short of meteoric. Once a simple teacher in London’s East End, he’s now on course to become Britain’s youngest billionaire.
But his success has come on the back of those he’s trodden upon to get there. Among them is a man whose fall was as swift as Kent’s rise. He used to be a sparky, honest and hard-working. Now, he’s homeless, drunk, and down one leg.
And he blames Kent for everything.
Forget forgiveness. Forget turning the other cheek. And forget waiting for karma.
This is a victim who won’t stand idly by.
He wants revenge.
And he’s going to get it.
Kent Bancroft will never see him coming.
Well, with that I started this book and I was so interested in this story I read it in two lots. Such an excellent thriller to read. Two men, two tales. Kent Bancroft, a rich man who made himself rich with the blood and sweat of others. A man who I am sure could have a God complex and feels he is above everyone else. Then there is the man who lost everything due to Mr Kent Bancroft. Absolutely everything. What Kent doesn't know is the 'little man' is determined to get revenge and with everything Kent did to get where he is, I really can't say I blame him. I felt for him.
Sean Campbell and Ali Gunn have created two characters that put my emotions through the ringer in this book. Kent Bancroft is someone everyone loves to hate and boy, did I! Our 'avenging angel' the little man took me right back to my childhood, when my parents had a really bad time. All my memories rose back up to the surface. We couldn't afford to pay the electric, we moved out of our family home just before it was repossessed. I could really empathise with him. Although his revenge is not one I could take...
An intriguing story that keeps you turning to pages just because you need to know if your guesses are correct, or not. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves an intelligent thriller, it is a great read.
Thanks to Zoé of ZooLoo's Book Tours, Sean Campbell and Ali Gunn for the gifted copy of the book.
September 8, 2021
I received a review copy from the author at my request and this is my honest opinion. (Yes, I know I'm late, but at least I'm fulfilling my commitment.) This was one more awesome read. It may have taken me a minute to really get hooked in but once I did, I was hooked until the last page. The story of one man's fight to overcome his feeling of impotent fury resonates so well here. Most of us, at some time or other, have dealt with that powerless feeling of knowing we have been wronged but we are unable to do anything about it. Watching our 'hero' here determined to get back what belongs to him, allows us to vicariously feel we have accomplished our justice, and that's always a good feeling. Ms. Gunn has created an imperfect hero that the reader can get behind and relate to, mostly. And as always in a great read, while it won't be an easy road, justice will prevail. And how poignant to see the differences between the lifestyle of the haves and that of the have nots.
I did have a bit of trouble trying to place this book in the correct genre. It isn't a PI mystery, a police procedural, a spy story, or a psychological thriller, even though it doesn't have psychological tendencies. Whatever it is and however one would classify it, it's good. This is the first book by Ms. Gunn that I have read, but it won't be the last! I highly recommend it.
I did have a bit of trouble trying to place this book in the correct genre. It isn't a PI mystery, a police procedural, a spy story, or a psychological thriller, even though it doesn't have psychological tendencies. Whatever it is and however one would classify it, it's good. This is the first book by Ms. Gunn that I have read, but it won't be the last! I highly recommend it.
October 1, 2025
Ali Gunn and Sean Campbell’s The Grifter is a razor-sharp thriller about ambition, betrayal, and vengeance, told with unflinching intensity. At its core is Kent Bancroft a former schoolteacher turned ruthless billionaire whose meteoric rise has left destruction in its wake. But success always comes at a price, and one of his victims is determined to make Kent pay it in blood.
The brilliance of this book lies in its duel of wills: the powerful mogul who believes he’s untouchable versus a broken man with nothing left to lose. The authors masterfully contrast their arcs one rising, one falling while weaving a suspenseful narrative of retribution that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.
What sets The Grifter apart from typical revenge thrillers is its psychological depth. This isn’t just about violence; it’s about justice warped by obsession, and the fine line between victim and villain. Readers are forced to question who truly deserves redemption and whether vengeance can ever bring peace.
Dark, gripping, and disturbingly plausible, The Grifter is a thriller that lingers long after the last page. It’s not just a battle of men, but a battle of morality, power, and the lengths we’ll go when everything has been stolen from us.
The brilliance of this book lies in its duel of wills: the powerful mogul who believes he’s untouchable versus a broken man with nothing left to lose. The authors masterfully contrast their arcs one rising, one falling while weaving a suspenseful narrative of retribution that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.
What sets The Grifter apart from typical revenge thrillers is its psychological depth. This isn’t just about violence; it’s about justice warped by obsession, and the fine line between victim and villain. Readers are forced to question who truly deserves redemption and whether vengeance can ever bring peace.
Dark, gripping, and disturbingly plausible, The Grifter is a thriller that lingers long after the last page. It’s not just a battle of men, but a battle of morality, power, and the lengths we’ll go when everything has been stolen from us.
August 20, 2021
The book starts out with the stories of two men-the first is a homeless man who is homeless mainly due to a rich jerk. The rich jerk's life is falling apart - one bad decison leads to another, which leads to another and it all escalates. Now man #1 isn't aware of the issues of the rich guy, so he is plotting to take him down.
This story is told via alternating chapters with the viewpoint of each. I love stories that read this way.
In the beginning i am turned off my both men really, but have much more sympathy for the homeless man. But then as the rich man's life spirals, I start to feel sympathy and have to shake myself and say "No, he's a horrible person, he deserves this". And there were times I didn't like the homeless man and wasn't rooting for him... and would remind myself "no, he's the good guy" - or is he?
This was a fast paced, fun, crazy read. that just more and more crazy as it progressed. I could totally picture this as a movie!
I want to thank the author, the publisher and #netgalley for the ARC which did not impact my review.
This story is told via alternating chapters with the viewpoint of each. I love stories that read this way.
In the beginning i am turned off my both men really, but have much more sympathy for the homeless man. But then as the rich man's life spirals, I start to feel sympathy and have to shake myself and say "No, he's a horrible person, he deserves this". And there were times I didn't like the homeless man and wasn't rooting for him... and would remind myself "no, he's the good guy" - or is he?
This was a fast paced, fun, crazy read. that just more and more crazy as it progressed. I could totally picture this as a movie!
I want to thank the author, the publisher and #netgalley for the ARC which did not impact my review.
January 24, 2022
The Grifter was a very enjoyable and well written read. Despite being a story told from two perspectives, I didn’t find myself losing track or getting confused at all, which is down to the great way these perspectives and the plot were drawn together. As I was lucky enough to win a free copy of the book and didn’t purchase it myself, I didn’t know immediately what the genre was. Having read the blurb, style and title, I expected it to be a bit harder hitting and gritty. Perhaps a dark crime fiction or a fast paced thrilled. I would suggest in reality it felt more suspenseful and a softer thriller, but the story was certainly interesting enough to keep me going. It was nice to see some topics covered that I don’t normally read including am amputee (my brother is an amputee similar to the character in the book) and homelessness. As another reviewer mentioned there were some minor details which did feel a little clunky but nothing that made me feel the disappointed. Overall, a very enjoyable read with a satisfying ending.
August 31, 2021
One man has it all. One man has nothing.
This is a story about Kent Bancroft he has it all a billionaire wants for nothing, but how did he come to be filthy rich. He was once a teacher in the East End surely he must of trodden on some ones toes to get to where he is. But there is one man called James who he shouldn't of trodden on at all one big mistake he'll live to regret.
James had a family a job happiness but he suffered a terrible accident which left him losing one of his legs. He had a compensation pay out but he invested it in Bancrofts firm on the market shares and lost it all.
Basically he loses his family house everything and is now living on the streets. James is out to get revenge and bring Kent down no matter what it costs he has got nothing else to lose or has he.
This is not a book I would usually read but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Definitely going to try other books by this author.
Cracking read!!
This is a story about Kent Bancroft he has it all a billionaire wants for nothing, but how did he come to be filthy rich. He was once a teacher in the East End surely he must of trodden on some ones toes to get to where he is. But there is one man called James who he shouldn't of trodden on at all one big mistake he'll live to regret.
James had a family a job happiness but he suffered a terrible accident which left him losing one of his legs. He had a compensation pay out but he invested it in Bancrofts firm on the market shares and lost it all.
Basically he loses his family house everything and is now living on the streets. James is out to get revenge and bring Kent down no matter what it costs he has got nothing else to lose or has he.
This is not a book I would usually read but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Definitely going to try other books by this author.
Cracking read!!
August 16, 2021
This was a first for me with this author and I have to say I really enjoyed it. A well written story told from two perspectives, alternating chapters from our two leading men. Kent and Jimmy are polar opposites, Kent is a millionaire and James (aka Jimmy) is a down and out homeless fella who has lost everything. Kent is lavishly throwing money around and spending obscene amounts on daughter Ottolie’s wedding, Ottolie for me was one of those characters I truly disliked with a passion, but feel this gives credit to the author as a writer to give us such feelings and emotions about characters. I won’t write too much about the storyline as I feel this is the job of a blurb to get your interest and draw you in and this story certainly draws you in.
August 20, 2021
Holy Moly! What a superb book!
The cover doesn’t really give much away, but once you start reading…Wow!
Meet Kent & James; polar opposites; one a billionaire, the other homeless, living hand to mouth in an alleyway.
Alternating chapters reveal the difference in their lives. One, on one hand, organising the glitzy wedding that you have to be seen at & , on the other, one trying to find a room to survive the night. The descriptions & contrasting imagery is fantastic.
Their paths have crossed once & they inevitably cross again.
I don’t want to give the game away but suffice it to say, karma is a wonderful thing. A cracking thriller which only goes into the minutiae of finance when it has to.
You have to read it, this was one of my rare ‘read it in a day’ books. Fab!
The cover doesn’t really give much away, but once you start reading…Wow!
Meet Kent & James; polar opposites; one a billionaire, the other homeless, living hand to mouth in an alleyway.
Alternating chapters reveal the difference in their lives. One, on one hand, organising the glitzy wedding that you have to be seen at & , on the other, one trying to find a room to survive the night. The descriptions & contrasting imagery is fantastic.
Their paths have crossed once & they inevitably cross again.
I don’t want to give the game away but suffice it to say, karma is a wonderful thing. A cracking thriller which only goes into the minutiae of finance when it has to.
You have to read it, this was one of my rare ‘read it in a day’ books. Fab!
September 10, 2021
A cracking read from start to finish. One will rise and one will fail is very apt for this book. Kent Bancroft has risen to the dizzy heights of wealth but has he done it legally? I really disliked this character, but my dislike of him certainly didn't spoil the book, it added to it. Whereas James, a character I did like, a former electrician has sunk to the miserable depths of homelessness, for which he blames Bancroft. The plot is about revenge and justice. I was certainly rooting for James. This is the first book I've read by these authors and certainly won't be the last.
November 21, 2022
I enjoyed reading The Grifter. The story puts together two men at opposite extremes, however, both are ruthless in order to reach their goals and will do anything that serves to reach their aims; one will be careful not to hurt anybody the other will step on anyone to get what he want. The story is very similar to some working conditions where one is pulled against the other. It's fast-paced and very well-written, sometimes it made me sad or I laughed. I'll be looking forward to reading other titles by this duo. Well done!
September 3, 2021
Very good reading
A homeless amputee who had his settlement money defrauded from him by a financial manager using a Ponzi scheme seeks repayment and retribution. An exciting story mixing in all levels of society from the billionaires down to the homeless. Great reading about how life can turn quickly
A homeless amputee who had his settlement money defrauded from him by a financial manager using a Ponzi scheme seeks repayment and retribution. An exciting story mixing in all levels of society from the billionaires down to the homeless. Great reading about how life can turn quickly
September 3, 2021
The Gifter
Author Campbell has gifted readers with a well-paced, well-written tale. The style of alternating chapters between the two characters builds reader interest as perspective and tension go back and forth. Satisfying all the way through, including a worthy ending.
Author Campbell has gifted readers with a well-paced, well-written tale. The style of alternating chapters between the two characters builds reader interest as perspective and tension go back and forth. Satisfying all the way through, including a worthy ending.
January 11, 2022
This book starts with a bang and doesn't let up. I couldn't put it down. James has lost everything and just wants justice. Kent is living the high life and doesn't want to lose it. Their worlds collide and the story leads you on a real page turner.
January 17, 2022
DNF at 30%. I kept at this as long as I could stand but finally gave up. None of the characters were likable nor, even then, did I want to root for any of them. There was nothing gripping about the plot, and no pace or urgency to the story.
May 16, 2023
For all the build up, the end is pretty rushed. It's one of those where it feels like they were on a deadline or strict work count and just ran out of time/words to do it justice. But otherwise it's a decent crime thriller juxtaposing the rich grifter and the homeless grifter.
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