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Dark Lives #1
Survivor
A childhood accident robbed Vinnie of his memories, making him sensitive and anxious, and his difference soon attracted bullies. If it wasn’t for his family and his brother Frank, Vinnie wouldn’t have survived.
But as the boys grow up, and after the devastating loss of their parents, Vinnie finds himself increasingly involved in violent situations whenever he’s with Frank. Is this the type of man he’s become, or can the love of a remarkable woman teach him to embrace life?
When Vinnie is accused of a terrible crime, and looks set for a long stretch behind bars, fragments of his memory start to return and he begins to unravel his past.
Who was his mother? What kind of a man is his brother, Frank? And why does death surround them?
Things are not as they seem, but Vinnie can survive anything…
But as the boys grow up, and after the devastating loss of their parents, Vinnie finds himself increasingly involved in violent situations whenever he’s with Frank. Is this the type of man he’s become, or can the love of a remarkable woman teach him to embrace life?
When Vinnie is accused of a terrible crime, and looks set for a long stretch behind bars, fragments of his memory start to return and he begins to unravel his past.
Who was his mother? What kind of a man is his brother, Frank? And why does death surround them?
Things are not as they seem, but Vinnie can survive anything…
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2017
986 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
Ross Greenwood
43 books555 followersI was born in 1973 in Peterborough and lived there until I was 20, attending The King's School in the city. I then began a rather nomadic existence, living and working all over the country and various parts of the world.
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
October 6, 2017
This was my second Greenwood book and what struck me in the first one still resonated here, he has a knack for writing highly unique novels that fall under the umbrella of crime fiction but are not your typical read at all. There is no one killer or one police officer hunting down a maniac. His books aren’t action packed or super exciting and thrilling, BUT they are still very engaging and will take you on a very emotional journey.
This is told solely from Vincent’s point of view and begins when he is fourteen and follows him until he’s fifty. He has no memories from before he was seven and in many ways his young life was tragic. His parents are both dead while he’s still pretty young and his brother, Frank is not exactly dependable, so he’s basically on his own. For the first half, I wasn’t sure where things were headed, as much as Vincent had his struggles he had a decent life to start. Then, things took an unexpected turn and while I wouldn’t call it shocking per se, it was definitely heartbreaking.
This was a heavy read, incredibly sad, even depressing in parts. I don’t want to stop anyone from reading this though because Greenwood is a really fantastic writer, but it has heavy themes and feels dark and full of despair throughout, there isn’t a shred of hope to be seen. It’s heavily character driven and relies on that angle more than a crazy plot line to hook you and it worked for me. Refreshingly unique and emotionally charged, grab this one for something fresh.
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
This is told solely from Vincent’s point of view and begins when he is fourteen and follows him until he’s fifty. He has no memories from before he was seven and in many ways his young life was tragic. His parents are both dead while he’s still pretty young and his brother, Frank is not exactly dependable, so he’s basically on his own. For the first half, I wasn’t sure where things were headed, as much as Vincent had his struggles he had a decent life to start. Then, things took an unexpected turn and while I wouldn’t call it shocking per se, it was definitely heartbreaking.
This was a heavy read, incredibly sad, even depressing in parts. I don’t want to stop anyone from reading this though because Greenwood is a really fantastic writer, but it has heavy themes and feels dark and full of despair throughout, there isn’t a shred of hope to be seen. It’s heavily character driven and relies on that angle more than a crazy plot line to hook you and it worked for me. Refreshingly unique and emotionally charged, grab this one for something fresh.
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
April 14, 2025
This was a really thought-provoking and insightful novel. It has left me thinking about different parts of it and seeking my own truth from its pages. I can honestly say this was an unexpected and really brilliant read.
The book is written from the perspective of Vincent (Vinnie) and the chapters represent different years of his life from birth to later life. We get to journey with Vinnie through so many aspects of life from childhood, then the teenage years, his young adult years and beyond. You get the sense you really know Vinnie, but don't be so complacent in that thinking! The book has quite a stark twist in it and I pray no reviewer gives away spoilers as it's something you just need to get to all by yourself as a reader. His life is not easy, there are no golden pathways for Vinnie, yet he keeps on going, never seeming to give-up.
The psychological aspects of the book will appeal to psychological thriller lovers also as it delves into what makes somebody tick, what makes up a person, why do they become who they are? The reveals in this novel as they come about are really quite surprising and shocking, I was taken aback a number of times, not seeing things coming. A lot was cleverly disguised in this novel.
I classify this as contemporary fiction, a thriller, a touch of crime novel, it would appeal to anybody, a wide range of readers. Ross Greenwood has developed characters in this novel that are strongly put-forward to us, the reader. From Vincent's parents to his brother who plays a major role in his life, onto his first love, friends and beyond, each character stands apart in their own right and are really memorable. If you enjoy books that really delve into the human heart, mind, psyche, and psychology you will really enjoy Fifty Years of Fear.
The author has done his research for aspects of this novel, that was really clear and for that, I say "well done!". I sensed that this was not a novel written lightly, but with much depth and thought as to what the reader would feel and experience. Whilst the book has very deep parts to it, some darker than others it is also filled with some really great humour!
I didn't have time for more pleasantries to find out why that wasn't good news as platform two had an imminent arrival. It was coming fast and wouldn't be stopping for passengers. The gurgle that came from near my sphincter would have caused concern on the Isle of Wight Ferry as it sounded like the plaintive distress call of a wounded whale.
That was one of many moments in this book that really made me laugh and smile. It takes talent to blend difficult content and unpleasant moments with humour, yet, that is exactly what Ross Greenwood has done in this highly entertaining novel. Don't get me wrong, however, this is not a funny book as such, the humour is interwoven here and there into what is a really sad story filled with so many of the dark sides of human nature. I do like the way Ross has balanced out the reality of how life is often a mix of things, even at the darkest of times.
I was on board all the way with Vinnie's life story and this book is a story told by a really good writer. I was immersed in the words and the world created and fascinated with the characters, motives, and outcomes of this book. I did not expect some of the directions it took and the ending was surprisingly shocking. A book that will challenge you on how you feel about not only the main character, Vinnie but all those around him. I fluctuated with many characters in this book between like and loathe. Is what we see always what is the truth? What IS THE TRUTH OF VINNIE'S LIFE? That, my reader friends is the big question in this novel.
Highly entertaining, easy to read with solid, realistic dialogue, well-developed and interesting characters and a unique plot. This is unlike anything else I have read this year and whilst it's my first book read by Ross Greenwood it is certainly not my last. This was really enjoyable and I highly recommend. Five stars from me.
I read an ARC of this novel, received from the Author as I participated on his blog tour for this book. All opinions are entirely my own and totally unbiased.
The book is written from the perspective of Vincent (Vinnie) and the chapters represent different years of his life from birth to later life. We get to journey with Vinnie through so many aspects of life from childhood, then the teenage years, his young adult years and beyond. You get the sense you really know Vinnie, but don't be so complacent in that thinking! The book has quite a stark twist in it and I pray no reviewer gives away spoilers as it's something you just need to get to all by yourself as a reader. His life is not easy, there are no golden pathways for Vinnie, yet he keeps on going, never seeming to give-up.
The psychological aspects of the book will appeal to psychological thriller lovers also as it delves into what makes somebody tick, what makes up a person, why do they become who they are? The reveals in this novel as they come about are really quite surprising and shocking, I was taken aback a number of times, not seeing things coming. A lot was cleverly disguised in this novel.
I classify this as contemporary fiction, a thriller, a touch of crime novel, it would appeal to anybody, a wide range of readers. Ross Greenwood has developed characters in this novel that are strongly put-forward to us, the reader. From Vincent's parents to his brother who plays a major role in his life, onto his first love, friends and beyond, each character stands apart in their own right and are really memorable. If you enjoy books that really delve into the human heart, mind, psyche, and psychology you will really enjoy Fifty Years of Fear.
The author has done his research for aspects of this novel, that was really clear and for that, I say "well done!". I sensed that this was not a novel written lightly, but with much depth and thought as to what the reader would feel and experience. Whilst the book has very deep parts to it, some darker than others it is also filled with some really great humour!
I didn't have time for more pleasantries to find out why that wasn't good news as platform two had an imminent arrival. It was coming fast and wouldn't be stopping for passengers. The gurgle that came from near my sphincter would have caused concern on the Isle of Wight Ferry as it sounded like the plaintive distress call of a wounded whale.
That was one of many moments in this book that really made me laugh and smile. It takes talent to blend difficult content and unpleasant moments with humour, yet, that is exactly what Ross Greenwood has done in this highly entertaining novel. Don't get me wrong, however, this is not a funny book as such, the humour is interwoven here and there into what is a really sad story filled with so many of the dark sides of human nature. I do like the way Ross has balanced out the reality of how life is often a mix of things, even at the darkest of times.
I was on board all the way with Vinnie's life story and this book is a story told by a really good writer. I was immersed in the words and the world created and fascinated with the characters, motives, and outcomes of this book. I did not expect some of the directions it took and the ending was surprisingly shocking. A book that will challenge you on how you feel about not only the main character, Vinnie but all those around him. I fluctuated with many characters in this book between like and loathe. Is what we see always what is the truth? What IS THE TRUTH OF VINNIE'S LIFE? That, my reader friends is the big question in this novel.
Highly entertaining, easy to read with solid, realistic dialogue, well-developed and interesting characters and a unique plot. This is unlike anything else I have read this year and whilst it's my first book read by Ross Greenwood it is certainly not my last. This was really enjoyable and I highly recommend. Five stars from me.
I read an ARC of this novel, received from the Author as I participated on his blog tour for this book. All opinions are entirely my own and totally unbiased.
October 10, 2017
I had the absolute pleasure of reading this book way back in the early stages as a beta reader, and let me tell you – it was a story that really had me questioning everything!
The book opens in 1966 and we are taken through various decades as this story unfolds. Violence as a way of life, relationships, dysfunction, mental health, fear, loss, buried secrets, decisions/choices and a journey of discovery are the main themes that stuck out for me. The reader follows Vinnie as he tries to piece together his past and uncover a truth that made me wonder if it was better off buried …. what a story!
There is a steady build up of pace as the story unfolds – for me, it felt almost like a coming of age crossed with crime fiction…you know something is going to happen, you just don’t know when. There is a great narrative and the reader becomes entwined in this emotive story- the voice was strong and it made you listen! Tension and atmosphere were present and hung in the air like a thick mist – the reader is just pulled into this piece of fiction whether you want to or not!
There are so many unique and interesting characters in this story – Vinnie being one. He is a complex and perhaps even a slightly unintentional unreliable narrator. What a journey he is on! He tries his best to be “the good son” in stark contrast to his brother, Frank – but just cannot do right. Frank is a bully and uses violence as a means to an end – but he is so protective of his brother – you have to admire that. And their mother – well jaysus …that is all I am going to say about that!! Vinnie’s wife played a poignant role in his life and some aspects of her story were just so tragic. There were definitely aspects of this story that I just wanted to know more about or expanded on a bit more, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the book as a whole.
In short, this is definitely a book I would recommend. It is not a thriller, but a book you need to sit back and absorb – each word, each page and each chapter. Captivating, complex and enthralling – grab a copy of Fifty Years of Fear now! You won’t regret it!
The book opens in 1966 and we are taken through various decades as this story unfolds. Violence as a way of life, relationships, dysfunction, mental health, fear, loss, buried secrets, decisions/choices and a journey of discovery are the main themes that stuck out for me. The reader follows Vinnie as he tries to piece together his past and uncover a truth that made me wonder if it was better off buried …. what a story!
There is a steady build up of pace as the story unfolds – for me, it felt almost like a coming of age crossed with crime fiction…you know something is going to happen, you just don’t know when. There is a great narrative and the reader becomes entwined in this emotive story- the voice was strong and it made you listen! Tension and atmosphere were present and hung in the air like a thick mist – the reader is just pulled into this piece of fiction whether you want to or not!
There are so many unique and interesting characters in this story – Vinnie being one. He is a complex and perhaps even a slightly unintentional unreliable narrator. What a journey he is on! He tries his best to be “the good son” in stark contrast to his brother, Frank – but just cannot do right. Frank is a bully and uses violence as a means to an end – but he is so protective of his brother – you have to admire that. And their mother – well jaysus …that is all I am going to say about that!! Vinnie’s wife played a poignant role in his life and some aspects of her story were just so tragic. There were definitely aspects of this story that I just wanted to know more about or expanded on a bit more, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the book as a whole.
In short, this is definitely a book I would recommend. It is not a thriller, but a book you need to sit back and absorb – each word, each page and each chapter. Captivating, complex and enthralling – grab a copy of Fifty Years of Fear now! You won’t regret it!
September 28, 2017
I think I'm going to be the exception to the rule on this one! I wanted to enjoy it and the synopsis made me think it was right up my street, but I just didn't get it.
Whilst the book was very well written and flowed very well, I found that it didn't make me feel anything. I didn't connect with any of the characters, I didn't feel sorry for them and I wasn't really all that fussed what happened to them. Maybe I've read too many dark and twisted books for my own good, but this just felt like the story of someone's life.
I think the front cover and tag-lines are a little mis-leading. I thought was going to be a deep dark psychological thriller and it didn't come across that way.
I think perhaps this one is just not for me and as other people have enjoyed it.
Whilst the book was very well written and flowed very well, I found that it didn't make me feel anything. I didn't connect with any of the characters, I didn't feel sorry for them and I wasn't really all that fussed what happened to them. Maybe I've read too many dark and twisted books for my own good, but this just felt like the story of someone's life.
I think the front cover and tag-lines are a little mis-leading. I thought was going to be a deep dark psychological thriller and it didn't come across that way.
I think perhaps this one is just not for me and as other people have enjoyed it.
March 16, 2022
A thought-provoking , heartbreaking novel told from Vincent’s POV and begins when he is fourteen till he’s fifty. A cleverly written book with in depth characters made it an emotional, gripping read.
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers Request Group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers Request Group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
February 10, 2018
If you like stories that uncover family secrets and lies as much as I do, then you’ll love this one. Story-telling at its best, Fifty Years of Fear follows the story of Vincent and his family, and takes us to places we couldn’t have imagined going, because this family isn’t as ordinary as it first appears. Told with deep insight and a real affection for his characters, Greenwood wraps us around his little finger with his authentic, intuitive style of writing. There is emotional depth to the characters and the family felt incredibly real. They say that blood is thicker than water and this is proven true here; with a mother who will do anything to defend her boys and a strange relationship between two opposite brothers that stands the test of time, despite the odds. In particular, I found Vinnie’s insight into his brother Frank’s character fascinating, mainly because he demonstrated such a pitiful lack of understanding of his own. With prison life just around the corner, we get to meet some very flawed characters and experience dark times. Throughout these scenes, the author demonstrated an excellent working-knowledge of the prison system and dealt sensitively with some very difficult subjects. All thought provoking stuff, especially for those like me, who know little of the judicial process. Due to the dark subject matter, it is not surprising that the question of forgiveness crops up from time to time in the book, as one struggles to determine if Vincent is deserving of such emotion, but in the end I lost my heart to him (be warned – this book really does make you self-examine your perception of others). A fabulously brave and courageous story that ventures into the minds of people we might come across every day, may even know, but can never hope to truly understand.
October 3, 2017
Having read and loved Ross Greenwood’s previous two novels I thought I had some idea of the type of book I would be reading and although there is definitely the Ross Greenwood stamp on it this felt so more personal to the main character Vinnie. The story is told by Vinnie, born in 1966 it begins in 1980 when he is fourteen, living at home with his mum, dad and older brother Frank.
Where as Frank is more physical, Vinnie is more the sensitive type which seems to attract all the wrong sorts to have a go. You know the kind of lad, the ones that seem to have an invisible sign on their forehead that says ‘Hit Me’ that only the bullies can see. Frank on the other hand is more boisterous and jumps in with both arms and legs hitting out then asks questions later or should I say too late. Unfortunately through life it seems to cause more problems than solve them.
Vinnie is really a sweet guy, most of the time although there are at times a much darker side to him. Pretty much a loner, he does have relationships but the one stable person he does have is Frank who is always there when needed. This is a very deep and tragic story really where the conclusions that I made about some people were turned upside down. We associate people in our lives with the roles they play to us but people have many different roles in life.
As the story is told by Vinnie of course I only got the picture of how he saw events when he was growing up and the conclusions that he made of the things that he perceived of other people’s actions and thoughts. This made for some pretty topsy-turvy times in places which made brilliant reading. There are some lighter moments in this story but not many. Sometimes life just deals all the grief in one direction, gives a little hope, then makes things worse. This is the world of Vinnie.
Ross Greenwood has again delivered characters that grow and change as life throws new situations that them, they adapt and change how they see people but mostly are unpredictable themselves. This story defines love in so many different ways and how far you will go to protect the people you care about the most. At times it is very primitive with reactions and definitely leaves you plenty to think about.
Where as Frank is more physical, Vinnie is more the sensitive type which seems to attract all the wrong sorts to have a go. You know the kind of lad, the ones that seem to have an invisible sign on their forehead that says ‘Hit Me’ that only the bullies can see. Frank on the other hand is more boisterous and jumps in with both arms and legs hitting out then asks questions later or should I say too late. Unfortunately through life it seems to cause more problems than solve them.
Vinnie is really a sweet guy, most of the time although there are at times a much darker side to him. Pretty much a loner, he does have relationships but the one stable person he does have is Frank who is always there when needed. This is a very deep and tragic story really where the conclusions that I made about some people were turned upside down. We associate people in our lives with the roles they play to us but people have many different roles in life.
As the story is told by Vinnie of course I only got the picture of how he saw events when he was growing up and the conclusions that he made of the things that he perceived of other people’s actions and thoughts. This made for some pretty topsy-turvy times in places which made brilliant reading. There are some lighter moments in this story but not many. Sometimes life just deals all the grief in one direction, gives a little hope, then makes things worse. This is the world of Vinnie.
Ross Greenwood has again delivered characters that grow and change as life throws new situations that them, they adapt and change how they see people but mostly are unpredictable themselves. This story defines love in so many different ways and how far you will go to protect the people you care about the most. At times it is very primitive with reactions and definitely leaves you plenty to think about.
October 1, 2017
Fifty Years Of Fear is told in first person by Vinnie and starts off from when he is a young lad up until present day. I have to say it made me feel quite melancholy whilst reading it as it is a very deep and thought provoking read.
Having not had a brilliant childhood, I thought Vinnie seemed quite clued up. He is good with his money and works hard. Even when he gets married and the few hardships that they have to go through together, I don’t think a wife could ask for a better husband. If anything he probably puts up with more than he should have to.
It’s hard to say to much about what happens in this story as I really don’t want to give to much away. Vinnie certainly doesn’t seem to have much luck on his side. It just seems to go downhill at a steady rate and my heart really went out to him. He certainly doesn’t deserve the life that has been dealt him and it made me sad and angry.
Fifty Years Of Fear is a deep and mentally dark read. It had me go through an array of emotions that I had not expected to feel. It makes you question society as a whole and how people are so willing to see what they want in people. The author has created a meaningful and gripping read that me hooked through out. An extremely powerful read.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Having not had a brilliant childhood, I thought Vinnie seemed quite clued up. He is good with his money and works hard. Even when he gets married and the few hardships that they have to go through together, I don’t think a wife could ask for a better husband. If anything he probably puts up with more than he should have to.
It’s hard to say to much about what happens in this story as I really don’t want to give to much away. Vinnie certainly doesn’t seem to have much luck on his side. It just seems to go downhill at a steady rate and my heart really went out to him. He certainly doesn’t deserve the life that has been dealt him and it made me sad and angry.
Fifty Years Of Fear is a deep and mentally dark read. It had me go through an array of emotions that I had not expected to feel. It makes you question society as a whole and how people are so willing to see what they want in people. The author has created a meaningful and gripping read that me hooked through out. An extremely powerful read.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
May 12, 2022
4.5 Stars
This is the story of an 'ordinary' man chronicling his life and trying to pinpoint how/why/when things go wrong for him. It's very much a family drama with a strong crime/psychological component.
Vinnie, our protagonist tells his story in a careful, but open and honest way.
I thought the writing was superb. Although it's an understated story, I could hear Vinnie's voice very clearly and felt I could understand his reactions in a way that was uncomfortable at times.
This will make you question what you think you know about criminals. It's a character study with a psychological insight that I found incredibly interesting and moving.
Ross Greenwood has become a favourite author of mine; I love his straightforward approach to complex real-life issues.
This is the story of an 'ordinary' man chronicling his life and trying to pinpoint how/why/when things go wrong for him. It's very much a family drama with a strong crime/psychological component.
Vinnie, our protagonist tells his story in a careful, but open and honest way.
I thought the writing was superb. Although it's an understated story, I could hear Vinnie's voice very clearly and felt I could understand his reactions in a way that was uncomfortable at times.
This will make you question what you think you know about criminals. It's a character study with a psychological insight that I found incredibly interesting and moving.
Ross Greenwood has become a favourite author of mine; I love his straightforward approach to complex real-life issues.
October 10, 2017
In 1966, Vincent is born, the son of a dustman and housewife, brother of Frank. An ordinary family, you would say. Slowly, with the passing of the years, their family story is told – we witness a harrowing life in the shadow of a dark past…
| Introduction |
When Vincent is 14, his father suffers a stroke. This changes the whole dynamic of the family. The elder son, Frank, is the strong one who joked with their father, a “big, strong man” and “immovable presence” in their family. A father who handles him roughly, Frank can handle that, but being around a sick old man, just a fraction of the impressive Alfa male of their home, is something quite different. To Vincent, the brother who was cuddled by his mother and whose relationship with his parents is more emotional, the new situation fits like a glove. He takes care of his father and is able to support his mother as a matter of course. As do the rest of the family, Vincent lives by their motto “I did what had to be done.”
| Storyline |
Vincent and Frank are basically alike but as different as you can imagine. Where Frank is a tough looking guy who instils respect (or at least fear), Vincent is someone nobody recognises – a boy inviting you to bully him. It comes as no surprise that he has no friends and that he needs his elder brother, Frank, to keep him safe in school. Due to an accident, Vincent has no memory of his first seven years and he is a bit of a loner. His only consolation are books that provide him with insights into human nature and with a diversity of action, human characteristics and emotions. His looking after his father and mother ensures Vincent is even more isolated from the world around him but somehow, this does not concern him much. His mother, however, insists he takes a little holiday to Cromer, on the Norfolk coast. This trip turns the boy into a man and changes Vincent’s life – never before has he been happier.
No wonder Vincent wants to share a future with Sarah, the young woman he fell in love with in Cromer. About a year later, upon their mother insisting that they should go out together, Vincent and Frank are on their way to Cromer, only to discover Sarah is nowhere to be found. Something happens that evening, both in Cromer as at home, each event having devastating consequences that will only be clear years later. When Vincent is twenty years old, his mother dies – defeated – and he feels afraid. He is all alone in the world because Frank has disappeared. Vincent is in fear of the place, with no one to talk to. We follow him on a fascinating journey through life where the situations in which he finds himself are characteristic of the person he is and the person he desperately wants to become. All his life, Vincent strives to do the right thing as opposed to his brother Frank, the one who is uncontrollable at times, aggressive even, although never towards Vincent. He is all Vincent has but with him absent so often, is it enough?
| My Thoughts |
I LOVED Fifty Years of Fear. The story is touching and heartbreaking – and you dive into the world of the two boys and their parents. Their family is an island in a world where people on the outside judge and take harsh actions. They are strongly connected, Vincent and Frank and their parents. At home, they are safe but at school and in other places, Frank is always the protector of Vincent, a true elder brother. Slowly Vincent’s life and the family history are unravelled and with each insight new questions arise. It is so difficult to say more for fear of giving away this excellently written and cunningly construed psychological novel. I am in awe of what Ross Greenwood shows us here and how he never interferes the narration with a judgemental point of view. This book is extremely difficult to review and to categorise because it has so much. I think it is a brilliant literary work of fiction and I highly recommend Fifty Years of Fear.
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/fifty-...
| Introduction |
When Vincent is 14, his father suffers a stroke. This changes the whole dynamic of the family. The elder son, Frank, is the strong one who joked with their father, a “big, strong man” and “immovable presence” in their family. A father who handles him roughly, Frank can handle that, but being around a sick old man, just a fraction of the impressive Alfa male of their home, is something quite different. To Vincent, the brother who was cuddled by his mother and whose relationship with his parents is more emotional, the new situation fits like a glove. He takes care of his father and is able to support his mother as a matter of course. As do the rest of the family, Vincent lives by their motto “I did what had to be done.”
| Storyline |
Vincent and Frank are basically alike but as different as you can imagine. Where Frank is a tough looking guy who instils respect (or at least fear), Vincent is someone nobody recognises – a boy inviting you to bully him. It comes as no surprise that he has no friends and that he needs his elder brother, Frank, to keep him safe in school. Due to an accident, Vincent has no memory of his first seven years and he is a bit of a loner. His only consolation are books that provide him with insights into human nature and with a diversity of action, human characteristics and emotions. His looking after his father and mother ensures Vincent is even more isolated from the world around him but somehow, this does not concern him much. His mother, however, insists he takes a little holiday to Cromer, on the Norfolk coast. This trip turns the boy into a man and changes Vincent’s life – never before has he been happier.
No wonder Vincent wants to share a future with Sarah, the young woman he fell in love with in Cromer. About a year later, upon their mother insisting that they should go out together, Vincent and Frank are on their way to Cromer, only to discover Sarah is nowhere to be found. Something happens that evening, both in Cromer as at home, each event having devastating consequences that will only be clear years later. When Vincent is twenty years old, his mother dies – defeated – and he feels afraid. He is all alone in the world because Frank has disappeared. Vincent is in fear of the place, with no one to talk to. We follow him on a fascinating journey through life where the situations in which he finds himself are characteristic of the person he is and the person he desperately wants to become. All his life, Vincent strives to do the right thing as opposed to his brother Frank, the one who is uncontrollable at times, aggressive even, although never towards Vincent. He is all Vincent has but with him absent so often, is it enough?
| My Thoughts |
I LOVED Fifty Years of Fear. The story is touching and heartbreaking – and you dive into the world of the two boys and their parents. Their family is an island in a world where people on the outside judge and take harsh actions. They are strongly connected, Vincent and Frank and their parents. At home, they are safe but at school and in other places, Frank is always the protector of Vincent, a true elder brother. Slowly Vincent’s life and the family history are unravelled and with each insight new questions arise. It is so difficult to say more for fear of giving away this excellently written and cunningly construed psychological novel. I am in awe of what Ross Greenwood shows us here and how he never interferes the narration with a judgemental point of view. This book is extremely difficult to review and to categorise because it has so much. I think it is a brilliant literary work of fiction and I highly recommend Fifty Years of Fear.
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/fifty-...
October 7, 2017
I've just finished reading this one. It's 3.00 a.m. and I have no idea how I feel yet.
I cried throughout this book. Greenwood has created some of the most powerful writing I've read for a while now and it's kinda blown me away.
Vinnie is one of life's victims. His brother, Frank, is a bully who causes his school life to be hellish. His mother is a chain-smoking recluse who has to become a full-time carer for her husband following his stroke, and his dad is disabled following said stroke.
Following this life-changing event, things are not as they should be. The brothers are forced to grow up a lot quicker than children should have to. It's not a bad life, their parents love them, they just have things going on that aren't quite normal.
Frank is a major cause for concern. Being the older of the brothers, he has always had Vinnie's back, no matter the cost but that eventually starts to wear thin for Vinnie.
Whenever Frank's around, everything goes wrong, so when he disappears one day, Vinnie isn't really bothered.
As life starts to throw more and more sh*t at him, Vinnie starts to think that perhaps this is all there is to it. He's a strange boy, living the shadow of his brother's bullying and brutish ways; he will never be free of that connection so he just has to deal with the hand he's been dealt.
Until he meets Clara.
And Frank comes back.
And the things he thought he knew turn out to be not quite true.
I love Vinnie. He is a heart breaking character and is so well written it's easy to relate to him. Pushed to the edge on so many occasions but manages to maintain a sense of humanity that prevents him following in his brother's footsteps. Not that he doesn't love Frank. In fact, he idolises him. Whenever he has had a problem, Frank has been there. Almost.
But at what cost?
Their relationship is fraught with an underlying feeling of pent up anger and hidden secrets. It's just there, bubbling away under the surface throughout the book and I had no idea where they would end up.
As the book continues, Vinnie constantly seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and whatever sh*t can be thrown at him, is. It's very heard to read in places, harrowing in fact, but the author deals with these issues sensitively and delicately, without being over gratuitous in his narrative.
Told in the first person, Vinnie takes us on the journey of his life. We see what he sees, hear what he hears, and most importantly, we FEEL what he feels. I found myself deflating when something happened, grinning like a Cheshire cat when good things happened, and sobbing like a baby when ... well ... you'll have to read it yourself to find that bit out!
In a nutshell, Fitfty Years of Fear is an absolute must read. Seriously. I devoured this in one sitting, I couldn't put it down. The chapters are easy to digest, the writing is fluid and intelligent, and the plot is captivating.
Greenwood is a wonderful writer and his talent is improving with every book he writes.
You need to read this book. It will play on your emotions and get you thinking about some of the hardest topics you can imagine.
Utterly brilliant.
I cried throughout this book. Greenwood has created some of the most powerful writing I've read for a while now and it's kinda blown me away.
Vinnie is one of life's victims. His brother, Frank, is a bully who causes his school life to be hellish. His mother is a chain-smoking recluse who has to become a full-time carer for her husband following his stroke, and his dad is disabled following said stroke.
Following this life-changing event, things are not as they should be. The brothers are forced to grow up a lot quicker than children should have to. It's not a bad life, their parents love them, they just have things going on that aren't quite normal.
Frank is a major cause for concern. Being the older of the brothers, he has always had Vinnie's back, no matter the cost but that eventually starts to wear thin for Vinnie.
Whenever Frank's around, everything goes wrong, so when he disappears one day, Vinnie isn't really bothered.
As life starts to throw more and more sh*t at him, Vinnie starts to think that perhaps this is all there is to it. He's a strange boy, living the shadow of his brother's bullying and brutish ways; he will never be free of that connection so he just has to deal with the hand he's been dealt.
Until he meets Clara.
And Frank comes back.
And the things he thought he knew turn out to be not quite true.
I love Vinnie. He is a heart breaking character and is so well written it's easy to relate to him. Pushed to the edge on so many occasions but manages to maintain a sense of humanity that prevents him following in his brother's footsteps. Not that he doesn't love Frank. In fact, he idolises him. Whenever he has had a problem, Frank has been there. Almost.
But at what cost?
Their relationship is fraught with an underlying feeling of pent up anger and hidden secrets. It's just there, bubbling away under the surface throughout the book and I had no idea where they would end up.
As the book continues, Vinnie constantly seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and whatever sh*t can be thrown at him, is. It's very heard to read in places, harrowing in fact, but the author deals with these issues sensitively and delicately, without being over gratuitous in his narrative.
Told in the first person, Vinnie takes us on the journey of his life. We see what he sees, hear what he hears, and most importantly, we FEEL what he feels. I found myself deflating when something happened, grinning like a Cheshire cat when good things happened, and sobbing like a baby when ... well ... you'll have to read it yourself to find that bit out!
In a nutshell, Fitfty Years of Fear is an absolute must read. Seriously. I devoured this in one sitting, I couldn't put it down. The chapters are easy to digest, the writing is fluid and intelligent, and the plot is captivating.
Greenwood is a wonderful writer and his talent is improving with every book he writes.
You need to read this book. It will play on your emotions and get you thinking about some of the hardest topics you can imagine.
Utterly brilliant.
October 7, 2017
I must start by saying that the book blurb for this one doesn’t do it any favours! It seems to suggest more of a psychological thriller with a deep mystery at its core but Fifty Years of Fear is far more than that and may attract the wrong sort of reader who are expecting something more formulaic than the deeply personal insight that the reader is given here.
This book could ultimately have been about any one of us, it’s one person’s life story with all the ups and downs that chance can throw at us. A million different pathways face us everytime we make a decision and some of those paths may be harder and darker than desired but we only have one life and it deserves to be lived in the here and now no matter what. Some people appear to breeze through their existence, seemingly bestowed with an endless streak of good luck whilst others, like our main character Vinnie, are apparently a magnet for all the crap that life can throw at them. Do we make our own destiny or is our fate already preplanned, with no escape from the misfortune that follows? Following Vinnies story made me question any beliefs I had previously held as no matter what actions he took, bad luck seemed to always be lurking around the next corner.
Ross Greenwood has a style of writing that seems quite conventional until you realise that it appears to have put you under some sort of spell! Once I started Fifty Years Of Fear, I couldn’t stop, reading it in one emotionally draining session as he cleverly condensed one man’s life into a few hours of total involvement. Vinnie was a character I took a while to warm to but then, that’s exactly how nearly everyone else felt towards him throughout this traumatic tale. Every time he seemed to get a break or a possibility of escape, he was dumped back into reality by some event or past discretion. There was one incident that left me feeling extremely uncomfortable and questioning any feelings that had gone before. This actually continued until the last few pages as I seemed unable to quite let it go which surprised me in the grand scheme of things.
This was an intriguing read for me, being that Vinnie and I were of a similar age, and the pop culture references brought back many memories of my own. So to follow his path through the teenage years, first love and eventually marriage made me feel quite nostalgic but seeing someone’s life condensed down and defined by those key life moments brings your feelings about your own mortality to the surface. This makes for an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking read despite the tragic and harrowing plotlines.
So although not quite what I was expecting, I still became deeply engrossed in this original and heartwrenching tale and look forward to trying more of Ross Greenwoods work in the future.
This book could ultimately have been about any one of us, it’s one person’s life story with all the ups and downs that chance can throw at us. A million different pathways face us everytime we make a decision and some of those paths may be harder and darker than desired but we only have one life and it deserves to be lived in the here and now no matter what. Some people appear to breeze through their existence, seemingly bestowed with an endless streak of good luck whilst others, like our main character Vinnie, are apparently a magnet for all the crap that life can throw at them. Do we make our own destiny or is our fate already preplanned, with no escape from the misfortune that follows? Following Vinnies story made me question any beliefs I had previously held as no matter what actions he took, bad luck seemed to always be lurking around the next corner.
Ross Greenwood has a style of writing that seems quite conventional until you realise that it appears to have put you under some sort of spell! Once I started Fifty Years Of Fear, I couldn’t stop, reading it in one emotionally draining session as he cleverly condensed one man’s life into a few hours of total involvement. Vinnie was a character I took a while to warm to but then, that’s exactly how nearly everyone else felt towards him throughout this traumatic tale. Every time he seemed to get a break or a possibility of escape, he was dumped back into reality by some event or past discretion. There was one incident that left me feeling extremely uncomfortable and questioning any feelings that had gone before. This actually continued until the last few pages as I seemed unable to quite let it go which surprised me in the grand scheme of things.
This was an intriguing read for me, being that Vinnie and I were of a similar age, and the pop culture references brought back many memories of my own. So to follow his path through the teenage years, first love and eventually marriage made me feel quite nostalgic but seeing someone’s life condensed down and defined by those key life moments brings your feelings about your own mortality to the surface. This makes for an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking read despite the tragic and harrowing plotlines.
So although not quite what I was expecting, I still became deeply engrossed in this original and heartwrenching tale and look forward to trying more of Ross Greenwoods work in the future.
September 23, 2017
This is one of those books that long after I have forgotten the details I will still remember how it made me feel. It’s a much used phrase, but I feel like I’ve been on an emotional rollercoaster and need a wee bit of recovery time. This is the first time I have read anything from Ross Greenwood and was impressed by his storytelling and the way the characters, particularly Vinnie, felt so real. This wasn’t always comfortable to read but it is well worth enduring the discomfort for what is a cleverly constructed piece of writing. Highly recommended.
I received a copy of Fifty Years of Fear via THE Book Club on Facebook and my thanks to Ross Greenwood for that.
I received a copy of Fifty Years of Fear via THE Book Club on Facebook and my thanks to Ross Greenwood for that.
March 19, 2018
This book was so much more than I expected and one which will stay with me for a long time. Vinnie's story moved me, I felt sorry for him throughout the book but on a few occasions I had to catch my breath, step back and wonder if he was the person I thought he was. This is the first book I've read by this author and his style of writing makes me want to read more.
October 7, 2017
When I started reading this book, I really wasn’t sure where it was going but it ended up taking me on an atmospheric journey down a rabbit hole full of twists and turns. It’s crime fiction because of the crimes contained within the story but the narrative is so candidly and powerfully written that as a reader I became immersed in the lives of the characters to the point where the plot almost became secondary to my enjoyment.
We follow the life of Vinnie in a series of chapters outlining each stage and age of his life. His anxiety is palpable as the story develops and his life is clearly not going to be a happy one.
I couldn’t help but be moved by Vinnie’s story, despite the fact that there were elements of his character hinted at that made me wary of him. He appears to be a reliable narrator but the subtle hints of something very dark within pushed my trust to its boundaries at times. From empathy to distaste my feelings bounced back and forth as his relationships with those closest to him were slowly unpicked.
His brother Frank dips in and out of Vinnie’s life and each time uncovers a little more of the mystery that is his background. It was difficult for me to work out my feelings about Frank, was he the cause of Vinnie’s troubles or would he provide a solution.
Vinnie does find love and he marries Clara but events in their lives set them both on a path of self-destruction that surely can have no happy ending.
Ross Greenwood has delivered a cast of complex characters who will test your thinking and your judgement. It is an intensely dark read and little comfort is given to the reader on their journey. If you are looking for an uplifting and upbeat tale of wrongs being put right then this may not be the book for you, but if you are looking for an intense and cleverly crafted novel which explores the darkness that lies within and the long lasting devastating impact of forgotten childhood memories then look no further.
We follow the life of Vinnie in a series of chapters outlining each stage and age of his life. His anxiety is palpable as the story develops and his life is clearly not going to be a happy one.
I couldn’t help but be moved by Vinnie’s story, despite the fact that there were elements of his character hinted at that made me wary of him. He appears to be a reliable narrator but the subtle hints of something very dark within pushed my trust to its boundaries at times. From empathy to distaste my feelings bounced back and forth as his relationships with those closest to him were slowly unpicked.
His brother Frank dips in and out of Vinnie’s life and each time uncovers a little more of the mystery that is his background. It was difficult for me to work out my feelings about Frank, was he the cause of Vinnie’s troubles or would he provide a solution.
Vinnie does find love and he marries Clara but events in their lives set them both on a path of self-destruction that surely can have no happy ending.
Ross Greenwood has delivered a cast of complex characters who will test your thinking and your judgement. It is an intensely dark read and little comfort is given to the reader on their journey. If you are looking for an uplifting and upbeat tale of wrongs being put right then this may not be the book for you, but if you are looking for an intense and cleverly crafted novel which explores the darkness that lies within and the long lasting devastating impact of forgotten childhood memories then look no further.
October 9, 2017
It seems Vincent is a shy lad with a volatile older brother, a supportive mother and a very sick father. Appearances can be deceptive.
I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to read Fifty Years of Fear because Vincent’s father’s illness felt too close to my own father’s and brought back painful memories so it took me a while to relax into reading Fifty Years of Fear.
It’s a book that surprised me. I was expecting something less socially revealing and contemplative. I found out more about the workings of a young male mind in reading Vincent’s first person narrative than I have in any other book. I was slowly drawn into his story so that as the plot developed I was surprised by some of the events and I’m not entirely sure I can answer the literal questions posed at the end. I was forced almost against my will to consider nature and nurture and how our environment affects us as we mature. Fifty Years of Fear felt less like a narrative and more like a memoir to me and was interesting as a result. I think the fact that I have encountered many like Vincent and Frank when I was teaching enabled me to connect with their lives and appreciate that their experiences are only too possible.
I really enjoyed the anchoring in social history from that very first 1966 opening. Ross Greenwood knows how to use iconic images to give the reader a thorough idea of time although I’d have liked greater detail for the settings on occasion.
I’m not sure if I enjoyed Fifty Years of Fear. I found it moving, often humorous, and always entertaining and interesting. But it made me question aspects of society that I’m not sure I wanted to consider. The themes of relationships, loss, grief, guilt and love were so intricately drawn that I find I’m still pondering Ross Greenwood’s writing long after I’ve finished the book. I urge you to read Fifty Years of Fear to see for yourself.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/10/09/...
I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to read Fifty Years of Fear because Vincent’s father’s illness felt too close to my own father’s and brought back painful memories so it took me a while to relax into reading Fifty Years of Fear.
It’s a book that surprised me. I was expecting something less socially revealing and contemplative. I found out more about the workings of a young male mind in reading Vincent’s first person narrative than I have in any other book. I was slowly drawn into his story so that as the plot developed I was surprised by some of the events and I’m not entirely sure I can answer the literal questions posed at the end. I was forced almost against my will to consider nature and nurture and how our environment affects us as we mature. Fifty Years of Fear felt less like a narrative and more like a memoir to me and was interesting as a result. I think the fact that I have encountered many like Vincent and Frank when I was teaching enabled me to connect with their lives and appreciate that their experiences are only too possible.
I really enjoyed the anchoring in social history from that very first 1966 opening. Ross Greenwood knows how to use iconic images to give the reader a thorough idea of time although I’d have liked greater detail for the settings on occasion.
I’m not sure if I enjoyed Fifty Years of Fear. I found it moving, often humorous, and always entertaining and interesting. But it made me question aspects of society that I’m not sure I wanted to consider. The themes of relationships, loss, grief, guilt and love were so intricately drawn that I find I’m still pondering Ross Greenwood’s writing long after I’ve finished the book. I urge you to read Fifty Years of Fear to see for yourself.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/10/09/...
October 8, 2017
As is Ross Greenwood’s style, Fifty Years of Fear is written in the first person, and it’s something I’ve come to thoroughly enjoy. It allows the reader to understand Vinnie, the main character, to watch him grow from a man to a boy and, ultimately, root for him!
This is a very cleverly written book and, as before, the author draws you in until you’re completed invested with the characters and their story, and makes you examine and question life and society in general.
Highly recommend Fifty Years of Fear.
This is a very cleverly written book and, as before, the author draws you in until you’re completed invested with the characters and their story, and makes you examine and question life and society in general.
Highly recommend Fifty Years of Fear.
January 22, 2025
How would you react to finding that everything you thought you knew about your upbringing and your family was a lie?
Vinnie's life growing up was hard, but languishing in a prison for a crime he may or may not have committed, he begins to learn, with help from his estranged older brother, that everything was a lie and he was not the person he thought he was.
A very moving, psychological thriller. Well worth the read!
TRIGGER WARNING: very delicate subject material.
Vinnie's life growing up was hard, but languishing in a prison for a crime he may or may not have committed, he begins to learn, with help from his estranged older brother, that everything was a lie and he was not the person he thought he was.
A very moving, psychological thriller. Well worth the read!
TRIGGER WARNING: very delicate subject material.
November 15, 2017
I really enjoyed this book.
This is one of them books that will leave you thinking long after you turn the last page.
the story is very powerful and the writing is brilliant. it just draws you in. this is my first book by this author and will not be my last.
This is one of them books that will leave you thinking long after you turn the last page.
the story is very powerful and the writing is brilliant. it just draws you in. this is my first book by this author and will not be my last.
September 28, 2017
A fascinating and very moving story. Ross Greenwood shows us the life of Vinnie in every detail of realistic incident and unfortunate choices. I found myself very caught up and hoping against hope that this could be a ‘happy ever after’ story. But it’s not.
September 5, 2018
This isn’t a book full of thrills and twists, but it’s an engaging and thought provoking read. The range of personalities portrayed in the characters work well together, and as the story progressed it gets you thinking about what has already happened and how it’ll affect events in the upcoming chapters.
I like how each chapter moved through time, through Vinnie’s life and how they brought back some memories of my own younger years. There are quite a few dark passages in the story, yet they are broken up with some humour. This is a good mix as the humour seems to occur just when it’s needed.
Overall, an enjoyable read that gets you thinking about what goes on behind closed doors and inside people’s minds.
I like how each chapter moved through time, through Vinnie’s life and how they brought back some memories of my own younger years. There are quite a few dark passages in the story, yet they are broken up with some humour. This is a good mix as the humour seems to occur just when it’s needed.
Overall, an enjoyable read that gets you thinking about what goes on behind closed doors and inside people’s minds.
December 14, 2017
Fifty Years of Fear- Ross Greenwood 5**
There are writers, good writers and ones that have the power of words to captivate you in an instant. Ross has this in spades. Fifty years of fear tells the story of Vincent from when he is 14 and his brother Frank who is a couple of years older. From his father having a stroke and how the family rallies round to sort things out to his first holiday on his own. Vincent ends up in prison and to start with he really believes his innocence despite having eventually pleaded guilty to save his victim the anxiety of going to court. The story tells of his thoughts and how he changes along the way and finds out some of his past that he never realised. Ross gives his characters life from their descriptions and actions in such a way that you feel you almost know them. This is an incredibly powerful book that I was thinking about long after I had finished it. I read around 240+ books per year. Less than 10% are awarded my own 5** rating. This is truly one of them and my author of the year for 2017. I can’t recommend this highly enough
There are writers, good writers and ones that have the power of words to captivate you in an instant. Ross has this in spades. Fifty years of fear tells the story of Vincent from when he is 14 and his brother Frank who is a couple of years older. From his father having a stroke and how the family rallies round to sort things out to his first holiday on his own. Vincent ends up in prison and to start with he really believes his innocence despite having eventually pleaded guilty to save his victim the anxiety of going to court. The story tells of his thoughts and how he changes along the way and finds out some of his past that he never realised. Ross gives his characters life from their descriptions and actions in such a way that you feel you almost know them. This is an incredibly powerful book that I was thinking about long after I had finished it. I read around 240+ books per year. Less than 10% are awarded my own 5** rating. This is truly one of them and my author of the year for 2017. I can’t recommend this highly enough
February 13, 2018
'In the end, the only judgement that matters is that of your children.' As a parent, this quote really resonated with me, uttered by the mother of the protagonist. And the book takes off into brilliance. You will laugh and cry with the main character, Vincent Roach, throughout his fifty year tale that will tug at your heartstrings. Greenwood's style is unique and engrossing; the pace is just right. Highly recommended.
March 29, 2022
Survivor by Ross Greenwood.
A childhood accident robbed Vinnie of his memories, making him sensitive and anxious, and his difference soon attracted bullies. If it wasn’t for his family and his brother Frank, Vinnie wouldn’t have survived.
A very good read with good characters. 4*.
A childhood accident robbed Vinnie of his memories, making him sensitive and anxious, and his difference soon attracted bullies. If it wasn’t for his family and his brother Frank, Vinnie wouldn’t have survived.
A very good read with good characters. 4*.
June 5, 2018
Waste of time. A book about nothing of any consequence.
October 10, 2018
This started off quite well and then it went downhill. Morose, odd, macabre unbelievable characters and plot.
November 22, 2018
This is very different to what I was expecting and not at all well-described by the synopsis on Amazon. However, I enjoyed it SO much !! I found it to be totally thought-provoking without needing to be written in a flowery, pompous fashion in the least. I flew through reading it. I'll definitely read more of the series.
I liked Vinnie a great deal. Just your regular bloke living a regular life in a regular family with.......regular secrets. I hated to read what happened with Kirsty. He was so sweet to that girl and she certainly needed some structure in her sad little life.
I enjoyed the reference to Don McLean's Vincent.....though as usual, the mere mention of "Starry, starry night" has me sniffing....The odd passage I liked a great deal......like "It's slow, time, when your dreams are dying" or "We were given the gift of life, yet it sat between us unopened." Simple but very thought-provoking and I liked the way he does this a lot. And then he'll throw in a laugh-out-loud remark like "Titch is full of s**t" !! He does make a terrific point at the end when he refers to the way children are raised. Sadly, there's a total surfeit of pisspoor parents out there right now who never speak to their kids let alone choose to spend much time with them. It's appalling and tragic, too.....makes me wonder why they bother having them.
There were errors in this, however. I hope he'll get a better proofreader for his next instalment. Speechmarks, hyphens, commas and apostrophes were missed or misplaced quite a bit and there were a couple of proper schoolboy spelling mistakes, too, that made me wince.....bought used and not brought, loathed and not loath, premediated and not premeditated and peaked and not peeked. He managed to redeem himself because it was such a great story but only this once. I won't be so generous next time !!
I liked Vinnie a great deal. Just your regular bloke living a regular life in a regular family with.......regular secrets. I hated to read what happened with Kirsty. He was so sweet to that girl and she certainly needed some structure in her sad little life.
I enjoyed the reference to Don McLean's Vincent.....though as usual, the mere mention of "Starry, starry night" has me sniffing....The odd passage I liked a great deal......like "It's slow, time, when your dreams are dying" or "We were given the gift of life, yet it sat between us unopened." Simple but very thought-provoking and I liked the way he does this a lot. And then he'll throw in a laugh-out-loud remark like "Titch is full of s**t" !! He does make a terrific point at the end when he refers to the way children are raised. Sadly, there's a total surfeit of pisspoor parents out there right now who never speak to their kids let alone choose to spend much time with them. It's appalling and tragic, too.....makes me wonder why they bother having them.
There were errors in this, however. I hope he'll get a better proofreader for his next instalment. Speechmarks, hyphens, commas and apostrophes were missed or misplaced quite a bit and there were a couple of proper schoolboy spelling mistakes, too, that made me wince.....bought used and not brought, loathed and not loath, premediated and not premeditated and peaked and not peeked. He managed to redeem himself because it was such a great story but only this once. I won't be so generous next time !!
January 1, 2018
I only give 5* to books that are the complete package, a gripping story, deep, believable characters and powerful, clever writing. This is the complete package & quite brilliant with it. I finished reading it a while ago but I couldn't find the words to do it justice. It is also a book that you want to think about, long after you have read it. It challenges you to stop and think.
The writing is so clever that it draws you in and you cannot stop reading. The characters, all of them but especially Vincent, are made to come alive on the page, you live Vinnie's life with him, every step of the way. This makes for a difficult and uncomfortable journey, one I found to be very emotional due to the author's honest writing. When an author writes from the soul you feel it on every page.
Throughout the book, Vinnie never loses his sense of humour which often made me laugh out loud. It was his humour that made me love the character and want to protect him. Quite brilliant to combine humour with such an emotional story and to pull it off so well.
I would recommend this book to everyone, one of the best books I've ever read.
The writing is so clever that it draws you in and you cannot stop reading. The characters, all of them but especially Vincent, are made to come alive on the page, you live Vinnie's life with him, every step of the way. This makes for a difficult and uncomfortable journey, one I found to be very emotional due to the author's honest writing. When an author writes from the soul you feel it on every page.
Throughout the book, Vinnie never loses his sense of humour which often made me laugh out loud. It was his humour that made me love the character and want to protect him. Quite brilliant to combine humour with such an emotional story and to pull it off so well.
I would recommend this book to everyone, one of the best books I've ever read.
September 30, 2017
I don't know what I was expecting from this book but it certainly wasn't what I got. I absolutely loved this book and would recommend anyone to read it.
Fifty years or fear tells the story of Vincent from being about 16 all the way through his life until he is 50. The story is told from a first persons perspective and is a bit like a diary of Vincent. At the start it reminded me of the diary of Adrian mole but it gets quite a lot darker as the story progresses and Vincent gets older.
This book has been written so well and really held my attention, it's one of those books that as soon as you read it you're sucked into the story and want to keep reading to know what's happened.
This is the first book I've read from this author but if won't be the last.
Thanks to TBConFB for the advanced copy in return for my honest review.
Fifty years or fear tells the story of Vincent from being about 16 all the way through his life until he is 50. The story is told from a first persons perspective and is a bit like a diary of Vincent. At the start it reminded me of the diary of Adrian mole but it gets quite a lot darker as the story progresses and Vincent gets older.
This book has been written so well and really held my attention, it's one of those books that as soon as you read it you're sucked into the story and want to keep reading to know what's happened.
This is the first book I've read from this author but if won't be the last.
Thanks to TBConFB for the advanced copy in return for my honest review.
October 6, 2017
I have enjoyed Ross Greenwood's previous books and this was exceptional, my favourite of the three.
I found the ideas and story was so well written with realism and it can't help but stir emotions in you. With everything in life a what if, was based within this. The choices we make do lead us on the path to our future, but what if or how easy is it to then change your destination from this?
Ross Greenwood has yet again drawn you in to a life of crime, criminals and stirred emotions in to what life is like, and it is not black and white, it is in Fifty Years of Fear that we learn the story of Vincent and the perceptions are not all as they seem..
A clever emotive read, with such detail and twists, that do make you stop and think. Ross is a very clever author with the way he unfolds his stories to us, and this had me captivated from the outset.
I am looking forward to more reads by Ross and would love to see him do a psych thriller!
I found the ideas and story was so well written with realism and it can't help but stir emotions in you. With everything in life a what if, was based within this. The choices we make do lead us on the path to our future, but what if or how easy is it to then change your destination from this?
Ross Greenwood has yet again drawn you in to a life of crime, criminals and stirred emotions in to what life is like, and it is not black and white, it is in Fifty Years of Fear that we learn the story of Vincent and the perceptions are not all as they seem..
A clever emotive read, with such detail and twists, that do make you stop and think. Ross is a very clever author with the way he unfolds his stories to us, and this had me captivated from the outset.
I am looking forward to more reads by Ross and would love to see him do a psych thriller!
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