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Blood & Ink
US exchange student Hieronymus Beck is Professor Jack Griffen's biggest fan. Together the pair spend hours discussing Griffen's writing, as well as the greatest classic crime and true crime books of all time. But everything changes when Beck vanishes, leaving only a list of five templates to a murder. In a thrilling chase that crosses international borders, Griffen will be tested to the utmost – as he uses his knowledge of classic crime to try to catch a serial killer before the killer catches him.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
5 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Brett Adams
18 books19 followersEver since I discovered that the 1000 page tome my parents left resting against the kitchen TV was not some boring political treatise, but in fact the greatest piece of fantasy ever written―I'm talking, of course, about The Lord of the Rings―I've wanted to write. I was fascinated not only by Tolkien's world and characters, but by how he could plot something so large and intricate.
Which is why my first novel, Dark Matter, was a biology-based-paranormal-fantasy-with-a-twist-of-science-fiction-adventure-and-just-a-hint-of-thriller. It took five years to write and led to a lot of counseling.
My second book, Strawman Made Steel, is hard-boiled detective fiction with a side of sci-fi, and simpler ;)
The third is a thriller, to be published by Fremantle Press in September 2022, titled Blood and Ink.
Kind regards,
Brett.
Which is why my first novel, Dark Matter, was a biology-based-paranormal-fantasy-with-a-twist-of-science-fiction-adventure-and-just-a-hint-of-thriller. It took five years to write and led to a lot of counseling.
My second book, Strawman Made Steel, is hard-boiled detective fiction with a side of sci-fi, and simpler ;)
The third is a thriller, to be published by Fremantle Press in September 2022, titled Blood and Ink.
Kind regards,
Brett.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 28, 2022
EXCERPT: It's like they say: pressure can make a diamond, or a stain. It all depends on what's being squashed.
Squatting there in the shadow, one shoulder braced against a dirt-encrusted brick wall, trying to keep the Glock's sight trained on the kid's chest as he sauntered to the café entrance, I was beginning to fear that I was from Stainsville.
The problem wasn't the occasional yellow flash of a taxicab, or the stink of rotting trash wafting out of the gutter. I had clear sight across the street. There was no wind to speak of. I knew the chambered hollow point round would expand when it punctured his flesh with a good chance of smearing an artery or organ.
Everything was ready.
Except me.
My hands were jittering like a junkie in withdrawal.
Maybe it was nerves? I know it wasn't guilt.
No, I wanted a tight bead on his chest. I wanted my bullet to tear him a new hole. Was giddy to see him ragdoll to the ground, and watch his blood sluice onto the street.
Those are the perks of an Angel of Death on an avenging mission.
My real fear was that my body was falling apart. That the stresses of the past weeks had caught up with me, and the flesh-machine named Jack Griffen had finally thrown a cog. That deep down, part of my constitution had ruptured. Now, when I needed it one last time.
Maybe murder took more than a professor of literature had - particularly a forty-five-year-old professor of literature with a diabolical heart condition and a fear of needles.
Why not? Everything else had broken.
I strained again to still the tremble in my arms. Just one more shot.
Because - oh, boy - I meant to murder. Just once.
ABOUT 'BLOOD & INK': Literature professor Jack Griffen has recently suffered a nervous breakdown. His wife has divorced him and she and their adult daughter have moved to the USA. Into the void steps exchange student Hieronymus Beck, claiming to be the professor’s greatest fan.
But everything changes when Jack finds Hiero’s list. Five sheets of paper. Five ways to commit a murder.
His student has told him he’s writing a crime novel, but is that all he is doing? Caught up in his protégé’s dangerous game, the mild-mannered professor finds himself asking how far will he go to save a life. As far as murder?
MY THOUGHTS: A most unusual and intriguing crime novel! I was, the whole way through, unsure about the reliability of Jack's character. Is he the manipulated innocent that he claims to be, or is he in the throes of a full-blown psychotic episode and doing the manipulating? If you want the answer to that, you'll need to read Blood & Ink.
Blood & Ink is very cleverly written. This is a 'book within a book' novel involving a 'student' who seems not to exist, who is writing a novel for which murder is research. Incidentally, our beloved professor of literature, Jack Griffen is also writing a novel.
The writing is intense, with frequent references to true crimes and some well known crime novels, all seamlessly woven into the body of this story.
Although this is an intense crime novel, there are also fleeting glimpses of Aussie humour which had me chuckling at times. Even snorting coffee out my nose once . . .
Blood & Ink is unlike any other crime novel that I have ever read. It contains traces of the psychological thriller, the family drama, and mystery. It mucked about with my mind. It had me confused. But I couldn't stop flipping those pages. And in the end? I will be reading more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#Blood&Ink #FremantlePress
I: @brett.adams.author @fremantlepress
T: @Brett.Adams.Author @FremantlePress
#australiancrimefiction #contemporaryfiction #crime #mystery #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Brett Adams was raised in country Western Australia and lives in Perth. He has a PhD in Computer Science that taught him to love puzzles, and a family who taught him to love stories. He writes fiction across a range of genres and has been known to plant an easter egg or two.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Freemantle Press for providing a copy of Blood & Ink by Brett Adams for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Squatting there in the shadow, one shoulder braced against a dirt-encrusted brick wall, trying to keep the Glock's sight trained on the kid's chest as he sauntered to the café entrance, I was beginning to fear that I was from Stainsville.
The problem wasn't the occasional yellow flash of a taxicab, or the stink of rotting trash wafting out of the gutter. I had clear sight across the street. There was no wind to speak of. I knew the chambered hollow point round would expand when it punctured his flesh with a good chance of smearing an artery or organ.
Everything was ready.
Except me.
My hands were jittering like a junkie in withdrawal.
Maybe it was nerves? I know it wasn't guilt.
No, I wanted a tight bead on his chest. I wanted my bullet to tear him a new hole. Was giddy to see him ragdoll to the ground, and watch his blood sluice onto the street.
Those are the perks of an Angel of Death on an avenging mission.
My real fear was that my body was falling apart. That the stresses of the past weeks had caught up with me, and the flesh-machine named Jack Griffen had finally thrown a cog. That deep down, part of my constitution had ruptured. Now, when I needed it one last time.
Maybe murder took more than a professor of literature had - particularly a forty-five-year-old professor of literature with a diabolical heart condition and a fear of needles.
Why not? Everything else had broken.
I strained again to still the tremble in my arms. Just one more shot.
Because - oh, boy - I meant to murder. Just once.
ABOUT 'BLOOD & INK': Literature professor Jack Griffen has recently suffered a nervous breakdown. His wife has divorced him and she and their adult daughter have moved to the USA. Into the void steps exchange student Hieronymus Beck, claiming to be the professor’s greatest fan.
But everything changes when Jack finds Hiero’s list. Five sheets of paper. Five ways to commit a murder.
His student has told him he’s writing a crime novel, but is that all he is doing? Caught up in his protégé’s dangerous game, the mild-mannered professor finds himself asking how far will he go to save a life. As far as murder?
MY THOUGHTS: A most unusual and intriguing crime novel! I was, the whole way through, unsure about the reliability of Jack's character. Is he the manipulated innocent that he claims to be, or is he in the throes of a full-blown psychotic episode and doing the manipulating? If you want the answer to that, you'll need to read Blood & Ink.
Blood & Ink is very cleverly written. This is a 'book within a book' novel involving a 'student' who seems not to exist, who is writing a novel for which murder is research. Incidentally, our beloved professor of literature, Jack Griffen is also writing a novel.
The writing is intense, with frequent references to true crimes and some well known crime novels, all seamlessly woven into the body of this story.
Although this is an intense crime novel, there are also fleeting glimpses of Aussie humour which had me chuckling at times. Even snorting coffee out my nose once . . .
Blood & Ink is unlike any other crime novel that I have ever read. It contains traces of the psychological thriller, the family drama, and mystery. It mucked about with my mind. It had me confused. But I couldn't stop flipping those pages. And in the end? I will be reading more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#Blood&Ink #FremantlePress
I: @brett.adams.author @fremantlepress
T: @Brett.Adams.Author @FremantlePress
#australiancrimefiction #contemporaryfiction #crime #mystery #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Brett Adams was raised in country Western Australia and lives in Perth. He has a PhD in Computer Science that taught him to love puzzles, and a family who taught him to love stories. He writes fiction across a range of genres and has been known to plant an easter egg or two.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Freemantle Press for providing a copy of Blood & Ink by Brett Adams for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 8, 2022
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Blood & Ink by Brett Adams. (2022).
**Thank you to Fremantle Press for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 August 2022**
Literature professor Jack has recently suffered a nervous breakdown. His wife has divorced him and moved to the USA with their adult daughter. Into the void steps exchange student Hieronymus, claiming to be Jack's greatest fan. But then Jack finds Hiero's list with five different murders planned. Hiero said he's writing a crime novel but is that all he's doing? Caught up in his protégé's dangerous game, Jack finds himself asking how far he'll go to save a life...
I really enjoyed this intelligent crime/suspense thriller. Starting in my own hometown of Perth, Western Australia (it's always cool to read fiction set in areas you know), main character Jack ends up travelling across the world attempting to stop murders before they happen. Making it even more difficult for him is that the police begin to suspect him for the murders - he is clearly being framed but why exactly? I quite liked the character of policewoman Marten - a strong and feisty character who starts to believe Jack may be innocent despite the evidence pointing towards him. It's a suspenseful race to the end to see if Jack can prove his innocence and prove Hiero's manipulation and guilt. With a quick pace, readers will be racing through the pages to see if Jack will succeed.
Overall: happily recommend this novel for any readers who enjoy a clever crime thriller.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Blood & Ink by Brett Adams. (2022).
**Thank you to Fremantle Press for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 August 2022**
Literature professor Jack has recently suffered a nervous breakdown. His wife has divorced him and moved to the USA with their adult daughter. Into the void steps exchange student Hieronymus, claiming to be Jack's greatest fan. But then Jack finds Hiero's list with five different murders planned. Hiero said he's writing a crime novel but is that all he's doing? Caught up in his protégé's dangerous game, Jack finds himself asking how far he'll go to save a life...
I really enjoyed this intelligent crime/suspense thriller. Starting in my own hometown of Perth, Western Australia (it's always cool to read fiction set in areas you know), main character Jack ends up travelling across the world attempting to stop murders before they happen. Making it even more difficult for him is that the police begin to suspect him for the murders - he is clearly being framed but why exactly? I quite liked the character of policewoman Marten - a strong and feisty character who starts to believe Jack may be innocent despite the evidence pointing towards him. It's a suspenseful race to the end to see if Jack can prove his innocence and prove Hiero's manipulation and guilt. With a quick pace, readers will be racing through the pages to see if Jack will succeed.
Overall: happily recommend this novel for any readers who enjoy a clever crime thriller.
August 29, 2022
My review is published in the September edition of GoodReading magazine.
April 26, 2023
https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
Protagonist Jack Griffen is so well portrayed as the academic; mild mannered and a little muddleheaded, he is always relating everything back to literature.
Jack, feeling down on his luck since his wife and daughter left him to live in the US, throws everything into his job as Professor of Literature at UWA. He enjoys mentoring international student Hieronymus Beck, who is writing a crime novel. Jack sees Hieronymus as his protege.
When Hiero leaves behind his manuscript outline for Jack to read over he soon realises that Hiero is acting out the murders in real life. Knowing the police would never believe him he races across the globe to try and prevent the next murder. Each pending murder is coded as a puzzle that Jack must first decipher. What ensues is a fast paced, adrenaline fuelled cat-and-mouse game as Jack is always one step behind Hiero at ever turn.
Once the police become involved Jack becomes the prime suspect and whilst trying to outwit the murderer he must also outmanoeuver the police.
Brett Adams has given his readers a sharply plotted a gripping crime, thriller with many literary tie-ins throughout.
A writer who would know more than me about the makeup of a successful novel will recognise
the clever addition of these structural characteristics.
I loved the addition of exFBI, now Scotland Yard criminal profiler, DCI Marten Lacroix, tough and witty. This woman needs her own series!
Blood & Ink is an adrenaline fuelled read. It reads like a hard-boiled detective story, only with a literature professor as the lead character.
I can seriously see this on the big screen.
*I received a copy from the publisher
Protagonist Jack Griffen is so well portrayed as the academic; mild mannered and a little muddleheaded, he is always relating everything back to literature.
Jack, feeling down on his luck since his wife and daughter left him to live in the US, throws everything into his job as Professor of Literature at UWA. He enjoys mentoring international student Hieronymus Beck, who is writing a crime novel. Jack sees Hieronymus as his protege.
When Hiero leaves behind his manuscript outline for Jack to read over he soon realises that Hiero is acting out the murders in real life. Knowing the police would never believe him he races across the globe to try and prevent the next murder. Each pending murder is coded as a puzzle that Jack must first decipher. What ensues is a fast paced, adrenaline fuelled cat-and-mouse game as Jack is always one step behind Hiero at ever turn.
Once the police become involved Jack becomes the prime suspect and whilst trying to outwit the murderer he must also outmanoeuver the police.
Brett Adams has given his readers a sharply plotted a gripping crime, thriller with many literary tie-ins throughout.
A writer who would know more than me about the makeup of a successful novel will recognise
the clever addition of these structural characteristics.
I loved the addition of exFBI, now Scotland Yard criminal profiler, DCI Marten Lacroix, tough and witty. This woman needs her own series!
Blood & Ink is an adrenaline fuelled read. It reads like a hard-boiled detective story, only with a literature professor as the lead character.
I can seriously see this on the big screen.
*I received a copy from the publisher
October 22, 2022
Blood and Ink is an interesting and unique style of crime book. It is a difficult book to review as my feelings on it jumped around a fair bit as I was reading it. The storyline was indeed in a league of its own, but I found myself not quite believing it at times. It is best to just go with it though, as it has many implausible threads. If you are a lover of crime fiction, and classic literature, you are certainly in for a treat. This book references many of these books, as well as true crime stories.
jack is an English Literature professor in Western Australia. He is bit of a mess, his wife has left him and taken their daughter to the US for a fresh start. Work is pretty much his life. One of his students, Hieronymus, an exchange student from the US, is writing a crime novel and throws ideas around with Jack. But then he discovers that a woman has been attacked in identical circumstances to one of those ideas. And then another idea comes to life... Jack follows these crimes around the world, following the breadcrumbs being left for him by Hiero. But the police soon start to suspect Jack - and it becomes a race to stop the killings and clear his name.
It was very well written and constructed, with plenty of twists to keep you intrigued. It took me a while to finish but I am glad that I stuck with it.
Thanks to Freemantle Press for my copy of this book to read. Book and Ink is out now
jack is an English Literature professor in Western Australia. He is bit of a mess, his wife has left him and taken their daughter to the US for a fresh start. Work is pretty much his life. One of his students, Hieronymus, an exchange student from the US, is writing a crime novel and throws ideas around with Jack. But then he discovers that a woman has been attacked in identical circumstances to one of those ideas. And then another idea comes to life... Jack follows these crimes around the world, following the breadcrumbs being left for him by Hiero. But the police soon start to suspect Jack - and it becomes a race to stop the killings and clear his name.
It was very well written and constructed, with plenty of twists to keep you intrigued. It took me a while to finish but I am glad that I stuck with it.
Thanks to Freemantle Press for my copy of this book to read. Book and Ink is out now
September 11, 2022
4.5 - This fast-paced crime fiction had me hooked from the first page. For lovers of literature and crime, this hidden gem is a highly original roller coaster of a novel.
September 4, 2022
Do you enjoy when other books are brought into the book you are reading? If so, then Blook & Ink will be perfect for you. Professor Jack Griffin is very interesting academic; all he has is his work, after his divorce and a little bit of a breakdown. He acquires a student by the name of Hieronymus Beck who seems to be his biggest fan, who seems a little obsessed. Hieronymus wants Jack to read and critique everything he writes. Jack comes across some ‘research’, a list akin to crime solved when playing Cluedo. In that very moment Jack has to decide to leave the list as a work of fiction, or to convince the authorities that this is a real list of murders happening across the world, and before his eyes.
Blood & Ink moves in several speeds, and you need to adjust your reading to keep up, or savour the detail. There are key moments where other fiction novels into this book as a way for Jack to explain and elaborate on the murders, weapons, locations and motives, and at some points, you have to read really carefully – is this really happening or is it just pages from a book? Jack is caught up in these murders, and the police are hot on his heels. The more he tries to explain to the police what is unfolding, he is drawn deeper into becoming a suspect. This book is unlike any crime novel I have read. It is not what you expect, and the mystery factor is high. If you want to challenge what you read in relation to crime fiction, this could be your answer.
Blood & Ink moves in several speeds, and you need to adjust your reading to keep up, or savour the detail. There are key moments where other fiction novels into this book as a way for Jack to explain and elaborate on the murders, weapons, locations and motives, and at some points, you have to read really carefully – is this really happening or is it just pages from a book? Jack is caught up in these murders, and the police are hot on his heels. The more he tries to explain to the police what is unfolding, he is drawn deeper into becoming a suspect. This book is unlike any crime novel I have read. It is not what you expect, and the mystery factor is high. If you want to challenge what you read in relation to crime fiction, this could be your answer.
August 25, 2022
Blood and Ink by Brett Adams
Hop in, sit down and buckle up. We are in for one hell of a ride with this one.
We have Professor Jack Griffen, 49, divorced of the English faculty at U.W.A. Perth and one of his students Hieronymus Beck, Hiero is an exchange student from the US.
Hiero is planning to write a book with the help of Jack.
Jack says that Hiero has to research everything which he has done - from poisons, death, places to do it etc.
On the final week of term Jack and Hiero have their last conversation and say their goodbyes.
As Jack is leaving after locking up, he slips on something. As he looks down it is Hiero's notes that he had been putting together over the time and his folder with the name Hieronymus E. Beck – Blood and Ink. Jack collects them all and takes them home with him as he has no forwarding address for Hiero who is on his way home.
Jack reads through the notes, there are five different kills and comes to one of the ways Hiero had planned to kill in his book and that was by Garroting. He was going to use a very old Japanese weapon called a Kyoketsu-shoge and it will be at Point Walter which is across from where Jack is.
Next morning, Jack is listening to the news and a girl has been strangled using this weapon at the same area mentioned in Hiero's notes.
From then on in its all go, go, go. This book is full of non-stop action and has you sitting on the edge of your seat.
I read this in two days and that is how I felt. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and I am sure you will enjoy it just as much.
#BRPreview
@betterreadingau
@brettadams
@FremantlePress
Hop in, sit down and buckle up. We are in for one hell of a ride with this one.
We have Professor Jack Griffen, 49, divorced of the English faculty at U.W.A. Perth and one of his students Hieronymus Beck, Hiero is an exchange student from the US.
Hiero is planning to write a book with the help of Jack.
Jack says that Hiero has to research everything which he has done - from poisons, death, places to do it etc.
On the final week of term Jack and Hiero have their last conversation and say their goodbyes.
As Jack is leaving after locking up, he slips on something. As he looks down it is Hiero's notes that he had been putting together over the time and his folder with the name Hieronymus E. Beck – Blood and Ink. Jack collects them all and takes them home with him as he has no forwarding address for Hiero who is on his way home.
Jack reads through the notes, there are five different kills and comes to one of the ways Hiero had planned to kill in his book and that was by Garroting. He was going to use a very old Japanese weapon called a Kyoketsu-shoge and it will be at Point Walter which is across from where Jack is.
Next morning, Jack is listening to the news and a girl has been strangled using this weapon at the same area mentioned in Hiero's notes.
From then on in its all go, go, go. This book is full of non-stop action and has you sitting on the edge of your seat.
I read this in two days and that is how I felt. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and I am sure you will enjoy it just as much.
#BRPreview
@betterreadingau
@brettadams
@FremantlePress
August 30, 2022
Jack Griffen is a professor of English at UWA, Perth. Hieronymus Beck (Hiero), who claims to be Jack's greatest fan, is an exchange student from the US and is planning to write a crime novel. Jack stumbles upon Hiero's research notes for his novel and discovers that a crime happened the next day, similar to that described in the notes. After failing to convince authorities that Hiero is behind all this, Jack takes it upon himself to stop Hiero from committing these murders. And from here begins an action-filled race across the world. As Jack tries to catch Hiero, he sort of becomes the most wanted serial killer being chased by police in different countries.
Blood and Ink is fast-paced and keeps you on your toes from the first page to the end. I loved the conversational tone of the book and all the literary references. Jack's character is well written. The book's tone made it feel like you could hear his thoughts. You would feel annoyed by his wrong decisions and sympathise with him when things don't go as planned. It makes for an enjoyable read.
Thanks Fremantle Press for my gifted copy.
Blood and Ink is fast-paced and keeps you on your toes from the first page to the end. I loved the conversational tone of the book and all the literary references. Jack's character is well written. The book's tone made it feel like you could hear his thoughts. You would feel annoyed by his wrong decisions and sympathise with him when things don't go as planned. It makes for an enjoyable read.
Thanks Fremantle Press for my gifted copy.
September 10, 2022
4 1/2 stars from me. I was lucky enough to receive an advance reading copy and at first, I could not warm up to the story. It was so obvious Hiero left the papers on purpose and Jacks "conversations'" with Tracey were a bit odd (on the other hand, Jack is a bit weird) but then I found myself immersed in what was unfolding and I must say, the last third of the book was amazing. I did not see the - spoiler alert - involvement of that person and the entire story just made sense and came together beautifully. Marten was also a good addition, an interesting character who added some "normal" perspective to the case.
August 30, 2022
This is the story of Jack Griffen a Literature Professor who suspects his student Hiero is committing murders based on a book he's writing so Jack must travel all around the world and do all he can to stop these murders from happening.
✍️I LOVED it! This was a beautifully written crime novel. The first thing I observed upon starting it was the extensive and detailed narrative throughout which consecutively made reading more engrossing and intriguing. The writing style was exceptionally eloquent with insightful awareness and knowledge of the crime genre.
I enjoyed that the chapters were short and curtailed. The plot was intelligently developed and imaginative and I was fascinated and kept in utter suspense and wonderment from beginning to end.
Highly recommend!!
Out September!
✍️I LOVED it! This was a beautifully written crime novel. The first thing I observed upon starting it was the extensive and detailed narrative throughout which consecutively made reading more engrossing and intriguing. The writing style was exceptionally eloquent with insightful awareness and knowledge of the crime genre.
I enjoyed that the chapters were short and curtailed. The plot was intelligently developed and imaginative and I was fascinated and kept in utter suspense and wonderment from beginning to end.
Highly recommend!!
Out September!
September 26, 2023
If you go into this with the understanding that it is a crime novel first and foremost, it is easily a solid 4/5.
I buddy read this, and I don't think the over-analysis and speculation that comes with that (at least with the people I read with) or the time it took us to get through it did the book any favours.
I did find it enjoyably written, entertainingly frustrating, and left me with themes and thoughts to pick over.
Plus, love an Aussie MC~
I buddy read this, and I don't think the over-analysis and speculation that comes with that (at least with the people I read with) or the time it took us to get through it did the book any favours.
I did find it enjoyably written, entertainingly frustrating, and left me with themes and thoughts to pick over.
Plus, love an Aussie MC~
Read
July 19, 2024BLOOD & INK is a crime novel about a student that could be writing a crime novel. Or could be planning a range of murders. When his Literature professor Jack Griffen discovers five sheets of paper that the student, Hiero, has written, Jack's not sure which option it is. Until the first event that matches one of the scenarios he's been left.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
September 19, 2022
*A copy of this book was received as part of the "Better Reading" Preview.
This book left me conflicted. I hated the majority of the story (except the last few chapters) but greatly admired the author’s prose. As a crime novel set in the literary world, “Blood and Ink” seemed like a winner, but the premise is ludicrous. Protagonist Jack Griffen, a Literature Professor motivated by the flimsiest of (clearly planted) clues, jumps on a plane to go country-hopping after exchange student Hieronymus Beck, a wanna-be author and possible psycho killer, only to become a pawn in a tale of murder. This travel-on-a-whim premise, like they’re living in the “Amazing Race,” is often implausible. Events and character motivations seem driven more because the author says so than truly being authentic to the fictional world. The staccato nature of the plot and jarring changes in perspective, from first person to third, interrupts the flow. The tension comes more from agitation than suspense, and the “twist,” while surprising, was more because it wasn’t seeded well. It’s a shame, because the author offers some very brilliant humorous and witty writing, showing great insight into literature and true crime, with poignant, intellectual, and even spiritual musing about fate and free will. Persistence is needed to enjoy this one.
This book left me conflicted. I hated the majority of the story (except the last few chapters) but greatly admired the author’s prose. As a crime novel set in the literary world, “Blood and Ink” seemed like a winner, but the premise is ludicrous. Protagonist Jack Griffen, a Literature Professor motivated by the flimsiest of (clearly planted) clues, jumps on a plane to go country-hopping after exchange student Hieronymus Beck, a wanna-be author and possible psycho killer, only to become a pawn in a tale of murder. This travel-on-a-whim premise, like they’re living in the “Amazing Race,” is often implausible. Events and character motivations seem driven more because the author says so than truly being authentic to the fictional world. The staccato nature of the plot and jarring changes in perspective, from first person to third, interrupts the flow. The tension comes more from agitation than suspense, and the “twist,” while surprising, was more because it wasn’t seeded well. It’s a shame, because the author offers some very brilliant humorous and witty writing, showing great insight into literature and true crime, with poignant, intellectual, and even spiritual musing about fate and free will. Persistence is needed to enjoy this one.
July 17, 2022
This book opens with mystery, intrigue and action. Right away I knew I was embarking on an adventure. There were some random parts that felt a bit silly, but the writing was good so I decided to just go with it. I'm glad I did! It's a cracking yarn. Different to what I usually read.
It took me a minute to get used to the alternating first-person POV and third-person POV, but at the end of the day, story is everything and I had to know how this one would end.
Hiero Beck is a US exchange student who idolises literature professor Jack Griffen. Hiero has told Jack he's writing a crime novel, but when Jack stumbles upon five sheets of paper that belong to Hiero, he discovers that he has been written into his student's real-time crime thriller. Worse still, he's being framed! Innocent people are being killed and Jack's family is in Hiero's sights. Jack has to stop Hiero before it's too late and that means leaping across the globe and dodging police who want to arrest him for murders they think he committed.
It's a layered story that balances intensity with humour and heart, and one that will appeal to readers who enjoy computers, books and puzzles. An impressive debut in the crime novel space by Aussie author Brett Adams. I could easily see it adapted for the small screen.
It took me a minute to get used to the alternating first-person POV and third-person POV, but at the end of the day, story is everything and I had to know how this one would end.
Hiero Beck is a US exchange student who idolises literature professor Jack Griffen. Hiero has told Jack he's writing a crime novel, but when Jack stumbles upon five sheets of paper that belong to Hiero, he discovers that he has been written into his student's real-time crime thriller. Worse still, he's being framed! Innocent people are being killed and Jack's family is in Hiero's sights. Jack has to stop Hiero before it's too late and that means leaping across the globe and dodging police who want to arrest him for murders they think he committed.
It's a layered story that balances intensity with humour and heart, and one that will appeal to readers who enjoy computers, books and puzzles. An impressive debut in the crime novel space by Aussie author Brett Adams. I could easily see it adapted for the small screen.
October 22, 2022
Blood & Ink is at times fast-paced and at times slow. This book is a bow to all the thrillers out on shelves; a nod to true crime fiction. The author nicely, subtly draws existing fiction into his books, and mixes it up to make us wonder whether we are actually reading a true crime fiction.
Professor Jack Griffen has a student who adores him, wants his assurance and acceptance with everything he writes. His name is Hieronymus Beck. Jack stumbles upon a set of sheets written by Beck, a research for his next novel. Divorced, ill and known to have had a nervous breakdown, Jack tries to show the world, and the police, that Beck is on a killing spree, after realising that his research is actually becoming true. When police does not believe him, he tries to stop Beck on his own, taking the world, and false identities along the way. His family and his life is at stake and what actually happened/happens is the climax.
It starts off with the first person POV of Jack and it’s part horrifying and part hilarious. There are so many laugh-out-loud moments along with few chuckles. Last third of the book also bears the third person POV of a profiler who works for the police, the only person who trusts Jack. This is a super wild ride, and most of the time, a bit confusing, which is why the book is brilliant.
Be warned: you should read this book with minimal distractions because it needs your complete focus.
Professor Jack Griffen has a student who adores him, wants his assurance and acceptance with everything he writes. His name is Hieronymus Beck. Jack stumbles upon a set of sheets written by Beck, a research for his next novel. Divorced, ill and known to have had a nervous breakdown, Jack tries to show the world, and the police, that Beck is on a killing spree, after realising that his research is actually becoming true. When police does not believe him, he tries to stop Beck on his own, taking the world, and false identities along the way. His family and his life is at stake and what actually happened/happens is the climax.
It starts off with the first person POV of Jack and it’s part horrifying and part hilarious. There are so many laugh-out-loud moments along with few chuckles. Last third of the book also bears the third person POV of a profiler who works for the police, the only person who trusts Jack. This is a super wild ride, and most of the time, a bit confusing, which is why the book is brilliant.
Be warned: you should read this book with minimal distractions because it needs your complete focus.
January 5, 2023
“Blood & Ink” by Brett Adams melds a pretty classic murder mystery plot with an unusual slant on the perpetrator. The result is a genuinely tricky novel, likely to have readers going backwards and forwards as they try to decide what’s really going on.
Jack Griffen is a professor of literature in Perth. While he’s reasonably successful professionally, his personal life is nothing to boast about. His ex-wife and daughter have relocated to the USA. He’s somehow let most of his friends slip away. His health is precarious, and so are his finances.
Despite this, or maybe partly because of it, Jack enjoys showing off for exchange student Hieronymus Beck. Hiero, as Jack calls him, begged to be allowed to sit in on Jack’s classes. He spends hours with Jack, debating literature and – as Jack sees it – lapping up Jack’s wisdom and experience.
One night, Hiero accidentally leaves behind a copy of the notes for his proposed crime novel. Jack glances through them, thinks Hiero has a lot of work to do, and thinks nothing more of it. But then, before he can return the notes to Hiero, an attack takes place: one eerily similar to the first crime depicted in Hiero’s notes.
Soon Jack finds himself asking whether Hiero is plotting a novel, or plotting a series of murders. And in either case, what’s Jack going to do about it?
It’s hard to say more about this novel without including spoilers. Suffice to say that quite a complex web is woven. I’ll bet you decide early on that you know what’s going on and who’s doing what. And I also bet that you’ll change your mind about that half a dozen times before the end.
This is a really good mix of familiar tropes, moments of “aaargh, I saw that coming, why didn’t he?”, and surprising twists and turns. It’s very effective, often letting you think you’ve worked it out before it shoves you off balance again.
It does take a little time to sink into the world of the novel. Indeed, I found that I couldn’t read it in short, snatched bursts – I had to leave it until I could spend a decent amount of time with the novel. But once I found that time, I became absorbed in the narrative. It’s not exactly unputdownable, but it’s certainly a novel that holds your attention for extended periods.
I really appreciated that it was best suited to longer stretches of reading – this feels a little unusual and I liked the way it made “Blood & Ink” stand out for me.
A substantial part of the novel is told from Jack’s point of view. He’s a very familiar character – most readers will feel that they know him. This is where much of the emotion of the novel comes from. Not just Jack’s reactions to events, but our growing frustration with and for him as events seem to spiral out of his control, and our immersion in his emotions.
This is primarily a novel for crime readers. However, it might also appeal to readers who like to have their expectations confounded, or to those who look primarily for strong characters.
I enjoyed this very much. It’s different in flavour to many other crime novels, while still planting itself firmly in the genre. It’s well written, and well suited to the sort of evening when you have a couple of hours to curl up with a good book.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Jack Griffen is a professor of literature in Perth. While he’s reasonably successful professionally, his personal life is nothing to boast about. His ex-wife and daughter have relocated to the USA. He’s somehow let most of his friends slip away. His health is precarious, and so are his finances.
Despite this, or maybe partly because of it, Jack enjoys showing off for exchange student Hieronymus Beck. Hiero, as Jack calls him, begged to be allowed to sit in on Jack’s classes. He spends hours with Jack, debating literature and – as Jack sees it – lapping up Jack’s wisdom and experience.
One night, Hiero accidentally leaves behind a copy of the notes for his proposed crime novel. Jack glances through them, thinks Hiero has a lot of work to do, and thinks nothing more of it. But then, before he can return the notes to Hiero, an attack takes place: one eerily similar to the first crime depicted in Hiero’s notes.
Soon Jack finds himself asking whether Hiero is plotting a novel, or plotting a series of murders. And in either case, what’s Jack going to do about it?
It’s hard to say more about this novel without including spoilers. Suffice to say that quite a complex web is woven. I’ll bet you decide early on that you know what’s going on and who’s doing what. And I also bet that you’ll change your mind about that half a dozen times before the end.
This is a really good mix of familiar tropes, moments of “aaargh, I saw that coming, why didn’t he?”, and surprising twists and turns. It’s very effective, often letting you think you’ve worked it out before it shoves you off balance again.
It does take a little time to sink into the world of the novel. Indeed, I found that I couldn’t read it in short, snatched bursts – I had to leave it until I could spend a decent amount of time with the novel. But once I found that time, I became absorbed in the narrative. It’s not exactly unputdownable, but it’s certainly a novel that holds your attention for extended periods.
I really appreciated that it was best suited to longer stretches of reading – this feels a little unusual and I liked the way it made “Blood & Ink” stand out for me.
A substantial part of the novel is told from Jack’s point of view. He’s a very familiar character – most readers will feel that they know him. This is where much of the emotion of the novel comes from. Not just Jack’s reactions to events, but our growing frustration with and for him as events seem to spiral out of his control, and our immersion in his emotions.
This is primarily a novel for crime readers. However, it might also appeal to readers who like to have their expectations confounded, or to those who look primarily for strong characters.
I enjoyed this very much. It’s different in flavour to many other crime novels, while still planting itself firmly in the genre. It’s well written, and well suited to the sort of evening when you have a couple of hours to curl up with a good book.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
October 30, 2022
You will need to believe that the main character knowingly makes many bad decisions in this book to really enjoy it. I thought the writing was excellent, and I thought the main character was a good character, however I could not accept the course plotted for the main character by the author. The plot is driven by bad choices. Very bad choices. Choices that any person most likely would not make. And that, to me, should not be how a plot is driven. One bad choice would be fine - but in this novel bad choices are an epidemic.
The main character, Jack Griffen, could have gone to the police in the first few chapters. Instead, he bumbles around and makes odd phone calls and impersonates an immigration officer to speak to a young woman who was assaulted while jogging. Why? I honestly don't know why. Are we to believe he could have unusual trains of thought due to having a nervous breakdown years ago? I'm not sure, but that hardly seems like a reason for how he acts during this book. I found his behaviour and decisions very odd.
The plot itself is OTT, but that's fine for a mystery/thriller. It's all part of the genre. The author, I think, tries to make our protagonist an unreliable narrator, but that really didn't work as intended. The villain of the piece, Hiero, did work as a character, and as the characters are written, he's probably the most consistent and best written in the story. The other characters felt incomplete.
I think this book would have best served to have a smaller scope, not make this an international thriller. We didn't need to see so much country hopping, for that did not add anything to the plot and, at times, it made the plot harder to swallow.
The main character, Jack Griffen, could have gone to the police in the first few chapters. Instead, he bumbles around and makes odd phone calls and impersonates an immigration officer to speak to a young woman who was assaulted while jogging. Why? I honestly don't know why. Are we to believe he could have unusual trains of thought due to having a nervous breakdown years ago? I'm not sure, but that hardly seems like a reason for how he acts during this book. I found his behaviour and decisions very odd.
The plot itself is OTT, but that's fine for a mystery/thriller. It's all part of the genre. The author, I think, tries to make our protagonist an unreliable narrator, but that really didn't work as intended. The villain of the piece, Hiero, did work as a character, and as the characters are written, he's probably the most consistent and best written in the story. The other characters felt incomplete.
I think this book would have best served to have a smaller scope, not make this an international thriller. We didn't need to see so much country hopping, for that did not add anything to the plot and, at times, it made the plot harder to swallow.
September 12, 2022
Received a copy from Better Reading Preview
~~~
Okay, so my first book from Better Reading was another Aussie crime book, however I can recommend this one as more my cup of tea.
Whilst the main character the story revolves around Professor Jack Griffen still seemed silly at times and a few suspension of disbelief moments were needed from myself I enjoyed learning about almost every character. And I enjoyed most of the plot for the better part, and when I didn't enjoy the plot there was enough interest to keep me going.
I *slight spoiler alert* did not expect an international crime spree from this little book!
It kept it more diverse and expansive, when a reference to a book, movie or true crime occurred- and there were many- if I had no context or knowledge of the reference the main arc kept me invested. If you don't like carrots of other crimes and third and fourth walls all over your reading avoid this one, otherwise dive in and see which references you pick up and understand along the way. Thanks to a high school movie in Lit Class I knew of one particular New Zealand crime and it gave that part an extra thought for me! I'd definitely be interested in seeing if Brett has or will write any other books.
~~~
Okay, so my first book from Better Reading was another Aussie crime book, however I can recommend this one as more my cup of tea.
Whilst the main character the story revolves around Professor Jack Griffen still seemed silly at times and a few suspension of disbelief moments were needed from myself I enjoyed learning about almost every character. And I enjoyed most of the plot for the better part, and when I didn't enjoy the plot there was enough interest to keep me going.
I *slight spoiler alert* did not expect an international crime spree from this little book!
It kept it more diverse and expansive, when a reference to a book, movie or true crime occurred- and there were many- if I had no context or knowledge of the reference the main arc kept me invested. If you don't like carrots of other crimes and third and fourth walls all over your reading avoid this one, otherwise dive in and see which references you pick up and understand along the way. Thanks to a high school movie in Lit Class I knew of one particular New Zealand crime and it gave that part an extra thought for me! I'd definitely be interested in seeing if Brett has or will write any other books.
December 27, 2022
"Blood & Ink" is a tale in a tale. A thriller of authors, murder, travel, depression and challenge.
Jack thought he had a bond with would be author Heiro, they talk frequently about literature and how to write the novel that works. Little did Jack expect that he would become the story of Heiro's delight.
After finding notes of the to be novel, Jack wakes to find that some of the notes have become truth. How could that be, could Heiro be acting on his notes, making a fiction into non-fiction? Is he that depraved.
Further and further down the rabbit hole of the story of Heironymous Beck does Jack travel, the thriller keeping you wondering what next??
Although a good story in total I did not find it drawing me in as much as I had hoped. The situations and incidents seemed, at least for the first half of the book, a bit unrealistic, and though I do not expect realism in all my novels, it had me asking "really???"
I'm a fence sitter on this book, but not because it was a bad read, it was written well, you could picture what was going on, I just wasn't ready to be in that place, clearly.
Thank you Beauty & Lace and Brett Adams for a chance to read this tale or torture and mystery.
Jack thought he had a bond with would be author Heiro, they talk frequently about literature and how to write the novel that works. Little did Jack expect that he would become the story of Heiro's delight.
After finding notes of the to be novel, Jack wakes to find that some of the notes have become truth. How could that be, could Heiro be acting on his notes, making a fiction into non-fiction? Is he that depraved.
Further and further down the rabbit hole of the story of Heironymous Beck does Jack travel, the thriller keeping you wondering what next??
Although a good story in total I did not find it drawing me in as much as I had hoped. The situations and incidents seemed, at least for the first half of the book, a bit unrealistic, and though I do not expect realism in all my novels, it had me asking "really???"
I'm a fence sitter on this book, but not because it was a bad read, it was written well, you could picture what was going on, I just wasn't ready to be in that place, clearly.
Thank you Beauty & Lace and Brett Adams for a chance to read this tale or torture and mystery.
March 24, 2023
I devoured every page from the very beginning all the way to the end at page 377 (yes, I even read the acknowledgements, hoping to uncover yet another hidden gem, though I may have missed it - I'm not quite that sharp!).
The story was expertly crafted with a fast pace, well-developed characters, clever plot twists, and incredibly detailed descriptions of the various settings. It's clear that the author put in a great deal of research, and it certainly paid off.
And the fact that it was written by an someone from Perth and featured nods to places I know made it all the more special.
I've seen some criticism that the main character made bad decisions, I agree. But I actually found that to be a strength of the book. This is Jack Griffen, not Jack Ryan. A normal human being who makes mistakes under pressure - just like we all do. And who knows, perhaps some of those bad decisions were made intentionally. Maybe deep down, that's what he was seeking all along ;) Either way, it made for a fascinating and thought-provoking read.
The story was expertly crafted with a fast pace, well-developed characters, clever plot twists, and incredibly detailed descriptions of the various settings. It's clear that the author put in a great deal of research, and it certainly paid off.
And the fact that it was written by an someone from Perth and featured nods to places I know made it all the more special.
I've seen some criticism that the main character made bad decisions, I agree. But I actually found that to be a strength of the book. This is Jack Griffen, not Jack Ryan. A normal human being who makes mistakes under pressure - just like we all do. And who knows, perhaps some of those bad decisions were made intentionally. Maybe deep down, that's what he was seeking all along ;) Either way, it made for a fascinating and thought-provoking read.
September 22, 2022
“Blood and Ink” by Brett Adams.
The story is about a literature professor who is drawn into, what may be either the fictional tale of a series of murders written by a “fan” or the actual account by the murderer of his murders.
This was, at times compelling reading, and at other times I was unsure from whose point of view the chapter was coming. For this reason, I’d recommend reading it without distractions. The chapters were, for the main, quite short, and the characters were ok, although occasionally I found the main two protagonists slightly annoying.
An interesting read, that I thought I had pegged around halfway through and that I was totally wrong about. I’m still unsure about how much I liked this book, so I am only giving it three stars. I will, however, look with interest at further novels by Brett Adams.
Thank you to BetterReading @betterreadingau #BRPreview and Fremantle Press @Fremantlepress for a free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story is about a literature professor who is drawn into, what may be either the fictional tale of a series of murders written by a “fan” or the actual account by the murderer of his murders.
This was, at times compelling reading, and at other times I was unsure from whose point of view the chapter was coming. For this reason, I’d recommend reading it without distractions. The chapters were, for the main, quite short, and the characters were ok, although occasionally I found the main two protagonists slightly annoying.
An interesting read, that I thought I had pegged around halfway through and that I was totally wrong about. I’m still unsure about how much I liked this book, so I am only giving it three stars. I will, however, look with interest at further novels by Brett Adams.
Thank you to BetterReading @betterreadingau #BRPreview and Fremantle Press @Fremantlepress for a free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2022
I am conflicted with this novel. It is certainly one of the most original I’ve read in a while. Not your typical crime caper. You really have to suspend your disbelief, as many of the drivers are absurd. The fact that a university professor of limited means would up sticks and suddenly follow a serial killer to Hong Kong, then Austria, then England and finally to America defies logic. The kicker, however, is in the fact that the prof has taught the miscreant (an American exchange student, no less) in a creative writing class at Uni West Australia is most unusual. The plus points for me were the literary references and some genuinely original insights into human motivation. It helps, as I did many years ago, to have read ‘In Cold Blood’, about a true life mass murder in, where else, the great United States. So, much to be savoured in this novel, if you suspend your judgement on the unrealistic events therein.
September 12, 2022
Book review 📖
Blood & Ink @brett.adams.author
This is the story of professor Jack Griffen and his exchange student Hieronymus Beck who claims to be the professor's biggest fan but soon professor Griffen is in the throes of a murder mystery. This story didn't grab me from the beginning, for me it started out slow but I persisted and boy am I glad I did. As I was reading I felt like I was in the middle of a modern Agatha Christie and I was dying to find out how it would end. I loved how it describes the scenes and kept me guessing until the end. I would recommend this for crime and mystery lovers of Agatha Christie and Sophie Hannah. Thank you @betterreadingau and @fremantlepress for this preview copy, all opinions are solely my own.
#brpreview #bloodandink #bookreview #bookstagram
Blood & Ink @brett.adams.author
This is the story of professor Jack Griffen and his exchange student Hieronymus Beck who claims to be the professor's biggest fan but soon professor Griffen is in the throes of a murder mystery. This story didn't grab me from the beginning, for me it started out slow but I persisted and boy am I glad I did. As I was reading I felt like I was in the middle of a modern Agatha Christie and I was dying to find out how it would end. I loved how it describes the scenes and kept me guessing until the end. I would recommend this for crime and mystery lovers of Agatha Christie and Sophie Hannah. Thank you @betterreadingau and @fremantlepress for this preview copy, all opinions are solely my own.
#brpreview #bloodandink #bookreview #bookstagram
January 6, 2023
A perfect crime thriller with brilliantly executed mystery that kept me gripped to the end. The perfect Australian summer crime showcase!
Brett’s writing is gritty and perfectly suited to his chosen genre. His prose style lent itself beautifully to the pace of the novel, allowing me to read at a comfortable speed but without becoming bored or too overwhelmed. His descriptions and human insights were show-stopping and were one of the main things that stood out to me while reading.
Aside from the brilliant prose, the story was incredible. It wasn’t necessarily unpredictable but rather held my interest through the journey. It was multi-continental and featured many of my favourite things in literature (LOVE the references) and crime novels in general. The story was a perfect amalgamation of elements from thrillers, academic novels, and crime fiction in general.
Characters were introduced and developed in perfect rhythm with the plot and introduced that extra element that you often don’t find in gritty crime thrillers.
This book will be a go to rec for those looking for Australian fiction, crime fiction or a thriller.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Brett’s writing is gritty and perfectly suited to his chosen genre. His prose style lent itself beautifully to the pace of the novel, allowing me to read at a comfortable speed but without becoming bored or too overwhelmed. His descriptions and human insights were show-stopping and were one of the main things that stood out to me while reading.
Aside from the brilliant prose, the story was incredible. It wasn’t necessarily unpredictable but rather held my interest through the journey. It was multi-continental and featured many of my favourite things in literature (LOVE the references) and crime novels in general. The story was a perfect amalgamation of elements from thrillers, academic novels, and crime fiction in general.
Characters were introduced and developed in perfect rhythm with the plot and introduced that extra element that you often don’t find in gritty crime thrillers.
This book will be a go to rec for those looking for Australian fiction, crime fiction or a thriller.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 21, 2022
Blood and Ink, by Brett Adams, is an easy read.
Thanks to Better Reading Preview and Fremantle Press for my advance copy to review.
Jack Griffen is a starchy forty-five year old Professor of Literature, in poor health, divorced, and estranged from his daughter.
He dreams of being a published author.
Hiero Beck, is a young American exchange student (who had been under Jack's tutelage), also aspires to be an author, with Jack as his main character.
When a student is attacked close to his home, Jack becomes the prime suspect. He travels half way around the world trying to thwart Hiero's plans for murder, all the while reflecting on the breakdown of his marriage and his failed relationship with his daughter.
This novel keeps you guessing until the end.
Thanks to Better Reading Preview and Fremantle Press for my advance copy to review.
Jack Griffen is a starchy forty-five year old Professor of Literature, in poor health, divorced, and estranged from his daughter.
He dreams of being a published author.
Hiero Beck, is a young American exchange student (who had been under Jack's tutelage), also aspires to be an author, with Jack as his main character.
When a student is attacked close to his home, Jack becomes the prime suspect. He travels half way around the world trying to thwart Hiero's plans for murder, all the while reflecting on the breakdown of his marriage and his failed relationship with his daughter.
This novel keeps you guessing until the end.
November 25, 2024
Overall this would be a holiday quick read, one of many throwaway reads. The plot pushes the boundaries of plausability with ridiculous choices b, and much luck for, the professor. Some of the dialogue by the profiler was a stereotype.
To be fair, I was drawn to it while hunting for my next listen mainly because it had a character called Hieronymus!
The most jarring aspect though was the assertion that an incompetent constable in the UK would be wandering around with a firearm as standard. Do some research.
To be fair, I was drawn to it while hunting for my next listen mainly because it had a character called Hieronymus!
The most jarring aspect though was the assertion that an incompetent constable in the UK would be wandering around with a firearm as standard. Do some research.
October 6, 2024
This was an interesting twist on a crime novel.
An ex hange student talks crime novels with his professor, only to make his professor the MC (main character) in his real life crime novel.
I wouldn't say I didn't like it, just didn't love it and wish I spent my reading time on something else. With the references to Truman Capote's 'In Cold Blood' I have a hankering to read that soon!
An ex hange student talks crime novels with his professor, only to make his professor the MC (main character) in his real life crime novel.
I wouldn't say I didn't like it, just didn't love it and wish I spent my reading time on something else. With the references to Truman Capote's 'In Cold Blood' I have a hankering to read that soon!
November 10, 2022
A remarkable book. I loved everything about it, it from beginning to end. I can’t say ‘I couldn’t put it down’ because, to be honest, I had to put it down regularly to get some emotional respite! Highly recommended
March 22, 2023
I found this book to be enthralling from start to finish. I enjoyed the short, sharp chapters and the anticipation that built throughout the book. I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy clever story telling and fast paced thrillers.
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