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Canaries in the Coal Mine
She begged for two promises.
The first was to save a life.
The second was to take one...
Life changed in the blink of an eye when a man died.
My best friend, Angelica, and I entered a hell on earth: every day was a battle to survive.
I served my sentence, but she had to stay.
Alone, with Angelica's promises ringing in my ears, I struggled to pick up the pieces of my life while looking into her past.
Stepping into a nightmare world, I met a man so evil, he'd ruined countless lives.
Now I have to decide. Can I keep my second promise?
Ross Greenwood's modern thriller will introduce you to characters you'll never forget in a place where gender is nothing... and everything.
The first was to save a life.
The second was to take one...
Life changed in the blink of an eye when a man died.
My best friend, Angelica, and I entered a hell on earth: every day was a battle to survive.
I served my sentence, but she had to stay.
Alone, with Angelica's promises ringing in my ears, I struggled to pick up the pieces of my life while looking into her past.
Stepping into a nightmare world, I met a man so evil, he'd ruined countless lives.
Now I have to decide. Can I keep my second promise?
Ross Greenwood's modern thriller will introduce you to characters you'll never forget in a place where gender is nothing... and everything.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2022
229 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
About the author
Ross Greenwood
43 books556 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
December 4, 2022
Wow - where do I even start?!
I have not read a Ross Greenwood book prior to this one but having discovered this author now through this fantastic book I will be reading more for sure.
I love reading and I know that any book that captures my attention and draws me in from the first few pages is going to end up being a 5 star read and Canaries in The Coal Mine was one such book.
It opens in a prison where we follow the journey of Robbie and Angelica. They have an incredibly strong connection and friendship and I fell in love with their characters instantly.
I don’t want to give too many details so as not to spoil it for others but suffice it to say that this book became so much more than just a crime book as it went on.
Each character we are introduced to has a story and the writer writes in such a way that as a reader we really get into the psyche of each one - good or bad, particularly with Trevor, Angelica’s father. I loved this character and in particular watching the relationship between him and Robbie unfold - she became like a second daughter to him as he took her under his wing and they both learnt so much from each other and in turn, we as readers learnt so much from them too.
This book addresses so many important issues and does so sensitively and beautifully. It’s a book reminding us all that in this ever changing world we live in we all need to be more accepting, kind and understanding- each of us are unique and are walking our own paths in life and that’s ok - everyone deserves the right to be who they are without judgement.
This was a book I really looked forward to reading each
day and I will miss Robbie & Trevor - two characters who I simply adored in particular.
Thank you Ross Greenwood for writing this book - it’s a winner
I have not read a Ross Greenwood book prior to this one but having discovered this author now through this fantastic book I will be reading more for sure.
I love reading and I know that any book that captures my attention and draws me in from the first few pages is going to end up being a 5 star read and Canaries in The Coal Mine was one such book.
It opens in a prison where we follow the journey of Robbie and Angelica. They have an incredibly strong connection and friendship and I fell in love with their characters instantly.
I don’t want to give too many details so as not to spoil it for others but suffice it to say that this book became so much more than just a crime book as it went on.
Each character we are introduced to has a story and the writer writes in such a way that as a reader we really get into the psyche of each one - good or bad, particularly with Trevor, Angelica’s father. I loved this character and in particular watching the relationship between him and Robbie unfold - she became like a second daughter to him as he took her under his wing and they both learnt so much from each other and in turn, we as readers learnt so much from them too.
This book addresses so many important issues and does so sensitively and beautifully. It’s a book reminding us all that in this ever changing world we live in we all need to be more accepting, kind and understanding- each of us are unique and are walking our own paths in life and that’s ok - everyone deserves the right to be who they are without judgement.
This was a book I really looked forward to reading each
day and I will miss Robbie & Trevor - two characters who I simply adored in particular.
Thank you Ross Greenwood for writing this book - it’s a winner
December 29, 2022
I throughly enjoyed this book and definitely recommend reading it. The main character is so well written that I went on the emotional journey with her from start to finish. I especially loved her relationship with Trevor.
There is so much I’d like to say, because there were so many plot twists and ‘Wow’ moments, but in doing so I fear the surprise element would be removed. So, instead I leave you with this…..if you what to be shocked, entertained, informed and enthralled all at the same then this is the book for you.
There is so much I’d like to say, because there were so many plot twists and ‘Wow’ moments, but in doing so I fear the surprise element would be removed. So, instead I leave you with this…..if you what to be shocked, entertained, informed and enthralled all at the same then this is the book for you.
December 17, 2022
Canaries In The Coalmine is the first book I have read by Ross Greenwood, but it certainly won’t be last! This book is one that’s full of surprises. I laughed, I cried. It’s a book that’s thought provoking and has depth. Canaries In The Coalmine is definitely not ‘your run of the mill’ crime thriller! I will not share the plot details as to enjoy the full reading experience. It’s one that’s best read blind.
Canaries In The Coalmine begins in a prison where we follow the journey of Robbie and Angelica. They have an incredibly strong friendship. I loved their characters and their story. There’s nothing more satisfying than meeting characters who bury their way under your skin. You find your thoughts constantly returning to them. Trevor, Angelina’s dad, is also worthy of a mention. The relationship between him and Robbie is one that will melt your heart. Their journey is one of self-discovery, pain, and heartbreak. It was fascinating to see how Trevor and Robbie’s relationship grew into one of mutual trust and respect. It’s not all plain sailing, as they both have a lot to learn along the way.
The thing that makes this book stand out is its subject. This book addresses so many important issues which the author deals with a great deal of sensitively. I felt the author may have played down the treatment Robbie and Angelica would have faced in prison. But never the less Canaries In The Coalmine is gritty, raw and thought provoking. It’s a book that deserves to be discussed by its readers. Highly recommended.
Canaries In The Coalmine begins in a prison where we follow the journey of Robbie and Angelica. They have an incredibly strong friendship. I loved their characters and their story. There’s nothing more satisfying than meeting characters who bury their way under your skin. You find your thoughts constantly returning to them. Trevor, Angelina’s dad, is also worthy of a mention. The relationship between him and Robbie is one that will melt your heart. Their journey is one of self-discovery, pain, and heartbreak. It was fascinating to see how Trevor and Robbie’s relationship grew into one of mutual trust and respect. It’s not all plain sailing, as they both have a lot to learn along the way.
The thing that makes this book stand out is its subject. This book addresses so many important issues which the author deals with a great deal of sensitively. I felt the author may have played down the treatment Robbie and Angelica would have faced in prison. But never the less Canaries In The Coalmine is gritty, raw and thought provoking. It’s a book that deserves to be discussed by its readers. Highly recommended.
December 17, 2022
Canaries are those who are there to take the flak for the benefit of others. The link becomes clear as you progress with this story. Robbie and her best friend Angelica end up in prison. Eventually she doesn’t have Angelica’s support. Her life turns around when she’s released and persuades Angelica’s dad to give her a job – on a building site. There’s a stunning moment of revelation in this book, and a message that we all need to take to heart. An awareness we should maintain. Ross Greenwood, always a good author, has excelled himself with this. Highly recommended.
December 15, 2022
4.5-4.75⭐️
Another in the prison based story series
It starts with Robbie and Angelica becoming friends at work. Next we find them in prison together. Angelica dies not long before Robbie’s release, begging her for 2 promises. One is to save a life, the other is to take one.
I was onside with Robbie from the beginning and I became very invested in her character. There are some fabulous characters, Edna and Stan are amazingly supportive and caring, and Trevor was a revelation! Angelica is more combative, but still very likeable and very loyal.
The time frame moves around in an organised manner to fill us in on the story. It is narrated in the first person by Robbie which makes it easier to connect with her.
The plot twists make it really interesting.
It’s an emotionally engaging read, very character driven. I loved it. Quite different to anything that I’ve read before. I’d highly recommend it.
Another in the prison based story series
It starts with Robbie and Angelica becoming friends at work. Next we find them in prison together. Angelica dies not long before Robbie’s release, begging her for 2 promises. One is to save a life, the other is to take one.
I was onside with Robbie from the beginning and I became very invested in her character. There are some fabulous characters, Edna and Stan are amazingly supportive and caring, and Trevor was a revelation! Angelica is more combative, but still very likeable and very loyal.
The time frame moves around in an organised manner to fill us in on the story. It is narrated in the first person by Robbie which makes it easier to connect with her.
The plot twists make it really interesting.
It’s an emotionally engaging read, very character driven. I loved it. Quite different to anything that I’ve read before. I’d highly recommend it.
December 1, 2022
Two friends find themselves in prison after a fatal turn of events. When Robbie is released a year, her best friend remains to complete the rest of her sentance.
Before Robbie's release, Angelica asks Robbie to promise two things, one is to save a life and one is to take a life.
I am a huge fan of Ross Greenwoods but this has to be his best so far. When I say this book will have you keep on turning the pages, hungry to know what happens next trust me you will.
The charachters are rich and well developed and the story is beautifully written showcasing the best and the worst of humanity and everything in between. I simply couldn't put this down. I ended the book with a smile on my face and my heart richer.
I especially loved the authors note and reading about his inspiration for the novel, and Darren's message to the world.
Before Robbie's release, Angelica asks Robbie to promise two things, one is to save a life and one is to take a life.
I am a huge fan of Ross Greenwoods but this has to be his best so far. When I say this book will have you keep on turning the pages, hungry to know what happens next trust me you will.
The charachters are rich and well developed and the story is beautifully written showcasing the best and the worst of humanity and everything in between. I simply couldn't put this down. I ended the book with a smile on my face and my heart richer.
I especially loved the authors note and reading about his inspiration for the novel, and Darren's message to the world.
November 30, 2022
Canaries in the Coal Mine.
Ross Greenwood
Goodness, where do I start? Never has a book made me think quite so much about how I behave and which words come out of my mouth. So thought provoking. It's a terrific story which tackles issues that not many writers would attempt to do. If fact, there are so many issues addressed that sometimes I had to stop reading and take time to think about the words I had read!
But what impressed me most is that it is written in Ross's flowing, easy style, without flowery, imposing language, which can distract from the point being made. Ross's style is for everyone.
It is a truly brilliant book. I'm so glad he has put it out there and not given in to those who think that it may be a step too far. I would love to see this book become a classic for schools to read. There is still 'a little of Trevor' in all of us.
Amazing job Ross.
Ross Greenwood
Goodness, where do I start? Never has a book made me think quite so much about how I behave and which words come out of my mouth. So thought provoking. It's a terrific story which tackles issues that not many writers would attempt to do. If fact, there are so many issues addressed that sometimes I had to stop reading and take time to think about the words I had read!
But what impressed me most is that it is written in Ross's flowing, easy style, without flowery, imposing language, which can distract from the point being made. Ross's style is for everyone.
It is a truly brilliant book. I'm so glad he has put it out there and not given in to those who think that it may be a step too far. I would love to see this book become a classic for schools to read. There is still 'a little of Trevor' in all of us.
Amazing job Ross.
November 22, 2022
Sensitively written and thought provoking but also packing a huge punch, Robbie and Angelica are best friends, Angelica makes a fatal mistake which leads to them being on remand for manslaughter. They are tough but nothing prepares them for prison life. After serving a year Robbie is released, before she leaves Angelica in prison she promises two things, one is to save a life and one is to take a life. Although the book is fiction I could imagine a lot of the horrendous bullying through threats and violence actually happening. It made me sad and angry that human beings are treated so badly just because they are different. I have loved every book by Ross Greenwoods but this book is on a different level and would make a fantastic screen play
November 21, 2022
I got this as a arc e book for my i pad from a face book group that I am a member of. I enjoyed reading this book. It had a good story to it. I have read other books by this author and liked them too.
January 31, 2023
This is a Ross Greenwood novel so it’s a given that it’s good. Well written and it enthralled throughout. It’s packed with action, great characters and a well thought out storyline - my favourite, Trevor.
I actually want to write about the author’s note because while I usually give these a cursory glance, here I wanted to read about the motivation to write this book. It is an interesting read and a must for those who should certainly read the book first and follow up with this. Thank you to Darren, too, for your words.
With a member or two of Gen Z in my household and with what I consider to be a liberal mind myself, I welcome the chance to discuss and become more aware of the challenges faced by those who try to navigate a world of intolerance and misunderstanding. I don’t always get it right but I’m open to righting the wrongs. In some ways, we all have something we battle with everyday but it’s when you read a book like this, you get a chance to walk in the shoes of others with different challenges. This book goes some way to opening up the channels of acceptance and education. This is needed and we should seek it out.
Love and let love…live and let live.
I actually want to write about the author’s note because while I usually give these a cursory glance, here I wanted to read about the motivation to write this book. It is an interesting read and a must for those who should certainly read the book first and follow up with this. Thank you to Darren, too, for your words.
With a member or two of Gen Z in my household and with what I consider to be a liberal mind myself, I welcome the chance to discuss and become more aware of the challenges faced by those who try to navigate a world of intolerance and misunderstanding. I don’t always get it right but I’m open to righting the wrongs. In some ways, we all have something we battle with everyday but it’s when you read a book like this, you get a chance to walk in the shoes of others with different challenges. This book goes some way to opening up the channels of acceptance and education. This is needed and we should seek it out.
Love and let love…live and let live.
February 15, 2023
Controversial? Probably, for the time, however, will it still be in a few years, let's hope not.
Ross deals with sensitive topics really well in this book. I felt like I knew the characters personally and I was really upset when*spoiler* happened fairly early. the story unfolded well, going from present to past and back again.
I would definitely recommend this book, but if you're too sensitive to controversy, maybe wait a couple of years. 😉
Ross deals with sensitive topics really well in this book. I felt like I knew the characters personally and I was really upset when*spoiler* happened fairly early. the story unfolded well, going from present to past and back again.
I would definitely recommend this book, but if you're too sensitive to controversy, maybe wait a couple of years. 😉
December 13, 2022
I love this author for many reasons; his use of words, his brilliant characters, exciting plots and last but not least, because his novels make me think long after I've finished the book. Canaries in the Coal Mine did not disappoint.
The plot is complex, as are the characters. Trevor for example, not a man I would initially think capable of change, a man set in the old ways of dealing with life. Some of his methods are shocking. But, he was also compassionate, on the side of the underdog- no wait, it was so much more than that. He had an understanding for those on the outside of society and an urge to right their wrongs. His change in the book is uplifting.
Robbie is a fantastic character, a person trying very hard to make sense of the world and how to fit into it. Her survival of prison demonstrated her strength and courage. Once released, the truth about her life and the friends around her is revealed.
This novel made me sit down and think about the LGBTQ community, about transgender, about being accepted for who we are and how to get across my own thoughts on this subject.
The authors note at then end was enlightening. How prisons deal with transgender inmates isn't something I've ever considered before. If I'm honest, transgender isn't a topic I've discussed very much with anyone, probably because of my own ignorance. The idea that gender dysphoria sufferers are affected from the minute they wake up and look in the mirror is heart breaking. And finally, Darren's message to the world deserves to be read. He's eighteen! What courage.
I know from the attitudes of my grandchildren that the world is becoming more tolerant, has more understanding. But I agree with Darren. Acceptance is one thing, protecting a persons rights is something else. We have to start somewhere though. Thank you Ross for helping me start my journey with your book.
The plot is complex, as are the characters. Trevor for example, not a man I would initially think capable of change, a man set in the old ways of dealing with life. Some of his methods are shocking. But, he was also compassionate, on the side of the underdog- no wait, it was so much more than that. He had an understanding for those on the outside of society and an urge to right their wrongs. His change in the book is uplifting.
Robbie is a fantastic character, a person trying very hard to make sense of the world and how to fit into it. Her survival of prison demonstrated her strength and courage. Once released, the truth about her life and the friends around her is revealed.
This novel made me sit down and think about the LGBTQ community, about transgender, about being accepted for who we are and how to get across my own thoughts on this subject.
The authors note at then end was enlightening. How prisons deal with transgender inmates isn't something I've ever considered before. If I'm honest, transgender isn't a topic I've discussed very much with anyone, probably because of my own ignorance. The idea that gender dysphoria sufferers are affected from the minute they wake up and look in the mirror is heart breaking. And finally, Darren's message to the world deserves to be read. He's eighteen! What courage.
I know from the attitudes of my grandchildren that the world is becoming more tolerant, has more understanding. But I agree with Darren. Acceptance is one thing, protecting a persons rights is something else. We have to start somewhere though. Thank you Ross for helping me start my journey with your book.
December 23, 2022
SENSATIONAL, SENSITIVE, SUPERB!
This book without doubt is my favourite this year; I'm now retired and read 3+ per week. Before reading "Canaries in the coal mine" I was quite ignorant to the abuse suffered by thoughtless individuals with out dated attitudes. It was written sensitively and so thought provoking I found it deeply sad but also enlightening. So a HUGE thank you Ross for highlighting a subject I was unaware of until now, certainly something to discuss. BP Sheffield x
This book without doubt is my favourite this year; I'm now retired and read 3+ per week. Before reading "Canaries in the coal mine" I was quite ignorant to the abuse suffered by thoughtless individuals with out dated attitudes. It was written sensitively and so thought provoking I found it deeply sad but also enlightening. So a HUGE thank you Ross for highlighting a subject I was unaware of until now, certainly something to discuss. BP Sheffield x
December 17, 2022
I really don’t know where to start with this review. The author asked if I would read his latest offering; he gave me no context but did warn me that it was nothing like his previous books.
It’s very difficult to write this without spoilers - I want readers to go in blind like I did.
Robbie & Angelica become friends at work, moving on we find them in prison together. Prison life is what this author knows best (professionally of course) & he doesn’t hold back. Robbie has amazing support from surprising characters; Angelica not so much.
I’ve never read anything like this before & at points felt emotionally drained. Read it, you won’t regret it & you might learn something.
It’s very difficult to write this without spoilers - I want readers to go in blind like I did.
Robbie & Angelica become friends at work, moving on we find them in prison together. Prison life is what this author knows best (professionally of course) & he doesn’t hold back. Robbie has amazing support from surprising characters; Angelica not so much.
I’ve never read anything like this before & at points felt emotionally drained. Read it, you won’t regret it & you might learn something.
December 15, 2022
Another great read from Ross. It follows the story of Robbie and the people she has come across before, during and after her release from prison. The unfolding of Robbie's background is superbly done. As usual, the characters come to life from the pages flaws and all. I really loved Trevor and the various characters on the building site! I didn't find this as compelling as Ross' previous works and at one point, I felt that the book was trying too hard to win me over regarding the main subject matter of the story and it annoyed me as I didn't need to be won over. Darren's words were a great addition at the end. Highly recommended as a great story, told with sensitivity.
December 20, 2022
i thoroughly enjoyed this book. I wouldn't exactly call it a thriller. In fact, I got into it slowly but then I couldn't put it down. I don't know quite how to describe it, so I will just say, read it.
January 1, 2023
An exceptionally interesting and thought provoking read . We are all human ! And as such deserve to be respected and allowed to be who we are and should be treated accordingly .
Highly recommend
Highly recommend
December 15, 2022
This is a book that should get folk talking. They should talk about the issues raised in the book and should also be talking about the author Ross Greenwood and heaping praise on him. I particularly enjoy the books with parts set in prison and I’m sure his time as a prison officer gives them authenticity (although I have no personal experience to back up this thought). He has the ability to create characters that stick in your mind and Robbie and Trevor are two great examples of that. Also a mention for Stan and Edna Thistle who were just the loveliest of folk. The story is outlined above and it’s difficult to add more without spoiling the joy of reading it. I will confess to some tears which is pretty unusual for me. A really engrossing book which I’m happy to see published and please read the author’s note.
December 16, 2022
This book has well developed and complex characters and a plot line that gets your brain thinking. It is action packed, full of surprises, and not a book you want to put down. I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers copy of this book.
December 6, 2022
I am a big fan of the DCI Barton books and will miss those characters. I have read some of the other stand alone books and was keen to read this as well.
This book did not turn out to be what I thought it was but I did enjoy it very much. I don't want to give spoilers but there a few surprises in the book which are brilliant. It will make you question things you may have said and done in the past by presenting life from a different point of view.
The writing flows easily and the author's knowledge of prisons is interesting (I understand that he used to work in a prison).
There is a similarity with the DCI Barton novels in that although I was taken with the character of Robbie, I did love the peripheral characters as well. Ross Greenwood writes rounded characters very well - they are not flawless but they are believable.
All in all a good, thought provoking read.
This book did not turn out to be what I thought it was but I did enjoy it very much. I don't want to give spoilers but there a few surprises in the book which are brilliant. It will make you question things you may have said and done in the past by presenting life from a different point of view.
The writing flows easily and the author's knowledge of prisons is interesting (I understand that he used to work in a prison).
There is a similarity with the DCI Barton novels in that although I was taken with the character of Robbie, I did love the peripheral characters as well. Ross Greenwood writes rounded characters very well - they are not flawless but they are believable.
All in all a good, thought provoking read.
December 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. This book is well written as is all Ross’s books. The main character takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I laughed and cried, not wanting to put it down . Would recommend this read.
December 11, 2022
Another great book by this Author as soon as i see a new book by him i jump on it.
The subject matter was really done well. All the characters was great it is sad because you are different how you get treated it is really a thought provoking book tackled well by the Author.
A must read.
The subject matter was really done well. All the characters was great it is sad because you are different how you get treated it is really a thought provoking book tackled well by the Author.
A must read.
November 29, 2022
Oh wow! A book I loved and characters I fell in love with. Robbie is in prison with her friend Angelica. As yet we don’t know quite what for. Angelica is feeling down and Robbie does her best to alert the warders but to no avail. Robbie's sentence finishes a short time later and as her mother has gone back to her homeland of Ecuador she has gone to stay with the neighbours- but only for a month at her mother's insistence that she makes her own way. Stan and Edna are “Trojans' ' in Robbie's own words and I found myself going “aww “at their kindness. Robbie goes to see Trevor, Angelica’s father and strikes up an unlikely friendship and then she delves into Angelica’s past and why she was as she was and her tumultuous relationship with her father and others.
OMG. A book that stopped me in my tracks (in a very good way). Yes, it's a crime book but it's so very much more. It's about understanding our fellow humans whatever they are or choose to be or what they have been through. Of love and understanding and most of all caring. Trevor made me cry at the end, and yes as Ross says afterwards, we’ve perhaps all known a Trevor in our time. One of my books of the year, this really is something so special I don’t have adequate words to describe it. Stunning and 10* don’t do this justice.
OMG. A book that stopped me in my tracks (in a very good way). Yes, it's a crime book but it's so very much more. It's about understanding our fellow humans whatever they are or choose to be or what they have been through. Of love and understanding and most of all caring. Trevor made me cry at the end, and yes as Ross says afterwards, we’ve perhaps all known a Trevor in our time. One of my books of the year, this really is something so special I don’t have adequate words to describe it. Stunning and 10* don’t do this justice.
December 17, 2022
Another absolute winner of a book from Ross Greenwood. The story is about Robbie and Angelica who are best friends and are in prison together. Angelica is the braver of the two and adopts the role of protector and keeps Robbie safe.
They know everything about each other and Robbie goes to see Angelica’s dad Trevor. Trevor is a hard working man who commands respect and hard work on all the jobs he manages. Robbie and Trevor develop a firm friendship and mutual respect for each other. Robbie shares the promises she made to Angelica.
This book was full of surprises and twists and turns. I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the characters and the bond that Robbie and Trevor had.
A must read, well worth the five stars I gave it.
They know everything about each other and Robbie goes to see Angelica’s dad Trevor. Trevor is a hard working man who commands respect and hard work on all the jobs he manages. Robbie and Trevor develop a firm friendship and mutual respect for each other. Robbie shares the promises she made to Angelica.
This book was full of surprises and twists and turns. I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the characters and the bond that Robbie and Trevor had.
A must read, well worth the five stars I gave it.
December 23, 2022
A departure from the author's Barton series, this standalone book returns to the prison themes of his earlier work. Robbie makes two promises to her friend, Angelica, before leaving prison. The first is to save a life, the second to take one. As the novel progresses, we learn about Angelica's life and why she made her requests.
The story is both thought provoking and powerful. It explores some big topics, including gender identity and the obligations of a morally dubious promise.
This work cements Ross Greenwood's position as one of the top British crime fiction writers.
The story is both thought provoking and powerful. It explores some big topics, including gender identity and the obligations of a morally dubious promise.
This work cements Ross Greenwood's position as one of the top British crime fiction writers.
January 12, 2023
Another brilliant novel by a master storyteller!
Crime writer Ross Greenwood never fails to deliver. I’ve read several of his books over the years and enjoyed every one of them. I’m pleased to say this was no exception.
Before I even started reading it though, I was intrigued by the title, especially having had a grandfather that worked down the coal mines when he was a child. Having now read the book, the title is both apt and works well.
Using characters that are honest, and so lifelike they jump off the page, the author has, employing his knowledge of the prison system, written a story that sensitively shines a light on a problem that, although I see no easy solution to, does, nonetheless, deserve to be discussed in a safe environment where all opinions can be heard and respected.
Thought provoking, full of twists and turns and colourful characters, this is a crime thriller with a difference. Five stars all the way!
Crime writer Ross Greenwood never fails to deliver. I’ve read several of his books over the years and enjoyed every one of them. I’m pleased to say this was no exception.
Before I even started reading it though, I was intrigued by the title, especially having had a grandfather that worked down the coal mines when he was a child. Having now read the book, the title is both apt and works well.
Using characters that are honest, and so lifelike they jump off the page, the author has, employing his knowledge of the prison system, written a story that sensitively shines a light on a problem that, although I see no easy solution to, does, nonetheless, deserve to be discussed in a safe environment where all opinions can be heard and respected.
Thought provoking, full of twists and turns and colourful characters, this is a crime thriller with a difference. Five stars all the way!
December 25, 2022
Having read quite a few books by this author it was a no-brainer to pick up his latest one. This one is a fantastic read and does have a different side to it compared to his usual style of books, but my goodness it is a fabulous one.
Angelica and Robbie are great friends, they have each other's backs and look out for each other as best friends do. If you have read any of the author's previous books then you will be aware that many of them have a prison scenario in them, this one is no exception, it is also where we find Angelica and Robbie. Luckily they have been placed in the same wing of HMP Peterborough and the story tells of their time inside and how they got to be there, then there is the time after when a chance to begin again is offered.
This story is so addictive and once again the author shows another side to the prison system and how people are treated. Robbie is of South American descent and Angelica was raised in Peterborough, both are lovely women and they definitely catch people's eye when they are out and about.
It is frustration, anger and drugs that caused the girl's predicament and how they find themselves inside. Their time in prison is one that is fraught, scary and dangerous for them in particular.
The story is one of survival and acceptance. But this is only a very small part of the story. The author has brought in something else and the way in which he has incorporated it into the crime thriller genre is aye=opening. I will not reveal too much about this but it has been very well done. I will add that there is a section at the end of the book from the author and also from another person, this makes the book even more thought-provoking.
If you are looking for a crime thriller that has something slightly different then this is one you should look at. It is a social and inclusionary topic that brings opinion and prejudice to the forefront of the story and made me stop. It brought things up that I had not realised, or if I am totally honest, not even occurred to me before reading this book. As I mentioned, thought-provoking and eye-opening.
It is a fantastic book and a story that really made me think. It is emotional and has an honesty about it and it is one that I do feel explores some important subjects and it needs to be out there and talked about. It is one I would definitely recommend.
Angelica and Robbie are great friends, they have each other's backs and look out for each other as best friends do. If you have read any of the author's previous books then you will be aware that many of them have a prison scenario in them, this one is no exception, it is also where we find Angelica and Robbie. Luckily they have been placed in the same wing of HMP Peterborough and the story tells of their time inside and how they got to be there, then there is the time after when a chance to begin again is offered.
This story is so addictive and once again the author shows another side to the prison system and how people are treated. Robbie is of South American descent and Angelica was raised in Peterborough, both are lovely women and they definitely catch people's eye when they are out and about.
It is frustration, anger and drugs that caused the girl's predicament and how they find themselves inside. Their time in prison is one that is fraught, scary and dangerous for them in particular.
The story is one of survival and acceptance. But this is only a very small part of the story. The author has brought in something else and the way in which he has incorporated it into the crime thriller genre is aye=opening. I will not reveal too much about this but it has been very well done. I will add that there is a section at the end of the book from the author and also from another person, this makes the book even more thought-provoking.
If you are looking for a crime thriller that has something slightly different then this is one you should look at. It is a social and inclusionary topic that brings opinion and prejudice to the forefront of the story and made me stop. It brought things up that I had not realised, or if I am totally honest, not even occurred to me before reading this book. As I mentioned, thought-provoking and eye-opening.
It is a fantastic book and a story that really made me think. It is emotional and has an honesty about it and it is one that I do feel explores some important subjects and it needs to be out there and talked about. It is one I would definitely recommend.
January 12, 2023
Un put downable!
Such a great read, a real eye opener. Very hard to put down once you start, fantastic. Will be reading more by this author.
Such a great read, a real eye opener. Very hard to put down once you start, fantastic. Will be reading more by this author.
January 7, 2023
CANARIES IN THE COAL MINE by Ross Greenwood.
Life changed in the blink of an eye when a man died.
My best friend, Angelica, and I entered a hell on earth: every day was a battle to survive.
I served my sentence, but she had to stay.
Alone, with Angelica's promises ringing in my ears, I struggled to pick up the pieces of my life while looking into her past.
Stepping into a nightmare world, I met a man so evil, he'd ruined countless lives.
Brilliant read. I loved Trevor. Great story. 5*.
Life changed in the blink of an eye when a man died.
My best friend, Angelica, and I entered a hell on earth: every day was a battle to survive.
I served my sentence, but she had to stay.
Alone, with Angelica's promises ringing in my ears, I struggled to pick up the pieces of my life while looking into her past.
Stepping into a nightmare world, I met a man so evil, he'd ruined countless lives.
Brilliant read. I loved Trevor. Great story. 5*.
January 11, 2023
5/5 really enjoyed this book. Characters are very well written. I definitely recommend
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