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Powell #2
Abducted
Powell returns in an action packed novel of violence, sex and betrayal!
He is trying to recover two children from Saudi Arabia, who have been abducted by their father. In a culture where women are second class citizens, a woman holds the key to the success or failure of his mission.
Meanwhile, back in Brighton, Afina is trying to deal with a new threat from Romanian gangsters.
From the streets of Brighton to Riyadh, Powell must take the law into his own hands, to help the innocent.
He is trying to recover two children from Saudi Arabia, who have been abducted by their father. In a culture where women are second class citizens, a woman holds the key to the success or failure of his mission.
Meanwhile, back in Brighton, Afina is trying to deal with a new threat from Romanian gangsters.
From the streets of Brighton to Riyadh, Powell must take the law into his own hands, to help the innocent.
209 pages, Hardcover
First published June 27, 2015
113 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Bill Ward
9 books177 followersBill’s love of reading commenced at a very young age. He credits his Gran for encouraging his interest by regularly taking him to the local library after primary school. At boarding school, when the lights went out in his dormitory, he was often encouraged by the other boys to tell stories. English Literature was always his favourite school subject.
A long and successful career in IT saw him live and travel all over the world. With hindsight it was the start of his writing fiction but they were called business proposals in those days! Having always enjoyed different cultures, the one life lesson Bill has learned is “wherever you go you will find good and bad people. This is not determined by colour, race, religion or country.”
Bill has finally fulfilled his lifelong ambition to become an author and has now written nine thrillers including seven in the best selling Powell series.
Bill lives near Nottingham, UK with his German wife and has seven daughters, a son, a stepson, three horses, a dog, two cats and two rabbites! When he’s not writing he’s probably watching his football team West Brom, who he has now been supporting for over fifty years!
A long and successful career in IT saw him live and travel all over the world. With hindsight it was the start of his writing fiction but they were called business proposals in those days! Having always enjoyed different cultures, the one life lesson Bill has learned is “wherever you go you will find good and bad people. This is not determined by colour, race, religion or country.”
Bill has finally fulfilled his lifelong ambition to become an author and has now written nine thrillers including seven in the best selling Powell series.
Bill lives near Nottingham, UK with his German wife and has seven daughters, a son, a stepson, three horses, a dog, two cats and two rabbites! When he’s not writing he’s probably watching his football team West Brom, who he has now been supporting for over fifty years!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 15, 2019
Book 2 in the Powell series starts off where Book 1 finished but it can be read as a standalone.
I was put off by Powell returning to Romania as I hoped the next book would be a new story. But Bill decided to continue with the problems surrounding Afina and Mara. It was a full ten per cent into Abducted before Powell had completed his business in Romania and the reader could take up Powell’s new challenge.
Surprise, surprise and yet again Powell was dealing with big money as he was not doing extra work for the National Minimum Wage. This time he was helping to recover two children who were abducted from the UK to Saudi Arabia. For this work Powell charged a staggering £1,000 a day plus expenses and the mother was happy to pay his fees!
Okay, Bill is clearly having more fun with his novel as our flash hero Powell spends money like water and enjoys some more sex along the way. I found Abducted to be a fun read and not to be taken seriously. I liked how Bill created a range of interesting characters in Saudi Arabia. I liked how all the characters had active parts to play in the recovery of the two children.
I was frustrated at how in many chapters the story returned to Brighton for an update on how Afina and Mara were getting along. This seemed unnecessary as although the reader was brought up to speed, Powell was left in the dark.
Still, Powell gets the job done and sorts a few things out in Brighton on his return in an action packed ending.
I thought Abducted was an Okay 3 star read that lacked realism but was fun to read. The inclusion of terrorism and the intelligence services improved this story from being a simple search and rescue mission to be a loosely spooks based scenario. Overall I found Abducted to be not as good as Trafficking but still worth a read.
I was put off by Powell returning to Romania as I hoped the next book would be a new story. But Bill decided to continue with the problems surrounding Afina and Mara. It was a full ten per cent into Abducted before Powell had completed his business in Romania and the reader could take up Powell’s new challenge.
Surprise, surprise and yet again Powell was dealing with big money as he was not doing extra work for the National Minimum Wage. This time he was helping to recover two children who were abducted from the UK to Saudi Arabia. For this work Powell charged a staggering £1,000 a day plus expenses and the mother was happy to pay his fees!
Okay, Bill is clearly having more fun with his novel as our flash hero Powell spends money like water and enjoys some more sex along the way. I found Abducted to be a fun read and not to be taken seriously. I liked how Bill created a range of interesting characters in Saudi Arabia. I liked how all the characters had active parts to play in the recovery of the two children.
I was frustrated at how in many chapters the story returned to Brighton for an update on how Afina and Mara were getting along. This seemed unnecessary as although the reader was brought up to speed, Powell was left in the dark.
Still, Powell gets the job done and sorts a few things out in Brighton on his return in an action packed ending.
I thought Abducted was an Okay 3 star read that lacked realism but was fun to read. The inclusion of terrorism and the intelligence services improved this story from being a simple search and rescue mission to be a loosely spooks based scenario. Overall I found Abducted to be not as good as Trafficking but still worth a read.
August 1, 2015
The author takes a situation that has been covered in the press at length. He puts his own spin on it and produces a tome worthy of the thriller genre. To achieve this Mr Ward must have either travelled extensively or researched meticulously as the way he switches the tale from Saudi to Brighton and back is very well done. The theme of a family being split by religion and differing country laws, with the father allowed to keep the children, which in the UK would be kidnap, is one that happens because I happen to know of such a case but it does not make for an enjoyable read. Not in any humorous way that is.
This is a serious subject written well and will please lovers of serious subject matters. I award it 5 stars
This is a serious subject written well and will please lovers of serious subject matters. I award it 5 stars
February 26, 2018
This is my second book by Bill Ward and I can definitely say that I’m hooked on the series and have become a fan of his writing! As with book one, the plot was fast-paced and riveting, and I read the book in two sittings simply because it was impossible to put it down. I just had to know what was going to happen next! I also appreciated how the plot and a few characters from book one were also included into the story, as I got very attached to them after reading the first installment and wanted to know how everything would play out for them. Another huge plus for me personally was an exotic setting of the story - Saudi Arabia - which was not only presented with incredible vividness and made me feel like I was actually there but helped me learn a lot about the country and its quite barbaric traditions. As with book one, I admired the character of Powell and his determination to return children to the distraught mother even though it meant risking his own life. His quick thinking and admirable persistence in pursuing his task made me root for him and his new partner, who was also a nice addition to the story. Overall, it was a great, most engaging read and I already can’t wait to continue with the next book in the series. Five stars!
March 23, 2017
Afina is still part of Powell’s world, and Bill Ward makes a masterly job of combining the why of who and what she is with establishing Powell’s character, and his motivation for accepting an “impossible” assignment. Rich Angela Bennett has discovered that there are things money cannot buy. Bored by the life her Muslim husband expects her to lead, and his increasing lack of attention, she has a one-night-stand, and then asks Bas for a divorce. For a while, he is more attentive, and then he takes their two children to Saudi Arabia to visit their grandparents and tells Angela she will never see them again. Angela gets an order from the London High Court ordering their return, and discovers it is worthless: Saudi Arabia is not a signatory to The Hague Convention, or one of the countries backing the fight against child kidnap. Powell is her last hope.
Meticulous planning is Powell’s style, and he has a “need to know” mentality. He agrees to act, but will tell her nothing, not even when he proposes to attempt to bring Karim and Laila home. The reader knows his every move, and the suspense is almost unbearable as more and more obstacles appear in Powell’s path.
This is a fast-paced, perfectly-executed thriller that will appeal to men and women alike. Ladies, be warned! The truth about the treatment of women in Saudi Arabia is more shocking than most of us have ever dreamed it could be in the 21st century.
Meticulous planning is Powell’s style, and he has a “need to know” mentality. He agrees to act, but will tell her nothing, not even when he proposes to attempt to bring Karim and Laila home. The reader knows his every move, and the suspense is almost unbearable as more and more obstacles appear in Powell’s path.
This is a fast-paced, perfectly-executed thriller that will appeal to men and women alike. Ladies, be warned! The truth about the treatment of women in Saudi Arabia is more shocking than most of us have ever dreamed it could be in the 21st century.
December 10, 2022
Setting: Brighton, UK and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
This is the second book in the series featuring former MI5 agent Powell, who runs a bar in Brighton. Following closely on from the first book (Trafficking), the book opens with Powell travelling to Bucharest to take final revenge for the murder of his policewoman daughter.
Powell then takes on the case of a London woman whose Saudi husband has taken their two children, aged seven and nine, to Saudi Arabia and refuses to return them, travelling to Saudi to attempt to bring the children home....
This was another fast-paced and gripping thriller featuring this likeable character. The settings and the support characters were excellent and painted a vivid picture of what life is like in Saudi Arabia, both for foreign nationals and for women. It has been several years since I read the first book but I was soon up to speed with the story and characters and I am really looking forward to reading the next one, which I already have on kindle - 9/10.
This is the second book in the series featuring former MI5 agent Powell, who runs a bar in Brighton. Following closely on from the first book (Trafficking), the book opens with Powell travelling to Bucharest to take final revenge for the murder of his policewoman daughter.
Powell then takes on the case of a London woman whose Saudi husband has taken their two children, aged seven and nine, to Saudi Arabia and refuses to return them, travelling to Saudi to attempt to bring the children home....
This was another fast-paced and gripping thriller featuring this likeable character. The settings and the support characters were excellent and painted a vivid picture of what life is like in Saudi Arabia, both for foreign nationals and for women. It has been several years since I read the first book but I was soon up to speed with the story and characters and I am really looking forward to reading the next one, which I already have on kindle - 9/10.
April 6, 2018
Very good.
This is the second book in the series, and is better than the firs!! This is the kind of book that would make a great television series. Powell is really coming into his own now, and I am looking forward to finding out how his relationship with Afina develops. Also be interesting to see if the new character Jenkins, returns in the next book. Well worth a read.
This is the second book in the series, and is better than the firs!! This is the kind of book that would make a great television series. Powell is really coming into his own now, and I am looking forward to finding out how his relationship with Afina develops. Also be interesting to see if the new character Jenkins, returns in the next book. Well worth a read.
September 12, 2021
This book is a follow on from Trafficking, which I had already read and clears up the leftovers from the previous story. Or has it? When Powell is hired to retrieve two children abducted by their Saudi father, he leaves his bar in the capable hands of Alfina, the trafficked girl, who he had saved earlier from a life of prostitution. While he is away he has no idea that family of the Romanian gangster are out to get him, leaving Alfina completely vulnerable.
In Saudi Arabia, while Powell is trying to retrieve the children, he comes up against the many extreme laws imposed by that country and while making his plans he meets the alluring Lara. But is she a diversion or just another stumbling block in his dangerous mission?
The book revealed explicit sex scenes, which to my mind were a little unsubtle. However, I enjoyed the premise of the book and recommend this series to lovers of crime and espionage.
In Saudi Arabia, while Powell is trying to retrieve the children, he comes up against the many extreme laws imposed by that country and while making his plans he meets the alluring Lara. But is she a diversion or just another stumbling block in his dangerous mission?
The book revealed explicit sex scenes, which to my mind were a little unsubtle. However, I enjoyed the premise of the book and recommend this series to lovers of crime and espionage.
August 4, 2016
Clash of cultures
This is third Bill Ward book I've read. I had put this author on my ATBR (author to be read) list after I read 'Revenge'. This book follows on from 'Trafficking' with Powell and to some extent Afina who remains in Brighton. The books starts by quickly finishing off an unresolved story arc carried over from the previous book, and Afina has to deal with the consequences of that event. As with 'Trafficking' this is a contemporary story written with strong suspense and tension.
Abducted is mostly set in Saudi Arabia, and the author does a grand job depicting the lifestyle and the country. This is important because the country is a critical 'character' in the story. At its heart it is a harrowing story of a couple who bridge culture differences to get married only to find they are incompatible. The outcome is a dispute over which parent, and which culture, will have responsibility for the children. An English woman in Saudi, pleading for her own children, has no rights, and no chance of being heard, let alone justice. Powell steps into this hopeless situation, and he faces a incredible task to return the children to their mother. Powell needs to be on top form to get away with his audacious plan in a country where the authority is radically different from the UK.
All the characters are believable, well constructed, and their actions are suitably unpredictable. In keeping with the previous book, this one is a fast paced, well plotted, page turner. The book is well written and easy to read. Highly recommended.
This is third Bill Ward book I've read. I had put this author on my ATBR (author to be read) list after I read 'Revenge'. This book follows on from 'Trafficking' with Powell and to some extent Afina who remains in Brighton. The books starts by quickly finishing off an unresolved story arc carried over from the previous book, and Afina has to deal with the consequences of that event. As with 'Trafficking' this is a contemporary story written with strong suspense and tension.
Abducted is mostly set in Saudi Arabia, and the author does a grand job depicting the lifestyle and the country. This is important because the country is a critical 'character' in the story. At its heart it is a harrowing story of a couple who bridge culture differences to get married only to find they are incompatible. The outcome is a dispute over which parent, and which culture, will have responsibility for the children. An English woman in Saudi, pleading for her own children, has no rights, and no chance of being heard, let alone justice. Powell steps into this hopeless situation, and he faces a incredible task to return the children to their mother. Powell needs to be on top form to get away with his audacious plan in a country where the authority is radically different from the UK.
All the characters are believable, well constructed, and their actions are suitably unpredictable. In keeping with the previous book, this one is a fast paced, well plotted, page turner. The book is well written and easy to read. Highly recommended.
September 16, 2015
I highly recommend this author if you're looking for fast paced thrillers with high readability and interesting themes.
Although this book can be read as a stand alone I'd suggest reading the author's previous book Trafficking where most of the main characters are first introduced.
Powell's "job" in Abducted is to return to the UK two children who have been taken to Saudi by their father. The mission throws up plenty of complications and tense moments along with giving glimpses of the different culture, attitudes to women and the way the intelligence services operate. Meanwhile back in Brighton Affina is dealing with a problem Powell believed he'd already sorted.
A topical story moved along at a cracking pace. The character of Powell is further developed in his determination to protect the vulnerable and those he loves in memory of his daughter, Bella. There is less of Affina in this book as she loyally tries to hold the fort in Brighton in Powell's absence but I did very much like the new character Jenkins.
A strong story full resolved. My only question - when is the next Powell book available?
Although this book can be read as a stand alone I'd suggest reading the author's previous book Trafficking where most of the main characters are first introduced.
Powell's "job" in Abducted is to return to the UK two children who have been taken to Saudi by their father. The mission throws up plenty of complications and tense moments along with giving glimpses of the different culture, attitudes to women and the way the intelligence services operate. Meanwhile back in Brighton Affina is dealing with a problem Powell believed he'd already sorted.
A topical story moved along at a cracking pace. The character of Powell is further developed in his determination to protect the vulnerable and those he loves in memory of his daughter, Bella. There is less of Affina in this book as she loyally tries to hold the fort in Brighton in Powell's absence but I did very much like the new character Jenkins.
A strong story full resolved. My only question - when is the next Powell book available?
August 2, 2017
I am a big fan of Bill Ward and have read quite a few of his other books but for me there was something lacking in this book.
In my opinion the first six chapters should have been the last six chapters of book one and as it is so long since I read book one I felt I couldn't pick up where I left off.
Once those chapters are out of the way the story gets going and we are treated to action in Saudi Arabia and back on the Brighton Coast.
I enjoyed both stories and liked the fact that the baddies from book one had friends that wouldn't just go away.
My only problem was the dialogue felt stilted in places and there were a number of occasions where Powell feelings were explained to me and I felt this would have been better if he somehow been able to express the feelings.
The book itself was fast paced and once I got into it I read most of it in two days.
I look forward to Powell and Afina getting more involved and hopefully him letting her have a bigger role. She is a brave young lady and I think she could be developed going forwards.
In total I enjoyed the book but not as much as Bill's previous offerings but I will be checking out book 3.
In my opinion the first six chapters should have been the last six chapters of book one and as it is so long since I read book one I felt I couldn't pick up where I left off.
Once those chapters are out of the way the story gets going and we are treated to action in Saudi Arabia and back on the Brighton Coast.
I enjoyed both stories and liked the fact that the baddies from book one had friends that wouldn't just go away.
My only problem was the dialogue felt stilted in places and there were a number of occasions where Powell feelings were explained to me and I felt this would have been better if he somehow been able to express the feelings.
The book itself was fast paced and once I got into it I read most of it in two days.
I look forward to Powell and Afina getting more involved and hopefully him letting her have a bigger role. She is a brave young lady and I think she could be developed going forwards.
In total I enjoyed the book but not as much as Bill's previous offerings but I will be checking out book 3.
October 31, 2015
I really enjoyed the first book in the series with its depth and realism and the second part didn't let me down. I got it as soon as it was available. This time the plot continues in part with thge left overs from book one, but Powell takes on a new case, which leads him to Saudi Arabia. Ward does an excellent job at describing the new setting and alternating the plot there with the things that go on back in the UK.
Powell is an excellent main character and his reflections on the crimes in question are as much part of my enjoyment as the suspense and thriller plot.
For fans of good crime fiction this is one author not to pass by. I'm glad to report that the book left potential for further installments.
Recommended!
Powell is an excellent main character and his reflections on the crimes in question are as much part of my enjoyment as the suspense and thriller plot.
For fans of good crime fiction this is one author not to pass by. I'm glad to report that the book left potential for further installments.
Recommended!
December 18, 2015
The second book in this series by this author and similarly it was a gut wrenching, breathless read, kept me hooked from start to end. The story is so real, and it depicts a situation that I fear many a woman has unfortunately faced in the past - perhaps with no real way through it. The realities of Saudi are also scarily depicted, keeping you on your toes as you turn each page.
I love the lead character (Powell)... His heart, courage, vulnerability and strength. The story this time was so real and relevant with terrorism and themes of overcoming the impossible... But in many ways the story makes it all come to life in a way that draws you in completely.
Loved every word, and I cannot wait to read the next installment!!
Thanks and highly recommended read!
I love the lead character (Powell)... His heart, courage, vulnerability and strength. The story this time was so real and relevant with terrorism and themes of overcoming the impossible... But in many ways the story makes it all come to life in a way that draws you in completely.
Loved every word, and I cannot wait to read the next installment!!
Thanks and highly recommended read!
June 21, 2016
This is the second book in the series and it picks up where Book 1 left off. The story quickly develops and an unanswered question left in book 1 comes to a quick and satisfying conclusion early on. Powell then accepts a new mission that takes him to the Middle East. A gripping, well-researched, storyline had me racing through the story. The pace increases with twists to the story that leaves Powell and the reader, wondering what's next. Great writing, I couldn't put this book down. Thoroughly recommend.
December 22, 2015
I read the first book in this series and I'm soon going to be reading the third, which I look forward to eagerly. That should tell you everything you need to know about book two; Abducted. It's great. I couldn't put it down, fast paced, exciting, in places raunchy, all good thrilling stuff. I was keen to find out if Powell could rescue the kids, but enjoyed the differing scenery too. Top of the range thriller, right up there with the mainstream authors. Bill Ward tells a grand tale.
September 13, 2016
when i didn't think bill wards writing could become any more intense I read "abducted"!
not only is the character development incredible but the attention to detail and intensity of setting the majority of the story in Saudi Arabia - where religious and cultural divides causes powell to take matters into his own, unorthodox hands - had me unable to put this book down!
definitely a recommended series!
HAPPY READING!!!
not only is the character development incredible but the attention to detail and intensity of setting the majority of the story in Saudi Arabia - where religious and cultural divides causes powell to take matters into his own, unorthodox hands - had me unable to put this book down!
definitely a recommended series!
HAPPY READING!!!
December 11, 2015
Great follow up to Trafficking. Exciting page turner but was also interesting and at times shocking to learn more about life in Saudi Arabia. Can't wait to read the next one.
September 16, 2018
Author Bill Ward has a way of writing that is fast-paced and engaging right from the start. Abducted being my last, I’ve read all in Powell series (all stand-along reads). Ward’s writing is to a very high standard and does not disappoint. The story starts with Powell en route to Bucharest. To kill Dimitry—the man who killed Powell’s daughter Bella. Bella, a young police officer, was onto Dimitry’s traffic ring when she happened upon one of his victims, Alfina. As a result she was stabbed to death, leaving Powell on the vengeance path and in a protective relationship with Alfina. And Powell has sworn to keep Alfina’s family safe. The only way to ensure this is to take out Dimitry. For Powell, this won’t be difficult, using his M15 training (albeit twenty years ago) and his martial arts skills. Alfina, who Powell has now developed a mutual attraction with, stays in Brighton while Powell sets out. There is a good chemistry and concern between these characters with Powell in conflict over their age differences; she his daughter’s age in her early twenties and he mid-forty. Their relationship plays as a great sub-plot throughout the entire series, building with intensity as the books progress. And I love the affection, and complexity, of their dialogue and interchanges. Another great character enters into the story as it moves along, Jenkins—a man Powell hires to go along to help him rescue the children. They make an entertaining duo as they work together in the unlikely unfolding, in a dangerous foreign country. And there’s Brian, in the backdrop, the ace in the hole friend of Powell’s with connections that help him get out of tough pinches.
The beginning of Abducted ties into the first book and sets the stage for what will continue to develop in the story, meaning once Powell takes care of business in Bucharest he’s back to the next case: Angela Bennett. Bennett, a wealthy woman in her own right, is seeking his help with recovering her children, a boy ten and a girl nine, from Saudi Arabia, from her husband Baz who is from a wealthy Saudi family. Her ex-husband fled there with the children after finishing a government (embassy) job in England. That was twelve months ago. He filed for a divorce and custody of the children, legal in Saudi Arabia for the ages of the children. Complicating matters and making Powell’s job more difficult is the fact that there are no extradition laws between the U.K. and Saudi Arabia. Powell sees the mission as unlikely for success but the charm of and sympathy for Angela Bennett he is drawn in and off he goes. With Jenkins. Intensity continues to burn from the pages as their plan unfolds. Involving new characters and hot sex. And clever twists and unfolding right up to the ending. I had trouble putting this one down. From the action in Bucharest to the heated scenes in Saudi Arabia, and back to Powell’s bar in Brighton (where there’s more action right up to the ending) the reader is taken into one fast-paced scene after another. And the action does not let up till the satisfying ending.
The beginning of Abducted ties into the first book and sets the stage for what will continue to develop in the story, meaning once Powell takes care of business in Bucharest he’s back to the next case: Angela Bennett. Bennett, a wealthy woman in her own right, is seeking his help with recovering her children, a boy ten and a girl nine, from Saudi Arabia, from her husband Baz who is from a wealthy Saudi family. Her ex-husband fled there with the children after finishing a government (embassy) job in England. That was twelve months ago. He filed for a divorce and custody of the children, legal in Saudi Arabia for the ages of the children. Complicating matters and making Powell’s job more difficult is the fact that there are no extradition laws between the U.K. and Saudi Arabia. Powell sees the mission as unlikely for success but the charm of and sympathy for Angela Bennett he is drawn in and off he goes. With Jenkins. Intensity continues to burn from the pages as their plan unfolds. Involving new characters and hot sex. And clever twists and unfolding right up to the ending. I had trouble putting this one down. From the action in Bucharest to the heated scenes in Saudi Arabia, and back to Powell’s bar in Brighton (where there’s more action right up to the ending) the reader is taken into one fast-paced scene after another. And the action does not let up till the satisfying ending.
November 3, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Action packed thriller
For those of you who have not enjoyed his previous book ‘Trafficking’, I recommend you do so because this is where all his main characters are introduced. In this gripping follow-up, Powell is asked to undertake a seemingly impossible mission - to locate and return two children abducted and taken by their Muslin father to Saudi Arabia where his divorced wife has no power to enforce their return. In desperation she appeals to Powell for help. After careful investigation, he finally agrees motivated by his sympathy for the agony inflicted on the wife, Angela, and in memory of his daughter, Bella. As the story gathers pace, we are made aware of the enormous cultural differences and obstacles that build up in his path relentlessly, making the suspense at times almost impossible to imagine. This is an action packed thriller and highly recommended.
Action packed thriller
For those of you who have not enjoyed his previous book ‘Trafficking’, I recommend you do so because this is where all his main characters are introduced. In this gripping follow-up, Powell is asked to undertake a seemingly impossible mission - to locate and return two children abducted and taken by their Muslin father to Saudi Arabia where his divorced wife has no power to enforce their return. In desperation she appeals to Powell for help. After careful investigation, he finally agrees motivated by his sympathy for the agony inflicted on the wife, Angela, and in memory of his daughter, Bella. As the story gathers pace, we are made aware of the enormous cultural differences and obstacles that build up in his path relentlessly, making the suspense at times almost impossible to imagine. This is an action packed thriller and highly recommended.
April 4, 2018
This second book in the Powell series carries on where the first book left off as Powell ties up a few loose ends. Then it’s on to his next case – to recover two children who have been abducted by their father and taken to Saudi Arabia.
Powell is a great character who, while he might have a strong moral code, isn’t beyond crossing a few lines to get what is needed; and in this case what he needs is to reunite two children with their mother, but he has quite a few obstacles to overcome along the way.
While this book would probably work well as a stand alone read I would say you would certainly benefit from reading the first book, and not just because it’s also a great read!
I would wholeheartedly recommend this wonderful read – so get yourself a copy now
Powell is a great character who, while he might have a strong moral code, isn’t beyond crossing a few lines to get what is needed; and in this case what he needs is to reunite two children with their mother, but he has quite a few obstacles to overcome along the way.
While this book would probably work well as a stand alone read I would say you would certainly benefit from reading the first book, and not just because it’s also a great read!
I would wholeheartedly recommend this wonderful read – so get yourself a copy now
May 7, 2018
I really like Bill Ward and I'm so glad I read book 2 of this series. I like that Afina, the victim in book 1, is in books 2 in a different way. The story started off right away with Afina's sister in trouble with the bad guys and Powell there to discover it.
Powell's new case involves the abduction of 2 children by their own father who takes them to Saudi Arabia for his annual visit but then doesn't plan to bring them back to their mother nor ever allow her to see them again, so she hires Powell to hopefully recover them. Not an easy task.
This book isn't boring at all and is definitely fast paced!
Powell's new case involves the abduction of 2 children by their own father who takes them to Saudi Arabia for his annual visit but then doesn't plan to bring them back to their mother nor ever allow her to see them again, so she hires Powell to hopefully recover them. Not an easy task.
This book isn't boring at all and is definitely fast paced!
September 30, 2020
I didn’t read book one, but had no trouble getting caught up in "Abducted" from the start. Based on a frightening premise, the story line is believable. The characters are nicely developed, as is the plot in this action-packed thriller. If you’re a fan of suspense, this book will not disappoint. I’m looking forward to more of Powell's adventures.
April 14, 2017
Excellent
Very realistic story couldn't put it down well worth reading an excellent author will definitely carry on reading his books
Very realistic story couldn't put it down well worth reading an excellent author will definitely carry on reading his books
May 4, 2016
You'll Need an Oxygen Mask to get Through This One
Bill Ward is all about story. His writing is brisk, sparse, unadorned and always servant to story and plot. Abducted bowls along at a spirited pace, uncaring about literary images or facile similes. Ward has a story to tell and he tells it with gusto. What he does care about, however, is the truth of location and the reality of character. His descriptions of Saudi Arabia, its bleak and wasted landscapes, its debilitating heat, are as meagre as the area’s scenery but they penetrate the reader’s mind and being with relentless ease. Cultural differences and the hazards that lurk for Europeans engaged in nefarious activity in this unforgiving milieu, are eased effortlessly into conversations and the occasional half-line but they penetrate the reader’s awareness with the precision of a scalpel. The people who interact in the story are genuine, three dimensional, and their actions as unpredictable as those in real life
Abducted is a story of the kidnapping of two children by their wealthy and influential Saudi father who whips them away from England and their mother. Powell’s job is to get them back. To the reader an impossible task, to Powell yet another puzzle to be solved. Some reviewers have referred to Powell as another Jack Reacher (I have yet to read the other Powell books) but if he is, he is a Reacher with brains and cunning as opposed to brawn and brutality. Not for him the brazen, gung ho, guns blazing rescue. Rather, he relies on meticulous planning, cunning, and the anticipation of negative eventualities before he makes his move.
What Abducted lacks in action, it more than makes up for in suspense, tension and reader apprehension. So many things can go wrong. People conscripted to help have their own agenda, their own fears. Can they be trusted to carry out their assignments? And are other principal characters who they appear to be? Much uncertainty underpins the fragile plan to rescue the kids. Danger lurks at every corner. If even one player fumbles, all will fail, and Powell and his companion will almost certainly end up in a Saudi jail with all the torture and abuse that the Middle East can offer. And, inevitably, humans being what they are…
Abducted is way up in the Amazon rankings, and deservedly so. That should tell any prospective reader that Abducted is a story that will keep him riveted. Buy it. You won’t be able to put it down until you finish it.
Bill Ward is all about story. His writing is brisk, sparse, unadorned and always servant to story and plot. Abducted bowls along at a spirited pace, uncaring about literary images or facile similes. Ward has a story to tell and he tells it with gusto. What he does care about, however, is the truth of location and the reality of character. His descriptions of Saudi Arabia, its bleak and wasted landscapes, its debilitating heat, are as meagre as the area’s scenery but they penetrate the reader’s mind and being with relentless ease. Cultural differences and the hazards that lurk for Europeans engaged in nefarious activity in this unforgiving milieu, are eased effortlessly into conversations and the occasional half-line but they penetrate the reader’s awareness with the precision of a scalpel. The people who interact in the story are genuine, three dimensional, and their actions as unpredictable as those in real life
Abducted is a story of the kidnapping of two children by their wealthy and influential Saudi father who whips them away from England and their mother. Powell’s job is to get them back. To the reader an impossible task, to Powell yet another puzzle to be solved. Some reviewers have referred to Powell as another Jack Reacher (I have yet to read the other Powell books) but if he is, he is a Reacher with brains and cunning as opposed to brawn and brutality. Not for him the brazen, gung ho, guns blazing rescue. Rather, he relies on meticulous planning, cunning, and the anticipation of negative eventualities before he makes his move.
What Abducted lacks in action, it more than makes up for in suspense, tension and reader apprehension. So many things can go wrong. People conscripted to help have their own agenda, their own fears. Can they be trusted to carry out their assignments? And are other principal characters who they appear to be? Much uncertainty underpins the fragile plan to rescue the kids. Danger lurks at every corner. If even one player fumbles, all will fail, and Powell and his companion will almost certainly end up in a Saudi jail with all the torture and abuse that the Middle East can offer. And, inevitably, humans being what they are…
Abducted is way up in the Amazon rankings, and deservedly so. That should tell any prospective reader that Abducted is a story that will keep him riveted. Buy it. You won’t be able to put it down until you finish it.
April 4, 2016
I've been looking forward eagerly to the second Powell book ever since I read 'Trafficking'. So does it live up to expectations? Damn right it does!
The main thrust of 'Abducted' involves Powell in a trip to Saudi Arabia with a colleague to grab the two children of a British woman who have been abducted by their Saudi father. When all diplomatic channels run dry, she is referred to Powell...
The book's setting is very evocative, accentuating the climatic, geographical and cultural differences between Britain and Saudi Arabia. Powell and his companion frequently find themselves wrong-footed when trying to operate in this unfamiliar environment whilst on a very hazardous mission that would see them spending the rest of their lives in a Saudi jail should it go wrong.
There are action scenes in the book and there are very well-written sex scenes, which ultimately turn out to be pivotal to the plot. But where the book really excels is in ramping up excruciating levels of tension, when the mission is a hair's breadth away from discovery. It's nail-biting. edge of the seat stuff, a first class thriller with all manner of intrigue and double crosses.
The book can be easily read as a standalone, but readers of 'Trafficking', the first volume in the series, will be especially rewarded as the story of the characters and situations in that book continue as a major sub-plot in this current volume.
I'll be reading volume 3 soon. This series can't be recommended highly enough.
The main thrust of 'Abducted' involves Powell in a trip to Saudi Arabia with a colleague to grab the two children of a British woman who have been abducted by their Saudi father. When all diplomatic channels run dry, she is referred to Powell...
The book's setting is very evocative, accentuating the climatic, geographical and cultural differences between Britain and Saudi Arabia. Powell and his companion frequently find themselves wrong-footed when trying to operate in this unfamiliar environment whilst on a very hazardous mission that would see them spending the rest of their lives in a Saudi jail should it go wrong.
There are action scenes in the book and there are very well-written sex scenes, which ultimately turn out to be pivotal to the plot. But where the book really excels is in ramping up excruciating levels of tension, when the mission is a hair's breadth away from discovery. It's nail-biting. edge of the seat stuff, a first class thriller with all manner of intrigue and double crosses.
The book can be easily read as a standalone, but readers of 'Trafficking', the first volume in the series, will be especially rewarded as the story of the characters and situations in that book continue as a major sub-plot in this current volume.
I'll be reading volume 3 soon. This series can't be recommended highly enough.
October 13, 2016
Abducted is a great continuation of the story of Powell and Affina. Powell has agreed to consider cases referred by his friend Brian that require someone outside the system to solve. The first case involves children abducted by their father and taken to his homeland of Saudi Arabia where their mother cannot get to them. Powell takes the case, hoping that reuniting the children with their mother will honor his daughter’s memory. With his partner Jenkins, Powell spends time in the Saudi capital where they are confronted with cultural and societal values that are very different from their own.
Meanwhile, Affina finds herself facing another wave of Romanian gangsters seeking revenge on her and Powell for their roles in taking down the Romanian trafficking ring from the previous book. Having been left in charge of Powell’s bar, Affina is determined to take care of things until Powell gets back, despite mounting danger.
This book was a fast-paced sequel with plenty of intrigue and suspense. I truly appreciated the witty banter between Powell and his associates and found myself chuckling now and again, despite the tension of the action going on in the book. I love that, while Powell is willing to do whatever is takes to achieve his goals, he tries to minimize the need for violence. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next book in the series.
Meanwhile, Affina finds herself facing another wave of Romanian gangsters seeking revenge on her and Powell for their roles in taking down the Romanian trafficking ring from the previous book. Having been left in charge of Powell’s bar, Affina is determined to take care of things until Powell gets back, despite mounting danger.
This book was a fast-paced sequel with plenty of intrigue and suspense. I truly appreciated the witty banter between Powell and his associates and found myself chuckling now and again, despite the tension of the action going on in the book. I love that, while Powell is willing to do whatever is takes to achieve his goals, he tries to minimize the need for violence. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next book in the series.
January 21, 2016
Wow! I was so happy to read about Powell again and I'll be honest, I tried to draw this this one out because I wasn't ready to finish it. This time Powell's headed to Saudi Arabia to search for two missing children. The author's ability to capture the Saudi culture and depict the gut-wrenching story that follows is impeccable and impressive. I found myself holding my breath at times, nervous about the next turn in the story, all the while loving Powell's character. There are no lengths with which he will not go to serve up justice, even if it means working outside the parameters of the law. I like his style and dogged determination. These books are raw and gritty, but action-packed with incredible main characters you just want to hang on to. The author's writing style is superb and his storytelling abilities even more so. I'm dying to read the next installment in the series!
February 7, 2016
Abducted is the follow-up novel to Trafficking by author Bill Ward, and it picks up where the first novel left off with Powell taking on another difficult assignment to return abducted children to their mother. It is a fast paced thriller with a lot of action and excitement, and it kept me involved and entertained all the way up to the climactic ending.
The author does an amazing job of setting the stage of the world, and it gets gritty at times. This isn't for the faint of heart, but anyone who is interested in stories about social injustice and the horrors contributed people will enjoy this novel. It is eye opening and engaging, and everyone who reads it will lead with a better sense of just how bad things can get.
Highly recommended, this author is sure to delight readers of the Thriller genre!
The author does an amazing job of setting the stage of the world, and it gets gritty at times. This isn't for the faint of heart, but anyone who is interested in stories about social injustice and the horrors contributed people will enjoy this novel. It is eye opening and engaging, and everyone who reads it will lead with a better sense of just how bad things can get.
Highly recommended, this author is sure to delight readers of the Thriller genre!
July 23, 2015
Brilliant Follow up! Bill Ward has done it again the first Powell book Trafficking was masterful and this one is even better. The storyline follows on from the first book and I'm not giving anything away except to say great action, strong interesting characters and some fabulous twists and turns. I loved the action in Saudi Arabia and Brighton alike, two very different locations but it really worked within the story. Once I opened the first page I couldn't put the book down, a book that grabs you and doesn't let go till you have finished it. If you want to get the best out of Abducted read Trafficking as well a pair of marvellous reads! I highly recommend this book to all lovers of crime thrillers.
December 4, 2015
Abducted can be read as a standalone but to get the full benefit and feel of previous characters in book one, Powell and Afina. I would say read book one first. You have nothing to lose because it is a great read too.
In Abducted, Bill Ward takes a story, the subject matter isn't original, but he makes it his own with a believable plot, great complex characterisation and fantastic narrative. I thought Trafficking would be a hard act to follow but Ward has achieved it, his skill and storytelling will keep you hooked as you follow the main protagonist from Brighton to Saudi to find two small abductees.
I downloaded and read Abducted via my KU subscription.
In Abducted, Bill Ward takes a story, the subject matter isn't original, but he makes it his own with a believable plot, great complex characterisation and fantastic narrative. I thought Trafficking would be a hard act to follow but Ward has achieved it, his skill and storytelling will keep you hooked as you follow the main protagonist from Brighton to Saudi to find two small abductees.
I downloaded and read Abducted via my KU subscription.
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