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Joseph O'Loughlin #5
The Wreckage
BAGHDAD. Journalist Luca Terracini is living outside the wire and investigating a series of deadly million-dollar bank robberies. But he's about to make some powerful enemies who seek to bury secrets and manipulate the truth, regardless of the cost.
LONDON. A thousand miles away, ex-cop Vincent Ruiz rescues a young woman, Holly Knight, from a violent boyfriend - but wakes next morning to find she's robbed him. It was an elaborate scam. Furious at himself, and at her, he sets off to find Holly.
** INCLUDES BONUS extracts from Say You're Sorry (Joe O'Loughlin 6) and the explosive new thriller, The Other Wife**
447 pages, Hardcover
First published May 5, 2011
698 people are currently reading
3503 people want to read
About the author
Michael Robotham
53 books7,234 followersTwo-times Gold Dagger winner (2015 and 2020), twice Edgar best novel finalist (2016 and 2020) and winner of the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger (2021), Michael Robotham was born in Australia in November 1960 and grew up in small country towns that had more dogs than people and more flies than dogs. He escaped became a cadet journalist on an afternoon newspaper in Sydney.
For the next fourteen years he worked for newspapers and magazines in Australia, Europe, Africa and America. As a senior feature writer for the UK’s Mail on Sunday he was among the first people to view the letters and diaries of Czar Nicholas II and his wife Empress Alexandra, unearthed in the Moscow State Archives in 1991. He also gained access to Stalin’s Hitler files, which had been missing for nearly fifty years until a cleaner stumbled upon a cardboard box that had been misplaced and misfiled.
In 1993 he quit journalism to become a ghostwriter, collaborating with politicians, pop stars, psychologists, adventurers and showbusiness personalities to write their autobiographies. Twelve of these non-fiction titles have been bestsellers with combined sales of more than 2 million copies.
His first novel 'THE SUSPECT', a psychological thriller, was chosen by the world’s largest consortium of book clubs as only the fifth “International Book of the Month”, making it the top recommendation to 28 million book club members in fifteen countries.
Since then, Michael's psychological thrillers have been translated into twenty-five languages and his Joe O'Loughlin series is are currently in development for TV by World Productions. A six-part TV series based upon his standalone novel THE SECRETS SHE KEEPS was aired on BBC1 in 2020, and a second series begins filming in 2021.
Michael lives in Sydney with his wife and a diminishing number of dependent daughters.
For the next fourteen years he worked for newspapers and magazines in Australia, Europe, Africa and America. As a senior feature writer for the UK’s Mail on Sunday he was among the first people to view the letters and diaries of Czar Nicholas II and his wife Empress Alexandra, unearthed in the Moscow State Archives in 1991. He also gained access to Stalin’s Hitler files, which had been missing for nearly fifty years until a cleaner stumbled upon a cardboard box that had been misplaced and misfiled.
In 1993 he quit journalism to become a ghostwriter, collaborating with politicians, pop stars, psychologists, adventurers and showbusiness personalities to write their autobiographies. Twelve of these non-fiction titles have been bestsellers with combined sales of more than 2 million copies.
His first novel 'THE SUSPECT', a psychological thriller, was chosen by the world’s largest consortium of book clubs as only the fifth “International Book of the Month”, making it the top recommendation to 28 million book club members in fifteen countries.
Since then, Michael's psychological thrillers have been translated into twenty-five languages and his Joe O'Loughlin series is are currently in development for TV by World Productions. A six-part TV series based upon his standalone novel THE SECRETS SHE KEEPS was aired on BBC1 in 2020, and a second series begins filming in 2021.
Michael lives in Sydney with his wife and a diminishing number of dependent daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
January 1, 2017
I've been reading the Joe O'Loughlin series in order and really enjoying them. This one was a bit of a let down. First, it starts out in Baghdad and that gave me some initial reservations. Second, it features Ruiz more than O'Loughlin, which is fine, but even Ruiz isn't the most prominent character in this book. And third, the storyline of Iraqi bank robberies with an Iraqi American journalist and a United Nations representative who follow the money wasn't very interesting to me.
This was a complicated, intricate story. There are three basic lines: the stolen money, a wife searching for her missing husband, and Ruiz trying to help a young thief after she cons him. It starts out very slowly while introducing characters and building background. Part of my problem stems from not being able to devote hours at a time reading it. There were characters and action that I would forget and I would have to go back to refresh my memory. Eventually I just went with the flow. That really isn't the book's fault; it is a good book.
I very much enjoyed the last 20-25%, but this book doesn't garner 5 stars like the previous books.
This was a complicated, intricate story. There are three basic lines: the stolen money, a wife searching for her missing husband, and Ruiz trying to help a young thief after she cons him. It starts out very slowly while introducing characters and building background. Part of my problem stems from not being able to devote hours at a time reading it. There were characters and action that I would forget and I would have to go back to refresh my memory. Eventually I just went with the flow. That really isn't the book's fault; it is a good book.
I very much enjoyed the last 20-25%, but this book doesn't garner 5 stars like the previous books.
May 21, 2017
This one starts slowly and a little confusingly as two very different story lines run parallel, one in London and the other in Baghdad. As the book progresses though both stories start to heat up and eventually they come together in a very well planned finale.
There are many strong and likable characters. Joe is there in a minor role. Ruiz is back as a retired cop. And then there are Luca and Elizabeth and of course Holly. I enjoyed all of them.
The book is action packed, particularly the war scenes. There are some pretty gory bits too including some torture - I skim over that stuff! My attention was totally grabbed though when the action moved to Luton, a place I know well. I always love when that happens:)
Altogether a very well written, well paced and exciting thriller. Highly recommended.
There are many strong and likable characters. Joe is there in a minor role. Ruiz is back as a retired cop. And then there are Luca and Elizabeth and of course Holly. I enjoyed all of them.
The book is action packed, particularly the war scenes. There are some pretty gory bits too including some torture - I skim over that stuff! My attention was totally grabbed though when the action moved to Luton, a place I know well. I always love when that happens:)
Altogether a very well written, well paced and exciting thriller. Highly recommended.
February 9, 2025
5★
“ ‘This is the eighteenth bank robbery in Baghdad this year. Does that concern you?’
The general smiles, but the corners of his mouth barely move. ‘I find it reassuring that somebody is keeping count.’
. . .
There is a woman hanging washing on a clothesline. The wet clothes are piled in an aluminium case just like the one he saw in the bank vault. On the opposite side of the road an old woman is selling onions and peppers from another case.”
Luca Terracini is a British journalist who dresses like a local in Baghdad and speaks perfect Arabic, courtesy of his Iraqi mother. He attracts little notice, dodging roadside bombs like everyone else.
Ahead, lying discarded beside the road is a hessian sack. Jamal swerves violently, bouncing through a gutter and sending the Skoda rearing like a rodeo bull. At the same moment the sack explodes, blowing out the side windows and lifting the Skoda on to two wheels where it balances for what seems like the longest time, trying to decide whether to roll over or right itself.”
The book opens with Luca trying to follow the money – both directions. Money seems to be moving both into and out of Iraq. Why?
He meets an American auditor who really knows how to follow money, and of course it’s not long before Robotham puts them in life-threatening danger, even as they develop a relationship. Oh yes, she’s attractive and desirable and views Luca the same way.
That’s Baghdad. Meanwhile, back in London, heavily pregnant Elizabeth North has ‘lost’ her husband, who works at Mersey Fidelity, a bank, and hasn’t come home for five days. She’s about to pop, small son Rowan has a pretty nanny, Polina, so Elizabeth is able to come and go to try to track North’s whereabouts. (She always thinks of him as “North”.)
She isn’t taken seriously. Don’t worry, little lady. Probably sleeping it off, sleeping elsewhere, having a mid-life crisis – the list goes on. When some peculiar evidence turns up, she is shaken. What is going on, what has North to do with anything, and where the hell is he? He’s supposed to here for his daughter’s birth.
“Elizabeth can feel objects grow bigger in her imagination, magnified by the silence of the river and the din of voices in her head. Up until six days ago, if asked, she could have taken North apart and put him back together again blindfolded, just like some people can put guns together in the dark. Now she’s not so sure. Now he seems like a stranger. An imposter. Someone who tricked his way into her heart.”
So where’s Joe O’Loughlin? He appears much later. This one is Vincent Ruiz’s story. Vincent is a good, recently retired detective with a bad limp, a short fuse and a strong sense of justice. Badge or no badge, he intervenes in a domestic dispute in a bar, rescuing a girl from a boyfriend who’s a little too handy with his fists.
That strong sense of justice gets him in a whole new world of trouble, but meanwhile, he’s supposed to be cleaning himself up and preparing to give away his daughter at her wedding.
Robotham has said often that his three-word mantra about his writing is “make them care”, and I have to admit, he makes it easy to care about his people. Not all of them, mind you. His villains are excellent. In this book, we have an extra layer of evil – The Courier.
“He will pray before he eats. He will eat before he kills.”
This thriller has international intrigue that includes every level of treachery between countries and agencies imaginable, plus this:
“Every side has men who kill for a cause, but it’s easier dealing with a hired gun than a teenager with a hard-on for heavenly virgins and a vest packed full of explosives.”
The action is full of terrifying twists. Can anyone be trusted? Doesn’t look like it.
“Luca slides his back down the wall and perches on his heels. It’s a universal posture of men who can’t find any more words and are too exhausted to search for them.”
Great story, complex but believable plot, and Robotham’s writing is always excellent. While I enjoyed revisiting Ruiz and Joe, I didn’t need to know them from before. This novel stands strongly on its own, and I loved it.
My reviews of the previous four.
Joseph O’Loughlin #1 My review of The Suspect
Joseph O’Loughlin #2 My review of Lost
Joseph O’Loughlin #3 My review of Shatter
Joseph O’Loughlin #4 My review of Bleed For Me
“ ‘This is the eighteenth bank robbery in Baghdad this year. Does that concern you?’
The general smiles, but the corners of his mouth barely move. ‘I find it reassuring that somebody is keeping count.’
. . .
There is a woman hanging washing on a clothesline. The wet clothes are piled in an aluminium case just like the one he saw in the bank vault. On the opposite side of the road an old woman is selling onions and peppers from another case.”
Luca Terracini is a British journalist who dresses like a local in Baghdad and speaks perfect Arabic, courtesy of his Iraqi mother. He attracts little notice, dodging roadside bombs like everyone else.
Ahead, lying discarded beside the road is a hessian sack. Jamal swerves violently, bouncing through a gutter and sending the Skoda rearing like a rodeo bull. At the same moment the sack explodes, blowing out the side windows and lifting the Skoda on to two wheels where it balances for what seems like the longest time, trying to decide whether to roll over or right itself.”
The book opens with Luca trying to follow the money – both directions. Money seems to be moving both into and out of Iraq. Why?
He meets an American auditor who really knows how to follow money, and of course it’s not long before Robotham puts them in life-threatening danger, even as they develop a relationship. Oh yes, she’s attractive and desirable and views Luca the same way.
That’s Baghdad. Meanwhile, back in London, heavily pregnant Elizabeth North has ‘lost’ her husband, who works at Mersey Fidelity, a bank, and hasn’t come home for five days. She’s about to pop, small son Rowan has a pretty nanny, Polina, so Elizabeth is able to come and go to try to track North’s whereabouts. (She always thinks of him as “North”.)
She isn’t taken seriously. Don’t worry, little lady. Probably sleeping it off, sleeping elsewhere, having a mid-life crisis – the list goes on. When some peculiar evidence turns up, she is shaken. What is going on, what has North to do with anything, and where the hell is he? He’s supposed to here for his daughter’s birth.
“Elizabeth can feel objects grow bigger in her imagination, magnified by the silence of the river and the din of voices in her head. Up until six days ago, if asked, she could have taken North apart and put him back together again blindfolded, just like some people can put guns together in the dark. Now she’s not so sure. Now he seems like a stranger. An imposter. Someone who tricked his way into her heart.”
So where’s Joe O’Loughlin? He appears much later. This one is Vincent Ruiz’s story. Vincent is a good, recently retired detective with a bad limp, a short fuse and a strong sense of justice. Badge or no badge, he intervenes in a domestic dispute in a bar, rescuing a girl from a boyfriend who’s a little too handy with his fists.
That strong sense of justice gets him in a whole new world of trouble, but meanwhile, he’s supposed to be cleaning himself up and preparing to give away his daughter at her wedding.
Robotham has said often that his three-word mantra about his writing is “make them care”, and I have to admit, he makes it easy to care about his people. Not all of them, mind you. His villains are excellent. In this book, we have an extra layer of evil – The Courier.
“He will pray before he eats. He will eat before he kills.”
This thriller has international intrigue that includes every level of treachery between countries and agencies imaginable, plus this:
“Every side has men who kill for a cause, but it’s easier dealing with a hired gun than a teenager with a hard-on for heavenly virgins and a vest packed full of explosives.”
The action is full of terrifying twists. Can anyone be trusted? Doesn’t look like it.
“Luca slides his back down the wall and perches on his heels. It’s a universal posture of men who can’t find any more words and are too exhausted to search for them.”
Great story, complex but believable plot, and Robotham’s writing is always excellent. While I enjoyed revisiting Ruiz and Joe, I didn’t need to know them from before. This novel stands strongly on its own, and I loved it.
My reviews of the previous four.
Joseph O’Loughlin #1 My review of The Suspect
Joseph O’Loughlin #2 My review of Lost
Joseph O’Loughlin #3 My review of Shatter
Joseph O’Loughlin #4 My review of Bleed For Me
December 3, 2019
The Wreckage by Michael Robotham is book 5 in the Joe O'Loughlin series and it's definitely as exciting as the first book.
This one also has the feel of real life about with the descriptions of Baghdad with how terrible it's been with all the war crimes and just the general way of life there (how people live with bombs and shooting going off everyday like it's normal makes my brain ache) but the saddest thing of all... its all about money 😦
It's a very heart pounding, edge of your seat and definitely a nail biting kind of thriller, It's two different stories threaded together to become one it crosses between Baghdad, London and America (it really does go to show how small the world is)
For me it needs to be read as series because the character's grow and become confidante.
I highly recommend this series 📖
This one also has the feel of real life about with the descriptions of Baghdad with how terrible it's been with all the war crimes and just the general way of life there (how people live with bombs and shooting going off everyday like it's normal makes my brain ache) but the saddest thing of all... its all about money 😦
It's a very heart pounding, edge of your seat and definitely a nail biting kind of thriller, It's two different stories threaded together to become one it crosses between Baghdad, London and America (it really does go to show how small the world is)
For me it needs to be read as series because the character's grow and become confidante.
I highly recommend this series 📖
December 13, 2025
An appropriate title to describe an incomprehensible plot!
Like so many thrillers, THE WRECKAGE begins with dual plot lines that begin, almost literally, worlds apart. The first is clearly a story of military and government mismanagement resulting in corruption, fraud and money laundering during the period of American “occupation” in Iraq following Saddam’s Hussein removal. The second plot follows the life of a hapless young con-woman following her and her boyfriend’s attempt to rip off ex-Detective Inspector Vincent Ruiz.
The manner in which the two plots ever so slowly approach one another and begin to entwine themselves into a single plot is clear enough but the Baghdad story line is, to be honest, simply a hot mess that well deserves the title THE WRECKAGE. Byzantine, tortuous, and incomprehensible are a few of the adjectives that came to my mind. I stuck it out to the end and while I believe I caught the overall drift of the story, I’m far from certain and the dénouement left me shaking my head and most unsatisfied. There is the additional consideration that what was supposed to be a Joe O’Loughlin thriller in a continuing series, presented him as, at best, an incidental character appearing in a very subordinate role.
One more in the series is my limit. If the plot of the next instalment doesn’t revert to a joint O’Loughlin-Ruiz psychological thriller cum police procedural, then that puts paid to Michael Robotham for me.
Paul Weiss
Like so many thrillers, THE WRECKAGE begins with dual plot lines that begin, almost literally, worlds apart. The first is clearly a story of military and government mismanagement resulting in corruption, fraud and money laundering during the period of American “occupation” in Iraq following Saddam’s Hussein removal. The second plot follows the life of a hapless young con-woman following her and her boyfriend’s attempt to rip off ex-Detective Inspector Vincent Ruiz.
The manner in which the two plots ever so slowly approach one another and begin to entwine themselves into a single plot is clear enough but the Baghdad story line is, to be honest, simply a hot mess that well deserves the title THE WRECKAGE. Byzantine, tortuous, and incomprehensible are a few of the adjectives that came to my mind. I stuck it out to the end and while I believe I caught the overall drift of the story, I’m far from certain and the dénouement left me shaking my head and most unsatisfied. There is the additional consideration that what was supposed to be a Joe O’Loughlin thriller in a continuing series, presented him as, at best, an incidental character appearing in a very subordinate role.
One more in the series is my limit. If the plot of the next instalment doesn’t revert to a joint O’Loughlin-Ruiz psychological thriller cum police procedural, then that puts paid to Michael Robotham for me.
Paul Weiss
November 20, 2016
Bit of a slow starter this one, probably due to there being two apparently separate stories that are building at the same time. Gradually these two threads begin to entwine, however, resulting in a strong bond that just refused to let go (of this reader at least) and led to an exciting and tense conclusion.
Great writing, great characters and great plot lines. Loving Robotham's series.
Great writing, great characters and great plot lines. Loving Robotham's series.
June 29, 2018
Number 5 in the Prof Joe Series.
5/5 stars
What a nail bitting, addictive read. Every time I pick up a Michael Robotham book they just get better and better.
Two separate story lines, seemingly unrelated, one in London and the other in Bagdad. In London ex DI Ruiz intervenes when he witnesses a young woman being assaulted by her boyfriend. After seeing the young man off, Ruiz finds the young woman in quite a state, sobbing and feeling very frightened. Ruiz offers the young woman a bed for the night at his place. The young woman accepts. What Ruiz doesn’t realise is this is a set up. The young woman doctors Ruiz’s drink which renders him unconscious. He wakes up to find the woman gone and with some of his valuables.
Not impressed Ruiz goes looking for the young woman and finds her and her boyfriend. This should be good but for Ruiz the opposite happens. People start dying.
Ruiz can’t help himself. He is involved and the more involved he becomes the more desperate the situation becomes for both Ruiz and Holly, the young woman.
On the other side of the world, a journalist Luca Terrachini is investigating what appears to be a global money laundering scheme with billions of dollars in play.
Inexorably these two stories collide and when they do prepare for an explosive end.
This is one hell of a ride. It’s fast paced and the pressure is unremitting.
A highly recommended 5 star experience.
5/5 stars
What a nail bitting, addictive read. Every time I pick up a Michael Robotham book they just get better and better.
Two separate story lines, seemingly unrelated, one in London and the other in Bagdad. In London ex DI Ruiz intervenes when he witnesses a young woman being assaulted by her boyfriend. After seeing the young man off, Ruiz finds the young woman in quite a state, sobbing and feeling very frightened. Ruiz offers the young woman a bed for the night at his place. The young woman accepts. What Ruiz doesn’t realise is this is a set up. The young woman doctors Ruiz’s drink which renders him unconscious. He wakes up to find the woman gone and with some of his valuables.
Not impressed Ruiz goes looking for the young woman and finds her and her boyfriend. This should be good but for Ruiz the opposite happens. People start dying.
Ruiz can’t help himself. He is involved and the more involved he becomes the more desperate the situation becomes for both Ruiz and Holly, the young woman.
On the other side of the world, a journalist Luca Terrachini is investigating what appears to be a global money laundering scheme with billions of dollars in play.
Inexorably these two stories collide and when they do prepare for an explosive end.
This is one hell of a ride. It’s fast paced and the pressure is unremitting.
A highly recommended 5 star experience.
December 14, 2020
Jimmy Dessai looks up from a deconstructed truck engine. Six foot plus, overweight, with a fringe of greasy black hair, Jimmy has a wide arse that causes him to waddle when he walks. Every time he sees Luca his face lights up like he’s surprised to see the journalist is still alive. Then he immediately starts to work the angles, quizzing Luca on what he needs and what he’d pay to get. Jimmy is a fixer, a King Rat, a man who can source things that are hard to find.
The Wreckage opens in the aftermath of the Global Financial Crisis, with a chilling message from a man known as “the Courier’ as he trains a would-be terrorist, and then switches to Baghdad - where American journalist Luca Terracini, living outside the wire (compound) used as a safe haven, is working on a the number and frequency of bank robberies. In London, retired Scotland Yard detective Vincent Ruiz is cynically bemused as he is measured for a suit for his daughter’s wedding.
The father of the bride just has to turn up, walk down the aisle and hand his daughter over like she’s part of a prisoner swap.
But life is about to change for both men: in Baghdad Luca meets American auditor, Daniela Garner, investigating the missing millions earmarked for development projects, she survives an attack by being outside the building used by her team, Luca comes under attack while following the proceeds of the latest bank robbery to a village outside Mosul, ends up in gaol and is expelled from the country. In London, Ruiz is taken in by a scam protecting a young woman from a violent boyfriend – the pair robbing him. When the so-called boyfriend is found tortured and executed, it leads Ruiz to earlier robbery victims, including the son-in-law of a London-based banker, who has disappeared with millions unaccounted for, his heavily-pregnant wife asking many questions.
Crossing the river, (Ruiz) drives east through streets that are dotted with ‘For sale’ and ‘To Let’ signs. People selling up, selling out, downsizing, belt-tightening, admitting defeat. The atmosphere in London has changed in the past two years. People are postponing retirement, driving older cars, eating out less; they’re less conspicuous in their spending, less confident in the future. The city is circumspect rather than diminished.
As Ruiz tries to piece the evidence together, and to find the girl who robbed him, he is approached by shady Americans, and then a homegrown spook, Douglas Evans.
The man has the kind of English voice Ruiz dislikes. Upper class. Privately educated. Eton and the Guards most likely. He also has the tell-tale military bearing, as though always on the verge of snapping to attention and saluting.
Once the girl turns up, Ruiz engages his friend, psychologist Joe O’Loughlin – playing a secondary role here – to protect her.
The author is a favourite of mine and this one is among his best. The characters are well-drawn, even the minor ones, with the tension mounting though I found some scenes towards the end puzzling: (what happened to the radiator from the disused motel???). I particularly like the way Robotham sketches a scene in minimal words, as an artist applies a few brushstrokes.
The car is too bright and shiny and new. Out of place. - and -
A wind sweeps wetly through the trees and a damp sunlight glistens the leaves.
Verdict: Outstanding.
Addendum: Went back and re-read a couple of chapters in the climax, and things fell into place.
The Wreckage opens in the aftermath of the Global Financial Crisis, with a chilling message from a man known as “the Courier’ as he trains a would-be terrorist, and then switches to Baghdad - where American journalist Luca Terracini, living outside the wire (compound) used as a safe haven, is working on a the number and frequency of bank robberies. In London, retired Scotland Yard detective Vincent Ruiz is cynically bemused as he is measured for a suit for his daughter’s wedding.
The father of the bride just has to turn up, walk down the aisle and hand his daughter over like she’s part of a prisoner swap.
But life is about to change for both men: in Baghdad Luca meets American auditor, Daniela Garner, investigating the missing millions earmarked for development projects, she survives an attack by being outside the building used by her team, Luca comes under attack while following the proceeds of the latest bank robbery to a village outside Mosul, ends up in gaol and is expelled from the country. In London, Ruiz is taken in by a scam protecting a young woman from a violent boyfriend – the pair robbing him. When the so-called boyfriend is found tortured and executed, it leads Ruiz to earlier robbery victims, including the son-in-law of a London-based banker, who has disappeared with millions unaccounted for, his heavily-pregnant wife asking many questions.
Crossing the river, (Ruiz) drives east through streets that are dotted with ‘For sale’ and ‘To Let’ signs. People selling up, selling out, downsizing, belt-tightening, admitting defeat. The atmosphere in London has changed in the past two years. People are postponing retirement, driving older cars, eating out less; they’re less conspicuous in their spending, less confident in the future. The city is circumspect rather than diminished.
As Ruiz tries to piece the evidence together, and to find the girl who robbed him, he is approached by shady Americans, and then a homegrown spook, Douglas Evans.
The man has the kind of English voice Ruiz dislikes. Upper class. Privately educated. Eton and the Guards most likely. He also has the tell-tale military bearing, as though always on the verge of snapping to attention and saluting.
Once the girl turns up, Ruiz engages his friend, psychologist Joe O’Loughlin – playing a secondary role here – to protect her.
The author is a favourite of mine and this one is among his best. The characters are well-drawn, even the minor ones, with the tension mounting though I found some scenes towards the end puzzling: (what happened to the radiator from the disused motel???). I particularly like the way Robotham sketches a scene in minimal words, as an artist applies a few brushstrokes.
The car is too bright and shiny and new. Out of place. - and -
A wind sweeps wetly through the trees and a damp sunlight glistens the leaves.
Verdict: Outstanding.
Addendum: Went back and re-read a couple of chapters in the climax, and things fell into place.
January 6, 2013
I have a complaint to make about Michael Robotham’s books, or rather, the effect they’re having on me – they have turned me into an insomniac. From the moment I pick up one of his novels until I turn the last page, I am unable to sleep. Last night, The Wreckage, proved to be no exception and, as a consequence, I feel the book’s title now applies to me ☺
Seriously, last year, I spent a couple of weeks reading everything of Robotham’s I could get my hands on and loved every story, character, plot and word. I deliberately saved this book for my holidays, knowing I’d be guaranteed at least one terrific read. I was not disappointed.
Once the disturbing prologue is out of the way, The Wreckage commences by introducing us to a Pulitzer-prize winning journalist, Luca Terracini, who works and lives “outside the wire” in Iraq, hoping to file a world-changing or, at least, war-changing story. When he stumbles on a series of robberies at multinational banks in Baghdad, and uncovers shady financial deals in the process, Terracini may just have been handed either the Holy Grail of journalism or a death sentence.
Segue to London and one of my favourite characters in crime/thriller fiction, retired cop, Vincent Ruiz. On the eve of his daughter’s marriage, hard on the outside but soft-as-a-marshmallow-on-the-inside Ruiz is conned by a needy and attractive young girl in a clever grift. When her partner is found brutally tortured and dead, Ruiz understands that, not only is this young girl in danger, but also she has inadvertently exposed a conspiracy that could overturn not just the British banking system, but rock the foundations of the global economy and bring down the careers of powerful and dangerous men as well.
And so, the story is established. Larger in scope than his other novels, Robotham tackles the greedy, mystifying world of international banking, taxation fraud, funded terrorism, and uses the world as his stage.
When I first started reading this book, I was disappointed that Joe O’Loughlin and Ruiz didn’t feature that, instead, this new character, Luca, and the Middle East, took centre stage. But, as the action proceeds and the pace becomes utterly relentless, my initial misgivings were soon forgotten as Luca and the clever accountant he befriends, Daniela, start to rattle the local authorities’ nerves and become established as characters the reader loves and who possess resolve and integrity.
Enter, Ruiz, stage right (yay!) and the story, which was already moving apace, begins to accelerate, speeding through countries, characters and a growing body count without pausing for breath. Suspense builds as does the reader’s anticipation and our level of care for the characters and the situations they are placed in. I think this is Robotham’s real strength. Despite this fabulous tempo, and the complexity of the tale, never once does Robotham forget about the characters that give his story heart, that flesh out the plots and endows them and their consequences with a terrible humanity. Even the most hateful of individuals are given a context, and thus their deeds meaning – all of which makes the approaching climax the more nail-biting, the more suspenseful.
Motives and machinations are assigned to various people and organisations, from the CIA, MI6, or the huge bank, Mersey Fidelity, to a personal assistant, young jihadist, or ambitious brother, exposing the absence (or deliberate denial) of an ethical framework. Truth is absent from the commercial wheelings and dealings taking place; ambition is king. Thank goodness then for Ruiz and O’Loughlin who shine wherever and whenever they appear and yet, for all their heroics, also have feet of clay and Ruiz particularly, a knack for attracting trouble.
So does Terracini. When he and Ruiz finally encounter each other and understand they’re on the same side, the stage is set for a showdown of epic proportions.
What I love about Robotham’s books is that amidst the large-scale crimes and their ripple effect are all-important themes. In The Wreckage, truth and lies play an important role, not simply because the main characters search and long for the truth, but because it’s absence is revealed as the first serious casualty in the breakdown of personal, professional and international relationships. Truth is not just a word or an ideal in this book, but a moral code and those who choose to live by it suffer and are rarely rewarded for their principles.
Another theme is that of family – whether it’s how we establish and keep one together, or how easily they can be torn apart. How one decision, one misjudgement can hurt so many but also, how in the end, family (the real or pseudo kind) is all, for better or worse, we have. It’s this kind of thought-provoking and beautifully rendered theme that places Robotham above the average (and even above-average) thriller writers and which give his books unexpected richness and depths.
The Wreckage is a marvellous rollercoaster of a read that I literally could not put down. Robotham has done it again. And, while I am sleep-deprived and exhausted, I can’t wait for him to write another novel – please, Michael, I want some more!
Seriously, last year, I spent a couple of weeks reading everything of Robotham’s I could get my hands on and loved every story, character, plot and word. I deliberately saved this book for my holidays, knowing I’d be guaranteed at least one terrific read. I was not disappointed.
Once the disturbing prologue is out of the way, The Wreckage commences by introducing us to a Pulitzer-prize winning journalist, Luca Terracini, who works and lives “outside the wire” in Iraq, hoping to file a world-changing or, at least, war-changing story. When he stumbles on a series of robberies at multinational banks in Baghdad, and uncovers shady financial deals in the process, Terracini may just have been handed either the Holy Grail of journalism or a death sentence.
Segue to London and one of my favourite characters in crime/thriller fiction, retired cop, Vincent Ruiz. On the eve of his daughter’s marriage, hard on the outside but soft-as-a-marshmallow-on-the-inside Ruiz is conned by a needy and attractive young girl in a clever grift. When her partner is found brutally tortured and dead, Ruiz understands that, not only is this young girl in danger, but also she has inadvertently exposed a conspiracy that could overturn not just the British banking system, but rock the foundations of the global economy and bring down the careers of powerful and dangerous men as well.
And so, the story is established. Larger in scope than his other novels, Robotham tackles the greedy, mystifying world of international banking, taxation fraud, funded terrorism, and uses the world as his stage.
When I first started reading this book, I was disappointed that Joe O’Loughlin and Ruiz didn’t feature that, instead, this new character, Luca, and the Middle East, took centre stage. But, as the action proceeds and the pace becomes utterly relentless, my initial misgivings were soon forgotten as Luca and the clever accountant he befriends, Daniela, start to rattle the local authorities’ nerves and become established as characters the reader loves and who possess resolve and integrity.
Enter, Ruiz, stage right (yay!) and the story, which was already moving apace, begins to accelerate, speeding through countries, characters and a growing body count without pausing for breath. Suspense builds as does the reader’s anticipation and our level of care for the characters and the situations they are placed in. I think this is Robotham’s real strength. Despite this fabulous tempo, and the complexity of the tale, never once does Robotham forget about the characters that give his story heart, that flesh out the plots and endows them and their consequences with a terrible humanity. Even the most hateful of individuals are given a context, and thus their deeds meaning – all of which makes the approaching climax the more nail-biting, the more suspenseful.
Motives and machinations are assigned to various people and organisations, from the CIA, MI6, or the huge bank, Mersey Fidelity, to a personal assistant, young jihadist, or ambitious brother, exposing the absence (or deliberate denial) of an ethical framework. Truth is absent from the commercial wheelings and dealings taking place; ambition is king. Thank goodness then for Ruiz and O’Loughlin who shine wherever and whenever they appear and yet, for all their heroics, also have feet of clay and Ruiz particularly, a knack for attracting trouble.
So does Terracini. When he and Ruiz finally encounter each other and understand they’re on the same side, the stage is set for a showdown of epic proportions.
What I love about Robotham’s books is that amidst the large-scale crimes and their ripple effect are all-important themes. In The Wreckage, truth and lies play an important role, not simply because the main characters search and long for the truth, but because it’s absence is revealed as the first serious casualty in the breakdown of personal, professional and international relationships. Truth is not just a word or an ideal in this book, but a moral code and those who choose to live by it suffer and are rarely rewarded for their principles.
Another theme is that of family – whether it’s how we establish and keep one together, or how easily they can be torn apart. How one decision, one misjudgement can hurt so many but also, how in the end, family (the real or pseudo kind) is all, for better or worse, we have. It’s this kind of thought-provoking and beautifully rendered theme that places Robotham above the average (and even above-average) thriller writers and which give his books unexpected richness and depths.
The Wreckage is a marvellous rollercoaster of a read that I literally could not put down. Robotham has done it again. And, while I am sleep-deprived and exhausted, I can’t wait for him to write another novel – please, Michael, I want some more!
January 16, 2023
Not my favourite of the series but was ok to read but not particularly gripping although I do like the authors writing style.
This is the 5th of the Joe O’Loughlin series and really should be classed as a stand alone as he only features in a very small part of the story which switches between Iraq and London in the main. You could easily bypass this book if you wanted to read the full series, it’s not at all applicable.
Onto the next one.
This is the 5th of the Joe O’Loughlin series and really should be classed as a stand alone as he only features in a very small part of the story which switches between Iraq and London in the main. You could easily bypass this book if you wanted to read the full series, it’s not at all applicable.
Onto the next one.
May 6, 2014
With Luca Terracini investigating a series of bank robberies involving tens of millions of US dollars throughout Baghdad, he didn’t realize the closer he came to uncovering the secrets the more danger he would find himself in. As a foreign correspondent he found he could go places others couldn’t but when he met auditor Daniela Garner their lives became entangled; suddenly danger through sources he had thought he could trust surrounded them. Always his motto had been to follow the money – would it get him in more trouble than he had ever been in before?
In a quiet suburb of London, Elizabeth North was eight months pregnant – she was also very worried; Richard, her husband, had gone missing and her small son Rowan wanted his Daddy. With her father the director of the biggest bank in London, and Richard working for him, his disappearance was creating ripples within powerful nations of the world; their agents were focused on finding him.
Vincent Ruiz, ex-cop and soon to be father-in-law – his daughter Claire was marrying in two weeks time – suddenly found himself scammed by a sweet young woman by the name of Holly Knight. In rescuing her from an abusive boyfriend, the tables were soon turned. But Holly found herself in bigger trouble than she could possibly have imagined – on the run from a terrifying set of circumstances with no-one to trust.
As Baghdad and London seemed set on a collision course, the stakes became so high that no-one knew what the truth was; would the danger of finding that truth out have dire consequences for those involved? With terrorists and assassins mixed with government agents the costs would be high, very high…
The suspense in this novel by Aussie author Michael Robotham is intense. The plot is intricate, the pace is fast, the entertainment is wonderful! I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller and have no hesitation in recommending it to all lovers of a crime, suspense and thriller novel.
In a quiet suburb of London, Elizabeth North was eight months pregnant – she was also very worried; Richard, her husband, had gone missing and her small son Rowan wanted his Daddy. With her father the director of the biggest bank in London, and Richard working for him, his disappearance was creating ripples within powerful nations of the world; their agents were focused on finding him.
Vincent Ruiz, ex-cop and soon to be father-in-law – his daughter Claire was marrying in two weeks time – suddenly found himself scammed by a sweet young woman by the name of Holly Knight. In rescuing her from an abusive boyfriend, the tables were soon turned. But Holly found herself in bigger trouble than she could possibly have imagined – on the run from a terrifying set of circumstances with no-one to trust.
As Baghdad and London seemed set on a collision course, the stakes became so high that no-one knew what the truth was; would the danger of finding that truth out have dire consequences for those involved? With terrorists and assassins mixed with government agents the costs would be high, very high…
The suspense in this novel by Aussie author Michael Robotham is intense. The plot is intricate, the pace is fast, the entertainment is wonderful! I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller and have no hesitation in recommending it to all lovers of a crime, suspense and thriller novel.
February 26, 2016
I picked up this novel because it is the July 2015 choice of my book club. I was dreading it, having read the dust jacket and thinking that it was really not my thing. Once again, I am grateful that my book club compatriots have stretched my reading comfort zone.
Having said that, it still really wasn’t my cuppa tea, but that doesn’t mean that I didn’t get pulled along for the adventure. Just like the Jack Reacher novel that we read last year for book club, it’s hard to resist finishing the book. I was surprised to find that it was 5th in a series (Joseph O’Loughlin series) and that the guy named in the series doesn’t appear until about 2/3 of the way through the book.
The retired policeman, Ruiz, is the one who most reminds me of Jack Reacher—he always seems to be planning ahead in order to stay one step ahead of the bad guys and always can find something to use as a weapon at strategic moments. The journalist Luca’s sections benefit from the author’s experience in the field, as do the multiple settings (Bagdad, London, Washington). It is refreshing to read a thriller that is not set exclusively in the USA. On the other hand, it is rather depressing to get a glimpse into post-war Iraq. One wonders if there will ever be peace in that area of the world.
Men are certainly portrayed at their worst—most are on the take either monetarily or sexually. If they are half-way good, they are damaged beyond repair. I would like to believe better of the men in my life, one of the reasons why I usually avoid this hyper-masculine type of fiction. You can practically smell the testosterone emanating from the pages!
Also the banking industry—please tell me it’s not really like this! Like a stately ancient tree that looks lovely and flourishing on the outside, but is rotten and hollow on the inside.
Having said that, it still really wasn’t my cuppa tea, but that doesn’t mean that I didn’t get pulled along for the adventure. Just like the Jack Reacher novel that we read last year for book club, it’s hard to resist finishing the book. I was surprised to find that it was 5th in a series (Joseph O’Loughlin series) and that the guy named in the series doesn’t appear until about 2/3 of the way through the book.
The retired policeman, Ruiz, is the one who most reminds me of Jack Reacher—he always seems to be planning ahead in order to stay one step ahead of the bad guys and always can find something to use as a weapon at strategic moments. The journalist Luca’s sections benefit from the author’s experience in the field, as do the multiple settings (Bagdad, London, Washington). It is refreshing to read a thriller that is not set exclusively in the USA. On the other hand, it is rather depressing to get a glimpse into post-war Iraq. One wonders if there will ever be peace in that area of the world.
Men are certainly portrayed at their worst—most are on the take either monetarily or sexually. If they are half-way good, they are damaged beyond repair. I would like to believe better of the men in my life, one of the reasons why I usually avoid this hyper-masculine type of fiction. You can practically smell the testosterone emanating from the pages!
Also the banking industry—please tell me it’s not really like this! Like a stately ancient tree that looks lovely and flourishing on the outside, but is rotten and hollow on the inside.
June 7, 2020
I am slowly making my way through the Joe O'Loughlin books and I will say when I read the synopsis of this book, which didn't even mention Joe O'Loughlin, I had no interest in reading it. In addition Iraqi Bank robbers is not something I would choose to read about. I decided to read it anyway, afraid I'd miss some crucial info about O'Loughlin or Ruiz.
This books alternates locations between Iraq and London. In Iraq, Luca, a journalist, is looking into the bank robberies. In London, Ruiz takes center stage with a Holly, a troubled 19 year old. I enjoyed the London sections more, I liked getting to know Ruiz better and I enjoyed the friendship that developed between him and Holly.
In section two, new characters are introduced, the North Family. Richard North is a high profile banker who has gone missing. His wife, Elizabeth, takes center stage. Of course these stories have to tie together, you just don't know how until section 3.
Michael Robatham is an exceptional author. Even though I wasn't keen about reading about Iraq, I was definitely pulled into the story. I loved the characters and various relationships. This is an excellent crime novel and I'm so glad I didn't pass it up as I originally considered. Even though Joe O'Loughlin takes a back seat here, it was an excellent entertaining story. There are quite a few characters but Michael Robotham writes in a way you can keep them straight, not always easy for me with too many characters.
4.5 stars
This books alternates locations between Iraq and London. In Iraq, Luca, a journalist, is looking into the bank robberies. In London, Ruiz takes center stage with a Holly, a troubled 19 year old. I enjoyed the London sections more, I liked getting to know Ruiz better and I enjoyed the friendship that developed between him and Holly.
In section two, new characters are introduced, the North Family. Richard North is a high profile banker who has gone missing. His wife, Elizabeth, takes center stage. Of course these stories have to tie together, you just don't know how until section 3.
Michael Robatham is an exceptional author. Even though I wasn't keen about reading about Iraq, I was definitely pulled into the story. I loved the characters and various relationships. This is an excellent crime novel and I'm so glad I didn't pass it up as I originally considered. Even though Joe O'Loughlin takes a back seat here, it was an excellent entertaining story. There are quite a few characters but Michael Robotham writes in a way you can keep them straight, not always easy for me with too many characters.
4.5 stars
March 16, 2018
Michael Robotham is by far one of my favorite authors. This is the 5th book in the Joseph O'Loughlin series, and I have to say , for me , it fell short. I just could not get into the story line whatsoever- and I wound up skimming thru, just to finish it.
But hey, having said that - please, if you never picked up this series, you are missing out! Start with the first one Suspect and then enjoy the ride! This book, in my opinion , you can skip. But don't skip on a great series!
But hey, having said that - please, if you never picked up this series, you are missing out! Start with the first one Suspect and then enjoy the ride! This book, in my opinion , you can skip. But don't skip on a great series!
March 20, 2021
During the first parts of The Wreckage Robotham juggles several plotlines, all seemingly unrelated. In post war Iraq we get the story of Luca, a reporter, and Daniela, a UN financial auditor, investigating a series of bank robberies. In London we meet Holly, a thief, who is in serious trouble after robbing the wrong person. There’s also Elizabeth, the heavily pregnant wife of a missing banker. And in the middle of the action is my favourite sidekick police detective ever, Vincent Ruiz (okay, he’s an ex police detective now but that’s a technicality).
Of course, as these things go, the reader realises that Robotham will tie all the threads together but he does take a long time. A lot of reviewers, like me, found the beginning of the book slow. It was almost like reading three separate books for a while and things didn’t speed up until everything linked together.
I don’t pretend to understand politics in the Middle East and it all got quite complicated a few times. Of course Robotham has done his homework when it comes to researching Iraq and the depressingly dangerous way of life in the country. But perhaps the beginning of the book got a little bogged down with explaining it all.
Another issue I had is the book is more of an action/espionage thriller. There’s terrorists and extremists and spies. It’s a subgenre which is not really my thing.
Joe’s role in the book is almost a cameo. He does feature but only from about the three quarter mark onwards and only in a minor supporting role. This also could be why I disliked this book more than the others; I think Joe should have been used more. He seemed to brighten the book immediately with his entrance. Vincent too was much more appealing when teamed with Joe. They make the perfect Odd Couple-like duo and their comedy lightened the book’s otherwise heavy content.
Robotham’s writing is, as usual, sublime. His descriptive passages make the settings and action come to life on the page. Characterisation is never an issue though I did get the sense that Good Girl Bad Girl’s Evie was formed from Holly and, at times, had trouble separating them in my mind.
Unfortunately The Wreckage is my least favourite of the Joe O’Loughlin books to date. But, to be fair, Robotham’s worst is still far superior to the best of most other authors.
4 out of 5
Of course, as these things go, the reader realises that Robotham will tie all the threads together but he does take a long time. A lot of reviewers, like me, found the beginning of the book slow. It was almost like reading three separate books for a while and things didn’t speed up until everything linked together.
I don’t pretend to understand politics in the Middle East and it all got quite complicated a few times. Of course Robotham has done his homework when it comes to researching Iraq and the depressingly dangerous way of life in the country. But perhaps the beginning of the book got a little bogged down with explaining it all.
Another issue I had is the book is more of an action/espionage thriller. There’s terrorists and extremists and spies. It’s a subgenre which is not really my thing.
Joe’s role in the book is almost a cameo. He does feature but only from about the three quarter mark onwards and only in a minor supporting role. This also could be why I disliked this book more than the others; I think Joe should have been used more. He seemed to brighten the book immediately with his entrance. Vincent too was much more appealing when teamed with Joe. They make the perfect Odd Couple-like duo and their comedy lightened the book’s otherwise heavy content.
Robotham’s writing is, as usual, sublime. His descriptive passages make the settings and action come to life on the page. Characterisation is never an issue though I did get the sense that Good Girl Bad Girl’s Evie was formed from Holly and, at times, had trouble separating them in my mind.
Unfortunately The Wreckage is my least favourite of the Joe O’Loughlin books to date. But, to be fair, Robotham’s worst is still far superior to the best of most other authors.
4 out of 5
July 22, 2013
A retired cop, a young grifter, a heavily pregnant society wife and a half-Iraqi financial reporter. They shouldn't have anything in common but they do. A notebook. The grifter stole it. She also stole from the cop. The wife's husband is missing and there are pictures of him with the man who killed the grifter, Holly's, boyfriend, searching for the notebook. The financial reporter can translate the notebook. Did I mention that the wife, Elizabeth's, husband, is the chief compliance officer for the only bank in London the successfully navigated the financial crisis? Is something rotten in Denmark? Possible, but it's certainly rotten at the core of the banking industry in London. The problem with this book is that there were too many disparate story lines that took too long to come together. While Ruiz, the cop, is the continuity character from prior books, as is the psychologist that Ruiz calls in to help Holly, by the time the plot came together I was interested but not entranced. (And my field is banking compliance.) Narrated well, by the series' regular narrator, it was too involved a plot to engage the listener without mental fatigue. It's a good story just not great.
July 7, 2011
Within a short number of pages, I was wrapped up in "The Wreckage." Robotham puts together a multifaceted mystery that involves Iraq, the US and British governments, terrorist networks, major banking institutions, and various competing interests from a sizable cast of characters. The protagonists are honest and earnest folk who suffer the nay-say of skeptics and the punches of opponents, and the villains are made from the same clay--just with heavy doses of greed and cruelty thrown in to make them believable bad guys. I cheered during the high points--and braced myself for the pain during the turnovers.
Robotham gets the various elements of a fictional thriller right. The pace at which he walks his story is what it needs to be. His prose is terse, clear, and a pleasure to read. He adds to the plot without excessive exposition. He describes action with a minimalism that conveys the speed and impact of events. He balances his cast of characters well, and he inserts short asides that offer just enough perspective from behind enemy lines to keep readers engaged in the overarching conspiracy.
My sole complaint: the scenes that take place in Iraq in the first part of the book are so visceral and so well written that they ended up overshadowing everything that followed in London. Should Robotham write a thriller set solely in the Middle East, I am there.
Altogether, this is a great thriller. The topical nature of the subject matter lends its story more weight; however, years from now, the structural strengths of this work will maintain its stature in the genre.
Robotham gets the various elements of a fictional thriller right. The pace at which he walks his story is what it needs to be. His prose is terse, clear, and a pleasure to read. He adds to the plot without excessive exposition. He describes action with a minimalism that conveys the speed and impact of events. He balances his cast of characters well, and he inserts short asides that offer just enough perspective from behind enemy lines to keep readers engaged in the overarching conspiracy.
My sole complaint: the scenes that take place in Iraq in the first part of the book are so visceral and so well written that they ended up overshadowing everything that followed in London. Should Robotham write a thriller set solely in the Middle East, I am there.
Altogether, this is a great thriller. The topical nature of the subject matter lends its story more weight; however, years from now, the structural strengths of this work will maintain its stature in the genre.
May 23, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this - well written as always. Good to have one that features Ruiz more strongly to. Good pace and tension in this international thriller about terrorism and money - some nasty people in this. Glad I still have some to read in this series ☺️
April 24, 2022
Setting: London & Baghdad (mostly). This is the fifth in the series featuring psychiatrist Joe O'Loughlin although Joe himself doesn't appear in the book until nearly one-third of the way through.
In London, former police detective Vincent Ruiz tries to play the Good Samaritan when a young woman is assaulted and ends up with his house being robbed. As a precious family heirloom was amongst the things taken, Ruiz goes in search of the thieves and ends up deeply involved in a dangerous turf war between a terrorist and the British and American security services, all trying to find a notebook stolen by the thieves in an earlier robbery and which contains damaging information that all parties wish to get hold of...
In Baghdad, journalist Luca Terracini is investigating a series of lucrative bank robberies and finds links to corruption on construction projects that have been detected by a UN auditing team. Following the money, Luca ends up in London and his enquiries soon tie in with those of Ruiz...
Another thrilling rollercoaster of a ride, although I wasn't over-keen on the Baghdad chapters in the early stages of the book and, like in one of the earlier books in the series, this one was mainly about Ruiz, with Joe O'Loughlin taking very much a minor role. Nevertheless, it was still a great read and completing this one means I have now 'caught up' with the previous books in the series, having started with some of the later ones! - 9/10.
In London, former police detective Vincent Ruiz tries to play the Good Samaritan when a young woman is assaulted and ends up with his house being robbed. As a precious family heirloom was amongst the things taken, Ruiz goes in search of the thieves and ends up deeply involved in a dangerous turf war between a terrorist and the British and American security services, all trying to find a notebook stolen by the thieves in an earlier robbery and which contains damaging information that all parties wish to get hold of...
In Baghdad, journalist Luca Terracini is investigating a series of lucrative bank robberies and finds links to corruption on construction projects that have been detected by a UN auditing team. Following the money, Luca ends up in London and his enquiries soon tie in with those of Ruiz...
Another thrilling rollercoaster of a ride, although I wasn't over-keen on the Baghdad chapters in the early stages of the book and, like in one of the earlier books in the series, this one was mainly about Ruiz, with Joe O'Loughlin taking very much a minor role. Nevertheless, it was still a great read and completing this one means I have now 'caught up' with the previous books in the series, having started with some of the later ones! - 9/10.
June 16, 2011
Based in part on true events, The Wreckage is a taut thriller that spans two countries and exposes the twisted threads that link international terrorism and the global financial crisis.
In a series of short chapters, Robotham alternates between the seemingly unconnected stories of retired detective, Vincent Ruiz chasing thief Holly Knight, Luca Tarracini's investigation into a series of robberies in Iraq, and Elizabeth North's frantic search for her missing banker husband.
Ruiz falls for a con and tracks down the young thief, Holly Knight, only to thwart an attempt on her life and place himself squarely in the sights of a violent group of men. Holly's scam has unwittingly made her a target of an assassin known as the Courier and Ruiz is determined to protect her.
Pulitzer prize winning journalist Luca' investigation of the theft of billions of US dollars from Iraqi banks results in repercussions for not only himself but the UN accountant, Daniela Garner, whose team is auditing the reconstruction funds provided to the warn torn country. Evicted by the government, Luca and Daniela follow the money to a missing terrorist and a missing banker in London.
Elizabeth North's life is turned upside down when her husband, who is a compliance officer at her families bank, goes missing. No one seems inclined to help her find him until he is accused of fraud and demands are being made for his missing notebook.
The multi-strand plot eventually brings the characters together as their separate investigations collide. The tension is well crafted and the layers of the storyline are deftly connected. Robotham judiciously reveals just enough detail in each distinct narrative to ensure early conclusions can't be drawn. The style, and pace, ensured I compulsively continued to turn the pages eager for another piece of the puzzle. The post invasion unrest in Iraq and the global financial crisis are hot topics in today's society but I think the author skilfully balances the political commentary with richly developed characters.
Robotham has carefully constructed the circumstances of events and the motivations of the individuals to ensure they are believable. I felt the characters actions were credibly limited to their abilities and experience. The personal lives of the cast give the storyline depth and and move the novel beyond the familiar news headlines. Ruiz, for example, is coming to terms with his children's estrangement. Luca and Daniela develop a romance and Elizabeth, who is eight months pregnant, discovers her missing husband has been having an affair. These ordinary dramas contrast successfully with the international events they have become caught up in.
The Wreckage is a fast paced, action-packed thriller that explores current political events in individual context. I really enjoyed the novel, it combines great characters with a masterfully complex plot and the authenticity of the storyline shines. A fantastic read.
In a series of short chapters, Robotham alternates between the seemingly unconnected stories of retired detective, Vincent Ruiz chasing thief Holly Knight, Luca Tarracini's investigation into a series of robberies in Iraq, and Elizabeth North's frantic search for her missing banker husband.
Ruiz falls for a con and tracks down the young thief, Holly Knight, only to thwart an attempt on her life and place himself squarely in the sights of a violent group of men. Holly's scam has unwittingly made her a target of an assassin known as the Courier and Ruiz is determined to protect her.
Pulitzer prize winning journalist Luca' investigation of the theft of billions of US dollars from Iraqi banks results in repercussions for not only himself but the UN accountant, Daniela Garner, whose team is auditing the reconstruction funds provided to the warn torn country. Evicted by the government, Luca and Daniela follow the money to a missing terrorist and a missing banker in London.
Elizabeth North's life is turned upside down when her husband, who is a compliance officer at her families bank, goes missing. No one seems inclined to help her find him until he is accused of fraud and demands are being made for his missing notebook.
The multi-strand plot eventually brings the characters together as their separate investigations collide. The tension is well crafted and the layers of the storyline are deftly connected. Robotham judiciously reveals just enough detail in each distinct narrative to ensure early conclusions can't be drawn. The style, and pace, ensured I compulsively continued to turn the pages eager for another piece of the puzzle. The post invasion unrest in Iraq and the global financial crisis are hot topics in today's society but I think the author skilfully balances the political commentary with richly developed characters.
Robotham has carefully constructed the circumstances of events and the motivations of the individuals to ensure they are believable. I felt the characters actions were credibly limited to their abilities and experience. The personal lives of the cast give the storyline depth and and move the novel beyond the familiar news headlines. Ruiz, for example, is coming to terms with his children's estrangement. Luca and Daniela develop a romance and Elizabeth, who is eight months pregnant, discovers her missing husband has been having an affair. These ordinary dramas contrast successfully with the international events they have become caught up in.
The Wreckage is a fast paced, action-packed thriller that explores current political events in individual context. I really enjoyed the novel, it combines great characters with a masterfully complex plot and the authenticity of the storyline shines. A fantastic read.
July 23, 2022
2.5 stars. I gave this book a go as I had read earlier in the series and prefer to read in order; however, it didn't appeal to me due to its setting and that Ruiz was the main character rather than O'Laughlin.
There are things to like about this book. I was pleasantly surprised that the book was not all about war which I thought it would be. As is usual with Robotham's books, the characterisation is good - especially Ruiz, who I felt was much more realistic and likeable than in previous books. I enjoyed the dialogue too.
However, the main problem was that I found the storyline dull and uninteresting, and I had no empathy for any particular character or a desired outcome.
I'm glad I've read this book, but more because I can continue reading the books in order, rather than particularly enjoying it.
There are things to like about this book. I was pleasantly surprised that the book was not all about war which I thought it would be. As is usual with Robotham's books, the characterisation is good - especially Ruiz, who I felt was much more realistic and likeable than in previous books. I enjoyed the dialogue too.
However, the main problem was that I found the storyline dull and uninteresting, and I had no empathy for any particular character or a desired outcome.
I'm glad I've read this book, but more because I can continue reading the books in order, rather than particularly enjoying it.
July 23, 2016
The 5th book in the Joseph O'loughlin series by Michael Robotham although really its more about Vincent Ruiz with a cameo from Joseph O'loughlin.
I struggled with this book early on and it failed to hook me. Starts with 2 seemingly unrelated stories but predictably it all makes sense in the end.
Not quite a 4 rating but certainly a good read.
I struggled with this book early on and it failed to hook me. Starts with 2 seemingly unrelated stories but predictably it all makes sense in the end.
Not quite a 4 rating but certainly a good read.
April 1, 2013
Do ex cops really take 18 year old girls home from bars and let themselves be robbed? Maybe we are a very untrusting people in South Africa, but it just seems unlikely, and everything seemed unlikely after that....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2011
Michael Robotham writes thrillers/mysteries that grab the readers attention from the first sentence. The stories are complex, the conclusions satisfying. What sets Robotham apart are his characters. In the first book, SUSPECT, the author introduces Joseph O’Loughlin, a psychologist, happily married man, and devoted father. The protagonist of LOST is Detective Inspector Vincent Ruiz who played a minor role in the first book. THE NIGHT FERRY focuses on a character in a previous book and offers the reader the very compelling and sympathetic Detective Alisha Barbi, Ruiz’ partner in LOST. Joe O’Loughlin gets the lead again in SHATTER and Ruiz has another turn in the spotlight in THE WRECKAGE.
Robotham keeps favorite characters alive in the books while always creating a fresh way of inserting new characters into a story. THE WRECKAGE continues the trend of introducing new characters the reader sincerely hopes will appear again.
THE WRECKAGE opens in Baghdad. “The most important lesson Luca Terracini ever learned about being a foreign correspondent was to tell a story through the eyes of someone else. The second most important lesson was how to make spaghetti marinara with a can of tuna and a packet of Ramen….Luca had added a few of his own over the years – advice that came down to possessing three vital tools for survival: a natural cowardice; several US$100 dollar bills sewn into his trouser cuffs; and a well-developed sense of the absurd.” Luca is a freelance reporter chasing the story that could make his career – the robberies of banks and the disappearance of billions of dollars in American aid. He gets help on his story when he meets Daniela Garner, a finance expert who is investigating the robberies for the UN.
The story moves to London where Richard North, an executive in a major financial institution, is robbed by a young woman he picks up in a bar. When she pawns some of the items she took from his home, Holly Knight and her target, North, find themselves dropped into a situation that is well over their heads. An assassin is looking for Holly, demanding she return one item in particular that she took from North but she has no memory of the object. When Holly and her partner-in-scam stage a performance witnessed by Ruiz, he takes it seriously and comes to Holly’s rescue. The disappearance of Richard North and a clear sign that the assassin, the Courier, knows where to find Holly pushes Ruiz further into his role of white knight. That Holly doesn’t want to be rescued doesn’t deter Ruiz from his new role.
Elizabeth North, Richard’s wife, has reported her husband missing. She hasn’t seen him since she and their four-year-old son left to spend the weekend with her family. Elizabeth is eight months pregnant and Richard has been missing for five days. In her world, Richard is dependable. He has never been gone this long on business for the bank and he would certainly be in touch with her; the baby could come any day. She knows that the people at the bank are lying to her and that is a double betrayal.
In this book that is impossible to put down, Robotham ties three separate stories, in three separate cities, together into a whole that reflects the unsettled and unsettling world that spins out from the war in Iraq. The loss of billions of American dollars after the money has been delivered to banks in Baghdad is a real life template for one of the stories. The covert operators that are tracking Holly and who may be responsible for Richard’s disappearance certainly exist in the “down-the-rabbit-hole” world of spies and counter-spies who believe sincerely that they are all that stands between peace and chaos. And there is Elizabeth, who cares about nothing more than the ties of family that seem to have been severed by people she doesn’t know for reasons she can’t discover.
Vincent Ruiz, now retired, is getting ready for the marriage of his daughter. Ruiz knows he failed his children when he walked away from them when their mother died. He betrayed their trust, turning his back on his role as father. Maybe he feels he can be a substitute father for Holly although she is not going to be anyone’s child. Ruiz is an unwelcome complication in her plan which is already complicated by the fact that she has no idea what notebook it is that everyone is chasing.
Robotham is a genius at creating characters and this brilliantly clear with Elizabeth. She is a woman of privilege, born to money, living a life that reflects the comfort and security she expects. Suddenly, in the last month of her pregnancy, her world slips sideways. Her husband has disappeared and no one will acknowledge it. She has a young child who may have lost his father. She is about to give birth without the support of the man with whom she created Claudia, the name they decided to give the baby. Despite her family’s wealth and connections, Elizabeth takes upon herself the job of finding out what happened to her husband; she is not going to depend on anyone else. As she becomes increasingly convinced that she will not see Richard again, she becomes increasingly strong. She will not be broken. Elizabeth is a character I would like to see in subsequent books.
THE WRECKAGE is one of those books that leaves such an impression that it isn’t possible to move on immediately to another. With its setting so clearly established in today’s headlines, THE WRECKAGE describes what has happened to the world since the American president wanted a war. Iraq has been destroyed by American bombs and American money that has fallen into the hands of the profiteers who make money off the blood of soldiers and civilians. When the world stopped demonstrating against the war, it became a profitable business. Robotham takes a thriller and imbeds it with issues that should be examined.
August 29, 2012
Detective Inspector Vincent Ruiz takes centre stage in this high octane cross continent thriller. Shady bankers and terrorist extremists fall into Ruiz’s lap when two seemingly unrelated events collide. From protagonists Ruiz in London to Luca in Baghdad, all roads lead to an accountant (Daniela) sent to Iraq to audit against the perceived bookkeeping issues who uncovers a gross misspend that sets a series of violent events in motion.
An innocent bystander, Elizabeth sees her life crumble at the hands of money hungry extremists. Her husband; North is caught in the web of financial wrongdoing at a major English bank. Ruiz is victim to a robbery, and a terror plot is uncovered on British soil. Add a mysterious agency, a serial killer calling himself ‘The Courier’, and an impressionable group of young men in search of religion and ‘The Wreckage’ fast becomes Robotham’s most ambitious and criminally diverse novel to date.
‘The Wreckage’ spotlights the exploitation of the relief effort where business as usual equals corruption and asking too many questions gets you a body bag. It maintains the series continuity while reading well as a standalone and introduces some interesting new characters.
The ending didn’t agree with me despite a nice twist which gave meaning to mysterious Government agency involvement (or lack thereof). The other chief complaint I have is that I couldn’t quite suspend my belief enough to rationalise with Ruiz and his knight in shinning armour complex by linking himself with Holly, a not so certifiable damsel in distress. Perhaps I missed something, either way; it just didn’t sit right with me.
Overall, ‘The Wreckage’ is an enjoyable crime/thriller which showcases the author’s growth and talent for nailing down the detail and placing the reader directly amongst the chaos - 3.5 stars.
My review of ‘Bleed for Me’, the book prior to ‘The Wreckage’ can be found here: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
An innocent bystander, Elizabeth sees her life crumble at the hands of money hungry extremists. Her husband; North is caught in the web of financial wrongdoing at a major English bank. Ruiz is victim to a robbery, and a terror plot is uncovered on British soil. Add a mysterious agency, a serial killer calling himself ‘The Courier’, and an impressionable group of young men in search of religion and ‘The Wreckage’ fast becomes Robotham’s most ambitious and criminally diverse novel to date.
‘The Wreckage’ spotlights the exploitation of the relief effort where business as usual equals corruption and asking too many questions gets you a body bag. It maintains the series continuity while reading well as a standalone and introduces some interesting new characters.
The ending didn’t agree with me despite a nice twist which gave meaning to mysterious Government agency involvement (or lack thereof). The other chief complaint I have is that I couldn’t quite suspend my belief enough to rationalise with Ruiz and his knight in shinning armour complex by linking himself with Holly, a not so certifiable damsel in distress. Perhaps I missed something, either way; it just didn’t sit right with me.
Overall, ‘The Wreckage’ is an enjoyable crime/thriller which showcases the author’s growth and talent for nailing down the detail and placing the reader directly amongst the chaos - 3.5 stars.
My review of ‘Bleed for Me’, the book prior to ‘The Wreckage’ can be found here: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
August 21, 2014
This was one hellova book. Michael Robotham is a skilled storyteller. Not two but three separate plots weave themselves together to form a story of epic proportions. The skill though lies not just in telling the story but making you feel as if you're living it. Credible characters and a monster plot written with feeling add up to five stars.
March 3, 2021
I’m this [] close to bumping up another star. Just not quite there.
Robotham very effectively does a number of things outside my reading happy spot (rut?). I emphasize very effectively, because I love his work anyway.
While it’s a series, the two main characters don’t consistently show up in each book and sometimes, as here, they don’t play a starring role. Robotham seems to write the book he wants to write and fits in one or two of the main guys to suit the story. And it works despite my misgivings.
His books have varying amounts, usually not large, of torture, torment, and trauma that’s so up-close that you can’t get a bit of distance from it. Even favoring hard crime fiction over soft most of the time, his grittiest scenes can be a bit much for me. This story featured a heavier hand with the torture than earlier books. It was in the right tone with the nature of the story, though, and I managed to finish the book feeling heavier and more scratched up than I prefer, but not holding it against the author.
Finally, this story is absolutely all over the place, also not my favorite reading situation. Lots of characters, places, and convoluted plot lines. But I was rarely and only temporarily confused. Though he made me work a little harder than usual, he wrote this with a confident implicit promise that it would all pay off, and it did.
Robotham is starting to wear me out a bit, but I’ll keep coming back.
Robotham very effectively does a number of things outside my reading happy spot (rut?). I emphasize very effectively, because I love his work anyway.
While it’s a series, the two main characters don’t consistently show up in each book and sometimes, as here, they don’t play a starring role. Robotham seems to write the book he wants to write and fits in one or two of the main guys to suit the story. And it works despite my misgivings.
His books have varying amounts, usually not large, of torture, torment, and trauma that’s so up-close that you can’t get a bit of distance from it. Even favoring hard crime fiction over soft most of the time, his grittiest scenes can be a bit much for me. This story featured a heavier hand with the torture than earlier books. It was in the right tone with the nature of the story, though, and I managed to finish the book feeling heavier and more scratched up than I prefer, but not holding it against the author.
Finally, this story is absolutely all over the place, also not my favorite reading situation. Lots of characters, places, and convoluted plot lines. But I was rarely and only temporarily confused. Though he made me work a little harder than usual, he wrote this with a confident implicit promise that it would all pay off, and it did.
Robotham is starting to wear me out a bit, but I’ll keep coming back.
December 7, 2011
I like this author; his main characters, a shrink whose Parkinsons disease progresses through each book, and his co-hort in crime solving, an over-the-hill, ex-detective, are resourceful, witty and play off each other well. The setting for the series is mainly London, but The Wreckage volleys between there and Iraq (Bagdad). The action is kicked off by an intrepid, fearless war reporter, the woman accountant he meets, an extremely screwed up, if intrepid girl scam artist, and a wealthy, lovely suburban mom with...wait for it...the perfect life. So we know that's gonna change.
The plot revolves around (and around, and around) a heist involving gazillions of dollars, complicit banks, and an ingenious plan to make a few people very, very, wealthy while stealing from the rest of us. The line, "We're too big to fail," is actually spoken here. So points off for that. I wanted to get more involved than I did, but couldn't -- partly b/c I didn't always understand what was going on with the bank/money/Sadam/CIA thing; and partly because the suspension of disbelief mostly wasn't possible for me. As in, somehow these aging characters are able to withstand bullets, torture, run fast and constantly qvetch about how their jobs have taken them away from their kids. Well, at least these alta cockers didn't have sex...much. Something believealbe after all! Solid 3 stars.
PS: Of the Robotham books (and that's a pseudonym), Shatter is the best.
The plot revolves around (and around, and around) a heist involving gazillions of dollars, complicit banks, and an ingenious plan to make a few people very, very, wealthy while stealing from the rest of us. The line, "We're too big to fail," is actually spoken here. So points off for that. I wanted to get more involved than I did, but couldn't -- partly b/c I didn't always understand what was going on with the bank/money/Sadam/CIA thing; and partly because the suspension of disbelief mostly wasn't possible for me. As in, somehow these aging characters are able to withstand bullets, torture, run fast and constantly qvetch about how their jobs have taken them away from their kids. Well, at least these alta cockers didn't have sex...much. Something believealbe after all! Solid 3 stars.
PS: Of the Robotham books (and that's a pseudonym), Shatter is the best.
September 30, 2016
This is like the Law & Order TV show where they would turn something from the news (HSBC laundering money for terrorists) into a murder. Unfortunately, the author here adds on multiple other complex plot-layers as well as characters who are either uninteresting or not believable. On the other hand, it's relatively well-written and dealing with important stuff.
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