Scan barcode
natashaw's review
3.0
I was lucky enough to receive an advance review copy of this book.... having read all of Kerry Wilkinsons books so far I was thrilled!
I have given the book 3 stars as, for me, there just felt like something was missing from the story - the story didnt flow as well as Wilkinsons other books. The main character, Jason, is likeable enough and the premise of the plot was well thought out and kept the reader guessing.
**This is where my review gets tricky as dont want to give any spoilers away!** However, the set up of the storyline and the development of suspense just didnt flow smoothly for me. In my mind there just wasnt enough reason for Jason to be as paranoid as he became... his feeling was totally justified by the climax of the book but the buildup was disjointed and not eventful enough. At one point the reader is not included within a key part of why Jason starts to be concerned and suspicious (a conversation with Natalie in the car) - subsequently Jasons descent into paranoia therefore feels false to the reader as it doesnt totally makes sense. So much so that I had to use my Kindle search facility several times just to check I hadnt accidentally missed out a chapter or two as that is what it feels like!
I liked the majority of the characters and I feel they were well developed especially the dynamics between Jason, his mum brother. However, Jasons basic character doesnt quite tie with the character he is supposed to play within the criminal organisation. Jason seems to young and simple to be allowed to be involved in such high level meetings and activities. I was also confused by Jasons love interest, Lucy.... her behaviour and personality seemed so out of place within the story that I assumed that she would be part of the end 'reveal'.
However, overall it is an easy to read story with enough interest to keep the reader hooked - if there is a follow up to 'Down Among the Dead Men' I will read it as I know just what Kerry Wilkinson is capable of.
I have given the book 3 stars as, for me, there just felt like something was missing from the story - the story didnt flow as well as Wilkinsons other books. The main character, Jason, is likeable enough and the premise of the plot was well thought out and kept the reader guessing.
**This is where my review gets tricky as dont want to give any spoilers away!** However, the set up of the storyline and the development of suspense just didnt flow smoothly for me. In my mind there just wasnt enough reason for Jason to be as paranoid as he became... his feeling was totally justified by the climax of the book but the buildup was disjointed and not eventful enough. At one point the reader is not included within a key part of why Jason starts to be concerned and suspicious (a conversation with Natalie in the car) - subsequently Jasons descent into paranoia therefore feels false to the reader as it doesnt totally makes sense. So much so that I had to use my Kindle search facility several times just to check I hadnt accidentally missed out a chapter or two as that is what it feels like!
I liked the majority of the characters and I feel they were well developed especially the dynamics between Jason, his mum brother. However, Jasons basic character doesnt quite tie with the character he is supposed to play within the criminal organisation. Jason seems to young and simple to be allowed to be involved in such high level meetings and activities. I was also confused by Jasons love interest, Lucy.... her behaviour and personality seemed so out of place within the story that I assumed that she would be part of the end 'reveal'.
However, overall it is an easy to read story with enough interest to keep the reader hooked - if there is a follow up to 'Down Among the Dead Men' I will read it as I know just what Kerry Wilkinson is capable of.
ellie_94's review
4.0
I'd like to thank Kerry Wilkinson, the publisher and Netgalley, for a copy of 'Down among the Dead Men' in exchange for an honest review.
Kerry Wilkinsons DS Jessica Daniels series has been on my reading list for ages, the first one sat on my shelf just waiting to be read. I saw this stand alone novel on Netgalley and figured it was a good place to start before diving into a long series. I'm glad I did.
'Down among the Dead men' kept me interested from page one.
Jason is someone you instantly respond to, almost wanting to look out for him yourself. Although he plays the tough guy, he's really just a lost kid who doesn't even know the first thing about females.
Other characters are built up well too and through their parts in the story, you get an even bigger, sadder picture of Jason and the life he has had.
Although some parts were explained very well, others were left up to guess work ***Spoiler: like what was with his window opening? I guess someone was coming in? Or was it just to make him uncomfortable? Maybe I didn't catch on! And where was his mum getting her drink from?*** This said, I didn't see the ending coming at all. It actually made me smile to myself that I had been so magnificently fooled. It was a brilliant ending and has made me very excited to read other books by the author.
Kerry Wilkinsons DS Jessica Daniels series has been on my reading list for ages, the first one sat on my shelf just waiting to be read. I saw this stand alone novel on Netgalley and figured it was a good place to start before diving into a long series. I'm glad I did.
'Down among the Dead men' kept me interested from page one.
Jason is someone you instantly respond to, almost wanting to look out for him yourself. Although he plays the tough guy, he's really just a lost kid who doesn't even know the first thing about females.
Other characters are built up well too and through their parts in the story, you get an even bigger, sadder picture of Jason and the life he has had.
Although some parts were explained very well, others were left up to guess work ***Spoiler: like what was with his window opening? I guess someone was coming in? Or was it just to make him uncomfortable? Maybe I didn't catch on! And where was his mum getting her drink from?*** This said, I didn't see the ending coming at all. It actually made me smile to myself that I had been so magnificently fooled. It was a brilliant ending and has made me very excited to read other books by the author.