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A review by natashaw
Down Among the Dead Men by Kerry Wilkinson
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.