THE DOMINO MAN by Helen Jones

5* Well-written, well-researched and utterly engrossing, even without Anna's past. And WOW, this is a debut novel. 

I'm not sure what else I can say about the tale other than my title. I'm impressed. Seriously impressed and yes, I went checking for a website and other books but it looks like there'll be a bit of a wait for book 2, given that this one's not out until January 27. This book reads like a seasoned author's work.

All the characters are great, and each has a role, with no one being 'carried'. There's a depth of knowledge and expertise and experience in the team, as well as a range of ages. The research, deducing, skills, instincts and Anna's 'superpower' make for an excellent, cohesive, gripping and satisfying tale.

I'm not sure where Anna's back story will go, as as the tale ends, something a bit worrying is happening. Harry is that villain - the coercive, abusive, manipulative former charmer, but Anna's eyes are open wide. That she opened her eyes and made her escape, shows the strength of her character that he tried to break. I suspect there'll be therapy and family reunions in book 2. I think it's far, far, far too early for a new romance for her, but I suspect a new friendship might one day turn to more, despite the indirect "the 'lord' doth protest too much". Can't wait for book 2.

ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Simon and Schuster UK for my reading pleasure. 



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