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Gareth Bell Thriller #2
Closer Than Blood
You would do anything for your family. Wouldn’t you?
The second explosive thriller in the PC Gareth Bell series. Perfect for fans of Peter James.
‘Writes with raw, engaging, authenticity’ Peter James
The real nightmare begins when the missing person returns…
PC Gareth Bell is about to arrest a cocaine dealer on Brighton Marina, when he makes a shocking discovery that turns his world upside down: the dealer is his long-lost brother, Jake, someone he thought had died years ago.
But their reunion is short lived. For Jake is on the run from a cold-blooded killer, whose network reaches all the way into the police force itself. Now that his brother’s life is on the line, Bell has only two choices. Family, or duty?
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2019
About the author
Paul Grzegorzek
12 books24 followersPaul is 36 years old and despite the surname hails from Sussex where he has lived all his life, having gone to school in the beautiful countryside town of Midhurst. He was born in Shoreham-by-Sea, within spitting distance of Brighton, a city he's called home since the mid 90's.
Over the last twelve years, Paul has worked as a soldier (part time only), a bouncer, a security officer and a police officer, not necessarily in that order. In a 6 year police career, Paul worked on the beat (on a mountain bike of all things), on response, then on LST, specializing in riot duties and working as a riot medic.
Paul then went on to join DIU (the divisional intelligence unit) and worked on undercover drug operations as well as dealing with vehicle crime for the city and anything else that caught his eye.
During his police career Paul was twice given bravery awards in the form of divisional congratulations.
Paul eventually left the police for a high-profile security job in the US which fell through, leaving him working freelance security in the UK.
He now works in the defence industry and occasionally gets time to write!
While in the police, Paul met Peter James and soon the two became firm friends, Paul helping Peter as an adviser on his Roy Grace series on novels.
Outside of work and writing, Paul has studied white crane kungfu for about a dozen years on and off, and lives in Brighton which he loves and hates with a passion. Wherever he goes in the city he is reminded of a job that he attended, a person he arrested or a crime scene he worked, which is why he writes about the place with such vigour and realism.
To see more of Paul's work including some of his police memoirs, check out his blog at http://diariesofamodernmadman.blogspo...
Over the last twelve years, Paul has worked as a soldier (part time only), a bouncer, a security officer and a police officer, not necessarily in that order. In a 6 year police career, Paul worked on the beat (on a mountain bike of all things), on response, then on LST, specializing in riot duties and working as a riot medic.
Paul then went on to join DIU (the divisional intelligence unit) and worked on undercover drug operations as well as dealing with vehicle crime for the city and anything else that caught his eye.
During his police career Paul was twice given bravery awards in the form of divisional congratulations.
Paul eventually left the police for a high-profile security job in the US which fell through, leaving him working freelance security in the UK.
He now works in the defence industry and occasionally gets time to write!
While in the police, Paul met Peter James and soon the two became firm friends, Paul helping Peter as an adviser on his Roy Grace series on novels.
Outside of work and writing, Paul has studied white crane kungfu for about a dozen years on and off, and lives in Brighton which he loves and hates with a passion. Wherever he goes in the city he is reminded of a job that he attended, a person he arrested or a crime scene he worked, which is why he writes about the place with such vigour and realism.
To see more of Paul's work including some of his police memoirs, check out his blog at http://diariesofamodernmadman.blogspo...
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 1, 2019
Closer Than Blood is the second book in the DS Gareth Bell series and what an action-packed and completely riveting tale this is right from the very beginning. This is one those books you will not be able to stop yourself tearing through. It's a gritty, gripping and fast-paced police procedural with twists and turns that leave you gobsmacked. The author writes with such authenticity which I am sure comes from his time as a police officer; it really gives the story an injection of reality. Brighton intelligence officer Gareth Bell is keeping tabs on a drug deal when he discovers, to his horror, that one of those involved in the illegal activity is his estranged brother Jake whom he hasn't seen for two decades. When he eventually gets to speak to his brother he informs Gareth that he is in fear for his life and on the run from a gang he stupidly stole from.
This is a high-octane, adrenaline-fuelled tale and Gareth is a straight-talking protagonist who is just on the correct side of likeable. There is quite a but of violence and profanity throughout, however, it was not gratuitous and fit extremely well with the story being told. As Gareth desperately tries to save Jake from his fate at the hands of the gang we follow him from one mini-investigation to the next trying to find the goods that were stolen and save the day. It is a completely addictive read and one of the best thrillers I have had the pleasure to pick up this year. If you are wondering if you need to have read the preceding book the answer is no; this book stands well on its own as the story is self-contained. Grzegorzek is back with a bang in a high tension, highly entertaining novel. Highly recommended. Many thanks to One More Chapter for an ARC.
This is a high-octane, adrenaline-fuelled tale and Gareth is a straight-talking protagonist who is just on the correct side of likeable. There is quite a but of violence and profanity throughout, however, it was not gratuitous and fit extremely well with the story being told. As Gareth desperately tries to save Jake from his fate at the hands of the gang we follow him from one mini-investigation to the next trying to find the goods that were stolen and save the day. It is a completely addictive read and one of the best thrillers I have had the pleasure to pick up this year. If you are wondering if you need to have read the preceding book the answer is no; this book stands well on its own as the story is self-contained. Grzegorzek is back with a bang in a high tension, highly entertaining novel. Highly recommended. Many thanks to One More Chapter for an ARC.
October 29, 2019
It was an action-filled, swift-paced, rip-roaring thriller of a book which felt more like a movie.
PC Gareth Bell was to arrest a cocaine dealer, and it turned out to be long lost, thought to be dead brother Jake. Gareth botched up the arrest, and he was reprimanded. Wanting to meet their dying father, Jake came home at the dead of the night and brought trouble along. He had stolen from the Russians, and they wanted their stuff back. Jake was in the air, and Gareth had 48 hours to find him. The race began...
My first book by author Paul Grzegorzek, and it was so much fun. Not a moment was spent in thinking about the why and how. I just wanted to be where Gareth was, in the middle of action. A lone warrior, he was larger than life and the driving force behind the book. I was in awe of the author's mind as he drew up the different strategies and the twists in them. Everything was linked so well in the end.
Paul's writing was lucid, gave me a clear imagery of the scenes. As I said earlier, just like a movie. Midway through the book, the stakes became higher, and I knew that nothing would stand in Gareth's way. He was a man on the hunt. I could almost hear the music playing in the background, rising in tempo as Gareth walked away, fists clenched and murder on his mind.
I enjoyed every line, every scene, every emotion that hit me in the book, from the adrenaline high of the action scenes to the lump in the throat when Gareth's father died. I enjoyed this book in toto, and reading the author's note at the end of the book made me respect the author more as he went about writing the book while mourning for his father. SIMPLY BRILLIANT!!
I got a rush while reading this book. I have got to say, sometimes action scenes can get very technical and lose my interest. But this book was extremely clear. JUST LIKE A MOVIE!!
As the hero tells himself
You, Gareth Bell, are a fucking shit magnet
Keep making more, I would love to read 'em all.
PC Gareth Bell was to arrest a cocaine dealer, and it turned out to be long lost, thought to be dead brother Jake. Gareth botched up the arrest, and he was reprimanded. Wanting to meet their dying father, Jake came home at the dead of the night and brought trouble along. He had stolen from the Russians, and they wanted their stuff back. Jake was in the air, and Gareth had 48 hours to find him. The race began...
My first book by author Paul Grzegorzek, and it was so much fun. Not a moment was spent in thinking about the why and how. I just wanted to be where Gareth was, in the middle of action. A lone warrior, he was larger than life and the driving force behind the book. I was in awe of the author's mind as he drew up the different strategies and the twists in them. Everything was linked so well in the end.
Paul's writing was lucid, gave me a clear imagery of the scenes. As I said earlier, just like a movie. Midway through the book, the stakes became higher, and I knew that nothing would stand in Gareth's way. He was a man on the hunt. I could almost hear the music playing in the background, rising in tempo as Gareth walked away, fists clenched and murder on his mind.
I enjoyed every line, every scene, every emotion that hit me in the book, from the adrenaline high of the action scenes to the lump in the throat when Gareth's father died. I enjoyed this book in toto, and reading the author's note at the end of the book made me respect the author more as he went about writing the book while mourning for his father. SIMPLY BRILLIANT!!
I got a rush while reading this book. I have got to say, sometimes action scenes can get very technical and lose my interest. But this book was extremely clear. JUST LIKE A MOVIE!!
As the hero tells himself
You, Gareth Bell, are a fucking shit magnet
Keep making more, I would love to read 'em all.
August 7, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for an advance copy of Closer than Blood, the second novel to feature Brighton Intelligence Officer DS Gareth Bell.
Bell is monitoring a drug deal when he realises that one of the participants is his brother Jake whom he hasn’t seen for twenty years. When he finally catches up with him Jake tells him that he is on the run from a gang who won’t hesitate to kill him because he has stolen from them.
I enjoyed Closer than Blood which is a high octane, action packed read with some good twists. It is told in the first person from Gareth Bell’s point of view so the reader gets up close and personal with his decision making and feelings. He has a raw, honest voice which is admirable but, personally, I don’t really take to him so would have preferred a third person take on events.
The plot is violent with a fair amount of bad language which may not suit all readers but seems appropriate to the situation. It is addictive as Bell runs from one encounter to the next, following every avenue he can think of to save Jake and find the mysterious stolen goods. Basically the novel is a series of fight scenes but it hangs together well with its sense of urgency, the mystery of the stolen goods and the twists which add piquancy.
Obviously with the first person narrative and the personal nature of the crime the novel hangs on Gareth Bell. As I said I don’t find him particularly likeable, in fact I think he’s an idiot (or more exactly a word beginning with d) so his poor decision making and belief that he’s the only one able to get a result can be annoying. On the other hand his grief over his dying father is heartfelt and extremely moving.
Closer than Blood is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Bell is monitoring a drug deal when he realises that one of the participants is his brother Jake whom he hasn’t seen for twenty years. When he finally catches up with him Jake tells him that he is on the run from a gang who won’t hesitate to kill him because he has stolen from them.
I enjoyed Closer than Blood which is a high octane, action packed read with some good twists. It is told in the first person from Gareth Bell’s point of view so the reader gets up close and personal with his decision making and feelings. He has a raw, honest voice which is admirable but, personally, I don’t really take to him so would have preferred a third person take on events.
The plot is violent with a fair amount of bad language which may not suit all readers but seems appropriate to the situation. It is addictive as Bell runs from one encounter to the next, following every avenue he can think of to save Jake and find the mysterious stolen goods. Basically the novel is a series of fight scenes but it hangs together well with its sense of urgency, the mystery of the stolen goods and the twists which add piquancy.
Obviously with the first person narrative and the personal nature of the crime the novel hangs on Gareth Bell. As I said I don’t find him particularly likeable, in fact I think he’s an idiot (or more exactly a word beginning with d) so his poor decision making and belief that he’s the only one able to get a result can be annoying. On the other hand his grief over his dying father is heartfelt and extremely moving.
Closer than Blood is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 6, 2019
Sergeant Gareth Bell and his colleagues are part of a team hot on the heels of a drug dealer on his way to meet a contact. Much to his shock and disbelief, it was Jake, the brother who he hadn’t seen for years, meeting the dealer.
Jake had disappeared years ago. Gareth and his father believed he must have been dead from a drug overdose, but it seems he’s on the run from a vicious gang who won’t think twice about killing him. Jake escapes taking the evidence with him, Gareth giving chase until Jake is boxed in. Determined not to be taken by the police Jake takes the only other option open to him, diving twenty metres into the sea.
Told in the first person from Gareth’s perspective, the narrative lets the reader experience his thoughts and emotions as he goes all out to find his brother. Maybe I missed out not having read the first book, but initially I didn’t particularly take to Gareth—he seemed to go his own way regardless of orders or his team…an act first and think later character who loves a fight, but the fall out is that his decisions just lead him into more dangerous situations, not to mention trouble with his superiors. He says it as he sees it and is hot-headed but his heart is in the right place.
The action is non stop with a fair slice of violence and bad language. Gareth is dealing with a lot of stuff, including his father’s terminal illness and eventual passing—the scenes between the two of them are poignant and written with genuine feeling (after reading the author’s note at the end, I understand why). He really wants to save his brother and make good on his promise to his dad, which did make me begin to see him in a slightly different light.
The plot is fast paced with several unexpected twists that drove the story forward…that and the descriptive writing kept me turning the pages.
Jake had disappeared years ago. Gareth and his father believed he must have been dead from a drug overdose, but it seems he’s on the run from a vicious gang who won’t think twice about killing him. Jake escapes taking the evidence with him, Gareth giving chase until Jake is boxed in. Determined not to be taken by the police Jake takes the only other option open to him, diving twenty metres into the sea.
Told in the first person from Gareth’s perspective, the narrative lets the reader experience his thoughts and emotions as he goes all out to find his brother. Maybe I missed out not having read the first book, but initially I didn’t particularly take to Gareth—he seemed to go his own way regardless of orders or his team…an act first and think later character who loves a fight, but the fall out is that his decisions just lead him into more dangerous situations, not to mention trouble with his superiors. He says it as he sees it and is hot-headed but his heart is in the right place.
The action is non stop with a fair slice of violence and bad language. Gareth is dealing with a lot of stuff, including his father’s terminal illness and eventual passing—the scenes between the two of them are poignant and written with genuine feeling (after reading the author’s note at the end, I understand why). He really wants to save his brother and make good on his promise to his dad, which did make me begin to see him in a slightly different light.
The plot is fast paced with several unexpected twists that drove the story forward…that and the descriptive writing kept me turning the pages.
October 31, 2019
Sergeant Gareth Bell is on a surveillance operation, they are watching a drug deal taking place hoping to catch them as the transaction takes place. But, he recognises the drug dealer, as his brother ! All hell breaks out then and ends with his brother, Jake, jumping into the sea.
He finally catches up with him and finds out he has stolen something from the Russians and they now want him dead. Can Gareth save his brother?
This is an incredible, action packed thriller, all set in Brighton. Told from Gareth’s perspective, it gives insight into his character. He’s short tempered, prone to act first and think later, but he is also dealing with a broken marriage and his father’s ill health. It feels personal, a journey through just about every emotion while trying to do what’s right.
A well written, gritty, gripping and emotion packed thriller, with plenty of surprises to make this a real page turner. I can thoroughly recommend it.
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour, for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
He finally catches up with him and finds out he has stolen something from the Russians and they now want him dead. Can Gareth save his brother?
This is an incredible, action packed thriller, all set in Brighton. Told from Gareth’s perspective, it gives insight into his character. He’s short tempered, prone to act first and think later, but he is also dealing with a broken marriage and his father’s ill health. It feels personal, a journey through just about every emotion while trying to do what’s right.
A well written, gritty, gripping and emotion packed thriller, with plenty of surprises to make this a real page turner. I can thoroughly recommend it.
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour, for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
November 3, 2019
Meet Gareth Bell, the hard policeman protecting Brighton. He’s a man with plenty of emotional baggage but he keeps it to himself. Bell is a man who can talk with words or with his fists. But his heart is in the right place, press the wrong button and he’ll be gunning for you!!
I found Closer Than Blood an addictive reading, I got wrapped up in the events facing Bell. I was holding my breath as Bell….oh wait I don’t want to spoil it!!!! Closer Than Blood is a violent book but not gruesome, more brutal with wince points. Saying this, none of the violence or brutality stood out as unnecessary, Grzegorzek has created a backdrop and storyline that suits this level of physicality.
I need to go back and read The Follow, not that I felt I was missing part of the story but more so I can get another fix of this hard man of Brighton!! Grzegorzek has written no ordinary police procedural. Closer Than Blood is a dark and action packed tale that took me into the murky underworld of Brighton and beyond…..I loved it!!!
I found Closer Than Blood an addictive reading, I got wrapped up in the events facing Bell. I was holding my breath as Bell….oh wait I don’t want to spoil it!!!! Closer Than Blood is a violent book but not gruesome, more brutal with wince points. Saying this, none of the violence or brutality stood out as unnecessary, Grzegorzek has created a backdrop and storyline that suits this level of physicality.
I need to go back and read The Follow, not that I felt I was missing part of the story but more so I can get another fix of this hard man of Brighton!! Grzegorzek has written no ordinary police procedural. Closer Than Blood is a dark and action packed tale that took me into the murky underworld of Brighton and beyond…..I loved it!!!
July 30, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Impulse & Killer Reads for the eARC.
This is the second in the PC Gareth Bell series. I didn't read the first one, so my review may be based on the lack of a background story.
On Brighton Marina, Bell is about to arrest a drug dealer, when he realizes, to his absolute horror and shock, that it's his brother...supposedly dead from a years ago drug overdose! The brother escapes and Bell has to tell his dying father the news. His father begs Bell to find him and protect him from the vicious drug thugs who are after him. Not an easy task!
In my opinion, there was too much police procedure and Bell is an o.k. character, but nothing different or special. I did enjoy the Brighton setting. All in all, I mildly enjoyed this read, but am not sure if I would read another in the series.
This is the second in the PC Gareth Bell series. I didn't read the first one, so my review may be based on the lack of a background story.
On Brighton Marina, Bell is about to arrest a drug dealer, when he realizes, to his absolute horror and shock, that it's his brother...supposedly dead from a years ago drug overdose! The brother escapes and Bell has to tell his dying father the news. His father begs Bell to find him and protect him from the vicious drug thugs who are after him. Not an easy task!
In my opinion, there was too much police procedure and Bell is an o.k. character, but nothing different or special. I did enjoy the Brighton setting. All in all, I mildly enjoyed this read, but am not sure if I would read another in the series.
January 9, 2020
Dammit. This guy can write. He had me in tears in the first 25 pages, and again, twice, at the end. Beautiful work. Gripping, engaging, and almost literally unputdownable. Thank you.
November 3, 2019
I have a small confession to make. Although I have the first book in the PC Gareth Bell series called 'The Follow', I haven't actually read it yet. What a mistake to make. I had heard lots of good things about Paul's work from other bloggers so I knew that I would be in for a treat when I finally did read one of Paul's books. When I was invited to take place in the blog tour for 'Closer Than Blood', I thought that I would be able to kill two birds with one stone in that I would be able to take part in the blog tour and secondly I would finally get to read one of Paul's books. I vastly underestimated just how much of a treat 'Closer Than Blood' was going to be. I absolutely LOVED reading 'Closer Than Blood' but more about that in a bit.
I have to say that I took to PC Gareth Bell from the start and that I even developed something of a soft spot for him. Trouble seems to follow him around. He is assisting in a drug bust but it all goes wrong when he realises that one of the 'dealers' just happens to be his brother, who went missing and hasn't been heard or seen for many years. Bell forgets what he is supposed to be doing and tries to find out just where his brother has been all these years. Bell's brother is on the run from some pretty shady characters. Bell gets a bit of a rollicking for the failure of the operation. Bell has poop flying at him from all directions both from his professional and his personal life. His father suffers from pancreatic cancer and he is receiving end of life care in a hospice. I can't even begin to imagine the sort of strain that Bell must be under with the impending death of his father, the reappearance of his criminal brother, the fact that his work life isn't going to plan and there are some pretty nasty gangsters running around after the brother. I found Bell to be a caring and compassionate individual, with a sensitive nature but he is also very brave and he can be a hard nut when he has to be.
I have to say that 'Closer Than Blood' was a bit of a difficult read for me. I don't mean that to sound like a criticism of the author. About six months ago, we lost a very good friend to pancreatic cancer and we are still grieving his loss. To cut a long story short, our family friend was badly let down by the medical profession. He was diagnosed as having kidney stones or gallstones but by the time the real cause of his agonising pain was discovered, it was too late as his body was riddled with cancer. I later discovered that pancreatic cancer is known as the silent killer because by the time the disease is diagnosed, it's too late. I hope you can appreciate the difficulty I had in reading in. Anyway enough of the explanation and back to the review.
It didn't take me long at all to get into this story and reading the book soon became an addiction. I couldn't bear to be parted from 'Closer Than Blood' and it travelled everywhere with me. When I realised just how blinking good this book was, then I decided that I wouldn't be moving very far or doing anything other then reading the book. I tried to ration how much I read in one spell because I wanted to prolong my enjoyment of the book but that attempt at rationing failed because I was enjoying the book so much that I literally couldn't stop reading. I read the book over the course of a day. Normally I find it hard to concentrate and I am easily distracted but not in this case. Whilst reading this book I was in my own little bubble and I was able to shut out all other distractions.
'Closer Than Blood' is superbly written. In fact I was blown away by the quality of the writing and by the quality of the storylines. The author certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and he draws you into the story. Once the author has your attention he will not release it until after you have read the last word on the last page. Paul writes so realistically and uses such vivid descriptions that I really did feel as though I was an extra character in the book and that I was part of the story myself. The story is made all the more authentic by the fact that the author himself was, himself, a police officer.
Reading 'Closer Than Blood' really did feel as though I was on one hell of a fast paced, scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a 'Snakes & Ladders' board. Just when you thought that you could reclaim your stomach and gather your thoughts, then off the action would go again. If you want a read that will leave you gripped and on the edge of your seat throughout then 'Closer Than Blood' is the book for you.
In short, 'Closer Than Blood' is one hell of a read, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Now I realise how fantastic an author Paul is, I can guarantee that I will be reading more of his work in the future, starting with 'The Follow'. I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I have to say that I took to PC Gareth Bell from the start and that I even developed something of a soft spot for him. Trouble seems to follow him around. He is assisting in a drug bust but it all goes wrong when he realises that one of the 'dealers' just happens to be his brother, who went missing and hasn't been heard or seen for many years. Bell forgets what he is supposed to be doing and tries to find out just where his brother has been all these years. Bell's brother is on the run from some pretty shady characters. Bell gets a bit of a rollicking for the failure of the operation. Bell has poop flying at him from all directions both from his professional and his personal life. His father suffers from pancreatic cancer and he is receiving end of life care in a hospice. I can't even begin to imagine the sort of strain that Bell must be under with the impending death of his father, the reappearance of his criminal brother, the fact that his work life isn't going to plan and there are some pretty nasty gangsters running around after the brother. I found Bell to be a caring and compassionate individual, with a sensitive nature but he is also very brave and he can be a hard nut when he has to be.
I have to say that 'Closer Than Blood' was a bit of a difficult read for me. I don't mean that to sound like a criticism of the author. About six months ago, we lost a very good friend to pancreatic cancer and we are still grieving his loss. To cut a long story short, our family friend was badly let down by the medical profession. He was diagnosed as having kidney stones or gallstones but by the time the real cause of his agonising pain was discovered, it was too late as his body was riddled with cancer. I later discovered that pancreatic cancer is known as the silent killer because by the time the disease is diagnosed, it's too late. I hope you can appreciate the difficulty I had in reading in. Anyway enough of the explanation and back to the review.
It didn't take me long at all to get into this story and reading the book soon became an addiction. I couldn't bear to be parted from 'Closer Than Blood' and it travelled everywhere with me. When I realised just how blinking good this book was, then I decided that I wouldn't be moving very far or doing anything other then reading the book. I tried to ration how much I read in one spell because I wanted to prolong my enjoyment of the book but that attempt at rationing failed because I was enjoying the book so much that I literally couldn't stop reading. I read the book over the course of a day. Normally I find it hard to concentrate and I am easily distracted but not in this case. Whilst reading this book I was in my own little bubble and I was able to shut out all other distractions.
'Closer Than Blood' is superbly written. In fact I was blown away by the quality of the writing and by the quality of the storylines. The author certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and he draws you into the story. Once the author has your attention he will not release it until after you have read the last word on the last page. Paul writes so realistically and uses such vivid descriptions that I really did feel as though I was an extra character in the book and that I was part of the story myself. The story is made all the more authentic by the fact that the author himself was, himself, a police officer.
Reading 'Closer Than Blood' really did feel as though I was on one hell of a fast paced, scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a 'Snakes & Ladders' board. Just when you thought that you could reclaim your stomach and gather your thoughts, then off the action would go again. If you want a read that will leave you gripped and on the edge of your seat throughout then 'Closer Than Blood' is the book for you.
In short, 'Closer Than Blood' is one hell of a read, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Now I realise how fantastic an author Paul is, I can guarantee that I will be reading more of his work in the future, starting with 'The Follow'. I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
November 2, 2019
Paul Grzegorzek is a writer who writes with real authenticity. Having spent several years in the police force himself, you know that you are safely in the hands of a writer who knows his stuff.
Closer Than Blood is a real page-turner and a thrill a minute. In the second book in his PC Gareth Bell series, Paul takes us deep into Brighton’s murky underworld and the latest case that Gareth finds himself wrapped up in may pose a critical threat to national security. He knows that this particular case certainly isn’t going to be an easy ride, and there is a real sense of imminent danger.
I recently read the first book in this series, The Follow and there was something about PC Gareth Bell that made both of these books feel so fresh. He is a police officer who doesn’t always abide by the law, sometimes he will disobey orders from his superiors, but he will only do this with good reason to and with getting justice as the ultimate aim. And this is something that I really liked about him. He is never predictable.
The case Gareth is investigating hits far too close to home for his liking. For many years his family suspected that his brother, Jake was dead, but to Gareth’s utter bewilderment he discovers he is alive and in a hell of a lot of trouble. And his brother’s problems are about to land on his doorstep when some seriously nasty people start threatening Gareth and the people he loves. What exactly has his brother got himself involved in? How are any of them going to make it out of this alive?
After reading the opening chapters, I was desperate to know who it was that Gareth’s brother had upset so badly and what he had done to deserve this. I was hooked straight away. When it is revealed that Jake had stolen something from the people who are trying to kill him, I flew through the book to find out what it was.
If you are looking for a crime novel that is pacy and filled with thrills from the get-go, then I would definitely recommend Closer Than Blood. The storyline is gritty and will have you totally invested in the plot and the characters. I can’t recommend this book and this series highly enough.
I can’t wait to read more from Paul Grzegorzek!
Closer Than Blood is a real page-turner and a thrill a minute. In the second book in his PC Gareth Bell series, Paul takes us deep into Brighton’s murky underworld and the latest case that Gareth finds himself wrapped up in may pose a critical threat to national security. He knows that this particular case certainly isn’t going to be an easy ride, and there is a real sense of imminent danger.
I recently read the first book in this series, The Follow and there was something about PC Gareth Bell that made both of these books feel so fresh. He is a police officer who doesn’t always abide by the law, sometimes he will disobey orders from his superiors, but he will only do this with good reason to and with getting justice as the ultimate aim. And this is something that I really liked about him. He is never predictable.
The case Gareth is investigating hits far too close to home for his liking. For many years his family suspected that his brother, Jake was dead, but to Gareth’s utter bewilderment he discovers he is alive and in a hell of a lot of trouble. And his brother’s problems are about to land on his doorstep when some seriously nasty people start threatening Gareth and the people he loves. What exactly has his brother got himself involved in? How are any of them going to make it out of this alive?
After reading the opening chapters, I was desperate to know who it was that Gareth’s brother had upset so badly and what he had done to deserve this. I was hooked straight away. When it is revealed that Jake had stolen something from the people who are trying to kill him, I flew through the book to find out what it was.
If you are looking for a crime novel that is pacy and filled with thrills from the get-go, then I would definitely recommend Closer Than Blood. The storyline is gritty and will have you totally invested in the plot and the characters. I can’t recommend this book and this series highly enough.
I can’t wait to read more from Paul Grzegorzek!
November 6, 2019
Closer Than Blood by Paul Grzegorzek
PC Gareth Bell Thriller #2
What would you do for family? PC Gareth Bell has to face this question as he deals with a situation that puts his family in a precarious life threatening situation. Will he call to his brothers in arms or go it alone to try and keep his father, brother and ex-wife safe? And, will his decision be the correct one or not?
What I liked:
* Gareth: a strong man, policeman and friend. He has suffered and changed a great deal over a choice he made ten years before. I liked him as a person and was rooting for him as he worked his way through the case
* Gareth’s father: he might be dealing with cancer but he seemed a good man able to raise a good son
* Sally: Gareth’s ex-wife, stalwart and wise...would like to get to know her more in the future.
* The fact that the bad guys were not one diimensional
* The police wo/men that Gareth worked with
* The twist at the end
What I did not like:
* The powerful doing the dastardly things they did
* The regrettable loss of life that might have been prevented
* The people meant to be disliked…
I found this to be a story I became invested in. I was hoping that it would all come out right but wasn’t sure all of the people I wanted to remain alive actually would. I have not read anything by this author before but would definitely like to read more of his work in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and BOTBS Publicity for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
PC Gareth Bell Thriller #2
What would you do for family? PC Gareth Bell has to face this question as he deals with a situation that puts his family in a precarious life threatening situation. Will he call to his brothers in arms or go it alone to try and keep his father, brother and ex-wife safe? And, will his decision be the correct one or not?
What I liked:
* Gareth: a strong man, policeman and friend. He has suffered and changed a great deal over a choice he made ten years before. I liked him as a person and was rooting for him as he worked his way through the case
* Gareth’s father: he might be dealing with cancer but he seemed a good man able to raise a good son
* Sally: Gareth’s ex-wife, stalwart and wise...would like to get to know her more in the future.
* The fact that the bad guys were not one diimensional
* The police wo/men that Gareth worked with
* The twist at the end
What I did not like:
* The powerful doing the dastardly things they did
* The regrettable loss of life that might have been prevented
* The people meant to be disliked…
I found this to be a story I became invested in. I was hoping that it would all come out right but wasn’t sure all of the people I wanted to remain alive actually would. I have not read anything by this author before but would definitely like to read more of his work in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and BOTBS Publicity for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
December 2, 2019
Paul Grzegorzek has crafted a brilliant, action-packed novel that I didn’t want to finish. Why is it over? I need more! You will too after you read Closer Than Blood.
The author’s writing style is fantastic. Every twist and turn was unexpected and linked up so well in the end. It was a suspenseful, emotional thriller that made me happy I chose to read this one.
I love the characters. Especially, our main character, Gareth Bell. He was a very integral part of the story. Without this character, the book would not have been as fantastic as it is.
I was able to see everything clearly, I was never lost, and I wasn’t able to guess how all the twists would come together. I’d call that a successful novel. Highly recommended!
*I recieved a complimentary copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Book On The Bright Side. All opinions are my own.*
The author’s writing style is fantastic. Every twist and turn was unexpected and linked up so well in the end. It was a suspenseful, emotional thriller that made me happy I chose to read this one.
I love the characters. Especially, our main character, Gareth Bell. He was a very integral part of the story. Without this character, the book would not have been as fantastic as it is.
I was able to see everything clearly, I was never lost, and I wasn’t able to guess how all the twists would come together. I’d call that a successful novel. Highly recommended!
*I recieved a complimentary copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Book On The Bright Side. All opinions are my own.*
November 17, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Paul Grzegorzek, his being The Follow. This can easily be read as a standalone and I will be definitely reading The Follow.
Set in Brighton, the book is told from the perspective of PC Gareth Bell who is on a drugs raids when he comes across his brother. Many believed him to be dead so Bell is put in a comprising position. He finally learns the truth about Jake, who is on the run from a gang who will kill him.
This is a fast paced thriller that keeps you turning the pages as Bell struggles to choose between family and his job. There is also more heartbreak for him as he struggles with a big loss.
An excellent read.
Set in Brighton, the book is told from the perspective of PC Gareth Bell who is on a drugs raids when he comes across his brother. Many believed him to be dead so Bell is put in a comprising position. He finally learns the truth about Jake, who is on the run from a gang who will kill him.
This is a fast paced thriller that keeps you turning the pages as Bell struggles to choose between family and his job. There is also more heartbreak for him as he struggles with a big loss.
An excellent read.
August 11, 2019
This is the first book that i have read by Paul Grzegorzek and am beginning to wonder why i haven't come across his books before. A great story, which is based around the area that i live. I shall look forward to reading more by this author. Recommended.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy. This is my honest review, which i have freely given.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy. This is my honest review, which i have freely given.
June 29, 2020
This is what happens when a copper thinks he can be an author. Cliches galore, wooden dialogue and one of the worst books I've ever had the misfortune to pick up. He needs to stick to his day job. He also needs to find a decent editor who knows that plurals don't require an apostrophe. Head's? Unit's? Utter rubbish I'm afraid and not worth your time, dear reader.
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December 15, 2019Please see blog for [K]'s review: https://thepturnersbookblog.wordpress...
April 23, 2020
Excellent writing and very exciting
The story was fast flowing and easy to follow. Very well written and not confusing! Not too much swearing or sex which is good! Great characters and a good twist at the end.
The story was fast flowing and easy to follow. Very well written and not confusing! Not too much swearing or sex which is good! Great characters and a good twist at the end.
July 26, 2019
I got this as a arc e book for my i pad from net galley. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. I hope to read more books by this author.
March 21, 2024
Totally unrealistic but a good book to escape into
December 2, 2019
PC Gareth Bell is on a job when he discovers that one of the people he is about to arrest is his brother, Jake, who disappeared 10 years ago and was assumed dead. Unfortunately there is no time for a brotherly catch up as Jake is on the run not just from the law but from some very dangerous people who have a very far reach. Can he save his brother and do his duty? Or will he have to sacrifice one for the other?
When I picked this book up I wasn’t sure what to expect, but found I could not put it down! Each time I tried to take a break (tea, bedtime) it dragged me back into the fold. I really felt for Gareth, just as he was progressing with one thing, something else cropped up that needed attention. The characters were well described that I felt a familiarity with them. I felt the highs and lows with them to the point I had tears in my eyes at certain parts.
This was the first book by Paul Greg I have picked up and will definitely not be the last. I found this a really fast paced thriller that I could not stop reading!
When I picked this book up I wasn’t sure what to expect, but found I could not put it down! Each time I tried to take a break (tea, bedtime) it dragged me back into the fold. I really felt for Gareth, just as he was progressing with one thing, something else cropped up that needed attention. The characters were well described that I felt a familiarity with them. I felt the highs and lows with them to the point I had tears in my eyes at certain parts.
This was the first book by Paul Greg I have picked up and will definitely not be the last. I found this a really fast paced thriller that I could not stop reading!
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