Even the safest sanctuaries can hide the darkest secrets…
What did I think?
Well, well, well! I made an arse of myself at Harrogate gushing to the author about how much I enjoyed this book, so now I’m putting it in writing. Gather round as I gush some more about Victoria Goldman’s latest offering in the Shanna Regan series, “The Associate.” I thought I was ready. I thought I knew what to expect. But, OH MY DAYS! This book took my expectations, laughed at them, and then proceeded to smash them into smithereens.
No second book syndrome here… The Associate was just as good, if not better than the author’s debut The Redeemer.
Set in the East London/Emberley Green, the author gives us an intricate, visceral view of racism/hate crimes, missing persons and a search for the truth. Each alleyway, building, and the local surroundings felt alive, adding a layer of complexity and realism to the story. It is in this atmospheric setting that the main character, Shanna Regan, navigates her way through a labyrinth of secrets, lies, and terrifying revelations.
The plot is nothing short of a roller coaster ride. From the moment you start reading, it’s like stepping into a whirlwind. Twists? Check. Turns? Double check. The pacing is electric, keeping you on the edge of your seat, with short, sharp chapters. The tension is as thick as fog, and just as impossible to work your way through without losing your bearings.
And then there is freelance journalist, Shanna Regan. Strong, flawed, brilliant Shanna. I could write a book about her… but I’ll leave that to Victoria. Shanna is the epitome of a three-dimensional character, with a strength that is matched only by her vulnerability. She is fearless, yet introspective. Clever, yet occasionally obtuse. She makes you root for her, scream at her, and question her – sometimes all within a single page. The growth she has shown from The Redeemer to now is tremendous, and a testament to Goldman’s skill as a writer.
But the author doesn’t stop there. She populates Shanna’s world with a diverse cast of supporting characters that are just as compelling. Each character has their own motivations, secrets, and quirks that add to the layered narrative. BRILLIANT!
“The Associate” is the kind of book that keeps you guessing and I struggled to put it down.
So would I recommend this read? Absofrigginlutely, I would! It is a tense, insightful, emotionally-draining ride that you’ll be only too happy to take.
To Victoria Goldman, I say: take a bow. To everyone else, I say: Buy. This. Book. NOW! You won’t regret it.
Is it too early to start begging for the next book? Because I am already suffering from withdrawal!
