When I was lucky enough to receive an early proof of Tony Kent’s The Shadow Network, expectations were naturally sky-high, given his track record for gripping thrillers. And boy, does he deliver!
From the moment I recognised a name in the opening line (I’m looking at you, Kon! 😉😂)I knew I was in for a treat. The author, true to form, presents another OMFG opening. He has an unparalleled knack for reeling you in gently, and then BOOM – you’re hooked. By the end of the first chapter, it was clear this was going to be a one-sitting read.
Set across two locations, The Shadow Network weaves a tale rich in themes of found family, betrayal, secrets, and mistrust. These elements to me, are the backbone of the story, infusing it with emotional depth and complexity.
The story kicks off with a series of shootings in The Hague, a startling event that brings together Dempsey and Devlin…OK, it was a Christening that initially reunites them, but I knew that wasn’t the main storyline. 😉
The action is intense and immediate, plunging me into the thick of things from the get-go. The author is brilliant at crafting action scenes; they are so vividly described I felt like I was there, experiencing the adrenaline and urgency firsthand.
Tony Kent used multiple perspectives which gave me real insight into what was happening, and his ability to end chapters on a fantastic hook, kept me turning those pages!
The story is rife with conflict, conspiracy, and corruption, the man knows how to write a great thriller! He threw in a few red herrings to keep me guessing, and really added to the suspense.
As for Dempsey and Devlin, their dynamic is as compelling as ever. Their interactions are a highlight of the book, marked by sharp dialogue and a chemistry that leaps off the page. It was pure heaven to catch up with these characters, and I hope it isn’t too long before they are back!
Would I recommend TheShadow Network? That’s a no brainer – Absofrigginlutely YES! If you love action-packed, thrilling reads – add this to your TBR stat!