BRIEF
Abraham Khan, a Muslim author, has written a book that slams radical Islam, making him the target of extremists. After a failed attempt on his life, Maya Rains and her specialist team are assigned to protect Abraham and his wife. But Abraham, to his wife’s fear, is determined to plough ahead with his planned book tour. Can Maya – strong-minded and fair, change his mind? How will Abraham deal with his dilemma? Will he relent? When the riots begin and people start dying … (sorry, no spoilers from me).
MY THOUGHTS
This is impressive – both story and writing style, which is taut and punchy, perfect for a pacey political thriller. Not being a political thriller fan, the availability of free excerpts or chapters to tease and stimulate, can easily sign one up.
I must say, I had a hard time picturing the above events unfolding in our small, peaceful haven called New Zealand. But it is fiction, and I eventually got over it or rather, absorbed by the characters, its pacey plot and compelling nature. Plus, I was keen to garner some insight into the Muslim world, which I did, and Ling delivers, without being preachy. His female characters are a huge drawcard, namely Diedre and Maya, a mother-daughter team who work together professionally, not always in a friendly manner, yet both are immediately likable, strong and committed women.
If I may, there was one slight drawback for me – I thought the ending was too quick, from the action-packed siege onwards. There is a sequel coming though, and perhaps that will make up for the shortfall. Speaking of endings, I was pleasantly surprised to find a few supplements like ‘extras’ or little ‘treats’, especially the two excerpts. What a fabulous idea, and a reflection of the writer’s knowledge, enthusiasm and passion. I was drawn to the first excerpt and wanted more!
RATING
Highly recommend The Blasphemer, and John Ling, is an author to watch for.
PURCHASE & LINKS
At present it’s sold through Amazon as an e-book, where you can find a host of excellent reviews. For further information, clickety-click here to link to the author’s website and blog.
I’m glad you enjoyed the story, Joanne. =)
I like to think of The Blasphemer as a cautionary tale. In recent years, small peaceful havens like Sweden, Denmark and Norway have experienced an upsurge in terrorism and fascism. It’s something that’s left the citizens in those countries wondering, ‘Good God. How on earth could this ever happen *here*?’
New Zealand has a lot in common with those Scandinavian countries — it’s open, accessible and trusting. But we must never take these positive traits for granted. They are hard-fought and hard-won, and as Kiwis, we have to be mindful of that. =)
I enjoyed it very much. A page-turner!
Yes, I think a cautionary tale sums it up perfectly.
And, oh, I’m looking to turn The Blasphemer into a paperback shortly. Especially for readers who want a collectible keepsake. =)
Sounds like the next best thing!
I had firmly told myself: “No putting books on TBR list until I’ve read the mountain of books waiting for me on my shelves.” But …..
I’ll just write it in very small letters
Sounds interesting, even though I don’t usually read political thrillers. It’s always good to read a book set in good old NZ.
As you know I have eclectic taste. I’m open to most fiction these days.
Haha! Love the ‘very small letters’! Yes, set in NZ and thought-provoking. Try ‘big letters’.
Hi JT. =) Drop me a line at johnling83(at)gmail(dot)com, and I’ll be happy to send you a copy in MOBI, EPUB or PDF. Cheers.