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Ruby Darke #2
Lawless
From bestselling author Jessie Keane comes Lawless, the heart-racing sequel to Nameless.
Only the lawless will survive . . .
It is 1975 and Ruby Darke is struggling to deal with the brutal murder of her lover, Michael Ward. As her children, Daisy and Kit, battle their own demons, her retail empire starts to crumble.
Meanwhile, after the revenge killing of Tito Danieri, Kit is the lowest he's ever been. But soon doubt is thrown over whether Kit killed the right person, and now the Danieris are out for his blood and the blood of the entire Darke family.
As the bodies pile up, the chase is on - can the Darkes resolve their own family conflicts and find Michael Ward's true killer before the vengeful Danieris kill them? Or will they take the law into their own hands . . .
Only the lawless will survive . . .
It is 1975 and Ruby Darke is struggling to deal with the brutal murder of her lover, Michael Ward. As her children, Daisy and Kit, battle their own demons, her retail empire starts to crumble.
Meanwhile, after the revenge killing of Tito Danieri, Kit is the lowest he's ever been. But soon doubt is thrown over whether Kit killed the right person, and now the Danieris are out for his blood and the blood of the entire Darke family.
As the bodies pile up, the chase is on - can the Darkes resolve their own family conflicts and find Michael Ward's true killer before the vengeful Danieris kill them? Or will they take the law into their own hands . . .
- GenresCrime
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 17, 2014
122 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
About the author
Jessie Keane
45 books388 followersNow what about me? I’ve done a lot of writing, but way back before I even dreamed I could be a professional writer I was just the youngest in a big family. My Dad was a surveyor with an edge of brilliance. My Mum was from gipsy roots and used to drive around in a goat-cart (yes, really!) when she was little. Once we were rich (although I didn’t know it then, and it was all thanks to my Dad’s ingenuity) and then suddenly – pretty shockingly, really – we were poor (thanks to greedy people who exploited his kindness). I have to tell you, rich is better. But the great thing about life is, even painful events pass, and if you make bad choices, hopefully you learn from them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 18, 2018
For fans of this genre and authors like Jessie Keane (Kimberley Chambers, Martina Cole etc) this book and for that matter series, will be an absolute MUST!!!
It's completely awesome from start to end, really gritty, gripping listening or reading.
For those of us that do crime and thrillers on Audible (I'd rather read contemporary romances than listen to them!) then the 14 hours of narration that this book gave us, have been a perfect pleasure to have had - Karen Cass is fantastic, she totally brought Jessie's words to life again.
I really hope that there's a book 3 out soon!
It's completely awesome from start to end, really gritty, gripping listening or reading.
For those of us that do crime and thrillers on Audible (I'd rather read contemporary romances than listen to them!) then the 14 hours of narration that this book gave us, have been a perfect pleasure to have had - Karen Cass is fantastic, she totally brought Jessie's words to life again.
I really hope that there's a book 3 out soon!
June 18, 2025
I am loving Jessie Keane as an author. She’s a bit like Martina Cole, whose books I also love but Jessie’s books aren’t as long.
I love the way the story has unfolded and she has Daisy and Kit back in her life.
Would 100% recommend.
I love the way the story has unfolded and she has Daisy and Kit back in her life.
Would 100% recommend.
September 26, 2024
This one is definitely a slow burn. It took me until well over halfway through to become invested in the story which is a shame considering how much I enjoyed the first installment in the series.
July 15, 2014
This genre of books is my most favourite. I love crime fiction but especially the sort of fiction which focuses on the criminal underworld in London. A few years ago the only books you could find like that came from Martina Cole (well, she did create the genre), then suddenly it took off and we now have quite a few authors writing similar books, some doing it brilliantly, others not so. Having now read all of Jessie's books I think it's impossible for her to write a bad one. This was probably her strongest yet, both in terms of story and the fantastic cast of characters.
Books like these I don't feel can be read as standalones. Continuing where Nameless finished and with a good enough recap to get me reacquainted with the story, those new to either Jessie or the Ruby Darke series should definitely start with Nameless. It's almost impossible to talk about the story in books like these but it centres around Ruby Darke and her family. Ruby gave birth to twins, Kit and Daisy. Kit is dark skinned and Daisy is white and whilst Daisy grows up in a rich family, Kit is disowned by his father and brought up in care. Nameless was a gripping read, you knew where the story was going but you couldn't wait for it to get there and there were plenty of surprises along the way. Now in Lawless Daisy has changed her name to Darke whilst Kit hates his mother but made a promise to Michael, Ruby's now dead lover and Kit's father figure that he would try to make amends and look after her. Kit believes that Michael was killed by Tito Danieri and so takes his revenge by killing Tito. The Danieri family of course are after his blood and so our story begins...
Jessie Keane really does tell a blinding story. One thing you can rely on her for are twists and turns, literally hundreds of them here and plenty of shocks. We see the appearance of characters we didn't even know existed and I was floored many times reading this book! The relationship between Ruby, Daisy and Kit is written in a very believable way. You feel for all three characters. And the Danieri family are especially evil. Going back in time to as early as the 20s and 30s we read about them from the very beginning and what brought them to England. The story of their daughter Bianca is particularly shocking. It's so hard to talk further without ruining the story but for Bianca's storyline I was gripped! You just have no idea where the story will go, and Jessie is an author that keeps you on your toes, so even if you suspect what will happen she will throw the biggest curveball. Every single character has secrets, and every character faces danger from a multitude of places. You just know something bad could happen to any one of them and you are just hooked on the book waiting for it to happen.
The book moves at a lightning speed, the last hundred or so pages especially. There was no question of me putting the book down until I reached the end. And what an ending...! Just brilliant stuff and seriously addictive reading. This book just reminds me why I rate Jessie as one of my favourite authors. With the release of Nameless I feared that it might not have been as good as her Annie Carter series, her two standalones were brilliant but the real standout is Annie Carter. After finishing this book I think I'd say the Ruby Darke books are better than Annie Carter! I hope Jessie's next book, Dangerous continues the Darke story but whatever or whoever it's about I'm sure it'll be once again another unmissable read. This book does have a nice conclusion but I'm not ready to leave the Darke family behind and could read about them for a couple more books at least! Major book hangover coming.
Books like these I don't feel can be read as standalones. Continuing where Nameless finished and with a good enough recap to get me reacquainted with the story, those new to either Jessie or the Ruby Darke series should definitely start with Nameless. It's almost impossible to talk about the story in books like these but it centres around Ruby Darke and her family. Ruby gave birth to twins, Kit and Daisy. Kit is dark skinned and Daisy is white and whilst Daisy grows up in a rich family, Kit is disowned by his father and brought up in care. Nameless was a gripping read, you knew where the story was going but you couldn't wait for it to get there and there were plenty of surprises along the way. Now in Lawless Daisy has changed her name to Darke whilst Kit hates his mother but made a promise to Michael, Ruby's now dead lover and Kit's father figure that he would try to make amends and look after her. Kit believes that Michael was killed by Tito Danieri and so takes his revenge by killing Tito. The Danieri family of course are after his blood and so our story begins...
Jessie Keane really does tell a blinding story. One thing you can rely on her for are twists and turns, literally hundreds of them here and plenty of shocks. We see the appearance of characters we didn't even know existed and I was floored many times reading this book! The relationship between Ruby, Daisy and Kit is written in a very believable way. You feel for all three characters. And the Danieri family are especially evil. Going back in time to as early as the 20s and 30s we read about them from the very beginning and what brought them to England. The story of their daughter Bianca is particularly shocking. It's so hard to talk further without ruining the story but for Bianca's storyline I was gripped! You just have no idea where the story will go, and Jessie is an author that keeps you on your toes, so even if you suspect what will happen she will throw the biggest curveball. Every single character has secrets, and every character faces danger from a multitude of places. You just know something bad could happen to any one of them and you are just hooked on the book waiting for it to happen.
The book moves at a lightning speed, the last hundred or so pages especially. There was no question of me putting the book down until I reached the end. And what an ending...! Just brilliant stuff and seriously addictive reading. This book just reminds me why I rate Jessie as one of my favourite authors. With the release of Nameless I feared that it might not have been as good as her Annie Carter series, her two standalones were brilliant but the real standout is Annie Carter. After finishing this book I think I'd say the Ruby Darke books are better than Annie Carter! I hope Jessie's next book, Dangerous continues the Darke story but whatever or whoever it's about I'm sure it'll be once again another unmissable read. This book does have a nice conclusion but I'm not ready to leave the Darke family behind and could read about them for a couple more books at least! Major book hangover coming.
November 18, 2015
4.5 stars
I always enjoy books by this author. She is in a similar vein to Martina Cole but slightly different. This book didn't disappoint. The author kept me gripped from the beginning to the end. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes reading crime books.
I always enjoy books by this author. She is in a similar vein to Martina Cole but slightly different. This book didn't disappoint. The author kept me gripped from the beginning to the end. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes reading crime books.
February 11, 2015
Page Turner Until The End! I Loved It!
December 29, 2018
Well according to good old Amazon, 'You purchased this item on 19 July 2014'. so why the hell am I only just getting around to reading it. I trawled through my reviews and goodreads to double check if I had read it, yet as soon as I started it I knew I hadn't previously read it. How bad of me is that.
Well as they say, better late than never. I really do need to stop buying books until I'm going to read them. lol
I also had a feeling I hadn't read book 1 yet, although good reads is telling me I have, and some parts of this story the characters seemed familiar. Once I got going and slowly remembered some of the characters I was back in to the story.
Ruby Darke, has lost her love, Michael and is trying to get on with life. It's not easy to do when your son seems to hate you, but is trying to help you as he promised Michael, Ruby's love, that he would look out for his mother.
There is just trouble here, trouble at ever turn. Every few pages there is drama and more trouble. What a read this turned out to be.
Ruby's son Kit, believes that Tito Danieri killed Michael, So its down to Kit to kill Tito. It doesn't mater who tries to tell him any different his mind set is set. Only one thing can happen when families clash. This book needs reading to enjoy it, and it needs you sat somewhere quiet where no one can disturb you until that last page.
There are a good few twists and turns in this book that throw up a good few surprises. some amazing characters.
Well worth reading. If you have read any of Jessie Keane's other books then you know what sort of treat you are in for, believe me this book really does not disappoint.
I am now lucky that I have book 3 to read, while all characters are fresh in my mind, I really can't wait to see what happens.
Well as they say, better late than never. I really do need to stop buying books until I'm going to read them. lol
I also had a feeling I hadn't read book 1 yet, although good reads is telling me I have, and some parts of this story the characters seemed familiar. Once I got going and slowly remembered some of the characters I was back in to the story.
Ruby Darke, has lost her love, Michael and is trying to get on with life. It's not easy to do when your son seems to hate you, but is trying to help you as he promised Michael, Ruby's love, that he would look out for his mother.
There is just trouble here, trouble at ever turn. Every few pages there is drama and more trouble. What a read this turned out to be.
Ruby's son Kit, believes that Tito Danieri killed Michael, So its down to Kit to kill Tito. It doesn't mater who tries to tell him any different his mind set is set. Only one thing can happen when families clash. This book needs reading to enjoy it, and it needs you sat somewhere quiet where no one can disturb you until that last page.
There are a good few twists and turns in this book that throw up a good few surprises. some amazing characters.
Well worth reading. If you have read any of Jessie Keane's other books then you know what sort of treat you are in for, believe me this book really does not disappoint.
I am now lucky that I have book 3 to read, while all characters are fresh in my mind, I really can't wait to see what happens.
May 18, 2018
my actualy rating: 2.5
This one took me a year to read. I started back in 2017, but didn't get to finish until recently. I cannot blame anyone, though, I was kind of busy. I didn't get a chance to read any physical book until recently. So, this review is based more from halfway through the book, since I mostly forgot what I had read back in 2017. But here's a review.
I would say, it was a long read. I can't say this was the best novel I've read. It was interesting, nevertheless. However, in my opinion, it was just too much romance going on. Plenty of them were relevant throughout the story, but, I don't know, I don't like too much romance in my mystery so it came off rather unappealing. Especially at the thought that romance is the main problem in this novel.
I can't say I love any of the character - which is not really a bad thing - but I for sure like Daisy. I don't really like any other characters, though. I just cannot get to love them - which is not really a bad thing, I assure.
Also, it is safe to say that the first half of the story was pretty much boring for me, not sure why. But by the end, it became rather interesting. However, the ending was not much of my liking. It actually made me feel bad and stupid. Honestly, the ending was rather a let-down, but not entirely in a negative ring.
Overall, I'm not sure myself. I appreciate the story, but I don't really love the book at all. There were too much happening and not in a good way.
So here, three stars for the exciting moment on the second half of the book.
This one took me a year to read. I started back in 2017, but didn't get to finish until recently. I cannot blame anyone, though, I was kind of busy. I didn't get a chance to read any physical book until recently. So, this review is based more from halfway through the book, since I mostly forgot what I had read back in 2017. But here's a review.
I would say, it was a long read. I can't say this was the best novel I've read. It was interesting, nevertheless. However, in my opinion, it was just too much romance going on. Plenty of them were relevant throughout the story, but, I don't know, I don't like too much romance in my mystery so it came off rather unappealing. Especially at the thought that romance is the main problem in this novel.
I can't say I love any of the character - which is not really a bad thing - but I for sure like Daisy. I don't really like any other characters, though. I just cannot get to love them - which is not really a bad thing, I assure.
Also, it is safe to say that the first half of the story was pretty much boring for me, not sure why. But by the end, it became rather interesting. However, the ending was not much of my liking. It actually made me feel bad and stupid. Honestly, the ending was rather a let-down, but not entirely in a negative ring.
Overall, I'm not sure myself. I appreciate the story, but I don't really love the book at all. There were too much happening and not in a good way.
So here, three stars for the exciting moment on the second half of the book.
April 1, 2019
Jessie Keane has created a cracking new family of characters in the Darke Family. Ruby Darke is the mother of twins Kit and Daisy. What I will say is to gain any sort of traction with this book is that you need to read the first one. There is no doubt you can pick up the thread but it's far more enjoyable having the back story. Kit is still trying to find out who was responsible for the death of Michael Ward, Ruby's lover and his father figure. His twin sister Daisy is also battling with finding her place within the Darke Family.The additional characters that make an appearance all have their rightful place and I am a particular fan of Rob, Kit's right hand man. On the opposing side the feared Italian family the Danieri's are on the scene and there is troubled waters between the two families. The story, characters and pace were absolutely spot on and I found that I raced through this book in a day and half.If you are a fan of Kimberley Chambers, Martina Cole and the like then Jessie Keane is certainly an author you will love. She is certainly one of my favourites, I'm just sad that I am fast running out of books of hers to read. I would highly recommend this book, but do yourself a favour and start with book one Nameless. Another cracking installment, I am just grateful that book 3 named The Edge is ready to go on my Kindle!
January 30, 2019
Couldn't put it down, it was so good.
Ruby Darke has found her twins that were taken from her at birth. Daisy had been bought by her father and his wife, while the baby boy was taken by Ruby's brother Charlie and lived in various children's homes until he was sixteen. The system gave him the name Kit Miller. The twins' father only wanted Daisy as she was white like him, whereas her brother was black, like Ruby.
Daisy and Kit grow up as different as chalk and cheese. Ruby lived for her business, but always thought of her twins. Eventually Ruby's lover, Michael, found them through his variety of contacts.
Daisy soon became close to her mother, but Kit resisted for a long time, until life threw him a devastating blow, and he realised that Ruby really loved him.
There are gangland killings between Kit's people and the Danieri clan, who originally came from Naples. They were camorra, like the mafia, but worse, and believed in retribution. They learned lessons the hard way.
Ruby Darke has found her twins that were taken from her at birth. Daisy had been bought by her father and his wife, while the baby boy was taken by Ruby's brother Charlie and lived in various children's homes until he was sixteen. The system gave him the name Kit Miller. The twins' father only wanted Daisy as she was white like him, whereas her brother was black, like Ruby.
Daisy and Kit grow up as different as chalk and cheese. Ruby lived for her business, but always thought of her twins. Eventually Ruby's lover, Michael, found them through his variety of contacts.
Daisy soon became close to her mother, but Kit resisted for a long time, until life threw him a devastating blow, and he realised that Ruby really loved him.
There are gangland killings between Kit's people and the Danieri clan, who originally came from Naples. They were camorra, like the mafia, but worse, and believed in retribution. They learned lessons the hard way.
August 29, 2023
Book 2 of a 3 book series, or should I say trilogy.
This was absolutely brilliant, loved reading every page, so much gritty drama addictive stuff, could not put the book down. The story was excellent, very well written. Jessie sure does know how to write a story and to keep the readers engaged.
The story continues, and boy what a story it is that unfolds and surprises the reader at every turn. Lots of drama, shocking moments and so much more going on, never a dull moment that’s for sure. I loved all of the characters in this, even the baddies, the ones you not meant to like, but hey without them, there wouldn��t be this brilliant story.
Jessie Keane is definitely on par with author Martina Cole that’s for sure. Right without further ado, I’m starting book 3 to the trilogy.
This was absolutely brilliant, loved reading every page, so much gritty drama addictive stuff, could not put the book down. The story was excellent, very well written. Jessie sure does know how to write a story and to keep the readers engaged.
The story continues, and boy what a story it is that unfolds and surprises the reader at every turn. Lots of drama, shocking moments and so much more going on, never a dull moment that’s for sure. I loved all of the characters in this, even the baddies, the ones you not meant to like, but hey without them, there wouldn��t be this brilliant story.
Jessie Keane is definitely on par with author Martina Cole that’s for sure. Right without further ado, I’m starting book 3 to the trilogy.
February 23, 2021
This was an excellent story as was the previous Ruby Darke book. This one continued from where the previous book NAMELESS left off. This one also brought in new characters as rivals and enemies of Ruby’s family. The story line as with the other story was fast moving and exciting. As with all Jessie Keane books (the ones I have read ) there is quite a lot of sexual themes and swearing. If you accept this as part of the book you will enjoy the story if not perhaps not for you. I give this book a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TAG if you can accept the bad language.
February 5, 2019
This is the 2nd time I've read this & it's absolutely fantastic. It's got plenty of violence, love & hate scattered throughout the pages. Once I started reading I couldn't stop, it's so hard to put down. I actually read it in 2 sittings.
I love Jessie's books because her chapters are only a couple of pages long. Therefore I thought to myself "I'll read 1 more chapter then I'll put it down", but guess what I carried on reading long into the night.
I'm hoping book 3 "The Edge" is just as good.
I love Jessie's books because her chapters are only a couple of pages long. Therefore I thought to myself "I'll read 1 more chapter then I'll put it down", but guess what I carried on reading long into the night.
I'm hoping book 3 "The Edge" is just as good.
February 4, 2021
Brilliantly written
What a great series , ruby has been through so much looking forward to book three but sadly the last book of the series highly recommend this series the story of lost and heartbreak and when ruby comes out of that heartbreak into love and happiness 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 and 10/10 thank you Jessie Keane 😀
What a great series , ruby has been through so much looking forward to book three but sadly the last book of the series highly recommend this series the story of lost and heartbreak and when ruby comes out of that heartbreak into love and happiness 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 and 10/10 thank you Jessie Keane 😀
April 3, 2025
Love all of Jessie Keane's books and this one is no different. Is another in the Ruby Darke series which is a rags to riches series with several murders, threats and arguments along the way. Definitely worth a read but start at the beginning of this series with Nameless otherwise you may get confused with the storyline.
February 1, 2022
Fantastic Read
This is the second Ruby Dark book and it was every bit as good as the first one of not better,,kept me rivited and up really late for two nights till I'd finished it.If you like Martina Cole then you will love Jessie Keane her books are fantastic
This is the second Ruby Dark book and it was every bit as good as the first one of not better,,kept me rivited and up really late for two nights till I'd finished it.If you like Martina Cole then you will love Jessie Keane her books are fantastic
June 17, 2024
Started slow and felt a lot to keep track of the characters but got very good about 1/4 of the way in. I liked all the different stories of the characters but the ending felt a bit rushed and there was no need for so much death.
March 31, 2018
Great book
June 7, 2019
Very good, first one from this author but not the last, a real page turner.
November 27, 2019
Brilliant read
Thoroughly enjoyed this book . Full of details that keep you gripped . Would recommend to everyone especially those that haven’t read Jessie Keane .
Thoroughly enjoyed this book . Full of details that keep you gripped . Would recommend to everyone especially those that haven’t read Jessie Keane .
October 4, 2020
absolutely loved this book..From start to finish a gripping read.
January 30, 2021
As always from Jessie Keane it was fast paced and hard to put down. This one had more twists than the first trying to find out who killed Michael and I never suspected.
November 22, 2021
Another brilliant chapter from Jessie’s gripping Ruby Darke saga.
July 27, 2022
Fab.
Ruby is back and just like her previous story this one keeps you just as hooked. This book did have twists.
Ruby is back and just like her previous story this one keeps you just as hooked. This book did have twists.
February 8, 2024
It's an enjoyable read, don't get me wrong - but it's more Mills & Boon than Mobster.
That won't stop me from reading the next (and last?) in the series, though.
That won't stop me from reading the next (and last?) in the series, though.
August 5, 2025
Loved this book, really easy to read
July 24, 2014
I have a confession to make. I am a total virgin when it comes to reviewing crime. It's my absolute debut so please forgive me all for my too girly and pinky approach.
If I'm not mistaken, Lawless is the continuation to Nameless but I have learnt this after I read the book. And to be totally honest, I didn't have a feeling that I'm missing on something. Of course, it would be great to know the background of those who are history, but in my opinion Lawless can be read as a stand - alone novel.
Suffice it to say, I'm going to purchase Nameless as soon as possible.
The story begins with a kick and ends with a kick. One of the main characters, Ruby, is approached almost at home and right there we are taken on a journey of situations that happened to bring us back to this same point. Ruby's son Kit can't come to terms with the fact that Ruby's husband was murdered. He believes that Tito Danieri killed him, and so he, according to the rule an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, kills Tito. Despite the claims of Tito's mother that there shouldn't be any revenge, that it's time for peace, Tito's brothers and sister are after Kit and his whole family...
There are so many twists and turns in this book that it's almost impossible to summarize it in few sentences. Every one of the many brilliant characters has her/his own secrets and demons: Kit can't forget his mother that he was abandoned as a new - born, Daisy, his sister, is trying to lead a normal life, working for her mother and raising her twins, the Danieri family wants to rule the world and they stop at nothing to achieve what they desire... Literally...
Every page of this book brought surprises for me, the tension was there all the time, and new puzzles were added to the pot already boiling with questions. The feelings and emotions of the characters are described in incredibly realistic way and the tension, hate, love and fear were just palpable. I more than often gasped reading particular scenes, at the brutality of people, at their coldness - it was really brilliantly described. I have particularly enjoyed the reminiscents of Danieri family, what brought them to England and then the descriptions of their lives, how they got what they have now, and I was SHOCKED. I didn't think big about the Danieri senior, how he'd done his business of discarding his greatest enemy, and I think that their sons actually continued doing what they did the same way, like cowards. But especially the story of Bianca has shocked me, I know it is fiction but I just felt shivers on my back. Amazing!
Jessie introduces us to many new characters throughout the book, characters that took me often by surprise but all of them were so significant to the story. But, even with so many characters, there is the group of our main heroes and I have never felt confused by the large number of them.
The only little, teeny tiny thing that disturbed me was the fact that the action took place in the 70-ies of the last century. I didn't feel at all, I actually expected that in every second the characters are going to put out a mobile phone. The descriptions lacked for me in the character of those times, a little flower - power wouldn't do a harm. Yes, I know, it's crime fiction, but just a little, little fact when the clothes were described for example.
I have really loved the unexpectedness of the story. I never knew where Jessie is going to take us and what's going to happen and it was brilliant! I had so many questions throughout the whole book but I didn't even try to answer them myself because I KNEW that Jessie is going to surprise me and that my guesses are laughable. All I wanted was to finish the book and find all the answers.
As I have already mentioned, I'm not too familiar with Jessie Keane but if all her books are like Lawless, than it's time to make Jessie my new best friend. This book has all what I could wish for. There was action pure, we were thrown to the centre of the actions right at the beginning, there weren't any unnecessary descriptions, there was no word out of order. The pace is incredible, there is a lot of danger and suspense. The writing is engaging and (f)lawless and it is written in a way that make you desperate to know what's going to happen next!
So, the devil's not so black as he is painted, I think Jessie Keane has just introduced me to the crime fiction, as I have raced through the book SUCKING my breath in, and turning the pages with a lightning speed. This book is absolutely worth recommendation - if I were you I would go and purchase my copy now.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
If I'm not mistaken, Lawless is the continuation to Nameless but I have learnt this after I read the book. And to be totally honest, I didn't have a feeling that I'm missing on something. Of course, it would be great to know the background of those who are history, but in my opinion Lawless can be read as a stand - alone novel.
Suffice it to say, I'm going to purchase Nameless as soon as possible.
The story begins with a kick and ends with a kick. One of the main characters, Ruby, is approached almost at home and right there we are taken on a journey of situations that happened to bring us back to this same point. Ruby's son Kit can't come to terms with the fact that Ruby's husband was murdered. He believes that Tito Danieri killed him, and so he, according to the rule an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, kills Tito. Despite the claims of Tito's mother that there shouldn't be any revenge, that it's time for peace, Tito's brothers and sister are after Kit and his whole family...
There are so many twists and turns in this book that it's almost impossible to summarize it in few sentences. Every one of the many brilliant characters has her/his own secrets and demons: Kit can't forget his mother that he was abandoned as a new - born, Daisy, his sister, is trying to lead a normal life, working for her mother and raising her twins, the Danieri family wants to rule the world and they stop at nothing to achieve what they desire... Literally...
Every page of this book brought surprises for me, the tension was there all the time, and new puzzles were added to the pot already boiling with questions. The feelings and emotions of the characters are described in incredibly realistic way and the tension, hate, love and fear were just palpable. I more than often gasped reading particular scenes, at the brutality of people, at their coldness - it was really brilliantly described. I have particularly enjoyed the reminiscents of Danieri family, what brought them to England and then the descriptions of their lives, how they got what they have now, and I was SHOCKED. I didn't think big about the Danieri senior, how he'd done his business of discarding his greatest enemy, and I think that their sons actually continued doing what they did the same way, like cowards. But especially the story of Bianca has shocked me, I know it is fiction but I just felt shivers on my back. Amazing!
Jessie introduces us to many new characters throughout the book, characters that took me often by surprise but all of them were so significant to the story. But, even with so many characters, there is the group of our main heroes and I have never felt confused by the large number of them.
The only little, teeny tiny thing that disturbed me was the fact that the action took place in the 70-ies of the last century. I didn't feel at all, I actually expected that in every second the characters are going to put out a mobile phone. The descriptions lacked for me in the character of those times, a little flower - power wouldn't do a harm. Yes, I know, it's crime fiction, but just a little, little fact when the clothes were described for example.
I have really loved the unexpectedness of the story. I never knew where Jessie is going to take us and what's going to happen and it was brilliant! I had so many questions throughout the whole book but I didn't even try to answer them myself because I KNEW that Jessie is going to surprise me and that my guesses are laughable. All I wanted was to finish the book and find all the answers.
As I have already mentioned, I'm not too familiar with Jessie Keane but if all her books are like Lawless, than it's time to make Jessie my new best friend. This book has all what I could wish for. There was action pure, we were thrown to the centre of the actions right at the beginning, there weren't any unnecessary descriptions, there was no word out of order. The pace is incredible, there is a lot of danger and suspense. The writing is engaging and (f)lawless and it is written in a way that make you desperate to know what's going to happen next!
So, the devil's not so black as he is painted, I think Jessie Keane has just introduced me to the crime fiction, as I have raced through the book SUCKING my breath in, and turning the pages with a lightning speed. This book is absolutely worth recommendation - if I were you I would go and purchase my copy now.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
May 27, 2020
As always another great book . All fans if you haven’t read Annie carter series , it’s a must tead
July 19, 2014
Time taken to read - 2 days
Publisher - Pan
Pages - 493
Blurb from back cover
It is 1975 and Ruby Darke is struggling to deal with the brutal murder of her lover, Michael Ward. As her children, Daisy and Kit, battle their own demons, her retail empire starts to crumble.
Meanwhile, after the revenge killing of Tito Danieri, Kit is the lowest he's ever been. But soon doubt is thrown over whether Kit killed the right person, and now the Danieris are out for his blood and the blood of the entire Darke family.
As the bodies pile up, the chase is on - can the Darkes resolve their own family conflicts and find Michael Ward's true killer before the vengeful Danieris kill them? Or will they take the law into their own hands . . .
My Review
Ruby Darke is still reeling from the murder of her partner, Michael Ward. Kit, her son, is also taking it hard and hell bent on revenge which will put all their lives at risk. Retribution will be swift but who will pay for Kits actions?
The story opens up and flings us right into the mix immediately, Ruby is accosted on her way home and the story throws back a bit to give us the know of why we got to this point. The book is set in 1975, in England and crime was established and growing even then. People are hard to forgive or forget any indiscretions made against their family and soon the body count is rising. Ruby's daughter Daisy has some issues going on in her life too although nothing in comparison to Kit. Ruby's son has never forgiven her and never will, he is angry about Michael's death which he blames upon the Danieri family, especially Tito. An eye for an eye sees tension rising between him and the surviving brothers, Vittore & Fabio. Can the families work out their differences or will it be bloodshed all the way?
I do enjoy Jessie Keane, it is gritty crime, fairly fast paced and if you have read her before you know what your getting. Murder, bad language, sex, crime, betrayal and that is usually just scratching the surface. I have read a few of her books and the last one wasn't, I felt, as good as the others. This one sees her back on top, writing with an ease and drawing you into a fast paced dangerous way of life. The women characters in this tale are as strong or dominant as the main male characters, I felt, which is a nice change. There are a few shocks along the way and I could have read this in one sitting had time permitted. Overall 4/5 for me, thank you to Anne for passing this ARC along in exchange for an honest review. You can get your hands on a copy from the 17th of July, 2014 so not long to wait.
Publisher - Pan
Pages - 493
Blurb from back cover
It is 1975 and Ruby Darke is struggling to deal with the brutal murder of her lover, Michael Ward. As her children, Daisy and Kit, battle their own demons, her retail empire starts to crumble.
Meanwhile, after the revenge killing of Tito Danieri, Kit is the lowest he's ever been. But soon doubt is thrown over whether Kit killed the right person, and now the Danieris are out for his blood and the blood of the entire Darke family.
As the bodies pile up, the chase is on - can the Darkes resolve their own family conflicts and find Michael Ward's true killer before the vengeful Danieris kill them? Or will they take the law into their own hands . . .
My Review
Ruby Darke is still reeling from the murder of her partner, Michael Ward. Kit, her son, is also taking it hard and hell bent on revenge which will put all their lives at risk. Retribution will be swift but who will pay for Kits actions?
The story opens up and flings us right into the mix immediately, Ruby is accosted on her way home and the story throws back a bit to give us the know of why we got to this point. The book is set in 1975, in England and crime was established and growing even then. People are hard to forgive or forget any indiscretions made against their family and soon the body count is rising. Ruby's daughter Daisy has some issues going on in her life too although nothing in comparison to Kit. Ruby's son has never forgiven her and never will, he is angry about Michael's death which he blames upon the Danieri family, especially Tito. An eye for an eye sees tension rising between him and the surviving brothers, Vittore & Fabio. Can the families work out their differences or will it be bloodshed all the way?
I do enjoy Jessie Keane, it is gritty crime, fairly fast paced and if you have read her before you know what your getting. Murder, bad language, sex, crime, betrayal and that is usually just scratching the surface. I have read a few of her books and the last one wasn't, I felt, as good as the others. This one sees her back on top, writing with an ease and drawing you into a fast paced dangerous way of life. The women characters in this tale are as strong or dominant as the main male characters, I felt, which is a nice change. There are a few shocks along the way and I could have read this in one sitting had time permitted. Overall 4/5 for me, thank you to Anne for passing this ARC along in exchange for an honest review. You can get your hands on a copy from the 17th of July, 2014 so not long to wait.
July 18, 2014
Having read a few of Jessie Keane’s books before, I was eagerly anticipating Jessie’s latest release – Lawless. I should mention that this is the sequel to Nameless and I would recommend reading both for a fantastic and maximum enjoyment!
In 1975, Ruby Darke is struggling after the horrific murder of her lover Michael Ward, and her empire starts to crumble while her children Daisy and Kit are facing demons of their very own. Kit is the lowest he’s been after he revenge killing of Tito Danieri, and soon the Danieris are out not only for his blood but the entire Darke family. Can the Darkes sort out their family conflicts and find Michael’s killer before the Danieri’s get to them?…
I thoroughly enjoyed Lawless! As with Jessie’s other novels, we are straight away thrown into a brilliant mix of danger and suspense. It is fast-paced throughout, and I found myself racing through the pages with my heart pounding, desperate to know what would happen next. I had SO many questions in my head throughout – What happened to Michael? Would the Darkes find his killer? Or would the Danieris get to them first? I was well and truly HOOKED and I was itching to find out!
Oh my there are SO many twists, turns and surprises in store! Jessie Keane does not hold back one bit and at many points I found myself gasping out loud at what I had just read, and I was definitely not expecting some of the shocks…I even sat with my mouth open speechless and breathless. Just…wow what a plot!!!
The characters were BRILLIANT. They are so lifelike and realistic – I genuinely felt as though I was stood next to them with every scene unfolding right in front of me. Jessie knows how to write terrifying characters – I was so nervous throughout the book because I didn’t know whether some of my favourites would be killed by other characters – I was ON THE EDGE all the time!
Lawless is a book that definitely has to be experienced – words can never do it justice! Full of tension, shocks and surprises – this is a book you won’t be able to put down!
In 1975, Ruby Darke is struggling after the horrific murder of her lover Michael Ward, and her empire starts to crumble while her children Daisy and Kit are facing demons of their very own. Kit is the lowest he’s been after he revenge killing of Tito Danieri, and soon the Danieris are out not only for his blood but the entire Darke family. Can the Darkes sort out their family conflicts and find Michael’s killer before the Danieri’s get to them?…
I thoroughly enjoyed Lawless! As with Jessie’s other novels, we are straight away thrown into a brilliant mix of danger and suspense. It is fast-paced throughout, and I found myself racing through the pages with my heart pounding, desperate to know what would happen next. I had SO many questions in my head throughout – What happened to Michael? Would the Darkes find his killer? Or would the Danieris get to them first? I was well and truly HOOKED and I was itching to find out!
Oh my there are SO many twists, turns and surprises in store! Jessie Keane does not hold back one bit and at many points I found myself gasping out loud at what I had just read, and I was definitely not expecting some of the shocks…I even sat with my mouth open speechless and breathless. Just…wow what a plot!!!
The characters were BRILLIANT. They are so lifelike and realistic – I genuinely felt as though I was stood next to them with every scene unfolding right in front of me. Jessie knows how to write terrifying characters – I was so nervous throughout the book because I didn’t know whether some of my favourites would be killed by other characters – I was ON THE EDGE all the time!
Lawless is a book that definitely has to be experienced – words can never do it justice! Full of tension, shocks and surprises – this is a book you won’t be able to put down!
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