The Natural Law

by Steve Attridge

Dr Paul Rook’s life is a he drinks too much, his wife has left him for his best friend, and he spends his days teaching philosophy to students who aren’t interested at all.

Thankfully, he has another life -- a side line career as a private investigator. So when he meets Mary King, whose small-time criminal husband has been shot dead in a faraway hotel room, he gladly takes the case.

Almost immediately a mysterious character, known only as Gladiator, begins to send text messages to Rook, warning him off the trail. As the messages continue, the body count starts to mount. Is the killer trying to prove a point? Or just play a deadly game?

As the case unfolds, Rook finds himself immersed in the murky world of crooked politicians, shady arms deals, and a web of criminals and cover- ups which extends further than he could ever have imagined…

The Natural Law is a dazzling high-concept thriller, which twists and turns from the Houses of Parliament to the busy streets of Istanbul.

'A brilliantly original detective.' - Robert Foster, best-selling author of 'The Lunar Code'.

Steve Attridge is an award-winning screen writer and novelist. His television dramas include Hawkins and The Boot Street Band and his other books include Philosophical Investigations, Waking Dreams, Behind Closed Doors, and Bottom of the List.

Endeavour Press is the UK's leading independent digital publisher.

222 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2014

Reviews

[Hans Jambor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I borrowed this from a friend at their enthusiastic recommendation.

I've been having a lot of trouble finding books lately. I will start, and then stop within the first chapter. They just don't grab me. But this one did, and kept me coming back. I finished it.

It does move along at a good pace and the writing is intelligent, a refreshing change. I have found too many authors dumbing down their writing, especially when a reviewer complains they use too many big words. Yes, I've seen that in reviews. Mr. Attridge has a good command of the English language. I like reading something that challenges me a bit, and his philosophical mini rants are wonderful. The mystery is good, too, although I have admit I had a bit of trouble with the conclusion. For me it didn't ring true, but then, it didn't matter. The whole book was so enjoyable that it was easily forgiven.

[Bonnye Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast-paced, compelling mystery laced with a good bit of snark that keeps you reading until the too-soon end. Dr. Paul Rook is a recently divorced burned-out professor who is kept motivated by his part-time career as a Private Investigation and philosopher. It is a book you will be glad you read, as am I. Steve Attridge is an author I will look for in the future. When the world has you down, a bit of Attridge will see you through.

REviewed on December 2, 2020, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N, Kobo, or Google Play.

[Aparna J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome.

It is an excellent thriller with unexpected twists and superb suspense along with humor. What a brilliant story! I never anticipated the culprit could be someone who appeared to be quite innocent. Superb!

[A.L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this book. I was impressed by the author's use of philosophy, and particularly, the parrot who spouted epic poetry and mimicked anyone he came into contact with. It was a fun read and I will read another from Mr. Attridge.

[Elisabetta]

It is really a great book.It grabbed me immediately
It is an original thriller.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pure enjoyment. Quick read. Quirky characters. Superb twists. Intellectually stimulating. Perspicacious author. Highly recommend.