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Fool's Gold
A new life…
With their wretched life in Liverpool behind them, Julie and Ralph Gold head to London for their next big break. Julie’s had enough of slumming it, she's ready to quit their life of crime and go legit.
The same old game…
But it seems their reputation has beaten them to it, and the underworld is already bubbling with news of the their arrival. And as much as Julie tries to go straight, the more people underestimate them and treat them like fools. And there is only so much Julie can take…
One last trick.
So when they are offered one final big job, Julie knows they should say no. It’s risky and could cost them everything they have. But it could also be their last chance to make it big.
And when fools rush in, the Golds take the spoils.
Read what happens next for Julie and Ralph Gold in another thrilling gangland story by Gillian Godden.
With their wretched life in Liverpool behind them, Julie and Ralph Gold head to London for their next big break. Julie’s had enough of slumming it, she's ready to quit their life of crime and go legit.
The same old game…
But it seems their reputation has beaten them to it, and the underworld is already bubbling with news of the their arrival. And as much as Julie tries to go straight, the more people underestimate them and treat them like fools. And there is only so much Julie can take…
One last trick.
So when they are offered one final big job, Julie knows they should say no. It’s risky and could cost them everything they have. But it could also be their last chance to make it big.
And when fools rush in, the Golds take the spoils.
Read what happens next for Julie and Ralph Gold in another thrilling gangland story by Gillian Godden.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2021
71 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Gillian Godden
24 books98 followersHello fellow readers. My name is Gillian Godden and i write Gangland crime books. currently published by Boldwood Publishers. i have written many different series on the subject, so if this is your genre please check them out. originally born in London, i now live in Yorkshire. i also work for the NHS.
When I come home I like to wind down and writing is my escape from the mental stresses of my day. My job is not a 9 to 5 job and I work to support my patients when they need me so my days can be long. i enjoy hearing from and meeting readers of my books. just knowing someone out there is reading my books is a bonus ;}
Take a look at my websites and hopefully join my author page for updates on forth coming books.
amazon.com/author/gilliangodden
When I come home I like to wind down and writing is my escape from the mental stresses of my day. My job is not a 9 to 5 job and I work to support my patients when they need me so my days can be long. i enjoy hearing from and meeting readers of my books. just knowing someone out there is reading my books is a bonus ;}
Take a look at my websites and hopefully join my author page for updates on forth coming books.
amazon.com/author/gilliangodden
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 5, 2023
Another great read from this author, the ‘Golds’ ( Ralph and Julie ) were a big feature in her first series and this following on from ‘Gold Digger’ ( a new series ) brings us the complete story of how R and J married and became 2 of the most successful gangland business couples ( can be read as a stand alone or as part of the series’ )
I love Julie, ex prostitute and not shy of telling folk how it is she has gone from having nothing to literally having anything she wants and boy does she take advantage of that 🤗 the wedding is like a fantasy and their life one big party….but is it enough? And of course Carlos is there, as always, pulling the strings and letting secrets loose that maybe would be best kept
All this and a daring robbery of a Prince’s jewels make this a book full of action and drama, I would probably say more family and high octane drama than gangland this time but of course gangland still being at the core of the story/writing
It seems simple to just say I loved it but I did, a fab story once again from Gillian Godden.
10/10
5 Stars
I love Julie, ex prostitute and not shy of telling folk how it is she has gone from having nothing to literally having anything she wants and boy does she take advantage of that 🤗 the wedding is like a fantasy and their life one big party….but is it enough? And of course Carlos is there, as always, pulling the strings and letting secrets loose that maybe would be best kept
All this and a daring robbery of a Prince’s jewels make this a book full of action and drama, I would probably say more family and high octane drama than gangland this time but of course gangland still being at the core of the story/writing
It seems simple to just say I loved it but I did, a fab story once again from Gillian Godden.
10/10
5 Stars
October 16, 2021
A tart and a thug, both cut from the same cloth and drawn together in book one, and it was only a matter of time until they formed an unstoppable partnership. Julie is determined that her life of crime and prostitution is behind her after meeting protection racket and organised crime gangster Ralph Gold in Liverpool and agreeing to marry him in a whirlwind romance. She follows him to London and is hopeful that her gold digger days are over. Straight away she finds herself in a luxury suite in a top hotel, and can’t believe her luck as Ralph tells her to arrange for her nephew Josh to join them, buy a house for them and arrange their wedding. Once they’ve each let their own skeletons out of the closet, their bond is forged for good. Meanwhile Ralph is setting up a deal with small time pimp and publican Charlie Jenkins to launder money for himself and business partner Don Carlos through their newly acquired west end nightclub. As Carlos reveals his plans for a three-way heist, bigger and riskier than anyone could possibly imagine, involving both Ralph and Julie as the “inside woman”, nothing is simple. Trouble flares in Ireland and Charlie starts to cause problems for Ralph. It seems there are few people he can really trust and rely on. The day of the robberies dawns. Will Carlos go out with a bang as planned? And what will happen to the Golds? Will the wedding of the year go ahead without any hitches? And just what does the future hold for everyone?
Julie and Ralph are both very likeable characters despite their tough and often brutal behaviour which they see as necessary for their survival, and there’s a fair amount of humour in the story too. It was great to see returning characters like Swinger Sue and Captain Roland, and although there is plenty of back story detailed here, I would advise reading book one first to really get to know the Golds and see what has shaped them as individuals in their lives to date. They are tough, incredibly loyal to the people who are dear to them but those who cross them should be very worried indeed! I am eager to read what happens next to Julie and Ralph Gold. 5*
Julie and Ralph are both very likeable characters despite their tough and often brutal behaviour which they see as necessary for their survival, and there’s a fair amount of humour in the story too. It was great to see returning characters like Swinger Sue and Captain Roland, and although there is plenty of back story detailed here, I would advise reading book one first to really get to know the Golds and see what has shaped them as individuals in their lives to date. They are tough, incredibly loyal to the people who are dear to them but those who cross them should be very worried indeed! I am eager to read what happens next to Julie and Ralph Gold. 5*
October 15, 2021
Wow, what an absolute page turner this was. It was gripping, thrilling, chocka full of action & drama.
It's the first book I've read by Gillian, so I'm definitely going to be reading her others if they're all as good as this one!
Very well written with some fabulous, yet flawed characters & a roller coaster ride of a storyline through gangland London.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good gangland thriller.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
It's the first book I've read by Gillian, so I'm definitely going to be reading her others if they're all as good as this one!
Very well written with some fabulous, yet flawed characters & a roller coaster ride of a storyline through gangland London.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good gangland thriller.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
September 13, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Gillian Godden for allowing me to read this Arc.
This is the second in this series. It's a crime thriller and absolutely brilliant!! The first was an introduction and equally as brilliant. A newly discovered author for me and one definitely not to miss!! I can't wait for the next one.
This is the second in this series. It's a crime thriller and absolutely brilliant!! The first was an introduction and equally as brilliant. A newly discovered author for me and one definitely not to miss!! I can't wait for the next one.
October 17, 2021
Fools Gold by Gillian Godden is the second book I have read by the this author, the first being 'Gold Digger', which introduces the reader to the Golds. I loved Golddigger and was so looking forward to this book. I did expect it to be an excellent read, so...no pressure!
A new life…
With their wretched life in Liverpool behind them, Julie and Ralph Gold head to London for their next big break. Julie’s had enough of slumming it, she's ready to quit their life of crime and go legit.
The same old game…
But it seems their reputation has beaten them to it, and the underworld is already bubbling with news of the their arrival. And as much as Julie tries to go straight, the more people underestimate them and treat them like fools. And there is only so much Julie can take…
One last trick.
So when they are offered one final big job, Julie knows they should say no. It’s risky and could cost them everything they have. But it could also be their last chance to make it big.
And when fools rush in, the Golds take the spoils.
It took no time for me to be totally immersed in the Gold's world again. These two characters are definitely streetwise, as tough as they come and they won't turn a hair if they need to resort to violence. They see that as a normal way to survive in their world. They are also weirdly likable and I have rooted from them from the beginning.
If you haven't read the other book, I would recommend you do, even though this book. does tell you some of their history. If you want to understand what made these two what they are now in detail and get to know them both, the previous book is (for me anyway) a must read.
We see the return of some characters from the other book as well and I loved to catch up with them as well. This book did make me feel like I was catching up with old friends, dodgy ones, but still old friends. That's down to the writing style of the author. I enjoy Gillian Goddens style of writing as I feel like I am a part of these peoples lives. I am rather glad it is only through a story though, I wouldn't want to know what would happen if I got on their wrong side in real life...I shudder to think!
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my place on the tour and the copy of the book.
A new life…
With their wretched life in Liverpool behind them, Julie and Ralph Gold head to London for their next big break. Julie’s had enough of slumming it, she's ready to quit their life of crime and go legit.
The same old game…
But it seems their reputation has beaten them to it, and the underworld is already bubbling with news of the their arrival. And as much as Julie tries to go straight, the more people underestimate them and treat them like fools. And there is only so much Julie can take…
One last trick.
So when they are offered one final big job, Julie knows they should say no. It’s risky and could cost them everything they have. But it could also be their last chance to make it big.
And when fools rush in, the Golds take the spoils.
It took no time for me to be totally immersed in the Gold's world again. These two characters are definitely streetwise, as tough as they come and they won't turn a hair if they need to resort to violence. They see that as a normal way to survive in their world. They are also weirdly likable and I have rooted from them from the beginning.
If you haven't read the other book, I would recommend you do, even though this book. does tell you some of their history. If you want to understand what made these two what they are now in detail and get to know them both, the previous book is (for me anyway) a must read.
We see the return of some characters from the other book as well and I loved to catch up with them as well. This book did make me feel like I was catching up with old friends, dodgy ones, but still old friends. That's down to the writing style of the author. I enjoy Gillian Goddens style of writing as I feel like I am a part of these peoples lives. I am rather glad it is only through a story though, I wouldn't want to know what would happen if I got on their wrong side in real life...I shudder to think!
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my place on the tour and the copy of the book.
October 22, 2021
Fool’s Gold is my first novel by Gillian Godden. Where has this author been all my reading life? Wow is one word that springs to mind. This truly is a hard hitting gangland thriller with an extraordinary list of characters that all draw you in.
Julie and Ralph are a very likeable couple even though you know they are up to no good. I found myself rooting for them, especially Julie. She has a level of vulnerability about her that she is loathe to show even to her soon to be Gangland husband, Ralph. However she is a feisty woman that certainly takes no prisoners. Ralph has to reign her in quite often. Her mouth sometimes goes all out and you can almost here the voice in her head telling her to stop, but she just can’t help herself. She is the kind of woman that I would want on my side.
Ralph would do anything to protect his Julie but he becomes drawn into the biggest job he has ever been part of and Julie ends up being an integral part of the job. Ralph knows this could be the downfall of his marriage before it has even begun, but the mafia boss Carlos has a hold over Ralph, who he treats as a brother. He has no choice, he just hopes Julie will understand and forgive him, if they survive that is.
Fool’s Gold has crooks abound, they literally fill up every page with shocking deeds that create a tense atmosphere throughout.
I read this book with my eyes practically on stalks, lots of “oh NO that can’t happen” moments. I read it in one day as I absolutely could not put it down, I had to know what happened. They surely can’t get away with this heist? Its crazy, isn’t it? I fell in love with Ralph and Julie, for all their short comings they both have huge hearts of gold, but is in really Fool’s Gold?
Julie and Ralph are a very likeable couple even though you know they are up to no good. I found myself rooting for them, especially Julie. She has a level of vulnerability about her that she is loathe to show even to her soon to be Gangland husband, Ralph. However she is a feisty woman that certainly takes no prisoners. Ralph has to reign her in quite often. Her mouth sometimes goes all out and you can almost here the voice in her head telling her to stop, but she just can’t help herself. She is the kind of woman that I would want on my side.
Ralph would do anything to protect his Julie but he becomes drawn into the biggest job he has ever been part of and Julie ends up being an integral part of the job. Ralph knows this could be the downfall of his marriage before it has even begun, but the mafia boss Carlos has a hold over Ralph, who he treats as a brother. He has no choice, he just hopes Julie will understand and forgive him, if they survive that is.
Fool’s Gold has crooks abound, they literally fill up every page with shocking deeds that create a tense atmosphere throughout.
I read this book with my eyes practically on stalks, lots of “oh NO that can’t happen” moments. I read it in one day as I absolutely could not put it down, I had to know what happened. They surely can’t get away with this heist? Its crazy, isn’t it? I fell in love with Ralph and Julie, for all their short comings they both have huge hearts of gold, but is in really Fool’s Gold?
December 19, 2021
4.5 stars
A gripping, roller coater ride with plenty of action & drama.
Well written with fabulous characterisation and the scene is set so well you can visualise it all happening in gangland London.
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone who loves gangland thrillers.
A gripping, roller coater ride with plenty of action & drama.
Well written with fabulous characterisation and the scene is set so well you can visualise it all happening in gangland London.
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone who loves gangland thrillers.
November 28, 2021
Gripped me from page one. Gillian Godden a fanistic writer, kept me on the sdge of my seat, so much action was on tender hooks to see what the outcome was going to be. Another Great book
October 13, 2021
I read the first book in this series, Gold Digger, earlier this year and I loved it. While it did take me a few pages to get back up to speed with the main characters, I soon found myself immersed in the shady world of Ralph Gold and Julie.
Ralph has made the commitment and asked Julie to marry him. If you have read the first book you will know the background to these two characters, neither has had the best of life but they are gradually getting there. Let us say they are not exactly legit and in some ways, it adds to the appeal of the characters given their backgrounds. The author has taken two characters, thrown enough bad stuff at them, and yet they have found each other and are planning for the future.
Ther plans involve Julie organising a wedding, setting up legit business premises and also working with Ralph and also taking part in a heist that is due to happen just before they get married. Yes, just a normal day for this couple!
This was such a welcome return to two fabulous characters and I adored getting back up to speed with them. Ralph has a more influential role with his Italian crime boss. There is a lot of respect between them, but there is something that is being held back. While Ralph trusts Don Carlos completely, Julie is still in the getting to know his stage, and like most people, she doesn't completely trust him. Especially when he holds the reins for this latest huge job that could set the Golds up for life.
I do like the contrast between Ralph and Julie, she is bold, brassy, opinionated and I think she is brilliant. Ralph is more dark and brooding, but together they make a glamourous couple. Weaving the elements of their past stories in with their current and future lives makes for a very addictive read.
This is one that like a gangland thriller story, there is some humour between the characters and also some dodgy characters. It is not an overly dark story, but there are obvious dark moments. It is twisted and just a great read. With a bit of a teaser for the next book. It is one I would definitely recommend.
Ralph has made the commitment and asked Julie to marry him. If you have read the first book you will know the background to these two characters, neither has had the best of life but they are gradually getting there. Let us say they are not exactly legit and in some ways, it adds to the appeal of the characters given their backgrounds. The author has taken two characters, thrown enough bad stuff at them, and yet they have found each other and are planning for the future.
Ther plans involve Julie organising a wedding, setting up legit business premises and also working with Ralph and also taking part in a heist that is due to happen just before they get married. Yes, just a normal day for this couple!
This was such a welcome return to two fabulous characters and I adored getting back up to speed with them. Ralph has a more influential role with his Italian crime boss. There is a lot of respect between them, but there is something that is being held back. While Ralph trusts Don Carlos completely, Julie is still in the getting to know his stage, and like most people, she doesn't completely trust him. Especially when he holds the reins for this latest huge job that could set the Golds up for life.
I do like the contrast between Ralph and Julie, she is bold, brassy, opinionated and I think she is brilliant. Ralph is more dark and brooding, but together they make a glamourous couple. Weaving the elements of their past stories in with their current and future lives makes for a very addictive read.
This is one that like a gangland thriller story, there is some humour between the characters and also some dodgy characters. It is not an overly dark story, but there are obvious dark moments. It is twisted and just a great read. With a bit of a teaser for the next book. It is one I would definitely recommend.
November 1, 2021
Brilliant
I was hooked from the very begging and couldn't put it down. I have read all Gillians books and look forward to reading many more
I was hooked from the very begging and couldn't put it down. I have read all Gillians books and look forward to reading many more
October 29, 2021
Wowza! This was a sit on the edge of your seat, bite all of your nails off, page turning adventure!!! This was my first book from this author and I was very impressed! I wish that I would have had the time to read Gold Digger first. I will most definitely be reading it soon! I really felt like I was a part of the story. I loved how the author was able to draw me in like that!
October 22, 2021
Fantastic read
Gripping storyline I love the character Julie Gold Read out of series but it didn't matter at all I even intend to read read the next book which I have never done
Gripping storyline I love the character Julie Gold Read out of series but it didn't matter at all I even intend to read read the next book which I have never done
September 15, 2021
i have watched this author grow from the beginning of her writing until she got a publisher and have always recommended her books to other readers ,and same with this story you do not want the book to end a very talented writer. who knows how to keep you engrossed in the story i love Julie and Ralph gold .Julie is on the train from Liverpool to London and worrying Ralph wont want her and as normal she helps one on the train and sorts another out .she gets to London and there is a young man called Chris she gets the shock of her life when she gets to the hotel .and Ralph so pleased she came , she is still worrying about josh her nephew , and he will soon be joining them and Julie has a wedding to plan a robbery and lots of other stuff you will laugh you will cry but you cant beat a bit of Julie and Ralph and what has Paddy been up to fans of this author and new will love i so recommend this but also read the earlier ones as they all come together , so looking forward to next book
October 4, 2021
I just love books by this author. Gilian really does know how to dra the reader into her stories. This fictional world is so realistic i almost feel like i'm there with the characters.
Pleanty going on in this story to keep you entertained.
The characters in this book are first class, I just love the creation of Julie and Ralf, such opposites that seem to work, I love the bond, the relationship between them, the drama that goes on and how they deal with things, but most of all I love the togetherness of this pair.
If you haven't read any of Gillians books then I recommed them all. Enjoy reading.
Pleanty going on in this story to keep you entertained.
The characters in this book are first class, I just love the creation of Julie and Ralf, such opposites that seem to work, I love the bond, the relationship between them, the drama that goes on and how they deal with things, but most of all I love the togetherness of this pair.
If you haven't read any of Gillians books then I recommed them all. Enjoy reading.
September 15, 2021
Julie and Ralph are on their way to London the underworld is buzzing with their arrival but they fancy the quite life but sometimes you don't always get what you wish for.
People can treat you like fools and Julie won't have that,so the chance of one more job that can be their chance to make it big is to tempting to refuse.
It's risky but no risk no gold and Julie loves gold.
Having read all of Gillian Goddens books I was excited to read this new book and she hasn't dissapointed.
An action packed story with loveable villains each book just gets better and better.
If you've not read any of this authors books what are you waiting for?
PURE GOLD
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for the ARC
People can treat you like fools and Julie won't have that,so the chance of one more job that can be their chance to make it big is to tempting to refuse.
It's risky but no risk no gold and Julie loves gold.
Having read all of Gillian Goddens books I was excited to read this new book and she hasn't dissapointed.
An action packed story with loveable villains each book just gets better and better.
If you've not read any of this authors books what are you waiting for?
PURE GOLD
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for the ARC
September 17, 2021
I have so loved catching up with Julie and Ralph and boy what a rollercoaster ride it was. This book has plenty of action along side a story that has you gripped. I do love reading Gillian Godden's books and look forward to the next 5*
December 28, 2021
There are thrills and chills aplenty in the latest gangland thriller by fast-rising star Gillian Godden: Fool’s Gold.
Julie and Ralph Gold are desperate for a lucky break. Determined to leave the wretchedness and misery of their life in Liverpool, they head to London for a fresh start and a new beginning. Having had her fill of slumming it, Julie is determined to quit their life of crime and go straight, however, she quickly realises that escaping past demons and old sins is going to be harder than she initially thought as the long tentacles of the criminal underworld are far-reaching, unforgiving and deadly…
Despite of all their attempts to go legit, Julie and Ralph find themselves sucked back into the world they thought they had left behind for good. Finding themselves belittled and underestimated, Julie and Ralph vow to show their detractors just what they are made of…but at what cost? When they are offered the chance to make it big on one final job, Julie and Ralph are unable to say no. If this job goes the way it’s supposed to, then the two of them can have the new life they are so desperate for. However, the two of them should know by now that trouble seems to follow them around.
Nothing is straightforward where Julie and Ralph are concerned. But have they bitten off more than they can chew this time round? Are they about to lose everything? Or is there another surprise waiting around the corner that could turn their entire world upside down?
In Fool’s Gold, Gillian Godden delivers a nail-biting gangland thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Fast-paced, tense and relentlessly suspenseful, Fool’s Gold is a hair-raising rollercoaster ride that is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
Julie and Ralph are two larger than life characters who are brilliantly drawn and wonderfully nuanced. They are fascinating characters that jump off the page from the second they make their appearance and although the reader might not always agree with the choices they make and the decisions they take, these flawed, colourful and complex characters are absolutely impossible to forget.
A top-notch page-turner perfect for gangland thriller fans, Gillian Godden’s Fool’s Gold is a gritty and addictive chiller that is hard to put down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Julie and Ralph Gold are desperate for a lucky break. Determined to leave the wretchedness and misery of their life in Liverpool, they head to London for a fresh start and a new beginning. Having had her fill of slumming it, Julie is determined to quit their life of crime and go straight, however, she quickly realises that escaping past demons and old sins is going to be harder than she initially thought as the long tentacles of the criminal underworld are far-reaching, unforgiving and deadly…
Despite of all their attempts to go legit, Julie and Ralph find themselves sucked back into the world they thought they had left behind for good. Finding themselves belittled and underestimated, Julie and Ralph vow to show their detractors just what they are made of…but at what cost? When they are offered the chance to make it big on one final job, Julie and Ralph are unable to say no. If this job goes the way it’s supposed to, then the two of them can have the new life they are so desperate for. However, the two of them should know by now that trouble seems to follow them around.
Nothing is straightforward where Julie and Ralph are concerned. But have they bitten off more than they can chew this time round? Are they about to lose everything? Or is there another surprise waiting around the corner that could turn their entire world upside down?
In Fool’s Gold, Gillian Godden delivers a nail-biting gangland thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Fast-paced, tense and relentlessly suspenseful, Fool’s Gold is a hair-raising rollercoaster ride that is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
Julie and Ralph are two larger than life characters who are brilliantly drawn and wonderfully nuanced. They are fascinating characters that jump off the page from the second they make their appearance and although the reader might not always agree with the choices they make and the decisions they take, these flawed, colourful and complex characters are absolutely impossible to forget.
A top-notch page-turner perfect for gangland thriller fans, Gillian Godden’s Fool’s Gold is a gritty and addictive chiller that is hard to put down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 17, 2021
This book intrigued me from when I first saw the cover and read the blurb. I want to get more into crime books and this was a great start. We got to read about Ralph and Julie and their journey to becoming criminals. I enjoyed reading about Julie discovering luxury hotels and how she thought and felt.
Both of the characters were so funny and mischievous. I enjoyed reading in the perspective of both characters. The way Ralph takes on the jobs and how he does that, to how Julie loved the rewards and lives in luxury. It was interesting when we read about how their lives were before moving to London. I think that was important to remember while reading it, knowing how far the couple have come since moving. The book was funny at times but also serious. It was interesting to learn how gangland crime works and how Ralph is involved in everything.
I thought it was well written and was very gripping. I was so eager to find out more about this couple. I enjoyed reading from both main characters perspectives, we got to learn more and more about them. I definitely want to go back and read the first book, although this can be read as a stand-alone. I want to read more about the Gold’s couple.
Both of the characters were so funny and mischievous. I enjoyed reading in the perspective of both characters. The way Ralph takes on the jobs and how he does that, to how Julie loved the rewards and lives in luxury. It was interesting when we read about how their lives were before moving to London. I think that was important to remember while reading it, knowing how far the couple have come since moving. The book was funny at times but also serious. It was interesting to learn how gangland crime works and how Ralph is involved in everything.
I thought it was well written and was very gripping. I was so eager to find out more about this couple. I enjoyed reading from both main characters perspectives, we got to learn more and more about them. I definitely want to go back and read the first book, although this can be read as a stand-alone. I want to read more about the Gold’s couple.
October 16, 2021
This is a brilliant crime thriller fiction book , featuring two strong lead characters , it is part of a series but it also works as a standalone.
In the book we have Julie and Ralph Gold , they have a big criminal reputation that just won't let them live a quiet life , they moved from Liverpool to London but the reputation follows them. Julie is determined to make a fresh start of her life and go clean and legit .... this only leads to people trying to take her as a fool , now as Julie is a strong independent woman she isn't going to let them happen for too long and soon they are back to their old ways.
I know that in the pervious books you get more of an in depth look into the Gold's lives and so you will get more of a connection with them and feel like you know them more , but even as a first time reader of the series after reading the book I feel like I knew them well and could start to tell the way they were thinking. It is brilliantly written, the descriptions of the setting and the characters are great and you can certainly picture it in your mind as you are reading along. It is a book that will have you hooked with the fast pace and all the action to go with it !
In the book we have Julie and Ralph Gold , they have a big criminal reputation that just won't let them live a quiet life , they moved from Liverpool to London but the reputation follows them. Julie is determined to make a fresh start of her life and go clean and legit .... this only leads to people trying to take her as a fool , now as Julie is a strong independent woman she isn't going to let them happen for too long and soon they are back to their old ways.
I know that in the pervious books you get more of an in depth look into the Gold's lives and so you will get more of a connection with them and feel like you know them more , but even as a first time reader of the series after reading the book I feel like I knew them well and could start to tell the way they were thinking. It is brilliantly written, the descriptions of the setting and the characters are great and you can certainly picture it in your mind as you are reading along. It is a book that will have you hooked with the fast pace and all the action to go with it !
December 31, 2021
Ralph is offering a new start, a new life for Julie. A life away from the hardship she has known and the need to do anything and everything to survive. She is full of uncertainty, and yet takes the plunge anyway. The problem is their reputations proceed them and the criminal world is waiting around every corner.
Julie's character is a tricky one. The reader feels empathy with her and she is certainly capable of showing compassion to others. Simultaneously there is also the brusque, foul-mouthed and aggressive Julie who reacts impulsively to perceived slights or judgements. It's a slightly jarring experience, because the lines become blurred between good and bad. Is that perhaps indicative of her true nature or is it the result of a life lived on the edge?
This is only the first in the Gold series and based on the teaser of the net one at the end of this read, it looks as if it's going to be a violent and bumpy ride for Julie. It's a gritty crime series with an urban crime vibe.
Julie's character is a tricky one. The reader feels empathy with her and she is certainly capable of showing compassion to others. Simultaneously there is also the brusque, foul-mouthed and aggressive Julie who reacts impulsively to perceived slights or judgements. It's a slightly jarring experience, because the lines become blurred between good and bad. Is that perhaps indicative of her true nature or is it the result of a life lived on the edge?
This is only the first in the Gold series and based on the teaser of the net one at the end of this read, it looks as if it's going to be a violent and bumpy ride for Julie. It's a gritty crime series with an urban crime vibe.
October 15, 2021
I recently read the first part of this series, and I was delighted with how similar the standards were in this follow-on. The superb absorbing storytelling style that Gillian Godden creates, made this book seem like I was visiting old friends in Julie and Ralph. This could also be read as a stand-alone, but I personally am glad I read the first book, as it enabled me to get the back story on these characters.
This is a great gangland thriller, with dramatic and gripping scenes but nothing that can be deemed as too heavy, making this extremely entertaining for fans of this genre.
I have been left wanting to read more from this author, and am excited about her future releases.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a gifted copy of this, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
This is a great gangland thriller, with dramatic and gripping scenes but nothing that can be deemed as too heavy, making this extremely entertaining for fans of this genre.
I have been left wanting to read more from this author, and am excited about her future releases.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a gifted copy of this, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
December 30, 2021
Fool's gold by Gillian Godden was another excellent read. This is the second book I have read by this author and I just love the way she writes. Especially as this book is full of twists and turns that will have you sitting on the edge of my seat! This book was another Superb read!!!! and what an absolute page turner this was.
So if you love a gritty gangland thriller this is the book for you! I love the main character Julie ex prostitute and she is not saying what she thinks of people etc! Love her.
I highly recommend this book and big fat 5 stars for it as well.
Gillian has become one of my Favourite authors of 2021
Big Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my copy of the book exchange for a honest review..
So if you love a gritty gangland thriller this is the book for you! I love the main character Julie ex prostitute and she is not saying what she thinks of people etc! Love her.
I highly recommend this book and big fat 5 stars for it as well.
Gillian has become one of my Favourite authors of 2021
Big Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my copy of the book exchange for a honest review..
November 7, 2021
This is a step back from previous books in this series. We find out how Ralph and Julie met and their life before we meet them in books further down the line.
It was an interesting read and an exciting crime book.
Both are corrupt in their own ways and both love the riches crime pays. Julie is an ex-prostitute, Ralph a clever businessman on the wrong side of the law.
A good story that grips and thrills the reader.
It was an interesting read and an exciting crime book.
Both are corrupt in their own ways and both love the riches crime pays. Julie is an ex-prostitute, Ralph a clever businessman on the wrong side of the law.
A good story that grips and thrills the reader.
October 18, 2021
Fool's Gold⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have enjoyed reading about Ralf & and life. It was an easy read & enjoyable.There was plenty of action I enjoyed finding out more about the characters.Give it a read if your into these type of books.I had read bits about them in other books though they weren't the main characters so it's good to read more about their lives ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have enjoyed reading about Ralf & and life. It was an easy read & enjoyable.There was plenty of action I enjoyed finding out more about the characters.Give it a read if your into these type of books.I had read bits about them in other books though they weren't the main characters so it's good to read more about their lives ⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 18, 2021
A fitting second part-er to this read. Great to see Julie and Ralph back together. Their passion really shines through the thread of the story. Jam packed with action, great characters, thrilling read.
January 19, 2022
Predictable wouldn't read another of her books
Story line was pretty women with gangsters . Not what I expected after reading the reviews . We are all different but for me not a good read .
Story line was pretty women with gangsters . Not what I expected after reading the reviews . We are all different but for me not a good read .
October 21, 2021
My review of Fool's Gold is on my blog.
https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
December 19, 2021
Great book
Brilliant storyline which kept me hooked from start to finish. Personally I’d read this series before starting the Lambriano series.
Brilliant storyline which kept me hooked from start to finish. Personally I’d read this series before starting the Lambriano series.
Read
December 27, 2021Fools gold
I really liked this book and cannot wait for the next part. Could not put it down. Read it in 2 sitting.
I really liked this book and cannot wait for the next part. Could not put it down. Read it in 2 sitting.
February 20, 2022
GOLD
Well what a book,couldn't put this book down,absolutely a page turner would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a bit of grit.
Well what a book,couldn't put this book down,absolutely a page turner would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a bit of grit.
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