The Silk Fist Conspiracy
by David Stedman

This is a crime thriller suspense mystery full of intrigue, Bouncing back and forth between countries there is a conspiracy to kill or be killed. Its a typical whodunnit with lots of characters, full of assassinations terrorism, murder at its most deadly which affects police forces around the globe and a Mr Big who is the mastermind behind everything, its edge of seat reading and you are pivoted on a roller coaster of a ride.

This book kept me interested and turning the pages. Although I had an idea of the outcome three quarters of the way through it still kept me entertained all the way to the end. I thoroughly enjoy the works of Tom Clancy, and this would be right up there with his best. Would not hesitate to read more books by this author.

I read Stedman's historical fiction Chronicles of Pauncefoot and Longshanks and really enjoyed it. He writes clearly and doesn't hang about. Thrillers not my thing but I tried Silk Fist Conspiracy. Writing just as good and clear. Wasn't too sure after first chapter but then I quickly got involved with the characters and Stedman cleverly leaves a cliffhanger at end of a chapter. He scatters clues around, which is fun, and that also makes you want to read on. Maybe two or three chapters were unnecessary but he doesn't stray for long. I liked that the characters were as important as action although the action is tough and convincing. I also liked the chapter headings which give location and a time frame, just like he did in his history novel, because action takes place in many places around the world, which is fun. I thought I could see where the plot was going but Stedman keeps a couple of real surprises up his sleeve and the story finishes with a satisfying end, unlike many thrillers, and ties up the loose ends. I found myself wanting to keep reading when I should have been doing other things and what more can you ask from a book. It's restored my faith in thrillers.

Someone recommended this to take on holiday and she was not wrong. I was afraid it might be all boy's toys and macho action but all the characters were convincing and interesting rather than some bang bang you're dead scenario. I was hoping that the hero and heroine would get together! Do they? Read the book! The plot is intricate but the author always makes it clear exactly where we are and what is going on. I loved the exotic locations. One or two of what you might call the politically oriented chapters seemed to go a bit too long, that's why only four stars, but I never wanted to stop reading, and the ending was as gripping and satisfying as any novel I've ever read. Highly recommended.