Not Without Risk

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Pub Date 10 Nov 2017 | Archive Date 20 Aug 2022

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Description

Described by reviewers and readers as ‘a compelling crime mystery novel’, ‘a very clever and memorable story’ and ‘a definitive five star read’.

When Martin Bennett, the backroom brains in a regeneration company charged with bringing back Merseyside’s former prosperity, sees an ex-friend murdered on a hospital escalator and discovers that the body was too hastily cremated, he feels compelled to investigate.

In order to discover the truth about the murder, he must navigate the Merseyside underworld peopled by bent solicitors and coppers, corrupt politicians and violent thugs. He forms an alliance with the mayor’s right hand woman, who is out of favour with her corrupt boss, and uncovers not only the surprising story behind the murder but also a conspiracy to carve up Merseyside’s green belt.

The journey will not be without risk. For both of them.

Described by reviewers and readers as ‘a compelling crime mystery novel’, ‘a very clever and memorable story’ and ‘a definitive five star read’.

When Martin Bennett, the backroom brains in a...


Advance Praise

"Editorial Reviews Product Description

‘Mood is a word that comes to mind in the first lines of this fine engrossing novel – mood as atmosphere and as a human response. Raw, rich in flavor, and a very fine read, Not Without Risk takes them and the result is a very fine fresh novel.’ - San Francisco Review of Books

‘In spirit, Trewin's Liverpudlian noir is cousin to writers like Ian Rankin and Henning Mankell, as well as slow-burn British thrillers like Brighton Rock or Get Carter. Readers who get hooked by its retro charms are likely to keep turning pages until the end.’ - Blue Ink Reviews

‘The intriguing plot is complex with many twists and turns. Author Pete Trewin has delivered a compelling adventure mystery work in Not Without Risk. The title is reflective of the position in which Martin finds himself – as he continues on his quest, he may be putting his own life, as well as others’ lives, at high risk. How the mystery is solved is remarkable and unforeseen – an interesting tale, indeed.’ - Readers Favorite

‘Not Without Risk is no casual murder mystery, but a complex and well-detailed story, the real meat of which lies in well-detailed, absorbing descriptions of community and personalities which draw readers into the story and keep them on their toes and immersed. Riveting and engrossing, Not Without Risk is especially recommended for prior fans of British murder investigations who like their reads steeped in social and political insights.’ - Mid West Book Reviews

‘Not Without Risk is a complex thriller which takes us on a lively journey through the sinister underworld of the city of Liverpool. Trying to put together all of the pieces of this complicated jigsaw puzzle is what makes Not Without Risk such an entertaining read. I enjoyed getting to know Martin, he’s a likeable chap. His lively banter with his colleague, Lester, and their thwarted efforts at getting fit made me laugh out loud, especially at the descriptions of Lester’s somewhat dubious sport attire. I found much to enjoy in Not Without Risk, not just because I’m a northerner and could appreciate the dry wit and ready repartee which is so reminiscent of this part of the country, but also from the way the author really brings Merseyside, and in particular, Liverpool, to life in such a convincing and entertaining way.’ - Jaffa Reads Too

‘In Pete Trewin’s engaging crime novel, Not Without Risk, an unwitting underdog is caught in the throes of corruption. The book is filled with twists and turns from the get-go. Dialogue that concentrates on relationships over fast-clipped scenes sets the pace in this crime thriller. Dilapidated backdrops set the tone, augmenting the book’s overarching theme of corruption and creating a dark, near dystopian aura. Balance comes through reflections on “the good old days,” when Liverpool contained plenty of green space and homes weren’t deliberately being torn down to create new housing projects. Not Without Risk is a nuanced work of crime fiction.’ - Foreword Clarion Reviews


Amazon Customer Reviews

‘Forrest Gump famously said life is like a box of chocolates. This book is more like a bag of licorice all-sorts – full of variety and collectively very satisfying. The novel is tight and fast paced, knowing and sardonic, and the writing has a lightness of touch that makes the pages turn very easily. Its a top notch, gripping, little thriller by an author who is now hitting his stride.’ – Sean Gradigh 

‘A gritty escapist thriller that is well written and pacy, recommended.’ – Refuge 

‘The raw, gritty, in-your-face language of this street-writer-with-soul that characterised his previous two ‘Murkeyside’ crime capers, is again evident from the start in his latest murder mystery, Pete Trewin is always on the money - ‘And what about this business on the front page of the Echo the other night?’ ‘What business? The Queen Mary visit?’ ‘No, the lad crucified in the park.’ Maybe you have to be a Scouser to feel the underplayed irony here, but I like these little touches that crop up everywhere in the book and really enjoyed Pete’s latest everyday tale of bent b*ggers on the make!’ - Mr S.P.Bretherton 

‘Excellent Thriller. I love finding a new Author that can grab my attention like Pete Trewin has, with this very clever and memorable story. This really is a fabulous book that gave me hours of entertainment.’ – Todd Simpson Top 1000 Reviewer 

‘Not Without Risk by Pete Trewin is a bumpy read—not, though, in a negative sense. Through actions, dialogue, and well-placed flashbacks, the reader is introduced to an eclectic cast of characters and an exquisitely-crafted plot that pulls you ever deeper into Bennett’s oddball existence, piquing your curiosity with every sentence.’ Charles A. Ray Vine Voice 

‘Very well developed characters, nicely painted scenes, and exceptionally clean editing make this book a joy to read.’ – Will Decker 

‘Mood is a word that comes to mind in the first lines of this fine engrossing novel – mood as atmosphere and as a human response. Raw, rich in flavor, and a very fine read, Not Without Risk takes them and the result is a very fine fresh novel.’ Grady Harp Top 100 Reviewer 

‘Not Without Risk is a complex thriller which takes us on a lively journey through the sinister underworld of the city of Liverpool. Trying to put together all of the pieces of this complicated jigsaw puzzle is what makes Not Without Risk such an entertaining read. I enjoyed getting to know Martin, he’s a likeable chap. His lively banter with his colleague, Lester, and their thwarted efforts at getting fit made me laugh out loud, especially at the descriptions of Lester’s somewhat dubious sport attire.’ - Jaffa Reads Too Book blogger

"Editorial Reviews Product Description

‘Mood is a word that comes to mind in the first lines of this fine engrossing novel – mood as atmosphere and as a human response. Raw, rich in flavor, and a very...


Available Editions

ISBN 9780987627223
PRICE £2.27 (GBP)

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Average rating from 8 members


Featured Reviews

Graham Greene for the 2020s? This author has a writing style which punches without seeming to try. The story and characters are both strong but, for me, the writing style was what set this book apart.

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An impeccably executed novel, reviving some of the tropes of hardboiled crime fiction. The characters are complicated and flawed, and the plot delves into the dark underbelly of social and political corruption on Merseyside. The setting is deeply atmospheric and the whole plot feels real and complex and true. The psychological acuity of the writing is razor-sharp, intelligent and intensely human. There's warmth and wit, wrapped in the dark cloak of black humour. Crime writing doesn't get any better than this.

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Good mystery thriller set in Liverpool England. At times a bit confusing with so many characters and British slang. But overall a good read.

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