25 May 2023

This is a book with a difference, by the time you reach the last page you will be completely in love with this villain. This is not a light read, you will find yourself quickly and deeply engrossed in this story very quickly. The protagonist is a rather unassuming character who knows she needs to make some changes, and the story shows how she will do that, but also how she ended up where she is.

The author created a villain that crawls into your heart as you learn more about her origins. The young woman is a brilliant creation. I enjoyed the movement between past and present which slowly brought Cilla to life in a realistic manner. I found myself quickly engrossed and eager for Cilla to achieve her goals.

Cilla is a twenty-two-year-old assassin. Her speciality is the “dry-job” a death that appears to be caused by natural causes. A murder with no questions asked. Cilla is clever, creative and very lucky – but she realises that her luck is not going to last forever. Her main employer, Vlad Haugr – the owner of TGR requires about five jobs a year in exchange for a flat, retainer and expenses. Vlad is fond of Cilla, she is valuable to him and he won’t let Cilla just walk away. Can Cilla outsmart Vlad and escape the day when she runs out of luck?

This book had me rooting for the villain – Cilla is a curious character who manages to steal your heart. Her story is sad and heartbreaking. I loved all the information about her childhood and the experiences she faced.

Cilla is a strong, stubborn character even as a child. As you learn about this young woman you understand why she is an assassin. She is clever and creative while her average appearance leaves her almost invisible. She is good at what she does and manages to show compassion when you least expect it. The author did a brilliant job in creating Cilla – she is cold and lacks emotion most of the time – only to surprise you when you least expect it. I loved her determination to find a new way of life.

This is an unusual read that will have you rooting for the villain. If you are keen on a crime novel filled with detail and loads of unexpected developments, then this is the book for you. This is a gripping entertaining read, with lots of usual characters that will keep you glued to the pages from start to end.