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The Milan Contract
‘Except for the ugly brown bullet hole, the corpse could have been the image of the man in the mirror�.
Lukas Stolz, an ex-East German maths guru is shot dead outside the Hotel Napoli in Milan. But Lieutenant Raphael Conza soon wonders whether the bullet that killed Stolz was meant for someone else.
Conza’s investigations uncover a vital witness who may know the moped rider spotted leaving the murder scene. Another witness goes missing and someone is leaking details about the case.
The gang behind the murder will stop at nothing to cover their tracks and Lieutenant Conza finds himself fighting not only the assassins, but also powerful allies determined to protect them. He soon realises he’s out of his depth in pursuit of brutal killers in both Italy and the UK and has to reconsider his options after discovering a plot that could have international repercussions.
Lukas Stolz, an ex-East German maths guru is shot dead outside the Hotel Napoli in Milan. But Lieutenant Raphael Conza soon wonders whether the bullet that killed Stolz was meant for someone else.
Conza’s investigations uncover a vital witness who may know the moped rider spotted leaving the murder scene. Another witness goes missing and someone is leaking details about the case.
The gang behind the murder will stop at nothing to cover their tracks and Lieutenant Conza finds himself fighting not only the assassins, but also powerful allies determined to protect them. He soon realises he’s out of his depth in pursuit of brutal killers in both Italy and the UK and has to reconsider his options after discovering a plot that could have international repercussions.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2020
10 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Franks
1Ìýbook52ÌýfollowersHi GR member.
Firstly, thanks for stopping by. Whilst I'm a new writer I'm an old reader and it is primarily for this reason that I have a GR account. I have tended to read established authors but I'm always on the look-out for the next Le Carre or Forsyth...!
I love books and have the utmost respect for anyone who has pushed themselves to put their thoughts on paper.
My background is military (for 22 years) and Law (as a barrister). I love crime, espionage and thrillers and am currently in the process of bringing my GR library up to date with the many hundreds of books I have read over the past 40 odd years - many of which I have forgotten.
As an author I am always grateful that somebody has devoted a small part of their life to reading my story. If you happen to be one of them - thank you!
Stay safe - be kind
Firstly, thanks for stopping by. Whilst I'm a new writer I'm an old reader and it is primarily for this reason that I have a GR account. I have tended to read established authors but I'm always on the look-out for the next Le Carre or Forsyth...!
I love books and have the utmost respect for anyone who has pushed themselves to put their thoughts on paper.
My background is military (for 22 years) and Law (as a barrister). I love crime, espionage and thrillers and am currently in the process of bringing my GR library up to date with the many hundreds of books I have read over the past 40 odd years - many of which I have forgotten.
As an author I am always grateful that somebody has devoted a small part of their life to reading my story. If you happen to be one of them - thank you!
Stay safe - be kind
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 24, 2022
A man is shot dead outside the Hotel Napoli in Milan, in what looks like a botched robbery, as the murderer speeds off on a Vespa. Guardia di Finanza police Lieutenant 'Raffy' Conza (a pretty cool rendition of a caring procedural police being pushed to his limits) investigates the killing, on the off chance that organised crime is involved. As witnesses and evidence disappear, facts blur and multiple motives and rationale come to light, Conza's police brain starts seeing a lot more to the case than what was first thought. This multiple point of view conspiracy crime thriller blends modern Europe (Milan)'s woes with its not so distant Cold War past to create an engrossing European crime drama that you can imagine being the talk of the town if ever made into a BBC drama.
So many good things about this absorbing read from a well rounded non-stereotypical take on immigrants, through to a much smarter, hence more ambiguous, but also more real feeling of the never-ending battle between law jurisdictions. But if I liked this, it's first and foremost because it so well fits my number one criteria for a good read; story, story, story, and this is one Hell of a story. 8 out of 12, Four Star read.
Lastly, but not least, HUGE thank you to the author , for not only gifting me a copy of this, but doing so without asking me to provide a review!
So many good things about this absorbing read from a well rounded non-stereotypical take on immigrants, through to a much smarter, hence more ambiguous, but also more real feeling of the never-ending battle between law jurisdictions. But if I liked this, it's first and foremost because it so well fits my number one criteria for a good read; story, story, story, and this is one Hell of a story. 8 out of 12, Four Star read.
Lastly, but not least, HUGE thank you to the author , for not only gifting me a copy of this, but doing so without asking me to provide a review!
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December 30, 2021Author Review
Seems a little strange being invited to review one's own book, but rather than telling you what I think of it, I will give you some background on how it came about.
I was in the RAF and visiting Milan for professional reasons. My train back to Paris was due to leave early one Sunday morning and as I stood on the steps of the hotel, a lone cyclist carrying a pannier of bread rode by. In that instant, the book (in almost the exact same form it is now), was written in my head. It may seem a little odd, but it was as if the book was already there - waiting, and I just happened to come along to 'hear' it. Strange but true - or maybe not so strange? Perhaps this is how many stories reach book form......?
I have loved every moment of having the privilege to tell this story and can only hope that you enjoy reading it as much.
Seems a little strange being invited to review one's own book, but rather than telling you what I think of it, I will give you some background on how it came about.
I was in the RAF and visiting Milan for professional reasons. My train back to Paris was due to leave early one Sunday morning and as I stood on the steps of the hotel, a lone cyclist carrying a pannier of bread rode by. In that instant, the book (in almost the exact same form it is now), was written in my head. It may seem a little odd, but it was as if the book was already there - waiting, and I just happened to come along to 'hear' it. Strange but true - or maybe not so strange? Perhaps this is how many stories reach book form......?
I have loved every moment of having the privilege to tell this story and can only hope that you enjoy reading it as much.
July 21, 2021
International crime thriller? Also elaborate plot with many characters to track reminding one of a 5,000 piece jigsaw puzzle. In other words, this is not light reading. It is interesting in its complex web of events and could easily be a 10-episode series. The scene is mostly set in Milan but there are side trips. It starts by grabbing your attention and sympathy for a young man forced to shoot someone outside a hotel. The story builds on that initial event to reveal a many layered web of international crime. Just three stars because I am exhausted after reading the book. I guess it should be 4, so I will change it.
Kindle Purchase
Kindle Purchase
May 22, 2021
Stunning debut novel!
An action based thriller that keeps you turning pages as quickly as you can read. You become invested in his characters and the plot is involved but never over played.
As is the vogue at times there is a need to refer to earlier events and explain with background information. However, this is never at the expense of the modern day drama unfolding.
In some novels these past references can slow down the progress but here they are used to great effect and enhance the reader’s enjoyment and grasp of the story.
A professional style hit on a business man checking out of his hotel at first seems like a bundled robbery; maybe even a case of mistaken identity. But the case seems more complicated still when witnesses are threatened and killed. Furthermore there appears to be leak within the police team itself which places others at risk.
I liked the humanity of the police officer heading up the investigation. I enjoyed the sense of conflation and frustration within serving officers. I loved this focus on the Italian police model and the locations used to convey the story.
The writing is informative but seldom less than entertaining, despite the events described. I appreciated this realism and as a police procedural it had quality. However what lifts the story further it has historic roots , yet totally current, believable but essentially it is greater than its parts. Since it also falls into the category of Cold War thriller, with espionage and action two components that ratchet up the drama and the tension.
Without trying to be too clever, the author weaves a credible story with victims and perpetrators being ordinary people acting under duress or in the wrong place at the wrong time. I also liked the implication that crime is not always solved; criminals can avoid consequences of the law due to powerful and influential backers. This reflection on why people become involved; their apparent quilt established along the way but how evidence isn’t always found, even if there was a will and motivation to bring down those pulling the strings. Blackmail, implied force and the ability of friends to enact revenged makes the story more authentic for me.
I found I cared about the characters and from the dilemmas thrown up made me empathise with those caught up in these events, as black and white seemed to blur together and cynicism made everything seem grey.
Hopefully not a one book wonder. Potential clearly evident, more satisfied readers might help launch this author’s career. A great debut, more of the same, please.
An action based thriller that keeps you turning pages as quickly as you can read. You become invested in his characters and the plot is involved but never over played.
As is the vogue at times there is a need to refer to earlier events and explain with background information. However, this is never at the expense of the modern day drama unfolding.
In some novels these past references can slow down the progress but here they are used to great effect and enhance the reader’s enjoyment and grasp of the story.
A professional style hit on a business man checking out of his hotel at first seems like a bundled robbery; maybe even a case of mistaken identity. But the case seems more complicated still when witnesses are threatened and killed. Furthermore there appears to be leak within the police team itself which places others at risk.
I liked the humanity of the police officer heading up the investigation. I enjoyed the sense of conflation and frustration within serving officers. I loved this focus on the Italian police model and the locations used to convey the story.
The writing is informative but seldom less than entertaining, despite the events described. I appreciated this realism and as a police procedural it had quality. However what lifts the story further it has historic roots , yet totally current, believable but essentially it is greater than its parts. Since it also falls into the category of Cold War thriller, with espionage and action two components that ratchet up the drama and the tension.
Without trying to be too clever, the author weaves a credible story with victims and perpetrators being ordinary people acting under duress or in the wrong place at the wrong time. I also liked the implication that crime is not always solved; criminals can avoid consequences of the law due to powerful and influential backers. This reflection on why people become involved; their apparent quilt established along the way but how evidence isn’t always found, even if there was a will and motivation to bring down those pulling the strings. Blackmail, implied force and the ability of friends to enact revenged makes the story more authentic for me.
I found I cared about the characters and from the dilemmas thrown up made me empathise with those caught up in these events, as black and white seemed to blur together and cynicism made everything seem grey.
Hopefully not a one book wonder. Potential clearly evident, more satisfied readers might help launch this author’s career. A great debut, more of the same, please.
March 13, 2021
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A man is killed in Italy. The Carabierni investigate. There are three divisions, and none of them get along that well. Eventually, they get to the bottom of things, revealing a pile of corruption.
Not bad.
A man is killed in Italy. The Carabierni investigate. There are three divisions, and none of them get along that well. Eventually, they get to the bottom of things, revealing a pile of corruption.
Not bad.
May 4, 2021
Finally! A crime thriller done right!
On page one we have a body, and we already know the killer by name a few pages later. Case Closed for the intrepid Lt. Conza? Not so fast. At first, I was surprised to discover so many of the ‘answers� were clearly laid out in the first few chapters, that is, until all the ‘questions� started coming to light. Our veteran detective soon finds himself in over his head. The reveals are timed to perfection. The tension is palpable, and real to the reader.
For me, the best part of reading a crime thriller is feeling the character development unfold. In the Milan Contract, we experience purposeful suffering and pain, loss and grief, and of course, we find ourselves on a suspenseful journey to redemption and resolution. Even the locations feel like another character, vivid, alive, with impetus and emotion.
I read a lot, often with the simple purpose of filling the empty hours between my other daily projects. However, with the Milan Contract, I found myself postponing other things just to get through another chapter. Stephen Franks� writing style makes it difficult to set this book down. Can’t wait to see what flows from his pen next!
On page one we have a body, and we already know the killer by name a few pages later. Case Closed for the intrepid Lt. Conza? Not so fast. At first, I was surprised to discover so many of the ‘answers� were clearly laid out in the first few chapters, that is, until all the ‘questions� started coming to light. Our veteran detective soon finds himself in over his head. The reveals are timed to perfection. The tension is palpable, and real to the reader.
For me, the best part of reading a crime thriller is feeling the character development unfold. In the Milan Contract, we experience purposeful suffering and pain, loss and grief, and of course, we find ourselves on a suspenseful journey to redemption and resolution. Even the locations feel like another character, vivid, alive, with impetus and emotion.
I read a lot, often with the simple purpose of filling the empty hours between my other daily projects. However, with the Milan Contract, I found myself postponing other things just to get through another chapter. Stephen Franks� writing style makes it difficult to set this book down. Can’t wait to see what flows from his pen next!
July 22, 2021
~I'd like to thank the wonderful author for sending me a free copy in exchange for my honest review!~
This was the most interesting murder mysteries I've ever read. For example, the killer is revealed in one of the first chapters. What?! And that's just the beginning...
Then, you find out the story story behind the murder, everyone related to it, etc. This was a really unique (but great) touch, because you were able to understand everyone's personality and motives that much better.
After that, you get to see how the police investigation and all go on, but, let's face it. Murder mysteries are always more complicated than we first think.
This book had perhaps the best standalone book's ending I've ever read. It wrapped everything up wonderfully, didn't leave any loose strings or suspicions, and justice was served.
All in all, this was a great book! (Aside from the swearing though)
Be prepared to be pulled into a web of secrets, conspiracies, revenge, and much more, throughout this one-of-a-kind murder mystery!
~Full Review To Come~
This was the most interesting murder mysteries I've ever read. For example, the killer is revealed in one of the first chapters. What?! And that's just the beginning...
Then, you find out the story story behind the murder, everyone related to it, etc. This was a really unique (but great) touch, because you were able to understand everyone's personality and motives that much better.
After that, you get to see how the police investigation and all go on, but, let's face it. Murder mysteries are always more complicated than we first think.
This book had perhaps the best standalone book's ending I've ever read. It wrapped everything up wonderfully, didn't leave any loose strings or suspicions, and justice was served.
All in all, this was a great book! (Aside from the swearing though)
Be prepared to be pulled into a web of secrets, conspiracies, revenge, and much more, throughout this one-of-a-kind murder mystery!
~Full Review To Come~
July 13, 2021
'The Milan Contract' is an auspicious debut for Stephen Franks. It's an effective mystery that's mostly a procedural with a dash of espionage thrown in. The international setting and cast of characters lends even more plot interest.
The story begins with the murder of a man outside a Milan hotel by an assassin on a motorbike. As the killer flees the scene, he removes his face covering and is recognized by Nyala, his girlfriend, an Ethiopian immigrant who happened to be walking down a nearby street. Police Lieutenant Raffy Conza catches the case and begins the investigation, which is immediately complicated by overlapping police jurisdictions and clashing personalities. Adding further complexity was that the victim appeared to be a 'nobody', a professorial number cruncher who worked for a big British company. However, he also happened to be the doppelganger for a mid-level criminal staying at the same hotel. Was the hit a case of mistaken identity? All signs initially point in that direction, yet Conza finally gets Nyala to talk and layer after layer of what really happened and who the players are gets stripped away. What looked like a mob hit turns out to be an entirely different animal.
The writing in 'The Milan Contract' is solid, with good dialogue, a cast of believable characters, excellent pace, and a satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed the international action and am always interested in how law enforcement differs between countries. I definitely look forward to more from this author!
The story begins with the murder of a man outside a Milan hotel by an assassin on a motorbike. As the killer flees the scene, he removes his face covering and is recognized by Nyala, his girlfriend, an Ethiopian immigrant who happened to be walking down a nearby street. Police Lieutenant Raffy Conza catches the case and begins the investigation, which is immediately complicated by overlapping police jurisdictions and clashing personalities. Adding further complexity was that the victim appeared to be a 'nobody', a professorial number cruncher who worked for a big British company. However, he also happened to be the doppelganger for a mid-level criminal staying at the same hotel. Was the hit a case of mistaken identity? All signs initially point in that direction, yet Conza finally gets Nyala to talk and layer after layer of what really happened and who the players are gets stripped away. What looked like a mob hit turns out to be an entirely different animal.
The writing in 'The Milan Contract' is solid, with good dialogue, a cast of believable characters, excellent pace, and a satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed the international action and am always interested in how law enforcement differs between countries. I definitely look forward to more from this author!
October 2, 2021
Thank you Stephen Franks for the signed copy and Netgalley for the review copy. A man is shot as he walked from a Milan hotel to his waiting car by a moped rider. When Lieutenant Raphael Conza starts to investigate he discovers another guest at the hotel with identical looks. Is this a case of mistaken identity? The gang responsible try hard to cover their tracks. Evidence and witnesses go missing. A tough case for Conza with political aspects. Brilliantly written, intricate plot and highly recommended.
December 30, 2020
Neither crime fiction nor debut novels tend to feature highly on my bookshelves, so this was an exception for me � and pretty exceptional it was too! This wonderful work of fiction is woven with intrigue and holds the secrets of characters deep within layers of hidden truths and outright deceits. The characters and their worlds are painted vividly, and you are carried with them as they each face their own reality and peel back the layers of the web which has been so cleverly spun by the writer. With a protagonist that you can root for and some extremely dark villains, the characters are well written and compelling; even the supporting cast come alive, carefully avoiding the overused cliches that you might expect. The writer takes you on a journey of twists and turns where you can’t quite see the path ahead, keeping you engaged and wanting more. In all, a great page-turner with a satisfying reveal and no stone left unturned.
February 27, 2021
Sharp, tight writing without wasting time, and packing in the action in an extremely well plotted story. The author is clearly a man of experience, he brings you into the story and occasionally you have to remind yourself to breathe. This is a first novel - I am looking forward to the next work from this promising new author.
June 25, 2021
I am pretty impressed by Stephen Franks' debut novel which is a fast-paced thriller, with an array of diverse characters. It masquerades initially as a police detective murder investigation being pursued by the Milan police; however, this book becomes much more than that, delving into history and espionage and the dark, dark criminal world with a plot that surprises.
Franks' protagonist Lieutenant Conza is called to the scene of a rather cold killing outside the Hotel Napoli in Milan where a guest leaving for the airport is gunned down. But was the right person targeted that day or was it a case of mistaken identity?
As we follow Conza's investigation into the murder, we are introduced to the politics between the different departments of the police as well as the background to the victim, which takes us to the dissolution of East and West Germany and the tensions that can only arise from two very differing ideologies.
Conza discovers that the death of Lukas Stolz is not as clear cut as solving a murder: he has become involved in something complicated and far-reaching that could detrimentally impact his career and maybe even threaten his life.
I thought, when I started the book, that it was going to be complicated and jerky as it introduced characters from diverse backgrounds and jumped about a bit in terms of location but Stephen Franks' control of the progression of his plot means that there is nothing that lacks clarification and it all evolves at the right pace, the pieces slotting together with ease. In this, it is very well planned and executed. And as Conza discovers more, I felt compelled to finish it, to find out the truth and it all leads to a very satisfying climax.
There is just the right amount of menace and violence: enough to make your stomach tense and with detail sufficient to fit the story, but not too much to become gratuitous.
Franks has created a likeable character in Raffy Conza. He is a man without attachments but he is dogged and unjaded; methodical and thorough - just what you would want in your investigator. I'm not sure if Franks has plans to bring him back but I would certainly look forward to and, without doubt, read another Conza book. Actually, if Franks writes anything else, I would seek it out.
This review was first published on Reedsy Discovery.
Franks' protagonist Lieutenant Conza is called to the scene of a rather cold killing outside the Hotel Napoli in Milan where a guest leaving for the airport is gunned down. But was the right person targeted that day or was it a case of mistaken identity?
As we follow Conza's investigation into the murder, we are introduced to the politics between the different departments of the police as well as the background to the victim, which takes us to the dissolution of East and West Germany and the tensions that can only arise from two very differing ideologies.
Conza discovers that the death of Lukas Stolz is not as clear cut as solving a murder: he has become involved in something complicated and far-reaching that could detrimentally impact his career and maybe even threaten his life.
I thought, when I started the book, that it was going to be complicated and jerky as it introduced characters from diverse backgrounds and jumped about a bit in terms of location but Stephen Franks' control of the progression of his plot means that there is nothing that lacks clarification and it all evolves at the right pace, the pieces slotting together with ease. In this, it is very well planned and executed. And as Conza discovers more, I felt compelled to finish it, to find out the truth and it all leads to a very satisfying climax.
There is just the right amount of menace and violence: enough to make your stomach tense and with detail sufficient to fit the story, but not too much to become gratuitous.
Franks has created a likeable character in Raffy Conza. He is a man without attachments but he is dogged and unjaded; methodical and thorough - just what you would want in your investigator. I'm not sure if Franks has plans to bring him back but I would certainly look forward to and, without doubt, read another Conza book. Actually, if Franks writes anything else, I would seek it out.
This review was first published on Reedsy Discovery.
March 17, 2021
The Milan Contract is a riveting debut whodunnit novel by Stephen Franks. Lieutenant Conza investigates the shooting of a man outside his hotel in Milan, but everything is not what it seems...
The novel surges along, the short chapters grabbing the reader from the very start. The characters are believable and well written. The story is original and meticulously constructed with plot twists keeping the reader guessing and wanting more.
A cracking debut novel - I look forward to reading more from Stephen Franks.
The novel surges along, the short chapters grabbing the reader from the very start. The characters are believable and well written. The story is original and meticulously constructed with plot twists keeping the reader guessing and wanting more.
A cracking debut novel - I look forward to reading more from Stephen Franks.
June 9, 2023
Can't believe this was the author's first novel. Really enjoyed this book even though I occasionally got a bit lost due the large amount of characters involved throughout the story. Love the hardback edition of this with it's oversized pages and a figure on a scooter riding across a gun barrel. Looking forward to seeing what comes next.
July 3, 2021
Here you have all the ingredients of a great crime thriller: espionage, sabotage, murder, revenge, hatred, blackmail, intimidation; plausible protagonists; powerful antagonists; shady killers. And then there is Milan - a city that inspires and entices with its eclectic peoples and culture, a fast-paced metropolis that ignites the senses and yet harbours a darker underbelly that few are exposed to.
And just when you thought you knew where you were being led, you take a misstep and find yourself with more questions than answers.
A fantastic first novel - and cannot wait for more!
And just when you thought you knew where you were being led, you take a misstep and find yourself with more questions than answers.
A fantastic first novel - and cannot wait for more!
June 9, 2021
Wow! It’s so hard to sit and write a proper review over this novel when my mind is still exploding from the creativity that went into writing it. To state that it’s a page turner simply doesn’t do it justice. From the first moment I began flipping through the pages and reading, I knew I was going to love it. Mixing thrill with an adrenaline pumping storyline, Franks goes into an amazing tale about corruption, betrayal, and sticking things out to the end.
Throughout the book, it was difficult to force myself to put it down at night. The way it’s so beautifully written, it’s as if the book is a 5 star meal at the best steakhouse in the city. Each chapter, written in various perspectives of the characters, details their trials and thoughts. It leaves you curious, wondering how the different pieces are going to fit together by the end. And, when that ending comes, it is as action packed as expected.
To keep things short, would I pick this up at a bookstore and read it again? Yes. I’d take it with me on my next flight and spend hours reading through and picking apart the flaws in each wonderfully detailed character. Both good and bad are part of humanity, and I think this book does more than represent a realistic crime story. It leaves you wanting more. Phenomenal read.
Throughout the book, it was difficult to force myself to put it down at night. The way it’s so beautifully written, it’s as if the book is a 5 star meal at the best steakhouse in the city. Each chapter, written in various perspectives of the characters, details their trials and thoughts. It leaves you curious, wondering how the different pieces are going to fit together by the end. And, when that ending comes, it is as action packed as expected.
To keep things short, would I pick this up at a bookstore and read it again? Yes. I’d take it with me on my next flight and spend hours reading through and picking apart the flaws in each wonderfully detailed character. Both good and bad are part of humanity, and I think this book does more than represent a realistic crime story. It leaves you wanting more. Phenomenal read.
September 9, 2021
What a stunning debut novel.
If I should describe this book in a couple of words I would say cloak and dagger meets mafia (and not only the Italian variant). At the start of the book you think you know where the story is going, but than it twists and turns and puts you on the wrong foot a couple of times.
I have seldom read a book where a murder is committed and almost from the first page you know who the killer is. At least, you know who pulled the trigger. This is a complex story about crime, blackmail, motives, politics, cover-ups and a few brave man.
Couldn't put it down, so had a couple of late nights ;-)
Looking forward to more work by this author, Mooncat books and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I want to thank Netgalley
If I should describe this book in a couple of words I would say cloak and dagger meets mafia (and not only the Italian variant). At the start of the book you think you know where the story is going, but than it twists and turns and puts you on the wrong foot a couple of times.
I have seldom read a book where a murder is committed and almost from the first page you know who the killer is. At least, you know who pulled the trigger. This is a complex story about crime, blackmail, motives, politics, cover-ups and a few brave man.
Couldn't put it down, so had a couple of late nights ;-)
Looking forward to more work by this author, Mooncat books and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I want to thank Netgalley
February 16, 2021
I am not an avid reader but this was given to me by a friend . I am so pleased he gave it to me . I read it in a day I was so hooked and equally surprised at myself . The plot changes just kept me on the edge of my seat , hence why I cdnt put it down . I’ve since realised this s Stephen Franks first novel . Amazing .Hope there’s a sequel .
February 5, 2021
Absolutely loved the book! A very well written story which had me gripped from the wonderfully descriptive first chapter through to the last. An array of interesting characters to enjoy and accompany on their often emotional journeys. I particularly liked the shorter chapters with place/day titles, as I felt that made it easy to read. All in all, a book I found hard to put down!
September 3, 2021
I immediately got thrown into the violent world of international espionage. The author straight away creates a secretive world where anyone and anywhere can be targeted and killed.
The character’s POV seamlessly interweave throughout the story. Each character builds onto the next. The main focus seems to be on Kadin and Conza. With the other characters leading an interesting supporting cast. The author provides an array of diverse characters to add to the plot, building and progressing to draw you into the story of murder and the elusive ‘why�.
The character’s backstories provide a mix of a psychological drama. Lukas� story utilises the brutal history of Germany to paint a picture of a complex character that triggered off all the events of the story.
Conza is taken from character to character to unravel why a man was killed. It is easy to get drawn into this story that is not as clear cut as it might first appear. Conza’s character is likeable with a comedic flair. His character starts off as a tired detective just wanting to solve a case, to a detective witnesses can trust, travelling to Germany that connects to his case, and finally to him deciding he cannot stand by and let murderers go.
Although there are a lot of characters, I do not feel that they bog down the story, instead they are used effectively to enhance the events, lending to the suspense. No character feels superfluous. Each has their place even if they only appear in a short capacity.
Half way through and you still feel there is just that missing piece. The author has written a good plot with suspense built up through all the unknowns and multiple players. Data encryption, weapons technology, and unintended targets all add to the next layer of this convoluted tale of spying, the criminal underworld, and revenge spanning across several continents.
It is refreshing to come across an author that knows how to balance suspense, progression of characters and plot, realism without bogging down the story, and great character redemption arcs that display the diverse nature of a person.
The short chapters increase the pace, clearly defining the different POVs, days, events and locations. I was impressed how well he established all these characters. The plot starts with a murder, evolving into story of corruption, the criminal underworld, and the impact of a Stasi informer.
Although there is not a lot of action or violence, the way the plot is built does not need it. I was drawn in more by the research, or perhaps even personal knowledge of the underlying themes, and the red herrings that kept taking me from one direction to another. It is not just about the ‘who�, the main focus and climax is the ‘why�. Even closer to the end, Conza knows, but doesn’t let you in on it until the final moment.
Refreshingly, this book fits perfectly into the genre of mystery/ crime. Simply written, not an overly complicated plot, clearly outlined and solved. I liked how he wrote the epilogue. A great way to sum up all the characters.
The character’s POV seamlessly interweave throughout the story. Each character builds onto the next. The main focus seems to be on Kadin and Conza. With the other characters leading an interesting supporting cast. The author provides an array of diverse characters to add to the plot, building and progressing to draw you into the story of murder and the elusive ‘why�.
The character’s backstories provide a mix of a psychological drama. Lukas� story utilises the brutal history of Germany to paint a picture of a complex character that triggered off all the events of the story.
Conza is taken from character to character to unravel why a man was killed. It is easy to get drawn into this story that is not as clear cut as it might first appear. Conza’s character is likeable with a comedic flair. His character starts off as a tired detective just wanting to solve a case, to a detective witnesses can trust, travelling to Germany that connects to his case, and finally to him deciding he cannot stand by and let murderers go.
Although there are a lot of characters, I do not feel that they bog down the story, instead they are used effectively to enhance the events, lending to the suspense. No character feels superfluous. Each has their place even if they only appear in a short capacity.
Half way through and you still feel there is just that missing piece. The author has written a good plot with suspense built up through all the unknowns and multiple players. Data encryption, weapons technology, and unintended targets all add to the next layer of this convoluted tale of spying, the criminal underworld, and revenge spanning across several continents.
It is refreshing to come across an author that knows how to balance suspense, progression of characters and plot, realism without bogging down the story, and great character redemption arcs that display the diverse nature of a person.
The short chapters increase the pace, clearly defining the different POVs, days, events and locations. I was impressed how well he established all these characters. The plot starts with a murder, evolving into story of corruption, the criminal underworld, and the impact of a Stasi informer.
Although there is not a lot of action or violence, the way the plot is built does not need it. I was drawn in more by the research, or perhaps even personal knowledge of the underlying themes, and the red herrings that kept taking me from one direction to another. It is not just about the ‘who�, the main focus and climax is the ‘why�. Even closer to the end, Conza knows, but doesn’t let you in on it until the final moment.
Refreshingly, this book fits perfectly into the genre of mystery/ crime. Simply written, not an overly complicated plot, clearly outlined and solved. I liked how he wrote the epilogue. A great way to sum up all the characters.
September 24, 2021
When the story began, I was mildly confused. The author plays that confusion well and builds up the situations to make us doubt ourselves. We are alternatively shown the unfolding events in real-time as well as the histories of the people involved at all stages. This helps us empathize in some cases, and in others, wonder what those people being introduced to us will end up doing.
There has been a shooting in Italy; we know who did the shooting and quite early on know the why. Given all these known facts, one might assume there are no unknowns to be had. The people who assume such a thing would be wrong! There are a lot of twists in the narrative. They stay true to their name, changing our understanding of the tale as well as altering the possibilities of events to occur.
The police procedural is mixed with espionage, and family bonding is added to the mix as well.
This is one of those books that gets better the more invested you are in it and the further you go. The writing made me feel like it was a translation of a non-English work, which worked well in setting up the mood but also had me reading slower. My rating is because of the pacing and not the story itself. The ending was unexpectedly neat(which is a good thing). I would pick up another book by the author given a chance.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
There has been a shooting in Italy; we know who did the shooting and quite early on know the why. Given all these known facts, one might assume there are no unknowns to be had. The people who assume such a thing would be wrong! There are a lot of twists in the narrative. They stay true to their name, changing our understanding of the tale as well as altering the possibilities of events to occur.
The police procedural is mixed with espionage, and family bonding is added to the mix as well.
This is one of those books that gets better the more invested you are in it and the further you go. The writing made me feel like it was a translation of a non-English work, which worked well in setting up the mood but also had me reading slower. My rating is because of the pacing and not the story itself. The ending was unexpectedly neat(which is a good thing). I would pick up another book by the author given a chance.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
June 3, 2021
This was an enjoyable action packed thriller set in Milan. Detective Raffy Conza is investigating the murder of a German Professor outside a hotel in the city. There are a number of suspects and also a leak within the police station so Raffy has to be careful what he says to his colleagues.
When a young boy confesses it seems as if the case is closed but all is not as it seems and Conza continues to investigate. A number of powerful people do not want him to succeed and he has to use all his contacts including his English friend, Harry who is a barrister in order to work out what is going on.
I found the sheer number of characters quite difficult to grasp, particularly in the first half of the book and consequently felt that some were rather two dimensional. The denouement itself and the reason for the murder were quite complicated and I had to pay close attention to understand what was going on.
That aside � The Milan Contract� was easy to read and I had no trouble racing through it to find out the reason for the murder and who was actually behind it. I would definitely be up for another book featuring Raffy Conza and Harry Chase, set in this beautiful Italian city.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.
When a young boy confesses it seems as if the case is closed but all is not as it seems and Conza continues to investigate. A number of powerful people do not want him to succeed and he has to use all his contacts including his English friend, Harry who is a barrister in order to work out what is going on.
I found the sheer number of characters quite difficult to grasp, particularly in the first half of the book and consequently felt that some were rather two dimensional. The denouement itself and the reason for the murder were quite complicated and I had to pay close attention to understand what was going on.
That aside � The Milan Contract� was easy to read and I had no trouble racing through it to find out the reason for the murder and who was actually behind it. I would definitely be up for another book featuring Raffy Conza and Harry Chase, set in this beautiful Italian city.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2021
That was one hell of a ride.
To say that The Milan Contract was “gripping� “a page-turner� “exciting� would be a huge understatement. Indeed, I was on the edge of my seat almost the entire time, holding my breath.
I checked out this eBook with every intention to just read “the first few pages� before going to bed. Instead, I spent the next 2.5 hours reading until I fell asleep from exhaustion. And when I woke up, I immediately took the finishing the last 25%. All in all, it took me a little over 3 hours to finish this gem.
I guess it helps that I personally like seeing different POVs in thriller books. The Milan Contract had so many different characters that I was at first worried it was going to get confusing, but surprisingly, it wasn’t. I also appreciated the fact that we were given glimpses into the antagonists� backgrounds � after all, every bad guy has his own story.
Anyway, I’m happy the way the story ended for the most part, although there’s just one thing I wish hadn’t happened (you’ll know when you read it!) The epilogue was a nice touch. Now I’m looking forward to Stephen Franks� other books!
I’d like to say thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book. This is actually my first NetGalley book and, my goodness, I’m so glad it’s as memorable as it is!
To say that The Milan Contract was “gripping� “a page-turner� “exciting� would be a huge understatement. Indeed, I was on the edge of my seat almost the entire time, holding my breath.
I checked out this eBook with every intention to just read “the first few pages� before going to bed. Instead, I spent the next 2.5 hours reading until I fell asleep from exhaustion. And when I woke up, I immediately took the finishing the last 25%. All in all, it took me a little over 3 hours to finish this gem.
I guess it helps that I personally like seeing different POVs in thriller books. The Milan Contract had so many different characters that I was at first worried it was going to get confusing, but surprisingly, it wasn’t. I also appreciated the fact that we were given glimpses into the antagonists� backgrounds � after all, every bad guy has his own story.
Anyway, I’m happy the way the story ended for the most part, although there’s just one thing I wish hadn’t happened (you’ll know when you read it!) The epilogue was a nice touch. Now I’m looking forward to Stephen Franks� other books!
I’d like to say thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book. This is actually my first NetGalley book and, my goodness, I’m so glad it’s as memorable as it is!
August 31, 2021
While this is not my usual genre, I was absolutely blown away with this novel. From that very first scene, I was drawn in and intrigued. “The second and third bullets were not necessary.� This sentence was the hook, line and sinker.
Stephen excels in detailed descriptions in a way that had each character, action, and setting vividly appearing in my mind. Seeing the story unfold from the perspectives of various (more than two) characters was unique and added dimension to the storyline. With a well-paced and continually progressing plot, the readers are kept on their toes as everything comes to light. There’s corruption, tension, and diversity, so it’s definitely a highly recommend read!
Stephen excels in detailed descriptions in a way that had each character, action, and setting vividly appearing in my mind. Seeing the story unfold from the perspectives of various (more than two) characters was unique and added dimension to the storyline. With a well-paced and continually progressing plot, the readers are kept on their toes as everything comes to light. There’s corruption, tension, and diversity, so it’s definitely a highly recommend read!
August 25, 2024
Balanced between cosy crime and tough crime. By that, I am trying to explain how picturesque this is (descriptions of Milan - I want this to be made by Italian TV so I can watch with subtitles) and the hard criminals with their lack of conscience at taking lives.
Characters are good and interesting. Plot is good, keeps one guessing. Two men of very similar appearance - one is killed. But which one was the target? A forced assassin on the run. A charismatic (to the reader) detective - Conza - investigating.
I enjoyed it so much more than I expected (thinking a light read to pass the time - holiday novel) but I engaged with it quite quickly.
Looking forward to another book by the author.
Characters are good and interesting. Plot is good, keeps one guessing. Two men of very similar appearance - one is killed. But which one was the target? A forced assassin on the run. A charismatic (to the reader) detective - Conza - investigating.
I enjoyed it so much more than I expected (thinking a light read to pass the time - holiday novel) but I engaged with it quite quickly.
Looking forward to another book by the author.
September 14, 2021
What a great read.!This was Not just another mystery. We learn early on who did it but the unraveling of why takes on a life of its own. A rare one of a kind gem. If you enjoy reading a good suspense to the end, this is for you. This has so many twists and turns, it keeps you turning page after page. I was given and advance copy of this book for an honest revie.w.This was not your familiar formula murder mystery. this had several threads to follow with so many characters.. It was a great murder suspense.. I found myself hoping the murder would not be found.
March 7, 2022
I felt like I was reading true crime. After all, what can be this twisted and full of lies, deceit and long time criminals. How did one violent death become this large of a story? I was intrigued with the plot and all the twists and turns. I liked the final chapter with the wrap up of all the main players. I bet we will see more of Raffy and I look forward to reading it.
June 6, 2021
Fast paced, exciting, relentless, action packed thriller jam
packed with well drawn characters and a plot that resonated with me. I was drawn in from the first chapter and finished it - breathless- the same day.
An exciting new talent has been revealed. Highly recommended.
packed with well drawn characters and a plot that resonated with me. I was drawn in from the first chapter and finished it - breathless- the same day.
An exciting new talent has been revealed. Highly recommended.
June 25, 2021
A terrific first book by this author. The characters were excellent and the plot was compelling and complicated. I liked it!
July 1, 2021
A gripping tale
So easy to read, and a page-turner. So different to all the other murder mysteries. Can't wait for a second novel.
So easy to read, and a page-turner. So different to all the other murder mysteries. Can't wait for a second novel.
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