Wolff's Bane: A gritty, gripping spy thriller with a romantic heart: 2 (Moniker) Paperback – 10 Jan. 2024

I whizzed through this entertaining story, the second in H.J. Russell's Moniker series and even more enjoyable than the first. It's exciting and well written, with a romance between the two main characters and a fast-paced plot. The author doesn't shrink from tackling complex issues, and in Kathryn, especially, we have a character who is easy to root for. I particularly enjoyed the cybersecurity aspects, about which I know very little.Highly recommend.

I finished Wolff’s Bane in a couple of evenings and really enjoyed it. I think it’s even better than the first - it’s always so much more fun to read a book when you “know” the characters. Loved the pace, the storyline, and how Jamie and Kathryn’s relationship developed. This is a rollercoaster from start to finish, with a captivating romantic subplot. Such a great read.

Wolff’s Bane’ is an accomplished eco-thriller featuring a couple who are employed by the Security Service (MI5) in different departments – Jamie, ex-soldier and cop, works undercover and Kathryn, his wife, is an expert in cyber-security.The story is well-crafted with punchy dialogue, credible characters, and well-honed prose, with just the right balance of urgency and levity. I was hooked from the beginning and quickly became invested in the storyline as the tension builds. Kathryn is a strong protagonist and an empathic character, and I was rooting for her from the start. The plot is impressive with several pleasing twists and turns that kept me guessing.I look forward to the next instalment!

I went back to reread Hell's Glen before starting on Wolff's Bane. It is not needed before reading Wolff's Bane but it was wonderful to refresh my memory of the two characters.Wolff's Bane is an exciting page turner. It is a serious story you cannot put down and, thankfully, there is a bit of humour enabling you to catch your breath again.

Exciting and fast paced, I loved the adventure and romance of the protagonists. The characters are complex and believable and I LOVE that Kathryn is spiky and with an undertone of something very dark. I can’t wait to see how she develops further in future books! My favourite aspect is how power - and who has it - is explored so viscerally. Loved it!

Loved this second book following the up and downs of Kathryn and Jamie, both professionally and personally. This one was even more exciting and a tighter plot than the first Moniker book; and I really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue taking a bit more central stage than the romance this time round. Thoroughly enjoyable read, very much looking forward to the next one!

Exciting and gripping! I loved the continuation of mystery and romance between the main characters. Kathryn is intriguing and dark and I can’t wait to see how she develops in a third book! Living in the local area where the book was set gave it an edge for me! Loved it!

After reading Hell's Glen I was so excited when I heard about the sequel. This book did not disappoint. It has everything!. Such an emotional rollercoaster.The plot is so exciting and so current. The writing is fantastic and it was brilliant to catch up with the characters again. Can't recommend highly enough.