"The Long Firm" by Jake Arnott is an enthralling novel that takes place in 1960s East End of London. The story revolves around the life of Harry Starks, a charismatic and influential criminal involved in various illicit activities. Through interconnected narratives, the book delves into the gritty underworld of London, exploring themes of power, corruption, and personal identity.
Arnott's writing style is captivating, vividly bringing to life the time and place. The characters are skillfully developed, each driven by their own motives and desires, which contribute to the progression of the plot. Harry Starks, in particular, is a fascinating protagonist. His charm and ruthlessness create a captivating and terrifying presence, leaving readers both drawn to and repulsed by his character.
The novel delves into different facets of criminality, including gambling, money laundering, drug dealing, and blackmail. Arnott seamlessly weaves these elements together, creating a complex and multi-layered story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The pace is relentless, with unexpected twists and turns that make the narrative exciting and unpredictable.
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One of the standout qualities of "The Long Firm" is Arnott's ability to capture the atmosphere of 1960s London. Through detailed descriptions, the city comes alive, from the smoky pubs and dimly lit alleyways to the vibrant music scene and cultural shifts of the era. The author's attention to historical detail adds depth and authenticity, immersing readers in a truly engrossing reading experience.
Overall, "The Long Firm" is a highly engaging and immersive novel that explores the dark underbelly of London's criminal underworld. Jake Arnott's masterful writing creates a story that simultaneously entertains and challenges readers. Fans of crime fiction and historical novels will undoubtedly find this thrilling and thought-provoking book a compelling read.
What are readers saying?
"The Long Firm" by Jake Arnott has received mixed reviews from readers. The book has been commended for its captivating storytelling and well-developed characters, while some readers found the plot confusing or slow-paced.
Readers have praised Arnott's ability to create a vivid and immersive setting in 1960s London. The depiction of the gritty and captivating criminal underworld has allowed readers to fully immerse themselves in the story. The atmospheric writing style, with its attention to detail, effectively brings the era to life.
The characters in "The Long Firm" have been a highlight for many readers. They are complex and multi-dimensional, with realistic motivations and flaws that add depth to the story. Arnott is praised for his ability to create believable characters within the criminal underworld, making them relatable despite their questionable actions.
However, some readers found the plot of "The Long Firm" confusing or slow-paced. They struggled to fully engage with the narrative and felt that the story dragged at times. The nonlinear structure of the book added to the challenge, making it difficult to follow the chronology of events.
Despite these criticisms, the majority of readers found "The Long Firm" to be a compelling read. The atmospheric setting and well-drawn characters added depth and intrigue to the story. While some readers may have found the plot confusing or slow, the overall consensus was that Jake Arnott's book is a worthwhile read for fans of crime fiction set in mid-20th century London.
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