The first review of my new novel HOSTILE CITY has arrived.

No matter how many books I have written, it’s still a moment of trepidation to see what readers make of it, especially as I don’t use beta readers before publication. With more books comes the added pressure of hopefully pleasing readers who have read my previous work, as well as enticing new readers.

So I’m delighted that the first review of HOSTILE CITY is such a positive one. Whatever else happens, at least one person likes it! You can read the review, posted on Goodreads below.

Official publication is still a couple of weeks away, but both paperback and ebook can be pre-ordered now. All the information can be found HERE.

All reviews and ratings really do make a difference to independent authors and small publishers (especially positive ones), so please do leave a few words if you have read any of my books.

HOSTILE CITY: SPOILER FREE REVIEW

I’ve just finished Hostile City by Iain Kelly, and honestly, it’s a heavy, gripping follow-on from Full Sun that really stuck with me. This book doesn’t mess about – it takes the events of the first novel and shows how the fallout spreads through the city and the people caught up in it. Just like Full Sun, I couldn’t put this book down! I feel so lucky to have received a copy ahead of its release in the new year.

Cal Jackson is still trying to keep his head down, but trouble always finds him. He’s a flawed, believable protagonist carrying a lot of guilt, and watching him navigate a city full of corruption, fear, and violence gives the story real emotional weight.

What really stood out to me is how Kelly explores manipulation and power. People get caught up in events far bigger than themselves, and the characters feel human and complex – no one is purely “good” or “bad,” which makes the tension and stakes feel real.

The political side of the story is handled brilliantly. Fear, prejudice, and power all play a role, and it feels disturbingly believable without ever being heavy-handed. Detective Simone Millar’s involvement adds tension and momentum, and the way she and Cal keep crossing paths and supporting each other makes their uneasy alliance both compelling and keeps the story moving at a fast pace.

The consequences of past events linger, and the characters carry that weight in a way that stays with you long after finishing.

Overall, Hostile City is dark, gripping, and incredibly compelling. It’s about guilt, politics, corruption, and survival, but at its heart it’s about people making impossible choices. Cal Jackson is as damaged and real as ever, and it’s clear his story isn’t done yet. A tough but brilliant read – I’ll definitely be picking up the next one.