THE GAME
BY MARTIN KEMP
Published: 9th November 2023
HarperFiction
Johnny Klein is a rock casualty, a fallen 1980s popstar who has lost everything ― his family, his money and his fame. Thrown a lifeline by an old contact in the music business, Johnny doesn’t care what he is getting himself into.
Dragged down into East London’s dark underbelly, Johnny discovers there is more at stake than his own shattered ego. Johnny hates being yesterday’s man but now he’s wishing he could disappear altogether. The party might be over, but there’s no escape from the past…
Washed-up ’80s pop star Johnny Klein is bankrupt and living in an attic room instead of the mansion he’s been used to. Without two pennies to run together, he needs to make some fast cash, leading him to the East End underworld and some decidedly dodgy dealings.
This debut from Martin Kemp is a fast and furious crime thriller with a gripping storyline and lead character that you can’t help but like, despite all his obvious faults! Trouble seems destined to follow Johnny wherever he goes, so it’s a good job he’s got at least one friend looking out for him. You can’t help but be pulled along for the ride with Johnny as the story progresses; the writing is so brilliantly compelling.
I am delighted to learn that Johnny Klein returns in 2024, in Martin Kemp’s second novel, and I cannot wait to discover what next year has in store for him!
*Thanks to HarperFiction for providing an eARC via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
5 / 5
Gritty debut crime thriller, Mr Kemp has struck gold!