Title: Axel
Author: Megan O’Brien
First published January 1, 2015
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.22
Overview
Sophie had vanished into thin air, leaving everyone around her in a state of confusion. But when she resurfaces, she’s no longer the same person.
She’s carrying a dark secret, and Axel is determined to do everything in his power to make her his. Sophie has spent enough time on her own to learn how to survive in a cruel world.
But when Axel barges back into her life, he demands that she rely on him and trust him completely. Even though the odds are against them, Axel will stop at nothing to keep everyone he loves safe.
This is the story of how Sophie and Axel fight against all odds to protect their loved ones. Don’t miss the third installment of the Ride Series, available for purchase on Amazon from March 2nd.
About the Author
Megan O’Brien writes best selling books such as The Ride Series and Talon Security Series. Her writing centers around a good love story featuring strong female characters and an alpha male.
She was born and raised in Marin County California and currently lives there with her husband and two sons. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading on her kindle, hiking, running, and enjoying a glass of wine on her back porch.
Editoral Review
In her debut novel, Axel, author Megan OBrien takes readers on a dark and thrilling journey through the world of organized crime. Published in January 2015, the book immediately captivates readers with its gritty realism, evocative use of language, and complex characters.
Axel is a crime thriller set in the city of Chicago, and the story centers on the titular character, a hardened criminal who runs a powerful street gang. Axel is a deeply flawed character who is simultaneously cruel and compassionate, a man who will stop at nothing to protect his own interests, but who also has a soft spot for the women in his life.
The novels plot is intricately woven and full of twists and turns, as Axel finds himself caught between rival gangs, corrupt police officers, and a beautiful stripper named Tess who is hiding a dangerous secret. With his life on the line, Axel must navigate a treacherous web of alliances and betrayals to come out on top.
OBriens writing style is bold and unapologetic, with vivid descriptions and a strong sense of place that brings the city of Chicago to life on the page. The novel is steeped in the language of the streets and the world of organized crime, but OBrien also infuses it with a sense of humanity that makes readers care about the characters and their fates.
One of the novels strengths is its characters, who are all complex and fully realized, even the smallest supporting roles. Axel is a fascinating protagonist, and his complicated relationship with Tess is one of the highlights of the book.
Other standout characters include Axels lieutenant, Vinnie, and the detective who is hot on his trail, Detective Rivers. The novels pacing is expertly handled, with just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
OBrien effortlessly blends action scenes with quieter moments of introspection, and the story never feels predictable or formulaic. One possible limitation of the book is its subject matter, which may not appeal to all readers.
While Axel is a well-crafted crime thriller, it is undeniably dark and violent, with graphic descriptions of drug use and violence that may be off-putting to some. Overall, Axel is an impressive debut novel that showcases OBriens skill as a writer.
Fans of the crime thriller genre will find much to admire here, but the book also has broader appeal, with its nuanced characters and expertly crafted plot. Highly recommended.
Score: 4 out of 5 stars.
