Joseph Flynn

The Hangman's Companion is the second book in Jospeh Flynn's political thriller series. In The Presidents henchamn, Flynn introduces Jack Mcgill, an ex cop turned investigator who happens to be married to the President of the United States. McGill, who solved the murder of the President's first husband, drives his security detail crazy by becoming involved in finding out who is is stalking a member of the White House press corps. I didn't have the opportunity to read the President's Henchman show more in advance of reading The Hangmans Companion and while I would have liked the additional insight into the established characters (and simply because I enjoyed the book so much) I thought the book was successful as a stand alone.Despite the description as a political thriller, the Hangman's Companion is much more. It combines intrigue, action and humour with dynamic characters to create an engaging story. Leaving his investigative partners tracking down the culprits responsible for the shooting of a presidential guard, McGill agrees to travel to England with his wife who is attending the G8 summit. But McGill is sidetracked by a request to help an old aquaintance who has been arrested for murder after a fight on the banks of the river Seine results in the death of a French soccer star. While the President is negotiating politics amongst the world leaders, McGill is trying to avoid an international incident. With the help of a state liason and a justice magistrate, McGill tries to determine the truth.Despite the complexity of multiple plots, Flynn effortlessly creates a cohesive story with smooth transitions and attention to detail. The different threads cross seamlessly without obvious ploys or forced situations. At just over 500 pages (print edition) the plotlines have plenty of room to play out, so it doesn't feel rushed or crowded. I did think there was a short period of drag in the first quarter but it was quickly overcome. There is plenty of action, the story begins with a vicious fight and McGill is an expert in his own brand of martial arts, however its is well balanced with other elements. One of the most appealing aspects of The Hangman's Companion for me is the sense of humor and the subtley mocking tone Flynn adopts towards authority. Most political thrillers tend to take themselves very seriously but Flynn has managed to strike an engaging balance of entertainment and intrigue.I enjoyed the story of The Hangman's Companion but it is the characters that really captured my imagination. McGill is the right blend between tough action hero, loving family man and shrewd investigator to interest me in his character. I like his sense of humour and his no nonsense approach to his unconventional life as the US Presidents 'first husband'. His relationship with his wife is genuine and I like Patricia as well, though we don't spend much time with her. McGills Parisian compatriots, are interesting and well developed but its 'Sweetie' who is holding down the fort at the office who is a favourite of mine. Flynns cast of characters complement each other and have a distinct presence in the novel.It's always a gamble to accept an indie book for review based on a quick read of an excerpt, so its a delight to discover a story that I find so enjoyable. This book is a great read, The Hangman's Companion came very close to a five star read for me and I recommend it without reservation. show less

Finished Reading October 22, 2013

3.5 Stars
This is yet another 'Oops' for me. I Thought it was an Adult book. And the characters are Adult, BUT there is NO sex scenes. Massive disappointment. In fact, there is Barely any type of romance in it at all.

It is very well written and a decent Crime/Mystery story. It could have been a lot better. It needed more intensity IMHO and the 'Romantic Interest' needed to be more. There were places that dragged just a bit.

Anyway, this is one of many lessons show more that took me awhile to learn. Be VERY careful what you download. Check the reviews using keywords and never trust Amazon. This was advertised in a way I thought it was for me. I love Crime, Mystery, Suspense and Action BUT I got to have my Romantic Connection and it HAS to be MUTURE Sex scenes. Not holding hands or just Hot Looks.

Was this the last time I made this mistake? Sadly, No.
If you want a decent crime story with NO mature content, go for it. You'll like this one.

Prch Amz October 9, 2013 show less

A good series continues nicely.
There are a lot of moving parts in this episode however, Flynn shapes them into a very interesting tale. The main characters continue to evolve and play their roles well. The bad guys are dealt with creativity sufficient to ensure their place in the narrative.

When Dula Jenning, president of Shepardton college, sent out her refusal letters for the upcoming semester; she had no idea about the backlash that the hurt applicants would cause.
From seemingly innocent letters with just two words "still coming" to ghost in town to traffic disturbances. These bright students are angry at being dismissed and want to prove Dula wrong.
I found the concept very interesting. These young people were technologically advanced and cunning. The writing style was show more excellent and the story was a great read. I found the book hard to put down. show less