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• This is a thoroughly enjoyable book. As usual, Jeffrey Archer delivers. The only reason I could not give it 5 stars was because as I was reading it I was fully aware of how dated it had become. This is not a sign of poor writing by any means, but merely that certain things are no longer relevant.

  4.50 out of 5

  moonstormer

• Excellent book. Thoroughly enjoyable. Jeffery Archer's way of writing book is very good. The only thing I didn't understand in this book is how can a person so intelligent be made fool so easily. That is the reason of 4 rating.

  4.00 out of 5

  nidhisheth

• Archer's first novel begins slowly as we see Harvey Metcalfe's rise from the son of poor Polish emigrants to the owner of a corperation. Many of his achievements are done by bribes and shady deals.In the second part of the novel we see the fun Archer has with characterization and language. Metcalfe swindles four men, Stepehn Bradley, a mathmatical genius, Dr. Robert Oakley, a society doctor, Jean-Pierre Lamanns, owner of an art store, and James Brigsley an English lord.Somewhat authbiographical since Archer was close to bankruptcy and resigned from public office to write this book in hope of repaying his creditors.An enjoyable read for the patient reader.

  3.50 out of 5

  mikedraper

• It's a very insipid book, as far as revenge thriller story goes. It's author's first and favourite book, so I gave it a try - and it's quick read no doubt - but immaturity of writing reflects. Story is patchy, schemes just okay. Worst thing is characterization. You supposedly have four smart people who not only want revenge but will cook up huge plans, break laws, and take efforts to take it, but very same people were stupider than average Joe when they lost money. Similarly you have a global mastermind who plays stock market to his advantage and then just signs a cash check in the name of university chancellor without question. Harping on "no a penny more" was getting irritating in the end. Last share of $250k was not even winning from scheme, but voluntary gift by Harvey to his daughter. Parts of stories are left hanging, such as detective who was investigating stock market scam and fate of fall-guy David.

  2.00 out of 5

  ashishg

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