As exciting and unpredictable as ever

The greatest strength of good sci-fi is its ability to hold a mirror to society, passing comment as entertainment. Serling's screenplay for Planet of the Apes is a searing indictment of American racism woven into an already marvellous film. Charlie Brooker sometimes managed it with Black Mirror (as anyone who has seen 'White Bear' can testify) but few are as consistently entertaining in their critique of society as Mr Smitherd.

While discussion of the book would necessitate far too many spoilers, I'll suffice to say that as always, Smitherd is comfortable enough in his own world without the need to reference others. The subtext is entirely left to the reader, without the need to have it hammered home. Think of the original cut of Blade Runner vs the ghastly Director's Cut and the significance of the unicorn.

Indeed, Smitherd is fast becoming a new Ridley Scott, true artist rather than craftsman, turning from one genre to another with a style that never feels predictable, and the early familiarity of tone is merely to wrong-foot the avid reader. It works too, and soon enough you forget trying to predict the course of events and simply want to read what happens next

As for the evolution of Mr Smith, this is by far his most accomplished work to date. Richer, more nuanced and ultimately more satisfying, 'Kill Someone' is worth adding as a blind buy, at least until the hunger returns

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22 people found this helpful

A first review.

I don't ever write reviews, because frankly the world is awash with opinions, but since the author asked ever so nicely and said he reads them, I have been "guilted" into it. Luke, I've listened to 3 of your books as I jog slowly around Midlothian and i am delighted for you that the career as an author is working out, quite simply because I want to listen to more, as they keep my mind off the pain. In an age of franchised serials, formulaic themes and safe writing it's great to find someone with original ideas and the determination to get them out there. Good for you. Two small things though - you are a much better writer than narrator (not bad at narrating, but Matt is very good) and don't think the throwaway line about a champions league win for Coventry went unnoticed. That's real creative genius. You deserve the recognition and success that is surely in the post.

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Consistently Brilliant

What made the experience of listening to Kill Someone the most enjoyable?

I'm really enjoying all of the stories that Luke presents to us. Often dark with some twists thrown in. An easy, but thought provoking read. He's knocked it out of the park again with Kill Someone.

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Captivating from the very start

What did you like most about Kill Someone?

I was hooked from the start of this book and really didn't want to stop listening (most frustrating having to get out of the car to walk into work of a morning quite frankly!)
I have to admit that I did find myself mulling over who might be on my potential hit list if I had been in Chris's place. It's a truly grim scenario yet the writing and the pace didn't allow me to be horrified by it, I was swept away and found myself completely on Chris's side willing him on.

I shalln't discuss the plot so as not to spoil it, you'll just need to buy it and find out for yourself - you won't regret it.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Kill Someone?

As with Physics of the Dead, I need a few days now to digest this book - I sense it's going to be another one that is going to linger in my thoughts far a while so I can't answer that question yet.

Which character – as performed by Matt Addis – was your favourite?

I really liked the way Matt voiced the Man in White, sounded such a smug barstool

Any additional comments?

Already bought two more of Luke's books which I can't wait to start

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If I had to kill someone would I do it better than Chris?

It took me a little while to get into the story, but was well worth the initial effort.
The plot twists are ingenious and bizarrely enough, the story is quite believable.
Well read and overall an exciting and thought provoking story.

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Entertaining enough

The story was well read and the book was entertaining enough, but the premise was just daft. I know it had a good moral story, but you have to suspend reality a bit.

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unusal but thrilling storyline

I really enjoyed this book but also found it difficult to listen to - not at all a bad thing as I think this is exactly what the author wants. Would recommend but be prepared to feel very uncomfortable with some of the content and the decisions Chris has to make.

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Great performance. Great Story.

Listened in 2 days. made me a fan of the author. narrator was fantastic. gripping.

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Great Book That Makes You Think

We would all (hopefully!) like to think we would never kill someone. This book makes you think whether, put in the main character's position, whether you actually would. At first I thought the entire book would be taken up with whether the character actually does kill someone or not. However, this book really delivers in that if goes beyond that point. I particuarly liked the ending that left you really wondering about some bigger issues.

I will definately be checking out Luke's other books - I hope they are as good as this one.

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What a brilliant book!!

Would you listen to Kill Someone again? Why?

No - only because I generally don't listen to a story twice. No surprises but would most certainly recommend others listen.

What about Matt Addis’s performance did you like?

The reading was very atmospheric and just at the right speed. Brilliant kept me gripped

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Absolutely could not wait to listen to the next section.

Any additional comments?

Really enjoyed listening to it so much so now hunting out the other books. Very clever book - really made you think.

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