House on Fire

Nick Heller, a private spy, is approached by a stranger at Sean's funeral with a job offer to expose evidence that Kimball Pharmaceutical knew its biggest money-maker was dangerously addictive.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2020
Publisher: Head of Zeus

Nick Heller, a private spy, delves into the depths of secrets that powerful individuals strive to keep hidden. At the funeral of his dear friend Sean, an army buddy who battled opioid addiction, a stranger approaches Nick with an intriguing job offer. The woman, a member of the affluent Kimball family, has a profound desire to become a whistleblower and expose evidence revealing that Kimball Pharmaceutical was aware of the dangerous addiction associated with their most profitable product. Nick instantly agrees to assist her, but soon realizes that the sins of the Kimball patriarch are merely the tip of the iceberg. Beneath the surface lies a complex web of conspiracies and cabals, unveiling a twisted tale of family intrigue and lethal corporate machinations.

Joseph Finder has garnered widespread praise for his gripping, trenchant, and human storytelling. His novel has been described as one of the best novels of the year, with critics praising its gripping nature, complex characters, and twisty plot. Stav Sherez, for instance, remarked that it was one of the best novels they had read in recent times, highlighting its ability to keep readers engaged and satisfied. Peter James also praised Finder's mastery of tension, describing the book as a "masterclass in tension" with well-developed characters and a captivating storyline. J.P. Delaney similarly praised the novel, highlighting its intricate plot and engaging characters, stating that it was a "thrilling read from start to finish."

Nick Heller's journey as a private spy takes him into the heart of darkness, where he uncovers secrets that threaten to shake the foundations of society. With the help of his army buddy Sean's family, Nick embarks on a perilous mission to expose the truth and bring justice to those who have been harmed by the powerful forces that seek to keep them silent. Along the way, he encounters a diverse range of characters, each with their own motivations and agendas. Some are driven by greed and power, while others are motivated by a desire for justice and truth.

The Kimball family, at the center of the story, is a wealthy and influential dynasty built on the opiate industry. However, their fortune is not without its dark secrets. The patriarch of the family, John Kimball, is a ruthless businessman who will stop at nothing to protect his empire. He has been involved in numerous illegal activities, including drug trafficking, bribery, and murder. John's son, David, is a morally ambiguous character who has grown up in the shadow of his father's empire. He is torn between his loyalty to his family and his conscience, which tells him that the family's actions are wrong.

As Nick delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of corruption and conspiracy that extends far beyond the Kimball family. He discovers that the pharmaceutical industry, in collaboration with government agencies, has been covering up the dangers of opioids for years. The industry has been lobbying for stricter regulations, while simultaneously promoting their products as safe and effective. Nick also learns that there are powerful individuals within the government who are willing to go to any lengths to protect the interests of the pharmaceutical industry.

Nick's journey is filled with danger, suspense, and unexpected twists. He faces numerous obstacles, including threats from his enemies, betrayal from those he trusts, and the emotional toll of his investigation. However, he is determined to see justice done and to expose the truth to the world. With the help of his allies, Nick finally manages to gather enough evidence to bring the Kimball family and the pharmaceutical industry to justice.

In the end, Nick emerges as a hero, a symbol of hope for those who have been affected by the opioid epidemic. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are individuals who are willing to stand up and fight for what is right. The novel also raises important questions about the role of corporations, government agencies, and the media in shaping public opinion and protecting the interests of powerful individuals.

In conclusion, "The Kill List" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the dark world of espionage and corruption. Joseph Finder's masterful storytelling and well-developed characters make it a compelling read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series. The novel's exploration of the opioid epidemic and its impact on society is a timely and important topic that deserves to be discussed and addressed.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838930554