Crime and Thrillers
Cal Jackson has just been released from prison. Now all he wants is a quiet life. But when his sister marries into the family of corrupt businessman Francis McArthur, Cal finds himself caught in the middle of an ongoing war between his new family and the police.
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Cal Jackson has just been released from prison. Now all he wants is a quiet life.
But when his sister marries into the family of corrupt businessman Francis McArthur, Cal finds himself caught in the middle of an ongoing war between his new family and the police.
When a childhood friend, the mysterious and enchanting Elise Moreau, disappears, Cal’s got his work cut out to find her and discover what links her to McArthur.
And that’s before the first dead body turns up.
As a heat wave grips Glasgow’s mean streets and vibrant night life, Cal is reluctantly forced to act, before he finds himself either back in prison, or buried in the ground.
Here's what readers have to say about this book....
This story and the way it is written come across as extremely credible and it is impossible not to get drawn into the plot and to care about the characters. The push and pull of adjustment to a new life make for some tense moments and I really enjoyed how these were described and navigated. The author has a very distinct voice and it works so well with this book’s depth and plot.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC. "Full Sun" by Iain Kelly is a gripping and evocative novel that masterfully weaves themes of resilience, hope, and human connection. Set against a backdrop of environmental and societal challenges, the story follows a diverse cast of characters whose lives intersect in unexpected and profound ways. Kelly's prose is elegant and accessible, painting vivid landscapes and emotionally rich scenes that draw the reader in from the first page. The narrative's pacing is superb, balancing moments of introspection with bursts of action that keep the story engaging and dynamic. One of the novel's greatest strengths is its characterization. Each character is meticulously crafted, with distinct voices and motivations that make them feel authentic and relatable. As the story unfolds, their individual journeys of self-discovery and growth are heartwarming and thought-provoking. Thematically, "Full Sun" explores the impact of climate change and societal upheaval on the human spirit. Kelly adeptly navigates these complex issues, offering a narrative that is both timely and timeless. The novel's exploration of hope and resilience in the face of adversity is particularly poignant, leaving readers with a sense of optimism and a renewed appreciation for the strength of the human spirit. "Full Sun" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will leave a lasting impression on its readers. Iain Kelly has crafted a story that is a compelling read and a powerful commentary on the world we live in. Highly recommended for those who enjoy thought-provoking fiction that speaks to the human experience.
An excellent Thriller set In Glasgow that tracks the life of Cal Jackson, recently released from prison and in the process of rebuilding and starting a fresh. Unfortunately for Cal, his past is linked to a shady family, and as his own family becomes intertwined with the McArthur family there was only going to be one outcome. A story deep in corruption and lies plays out as Iain Kelly writes one of those thrillers that’s difficult to put down with its sharp chapters and in Cal, a character very easy to like. Well crafted, with some sinister characters and perfectly placed shocks, this is a fine start to a new series. I’ve read one of Iain Kelly’s other books and it’s great to see an author who can write different genres and styles with as much confidence as the other.
It is really impressive that the author,Iain Kelly, doesn’t get stuck in any comfortable rut with their choice of subject matter. Recent publications ‘The Barra Boy’ set in the Outer Hebridean island in 1982 and 2022,and ‘All We Cannot Leave Behind’,(2024),based in the Edinburgh of 1920,could not be more different in setting to this latest book. However ‘Full Sun’, (2025),turns out to be equally enjoyable and memorable. In common with these previous stories,the reader becomes quickly immersed in the story and feels utterly compelled to follow the fast moving events. On release from prison Cal Jackson wants to keep out of trouble,yet is immediately moving in dangerous circles as he attends his sister's wedding and comes face to face with his new in-laws.Set in a vividly depicted contemporary Glasgow,the tale moves at pace through Cal’s constant dilemmas of doing the right thing and just hoping to keep himself, and others out of harm's way as he discovers just what’s going on in the family business. Thanks to NetGalley and The Book Guid for a pre-release copy.
Used to keeping himself to himself, fresh out of prison, Cal Jackson isn’t looking for anything that will set him back on the dark path to incarceration. When his sister marries into the notorious McArthur crime family however, he has no choice but to get embroiled in the nefarious dealings of a destructive force whose tentacles spread through the highest echelons in the Glasgow civic halls. Full of hard men and bleak bloody scenes to match the Glaswegian climate, Full Sun is tartan noir as it should be. With characters that feel utterly tangible and a storyline that keeps straight and true, this was a read that delivered on every single front. I received a copy of Full Sun through NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
