Philip Arklow’s Murderous Beauty is a psychological thriller with multiple points of view. Gordon Harris, the owner of CytoSerum, refuses to sell his business. He has been receiving threatening emails, bugs planted throughout his office, and strange phone calls. Gordon enlists two bodyguards to ensure his daughter’s safety. Sara is a skilled pharmacist engaged to Ambrose Garside who has been working on CytoSerum’s Joshua Project. Ambrose and Gordon are in an armored Mercedes when John Grisham, a bodyguard and driver, realizes they are being followed by motorcyclists. The drive doesn’t end well when the bikers fire at the car. Meanwhile, Sara receives a call from her wedding planner, who convinces her to walk the three blocks to see a new dress style. Less than a block away, Youri and Yevgeni kidnap Sara. Duke Gwilynn received a call from the bikers reporting that they were unsuccessful. He fires them and brings in hitman Nigel Chamberlain, who has never failed in getting a job done.

Murderous Beauty captured my attention from the beginning. Philip Arklow created intense suspense by transitioning between the view of a skilled assassin, a private detective who becomes nosey, and the abuse Sara endures from her captors. The acts of Youri and Yevgeni horrified me. I understood why Sara didn’t fight back after Yevgeni showed what his trained dogs would do if she refused. The assassin’s skill in avoiding cameras with intel provided by Cee-jay makes the targets unaware of the danger until the last second. The thoroughness of making each kill look like an accident was remarkable. I couldn’t put this thriller down. Arklow accelerated the pace with precision, and the transitions were seamless throughout the entire book. The cliffhanger ending left me in a state of shock. Readers who enjoy psychological, realistic thrillers will find Murderous Beauty perfect. I cannot wait to read the sequel.

“Murderous Beauty” by Philip Arklow is a gripping thriller that delves into the high-stakes world of pharmaceutical innovation and corporate espionage. The story centers around CytoSerum, a company on the brink of a groundbreaking treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. This potential goldmine attracts the attention of rival companies eager to take over before its value skyrockets.
The protagonist, CEO Gordon Harris, refuses to sell out, leading to a series of escalating threats against him, his family, and his associates. Arklow masterfully builds tension as Harris navigates a web of danger, with his loved ones caught in the crossfire. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
The story is not just about corporate battles; it also explores themes of family bonds, greed leading to torture and murder, and the martial art Kali Sikaran. The inclusion of child soldiers in Sierra Leone, hitmen, and online scams adds depth and complexity to the plot. Arklow’s characters are well-developed and believable, from the determined Gordon Harris to the ruthless antagonists who will stop at nothing to achieve their goals.
Set against the backdrop of London and Sierra Leone, the novel’s vivid descriptions and intricate plot make it a compelling read. The book is rich with references to songs, film scenes, and even humor, providing a multifaceted reading experience.
“Murderous Beauty” is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and thrillers. Its blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth makes it a standout in the genre. Be prepared for a rollercoaster ride of emotions and a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Rating: ★★★★☆