Wendy Cartmell Author of the Sgt Major Crane Novels

NO MERCY : Wendy Cartmell's frank, vivid writing is completely unapologetic -- that makes it all the more gripping. Cartmell exposes the dark side of human nature as easily as she shows readers the good. Each story in No Mercy is well-balanced, beautifully written and evocative. I sat down to read the first story in the collection, but after meeting Sergeant Major Crane I had to get to know all of Cartmell's characters. Mystery, thrills, triumph, sorrow, twists and turns -- for a quick read, this short story collection is certainly jam-packed. I couldn't find a single flaw anywhere in this fantastic collection of tales, and for that No Mercy gets an unquestionable 5/5 stars. I'll definitely be reading more of Cartmell's work in the future, and I'll come back to re-visit the stories in No Mercy again and again. Jade Varden Author

I have to say how much I enjoyed this novel, Crane has developed from someone who seems married to his job, into an altogether more rounded and warmer character. Although his job is paramount, the dual conflicts of job versus home life are very well explored. The plot is original and compelling. I particularly like the way she uses her experience of army life and the use of the sharp, crisp dialogue which help to make her characters so believable. We are reminded how vulnerable our Olympic athletes are and how, even under the tightest security in the army, one man can penetrate the smallest loophole. The observations of a lone, old Gurkha soldier add a different dimension and the description of his plight are noteworthy. The way the chapters are divided in to each of the forty days and forty nights of the plot, are a particularly clever way of keeping the reader guessing to the last. A very good read, this book should appeal to both men and women and forces or non forces personnel. Margarita Perez Author

40 DAYS 40 NIGHTS 4.5* Here is a crime thriller with a topical plotline: as athletes descend upon Aldershot Garrison for the 2012 Olympics, it emerges that terrorists are planning a major attack. For Sgt Major Crane, the hero of a series of novels by Wendy Cartmell, this means a race against time to keep the athletes safe. 40 Days 40 Nights allows the reader into the mind not only of Crane himself, but also of the terrorist leader. This gives the book an extra edge, and it is clear that Cartmell has done her homework turning what could have been a gimmick into a powerful piece of writing. As for Crane himself, he is a charismatic leading man who clearly has the legs to support a whole franchise. This is the second book in the series, and hopefully there will be plenty more. Crane is one of the more interesting new genre protagonists in this gripping and memorable novel. Chris Algernon Indie Book Spot

NO MERCY 5* CARTMELL ROCKS! This collection of short stories showcases Wendy Cartmell's fresh style and engaging prose. She presents a variety of situations of people caught in intriguing circumstances. The author delivers a twist to many of her stories in this collection. My test of any writer is whether or not I can see the character in my mind's eye and Wendy Cartmell delivers. Highly recommended Ed Benjamin Author

40 DAYS 40 NIGHTS 5* on Amazon. A good story line by someone who understands what life in the Army is about, mixed in with a good thriller. Also the truth about the shabby way the country has treated the Ghurkas was woven into the plot so skillfully. Enjoyed every page from start to finish keeping me enthralled to the last word PJ Stafford Ex-rifleman

STEPS TO HEAVEN The author doesn't give the reader room for a breath, the book beginning with a double homicide/suicide and continuing into the investigation smoothly. It becomes apparent quickly that though it may seem on the surface that the young soldier had a domestic dispute gone horribly wrong, that there may be something much more sinister afoot. Enter Sgt Major Crane, an observant, intellectual investigator that digs further into what everyone is willing to write off, (at first), as an open and shut case. A very well written book. I am impressed with the author's ability and am convinced that she is on par with the literary giants of this genre. ZenCherry Author and Book Reviewer

40 DAYS 40 NIGHTS - A Successful Sequel! 5 out of 5 Stars. The second novel in the Sgt. Major Crane series is even better than the first novel, Steps to Heaven. Cartmell weaves an intricate story while breathing life into her characters. Reading this novel felt like visiting old friends. In addition to a compelling story, the author takes us into the mind of the terrorist who is plotting a very clever attack on a military base. It's obvious the author researched the subject, providing quotes from the Koran and letting us hear the terrorist's voice. The premise of the story is very believable in a world filled with dangerous zealots who believe it's their religious duty to kill infidels. Will Crane unravel the clues in time to stop the terrorist and save innocent lives? Diane Rapp Author

STEPS TO HEAVEN This is a crisp, engrossing page-turner which handles its sensitive subject matter with dignity and precision, and makes the reader feel for its characters, and, most importantly, interested in the lead character's trials and travails. The contrast between Crane's tumultuous, dangerous, and at times mentally gruelling working life, and, his domestic situation, is also well handled by the author, and balanced throughout the book. The attention to detail, especially in the investigation of the murders, is also commendable, and realistic. There is never a moment where the book becomes predictable or stagnant, and the narrative flows well. I give this book **** out of ***** Marcia's Book Talk Book Reviewer/Blogger

NO MERCY 4* Artfully delivered with a fine sense of humour! Cartmell has a way with words! Her book, "No Mercy" features a few short stories ridden with cruelty and the worst form of deception; the close family kind. Artfully delivered with a fine sense of humour! This book emphasizes the dangers of pushing anyone too far. Recommend. Sarah Ako Myers Sarah's Exotic Tales

No Mercy 5 Stars Four great reads - totally engaging! Each story was unique and enjoyable; there was certainly a `twist in the tale' as promised by the author. The first story certainly introduced `Sgt Major Crane' in all his glory and a character that you would like to meet but on good terms... his terms! This was a great introduction to `Sgt Major Crane' and look forward to reading more about his investigations in the full novel `Steps to Heaven'. I was only going to read for a short while but ended up captivated until the end! J2Press Book Publishers