Rough Diamond, Rough Justice by Avien Gray - a review

Book Review: 5 Stars

Rough Diamond, Rough Justice is a fast-paced international thriller that dives deep into the worlds of espionage, organised crime, and power. The story follows Cain, a former MI5 operative whose life shifts dramatically after a failed operation and a series of unexpected events pull him into the dangerous diamond trade.

Cain is a confident, highly capable protagonist—intelligent, observant, and comfortable in violent situations. He’s charming and skilled, but there’s a clear darkness beneath the surface that keeps him interesting and unpredictable. The supporting characters, from loyal allies to manipulative antagonists, add depth and tension without slowing the story down.

The novel’s global settings are vividly drawn, especially its South African locations, where wealth and danger sit side by side. The pace rarely lets up, blending action, intrigue, and moral grey areas into a story that feels both cinematic and grounded.

Overall, this is a gripping thriller with strong characters and relentless momentum—ideal for readers who enjoy high-stakes plots and complex leads. 

About the book

The Blurb

After a first kill, MI5 Agent and erstwhile photographer Cain becomes an undercover, extra-judicial killer for a secret Bureau.

Recovering from injuries sustained protecting the Royal Family, Cain embracesa new life and romance in sun-drenched Australia, leaving his past life behind.

But when tragedy strikes, he is on the move again. This time to a new career in the world of diamond dealings in Florida.

Curiosity takes Cain to the diamond world in South Africa, where his past finally catches up with him, the criminal world allies against him and he becomes a killer again.

In Cain's action-packed escapades, a spectacular betrayal takes him into the rigours of a Chinese prison where the truth about his past begins to unravel.

Aided by a loyal band of friends from the shadowy world of intelligence, he delivers his own particular brand of rough justice.

However, with enemies closing in on all sides, will Cain prevail?

Trigger warnings: violence, murder

Praise

“Rough Diamond, Rough Justice” by Avien Gray is a riveting spy thriller that seamlessly blends electrifying elements of espionage, adrenaline-charged action, and daring escapades.

Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion

“A gripping high-stakes thriller, “Rough Diamond - Rough Justice” by Avien Gray is driven by the urgent question of whether one can ever truly escape a dark and violent past.”

The Coffee Pot Book Club

“Avien Gray’s Rough Diamond, Rough Justice is a gritty and cinematic thriller that follows Cain, a former professional photographer turned MI5 surveillance agent, as he navigates a world of espionage, betrayal, and violence.”

Literary Titan

Universal Buy Link:
https://books2read.com/u/4NJzBo

Avien Gray, the English author behind Rough Diamond – Rough Justice, brings a wealth of experience to his gripping debut novel. Born in the UK, Gray has led a dynamic, bachelor’s life marked by an impressive array of skills and global adventures. He has a driver’s license, motorbike license, and pilot’s license. His physical discipline extends to martial arts, where he earned a karate black belt, complemented by a lifelong passion for photography that captures the world through his discerning lens.

Gray’s rumoured travels paint the picture of a man unbound by borders. He is said to have spent many months in Saudi Arabia, Australia, the USA, South Africa, Europe and China. This rich tapestry of experiences infuses his writing with authenticity, lending a vivid, worldly edge to the thrilling narrative of his complex protagonist: a man called Cain.

Avien and his best friend shared a flat and went out with various female friends together. They had a great time. As it says in the book when Cain is talking with his best friend: a Royal Protection Officer.

 ‘We will have to write that book when we retire,’ Cain said.

 They looked at each other with knowing smiles – for a long few seconds.

 ‘All those secrets,’ said Jerry. ‘Perhaps we will.’

 And time moved on.

But in real life, his best friend tragically died – leaving Avien to write their book alone.

Social Media Links:

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/51602430.Avien_Gray

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