I was delighted to receive a copy of ‘Untouchable’ for review from Sophie Christopher at Penguin Random House. It is published today in paperback by Corgi.

Stella, whose real name is Grace, is a high class call girl with wealthy clients and a seemingly good life. But Grace has a past and when a fellow prostitute is murdered she finds the past has a nasty habit of creeping up and mingling with a dangerous present.

I found ‘Untouchable’ completely compelling reading. At times my heart was genuinely racing as I didn’t know what the outcome would be in several of the situations. The plot is so skilfully constructed that it surprises and wriggles away from the reader just as you think you have an understanding of what exactly is happening. References to Grace’s past build throughout the text in a subplot of intrigue that adds layers of interest to what is, already, a gripping read.

Highly explicit at times, the sexual nature of the writing never feels gratuitous, but rather essential to comprehending Stella’s world. It is highly erotic and effective.

I thought all the characters, even the most minor ones, had depth and detail so that they became real people and not mere tools to progress a plot. Grace/Stella made me question my own attitudes and expectations of those working within the sex trade. Her first person voice is so strong and compelling and yet she has a vulnerability that is not entirely uncovered and explained until the very end of the book, making for an amazingly good read.

I thought ‘Untouchable’ could be enjoyed on many levels. It is an excellent erotic crime thriller but there are philosophical themes to ponder too. Reading Ava Marsh’s work made me wonder about the nature of guilt and blame, about what really happens in the corridors of power and who actually holds the key to our own happiness. ‘Untouchable’ may be totally entertaining, but it is also thought provoking.

For me, ‘Untouchable’ is one of the best thrillers I have read and, indeed, one of the best books I have come across in a long time.

Having read ‘Untouchable’ I am thrilled to be bringing an interview with Ava Marsh here on the blog on 20th August.