I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

In author Barry Harden’s novel Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel, a band of citizens rises up to fight against the corruption of 1980s London.

The Synopsis

It’s the 1980s, and London is crumbling under the weight of political corruption while the have-nots are further victimized by unfettered rogue gangs. Children are lured into the dark, lurid chambers of Whitehall, some never to be seen again. Citizens are coerced through intimidation and threats of harm against their families. Utter chaos reigns. Amanita Virosa, a courageous Roma fighter who fled the horrors of war-torn Bosnia, sought refuge in the heart of North London, only to discover that the specter of corruption and injustice haunts her adopted home. Forming an alliance with Everard, a young, homeless firebrand, and Doris, a feisty pensioner, the group embarks on a daring mission to sever the insidious grip of Whitehall’s corruption and the extortion and violence perpetrated on the innocent. Sedition, conspiracy, murder and betrayal all have a voice; some are quickly silenced, while others persistently challenge the very existence of those bold enough to defy the status quo. Loosely based on actual sociopolitical events in eighties London, Amanita Virosa is a riveting warning about the perils of government overreach and the indomitable power of the individual to resist oppression. Will their collective courage be enough to shatter the chains of oppression, or will they become casualties in a war that demands the ultimate sacrifice?

The Review

This was a compelling and intriguing read. The author established a visceral, gritty atmosphere and tone that set the stage for a unique setting that has not been widely discussed in modern history. The action and graphic violence the book depicts highlight the narrative naturally, allowing these relatable and impactful characters to grow and evolve at an even pace as the story and the stakes escalate. 

This fast-paced read prominently displayed the themes of greed, power, control, and fighting against corruption. The way the author stepped into this grim reality immediately allowed the reader to feel the desperation and how these characters became fed up and disillusioned with how those living on society’s fringes were treated. The personal connections these characters form with one another and the emotional bond they form with one another, especially Amanita and Richie later on in the book, keep the reader engaged and invested in this growing and dangerous world the author has brought to life on the page.

The Verdict

Author Barry Harden’s “Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel” is a must-read thriller that is memorable, engaging, and chilling. The real-life connection to historical events in London during the 80s and 90s and the adrenaline-fueled action gave readers a unique perspective and thrilling narrative that is nearly impossible to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Barry Harden is the author of a memoir, five novels, two books of poetry and a collection of short stories in the genres of political thriller, satire, Gothic fantasy poetry, and allegorical short stories. An animal rights, environmental protection, and civil rights proponent, he often injects his affinity for such in his writings.

“Words can be like gems or sticks. A coalition of words can become a diamond necklace or a broken picket fence, whichever way one wishes to use them, and as such, I use them for my works of fiction and poetry. Dark fantasy can be alluring but dark reality is sometimes unavoidable and can cascade one’s imagination deep into the hollowed skulls that litter the subsoil beneath our feet, to be returned once again to the world in the voice of a poet.” ~Barry Harden

Some of Mr. Harden’s poetry can be viewed in video format on YouTube: Dark Gothic Poetry and Stories.

www.barryhardenauthor.com