This is the first book I've read by him. It was a real page turner. For me there was nothing wanting. Though the title like lots of things in the book is deceptive. Nothing and no-one should be taken at face value. Just what is the secret that links a bored civil servant (Richard Eusden), a dead Isle of Wight policeman & his briefcase, the Russian royal family & a scandinavian based conglomerate? Why are several people willing to kill Eusden to keep it secret? Read it & find out for yourself.

First book i have read by Goddard. Read it on my honeymoon and great book. Didnt want to put it down. Will definately be putting on my authors to read list

Goddard has an amazing ability to ensure every chapter is a thrill and that none leave you bored. Most end with a cliffhanger making you long for more and none are overly lengthy, which can make for a pleasant read. The plot itself can get somewhat confusing with the cross-over of quite a number of family trees. There were times as well when it felt like you were taking two steps forward and then three steps back in progression to discover the mystery, which could get frustrating. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I certainly wouldn't discourage anyone from reading it.

I'm a big fan of Robert Goddard and so always look forward to his latest release. I enjoyed Found Wanting, I found Richard Euston a believable character from the start - a bored civil servant stuck in a boring life. The adventure he is thrown into is less believable, but not outrageously so. The history part of the story revovles around the mystery of Anastasia, a topic I am aware of but not wildly interested in and so have no in depth knowledge of. I did find it hard to keep track of some of the family tree references at some points in the story and would have quite liked an idiots guide to refer to when needed, someone with a bit more knowledge about Anastasia and that period of history might have fared better. We only get the story from Richards view point and so only find out what other characters are doing when he does. This means that the reader gets a very strong picture of Richard Euston, but the other characters are somewhat limited and so less easy to get a feel for. There are plenty of twists and turns, the hero is both gullible and lucky in equal measure as he is dragged through this adventure. The ending was more like an action packed thriller than I was expecting (I tend to expect mystery and drama from Robert Goddard rather than thriller and action), but it was a good and tidy ending. 7/10 but perhaps 3 stars rather than 4 since it's not one of my favourites.

Sadly, another book that isn't available in e-book format. I love Robert Goddard's books but now only buy e-books. Pity.