Peril in Paradise

Gabriel, a middle-aged man adopted from Ghana and living a humdrum life in London, is thrust into a world of corruption, danger, and intrigue when he travels to Tobago to oversee the sale of a family property. As he navigates the island's vibrant culture and contrasting landscapes, Gabriel is forced to confront his values and morals in the face of shocking encounters with drug dealers, corrupt officials, and his nemesis, Pablo. Along the way, he meets three strong women who challenge him to break free from his comfort zone and take control of his destiny. With its blend of humor, action, and heart, this novel is a thrilling adventure that will leave you breathless and inspired.

Peril in Paradise by Tim Bartholomew delivers the perfect escape into the sun-kissed shores of post-colonial Tobago. It examines human relationships, morality, and one man’s search for meaning in a dangerous setting. Gabriel Cassidy, a Christadelphian, navigates his mundane life in suburban London, grappling with the consequences of his recent retirement from a successful insurance business. The novel’s opening chapter sets the tone for the rest of the story, introducing Gabriel's struggles with marriage to Sarah and his sense of purpose after decades of dedication to his work. His mundane routine is disrupted by a call from his uncle, Neville, a cantankerous and unpleasant individual who lives in a grand old house in the countryside. As Gabriel arrives at Badger's End, Neville's sprawling estate, he is met with a cast of intriguing characters — Mabel, Neville's nurse, who is kind and caring despite her tough exterior; Max Gibson, Gabriel's old friend from university, who has become a successful solicitor; and the enigmatic solicitor himself, who seems to be hiding secrets.

Bartholomew expertly weaves faith, morality, and redemption themes into this engaging narrative. Gabriel's struggle to come to terms with his identity and purpose is mirrored in his interactions with those around him. His relationships with Sarah and Neville are well-drawn, revealing the thrills of family dynamics and the power of forgiveness. Bartholomew's writing is descriptive and evocative, conjuring vivid images of suburban London and the cultural settings of post-colonial Tobago. The plot is engaging and unpredictable, with surprises around every corner.  Peril in Paradise is a gorgeous novel spiced with humor, a page-turner with lovable characters, and a setting that absorbs readers. It is an intelligently accomplished literary fiction with an unforgettable hero and writing that feels like music to the ears.