Matt McAvoy Book Review

The Iron Lady is an entertaining young adult thriller that does not stop moving.

Agatha Freeman is not your average grandma. She loves her grandchildren but has a secret history of espionage that she keeps well away from them up in the cupboard with the cake mix. But criminal minds have long memories and sooner or later, if you have a history of fighting evil, your past will catch up with you. Age, as it is often said, is no barrier. As Agatha’s comfortable retirement is brutally interrupted, she leaps into action only to discover that there is some truth in the old adage: if you think you’re going to get killed, don’t bring the kids unless you need their help with technology.

Times have certainly changed since the days when Agatha fought to make the world a better place, but revenge is immortal. Fellows keeps up our interest with characters, young and old, whose motives are all too believable. As layers are progressively added to the plot, the pace keeps moving without sentiment or backward glances. I prefer this style, particular in a thriller, because the reader has confidence that the author has a secure hold on the reigns. I knew where I was, I knew what was going on and with whom. These are the trademarks of a good storyteller. The plot was simple, expanded by colourful characterization and plenty of action, but the intimations of a past that has left traces of its glory days in its wake creates a web of mystery and allure. There were some interesting leads here that I would like to see followed up in a sequel.

The message is clear: never underestimate Grandma.