While there were definitely times this book felt a bit repetitive and wildly unrealistic, I really enjoyed it for the most part and reading it felt like watching one of those popcorn action movies full of explosions and plot holes. You definitely can't take it too seriously, but sometimes that's a good thing and it definitely was here. I was invested in the story right from the beginning and never lost interest even when I had to scoff a bit. If you like a good thriller you don't have to take too seriously, you will likely enjoy this. 

For what this is, it’s pretty good: an action thrill-a-minute tale of good guys and bad guys and all sorts of evil machinations culminating in a great big bang. Kind of like a Hollywood blockbuster but on paper (or, in my case, my Kindle).

I envy the author that he can spin such a convoluted story and have it make sense in the end. If all you want is something light and fairly meaningless, this is good - it’s diverting and amusing and passes the time. Unfortunately, there’s nothing really behind the superficial plot to make the book substantial. It does address the issue of grief in the absence of a parent - all the adopted kids wonder what their father would have been like - but nothing weightier. 

It was an entertaining hodgepodge and I enjoyed reading it but I don’t think I need to read anything else by the same author. I need something with a little more substance. 

CW: sexual assault, gore

In Find You First we follow Miles, a tech billionaire with a newly-discovered terminal illness, as he tries to find what potential children he has out there in order to bequeath them his fortune. Unfortunately, they might also have his illness. As Miles sets out on his quest, he discovers that the children he helped bring into the world are disappearing - as are any trace of them. We also follow Nicky, a young (although its never stated how young) teen, who has gotten wrapped up in the entertainment business. Specifically, entertaining important adult men at parties held by a Jeffrey-Epstein-type - whom she accidentally overhears departing some damning information. In addition, we also follow some of Miles' children, as well as some criminals. A massive cast! But surprisingly not confusing.

What I Liked:
- Fast-paced.
- There was a lot of different threads to tie up, and Barclay does it well. It had less of a twisty vibe throughout, it was more just following the threads along until they came together.
- Lots of horrid characters to gleefully hate and root for their comeuppance.
- Action-packed conclusion.

What I Didn't Love:
- Had to suspend my disbelief quite a bit - especially at the end.
- At one point he describes the weight of the only fat woman, to the lb. This is not done for any other character.
- It was a little bit long - but thankfully the fast pace got me through that easily.
- A few too many characters - it was easy to keep up after a few introductions, but still. It was a lot.

Overall I really enjoyed this one. Fast-paced, action-packed, weird mystery. Am all for it. Would recommend to any thriller fan.

Big thanks to NetGalley, the author, and HQ for the eARC. This one's available to purchase in the UK now!