"There are few thrillers that have such an original insight into the minds of criminals. Each character has been masterfully crafted in order for you to empathise even with those convicted of murder."

Reviews

Kirkus Discoveries, NY.

In this thriller, reality T.V. takes a final leap to homicide.

Not far into the future, as Winter’s tale goes, society has had it with the criminal element. Rather than wasting resources keeping murderers behind bars, the government unleashes them on one another. Winter’s foray into this ugly new world is a clever concept – does reality T.V. have any other destiny? A neat plot twist then takes the story beyond reality, into plain reality, which is even nastier. An elegant, imaginative construction.

UK Independant - Book Reviewer

Based in modern day America, Bruce Winter crafts a new world where capital punishment has been abandoned and reality television reaches new heights. Having studied news reporting and feature writing Winter creates a book that sees murder mystery writing take on a new imaginative level.

The initial feeling you get from the book is that it will be a twist on the traditional whodunit, however Winter’s world looks past the murder mystery and fills the book with numerous and unpredictable plots that surround the game 'The Fourth Ace,' with tales of love and sacrifice. In many ways the book has an almost moralistic nature whereby you are made to think about the consequences of your actions; no matter how well thought out, they can have devastating effects.

Five criminals enter a mansion to play 'The Fourth Ace,' where the aim of the game is for one of them to once again commit murder. Unsure whether to befriend their new housemates or risk being betrayed the contestants must play for their life on live television. Everything changes however when one of the inmates manages to take control of the show. Henry Pilling, serving life imprisonment for murder is chosen to take part in the show, having lost everything he once cared about; the only person left in his life is his ten year old son Vincent, who he has had no contact with for nine years.

The book takes you through Henry’s journey of life, love and loss. Will he survive in the mansion? Will he ever see his son again? The initial stance of the book makes the reader think the main plot of the story will surround the game, but Winter cleverly disguises the depth of the plot and allows you to empathise with all the characters affected by the game.

The Fourth Ace holds many surprises to keep readers on their toes. A not so standard thriller, readers should expect the unexpected. Acting as Winter’s debut thriller, we should hope that this will not be his last.