After a first kill, MI5 Agent and erstwhile photographer Cain becomes an undercover, extra-judicial killer for a secret Bureau.
Recovering from injuries sustained protecting the Royal Family, Cain embracesa new life and romance in sun-drenched Australia, leaving his past life behind.
But when tragedy strikes, he is on the move again. This time to a new career in the world of diamond dealings in Florida.
Curiosity takes Cain to the diamond world in South Africa, where his past finally catches up with him, the criminal world allies against him and he becomes a killer again.
In Cain's action-packed escapades, a spectacular betrayal takes him into the rigours of a Chinese prison where the truth about his past begins to unravel.
Aided by a loyal band of friends from the shadowy world of intelligence, he delivers his own particular brand of rough justice.
However, with enemies closing in on all sides, will Cain prevail?
Review
If you’ve ever wanted a story that thrusts you head-first into danger, diamonds, and the sort of moral tangles only a former spy could stumble into, Rough Diamond, Rough Justice serves it all with fierce, relentless momentum.
From the opening pages, you’re plunged into a world that sparkles on the surface but cuts sharply underneath. The protagonist isn’t your neatly polished hero — he’s something far more compelling: skilled, battle-scarred, and desperately trying to outrun the shadows that haunt him.
The novel blends espionage, high-stakes action and raw emotional intensity with impressive confidence. One moment you’re soaking in sunlit, glittering settings; the next, you’re locked in the tension of a covert operation or the crushing bleakness of a prison cell. Each shift lands with purpose, pushing the story forward and deepening the character in ways that make you genuinely anxious for his survival.
What truly stands out is how immersive the journey feels. The action isn’t merely exciting — it’s visceral. The quieter moments aren’t simply pauses — they’re pressure points. And the pacing? Let’s just say this book has no intention of giving you breathing space. Every chapter feels like opening a door you’re not entirely sure is safe, but which you cannot resist stepping through.
There are moments when the rapid turns and globe-trotting intensity threaten to overwhelm — yet that’s part of the thrill. The chaos doesn’t feel accidental; it mirrors the fractured life of a man trying to carve out justice in a world where every truth comes barbed.
Fast-paced, gripping, and brimming with emotional punch, Rough Diamond, Rough Justice is the sort of thriller that shines brightest under pressure. You’ll gasp, you’ll fret, and you’ll almost certainly keep reading far later than you planned.
Five Stars
Avien Gray, the English author behind Rough Diamond – Rough Justice, brings a wealth of experience to his gripping debut novel. Born in the UK, Gray has led a dynamic, bachelor’s life marked by an impressive array of skills and global adventures. He has a driver’s license, motorbike license, and pilot’s license. His physical discipline extends to martial arts, where he earned a karate black belt, complemented by a lifelong passion for photography that captures the world through his discerning lens.
Gray’s rumoured travels paint the picture of a man unbound by borders. He is said to have spent many months in Saudi Arabia, Australia, the USA, South Africa, Europe and China. This rich tapestry of experiences infuses his writing with authenticity, lending a vivid, worldly edge to the thrilling narrative of his complex protagonist: a man called Cain.
Avien and his best friend shared a flat and went out with various female friends together. They had a great time. As it says in the book when Cain is talking with his best friend: a Royal Protection Officer.
‘We will have to write that book when we retire,’ Cain said.
They looked at each other with knowing smiles – for a long few seconds.
‘All those secrets,’ said Jerry. ‘Perhaps we will.’
And time moved on.
But in real life, his best friend tragically died – leaving Avien to write their book alone.
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