What is your opinion?
Riveting
"Kept me reading till 6am! "
President of the People
"In Greg McLaughlin's The Third Party, Clint Groverton is the President the people want - and deserve. Alongside his running mate, Eveline Bohanon, the other perfect President, this book is exactly what made me keep reading. Such incredibly, realistically drawn characters serve to strengthen the story and make it a joy to read. Also very realistic was the knowledge on platforms, issues, and statistics throughout the book, which lent a very credible feel to the storyline - the author's research and knowledge of news, state, government, politics, and current affairs is excellent, without a doubt. I personally enjoyed the descriptions of places and people - you could really "see" them. Just as the reader is acclimating to the current state of affairs, a plot twist is thrown in and the reader has no choice but to keep going greedily to the next chapter, wondering how the conflict will be resolved. A clear plotline and good, strong writing keeps the reader engaged throughout the entirety of the novel. I would only recommend an edit for some mild errors that don't actually detract from the flow of the story. That and making the first chapter a prologue. Otherwise, this is a brilliantly written, captivating narrative full of intrigue. excellent characterization and description. I look forward to reading another Greg McLaughlin book. My congratulations to the author!"
Pretty Awesome
"I have to admit that usually I don’t pick up books like this but I decided to give it a whirl because of the pretty cool premise. This story has a pretty awesome idea. The idea of having a third party contender versus the gruesome twosome deal. The character of Clint is such a gruff yet like able character I wish would exist in real life. If we had a candidate like him stand out I think we could go a long way with someone like that who is a break from the traditional Democratic or Republican facade. The author really knows the whole scene of the current political mumbo jumbo and the ins and outs of everything. It really feels like you are seeing everything that can probably happen in an election and that I think is pretty awesome. Take it from a guy who normally doesn’t pick up stories about that sort of thing often this is a great read for anyone who likes a suspenseful and intriguing stories. Keep up the good work!"
This is wonderful
"Loved the first chapter! I was a little skeptical when numbers and politics were being thrown around. I assumed it might be dry and not hold my attention. But I can say that the picture painted of Eveline and the choice she had to make between her health and the presidency election gave a real humanistic feel to it. I look forward to reading the next chapters."
Groverton 2020
"More than anything this story depressed the hell out of me 'cause Groverton is the politician I'd love to see come along. Seemed like a real dude, a straight shooter like one of my uncles of grandpa or something, and his being a Minnesota native didn't hurt his cred any. Clearly, you must've had a stint in politics or else you're an insatiable news hound because you knew your quarry inside out. I could tell this story percolated right of you. Clint's platform and the issues being debated were so timely it felt like the whole mess was happening in real time. And that climax! You executed a perfect landing, built suspense when the outcome seemed like it had to be binary, win or lose. Your insight into the tangled protocol of the electoral college was a real boon in keeping readers at the edges of their seats. So I commend you on that. Housekeeping: you wanna get your commas situated before you send this to an agent or something, but that's no big thing. And like I said, Creighton could've been toned down for me a little, or at least amplified in other ways besides straight boorishness. You accomplished that nicely toward the end of the novel, so kudos to you. Kudos on this whole epic venture. It was truly a compelling read and something tells me I'll be perusing your profile again sometime for more excellent literary fare. Peace!"
A terrific read
"Greg McLaughlin has done it again. He has written a terrific story with stunning characters and a plot that keeps you turning the page. Well done. This well-written novel is steeped in action and perfect pacing. The plot kept me intrigued and reading to the end (I couldn't stop long enough to add comments at the end of the chapter even!) and the conclusion was satisfying and rewarding. The writing flows and takes the reader in close to the action, keeping us on edge and delivering suspense and intrigue along the way. The characters are three dimensional and feel very real. It is unusual to have principled politicians (perhaps that means this could fit into the fantasy genre too - ha, ha- is my cynicism showing?). Who knew a writer could create a politician that I would be cheering for? The 'bad guys' are also too real (are they based on any real life examples?) and together the story takes us on a fraught and intense ride. Your writing made me really care about the fate of the protagonist. The only suggestion I would make (and it's only my opinion, so ignore if you don't think it's relevant) is that the first chapter is a little bogged down with back story and factual information. For me, a non-American, the US electoral process is a little confusing and hard to follow which meant I had to re-read that chapter to understand it. I'm sure the important points could easily be dispersed and threaded through the subsequent chapters and therefore avoid that confusion. Also, another edit would easily iron out the small spelling and grammatical errors. Otherwise, the story is a terrific read, it kept me engrossed in the plot and the characters you created. Well done."
Wow!
"As always, Greg never ceases to keep me captivated and wanting to read on. His vivid use of description brings the narrative so clearly to life in my mind and has kept me enthralled throughout the entire story, much like his other works. The Third Party has an intriguing plot line. It's a refreshing story, in that, it gives a good insight into the mindset of politicians rather than presenting them through the perspective of their people. It gives more depth to their characters too, which is the next thing I'm going to talk about. You have very skilfully developed each of the main characters. They all feel very real to me, and this adds to the power of the narrative. Great characterisation! My personal favourite character is Chase. I hope to see more stories from you because I never seen to think that one will be able to top the next, because it was so good, and then, you always do. What are you doing on Inkitt? Go straight ahead and publish your books on Amazon! "
Hail to the Chief!
"McLaughlin has made heroes of what cynics consider villains by creating politicians that actually give a damn about the people they serve. His characters and the development of this intriguing plot keeps the page turning for sure! I'm excited to see where McLaughlin will take this book and his characters. I can't wait to read more!"
