Too Many Heroes is a ‘gripping new post-war crime thriller’ penned by author Jan Turk Petrie, which combines recent historical fiction with psychological themes and a chilling thriller-style plotline. Set in the post-war period of London in the nineteen fifties, our would-be hero is Frank Danby, who finds himself keen to dodge the law and return to normality after the atrocities of the Second World War. Frank falls for the gorgeous but already married Grace, but this is just the beginning of his troubles when the law catches up with him at last. Facing his past and a future that’s about to be cut short, survival is key. Every page of this well written and fast-paced novel is deeply chilling and exciting to read. Author Jan Turk Petrie makes masterful use of the present tense for her narration, bringing us into the here and now alongside Frank in both his present and the recent past of the war. Unusual locations are cited for the novel’s setting, giving us a unique view of London in a time of returned heroes and supposed glory for the British as Elizabeth is poised to take the throne. The characters are rich and deeply expressive through effective use of dialogue, giving distinct personalities shaped by a world at war, and the necessity of survival in such dark times. Overall, Too Many Heroes explores the nature and cost of that survival, alongside prejudice and pre-judgments, and is a highly recommended read for period thriller fans everywhere.