By Way of Paris is couched as what it is in real life: a Master's thesis. And it's understandable why this has received recognition. Luke as a character is complex and troubled, but he rises above his nihilistic forebears by the end of the book. He sees himself, as he reminds us regularly, as the protagonist of his own story. But this way of thinking is extremely dangerous for himself and for everyone else around him. Books like this often end up being very dark and self-destructive, and there is a bit of that in By Way of Paris, but it's ultimately a hopeful story about breaking the cycle of abuse and violence. And even in its darkest scenes, it's a love letter to London—not its more iconic locations, but the out-of-the-way places and daily routines that are bizarrely easy to fall in love with. 5 out of 5 stars ~ Kara Dennison (Media/Journalist), Netgalley

A wild ride full of gangs, violence, humour and excellent characters. ~ Milly's Book Shelf (Reviewer)

A complicated and dramatic tale. When I first encountered this title in my search through NetGalley, the plot initially reminded me of Bert Kreischer's "The Machine" story with a much more deadly and dangerous undertone. ~ Kyley Rigelman (Reviewer), Netgalley

Superb plotting, cartoonish action. Utterly preposterous AND beguiling. Dial your willing suspension of disbelief up to ten (or 11 if you are a fan of Spinal Tap)and enjoy the juxtaposition of a young man carrying long-held trauma endeavouring to write his way to a better future as a creative author whilst simultaneously being both a pawn within and the author of his egress from a horrendous criminal underworld not initially of his own choosing. An excellent read 5 out of 5 stars ~ Matt Wallace (Reviewer), Netgalley

This was everything I was looking for. I enjoyed the concept, and the characters were everything that worked in this story. I thought it worked well with the true crime element and was engaged with what was happening. Christopher J. Newman has a strong writing style, and I can’t wait for more. 5 out of 5 stars ~ Kathryn McLeer (Reviewer) , Netgalley

By Way of Paris follows Luke, a young North Carolina man seeking adventure and purpose in Europe through a writing program in London. However, his journey takes a dark turn when he stumbles upon a murder at a party in Paris, leading to blackmail that pulls him deeper into a web of crime. As Luke attempts to craft a perfect novel to escape his troubles, he befriends a gang leader in London, immersing himself in a dangerous underworld. Newman's debut novel intricately explores themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of friendship amidst chaos. The narrative is characterized by sharp dialogue, engaging character development, and vivid depictions of both Paris and London. Critics have praised the book for its dark humour and realistic portrayal of the seedy aspects of urban life, offering a gripping and entertaining read. Overall, By Way of Paris is a thrilling ride that combines crime fiction with insightful commentary on the nature of heroism and the search for belonging. ~ Clarissa cambusano (Reviewer), Netgalley

I love debut novels, and if this is the author's first attempt, I am excited to see what the author's next offering will be. It follows a young author as he travels around Europe. In Paris, he discovers a dead body, and what happens next is thrilling, intense, and scary. Firstly, I love the cover of this book. Like the writing, it is edgy and modern. This is a brilliant crime drama with a lot of drama. The main character is well-developed and purposeful. I loved it. 5 out of 5 stars ~ Tracy Shephard (Librarian), Netgalley

I Loved this! It's exciting, well-developed, interesting and cool. The cover is excellent, and the little drawings within add interest. This debut novel punches hard, and if you find yourself in a reading slump, give this a go. It will eliminate all the fog. It's really brilliant, and it's obvious the author has a filmmaking experience, which is reflected in the action within. 5 out of 5 stars ~ Cs Flanagan (Reviewer), Netgalley

In what is a most intelligently, well crafted, dutifully alluring new novel from author Christopher J. Newman, By Way of Paris is a page turner of the highest order. Something of which I can personally myself attest to, as I read it cover-to-cover in just three days (well, two and a half, in truth). Complete with engaging character developments, along with realistic dialogue and highly descriptive settings that create a veritably sweeping inner mind cinescape of visual integrity to further afford the reader their very own inventive landscape for the characters to evolve within (especially those of both France and England, the latter I am a countryman of and therefore can attest to all that is brought forth), Christopher’s debut novel is both gripping and entertaining; if not a little quirkily left of script center sometimes, but hey, that just adds to its overall charm). ~ Anne Carlini - Exclusive Magazine , https://annecarlini.com/ex_books.php?id=735

A new talent on the scene, dark, witty and believable - Christopher J Newman takes you on a thrilling ride through toxic landscapes. ~ Maggie Gee, OBE FRSL, acclaimed author of The White Family, Blood and The Red Children

A heart-pumping ride with a wildcard protagonist. The seedy streets of London and Paris shouldn't be this much fun. Buckle up, Bruv. ~ C. McGee, author of Owen O'Shea, Feral Chickens, and Exteriors and Interiors

Christopher J. Newman is a crime writer with a unique talent for creating great stories and believable characters that you can't help but care about. ~ Peter Kesterton, author of Girls Don't Cry