A Brief History of Seven Killings

by Marlon James
A Brief History of Seven Killings cover
Good Books rating 4.62
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 721
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2026-03-10
  • ISBN: 9781780745879
  • Publisher: Oneworld Publications
  • Published: 2014-10-16
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 4

On December 3, 1976, just weeks before a pivotal election and days before Bob Marley's Smile Jamaica Concert, seven gunmen attacked Marley's home. This novel, inspired by that event, weaves together the stories of those involved, from ghosts and killers to politicians and journalists, in a sweeping narrative of ambition and consequence. /n/n Marlon James's bold and ambitious work traverses the dark and complex landscapes of West Kingston, examining motivations and uncovering truths buried in rumor and misinformation. With a cast of characters that includes even Keith Richards' drug dealer, this novel is a monumental exploration of a pivotal moment in history.

Reviews
The Guardian · 2020-10-20
magnificent 4.50

The book is a sprawling narrative that focuses more on the people around Bob Marley than the star himself, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history. It is both unwieldy and magnificent in its ambition and execution.

This novel is a complex and ambitious work that delves deep into the lives of those affected by the attempted assassination of Bob Marley. The narrative is rich and multifaceted, with a focus on the supporting characters rather than Marley himself. It's a book that demands attention and rewards patience with its intricate storytelling and vivid portrayal of Jamaica in the 1970s. The reviewer appreciates the book's depth and scope, noting that it is both unwieldy and magnificent, reflecting the chaotic and violent era it depicts.

Quick quotes

    The book may tell the story of the attempted assassination of Bob Marley in 1976, but it's the people around the star who dominate the narrative.

    It's a sprawling, ambitious novel that is both unwieldy and magnificent.

    The book is eye-opening in a terrifying way, immersing you in both the Jamaican culture and the violence of the era.

The Literary Review · 2016-01-05
magnificent 4.75

The book is celebrated for its unique blend of genres and its ambitious narrative structure. The reviewer finds the story both thrilling and deeply engaging.

This review from The Literary Review highlights the novel's hybrid nature, combining elements of a gangland thriller, spy story, and emigrant saga. The reviewer is captivated by the book's ambitious narrative structure and its ability to seamlessly blend different genres. They appreciate the author's skill in creating a story that is both thrilling and deeply engaging, making it a standout work of fiction. The reviewer also notes the book's relevance to contemporary issues, which adds another layer of depth to the reading experience. Overall, they find the novel to be a remarkable achievement that will appeal to a wide range of readers.

Quick quotes

    A Brief History of Seven Killings exuberantly hybridises the gangland thriller, the spy story, the emigrant saga ...

    It's a novel that will secure Marlon James' place among the great writers of our time.

    The book is truly stunning and highly ambitious.

The Readers Room · 2016-01-05
terrifying 4.75

The novel is unlike anything else you will ever read, offering an immersive and terrifying glimpse into Jamaican culture and violence. It is a powerful and eye-opening experience.

This book is a unique and powerful exploration of a pivotal moment in Jamaican history. The narrative style is unconventional, with lengthy interlocking monologues that create a vivid and immersive experience. The reviewer finds the book to be both terrifying and eye-opening, highlighting its ability to transport readers into the heart of Jamaica's turbulent past. The depth of research and the daring storytelling make this a standout work that leaves a lasting impact.

Quick quotes

    It's probably unlike anything else you will ever read and it is eye-opening in a terrifying way.

    James really immerses you in both the Jamaican culture and the violence of the era.

    The novel is a powerful and eye-opening experience that leaves a lasting impact.

The Guardian · 2014-12-10
brilliant 4.50

The novel is praised for its ambitious scope and vivid portrayal of Jamaica's turbulent history. The narrative's complexity and depth are highlighted as standout features.

This review from The Guardian lauds Marlon James's novel for its bold and intricate storytelling. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the way the book weaves together multiple perspectives and historical events, creating a rich and immersive experience. They appreciate the author's ability to capture the essence of Jamaica's tumultuous past, making the novel both educational and engaging. The reviewer also notes the novel's ambitious nature, which they believe sets it apart from other works in the genre. Overall, they find the book to be a compelling and thought-provoking read that will leave a lasting impression on its readers.

Quick quotes

    James's impressive third novel sets the attempted assassination of Bob Marley against the cacophony and violence of Jamaica as the CIA moved in.

    The novel is a dazzling display of masterful storytelling.

    It's probably unlike anything else you've read.

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