'[...] well-crafted first novel [...] It’s a premise that demands a degree of suspended disbelief, but Bergstrom manages Gwen’s transformation from high school student to assassin believably enough, and he doesn’t avoid the toll Gwen’s actions take on her. Not for the weak of heart, this is a grim, fast-paced tale that stands knee-deep in dead bodies.' Publishers Weekly
'This is a coming of age story like no other. Imagine if Jason Bourne was female and sixteen. That just about sums up The Cruelty... Smart, dangerous, kick-ass (yes, really) and an absolute page-turner, The Cruelty, is sure to be one of the hits of 2017. Look out Katniss – here comes Gwendolyn and she’s about to kick your butt!' Couple of Pages
'“It’s certainly a page turner […] this lurid, skilfully written book is certainly entertaining.”' Armadillo
'“[…] well-crafted first novel. […] It’s a premise that demands a degree of suspended disbelief, but Bergstrom manages Gwen’s transformation from high school student to assassin believably enough, and he doesn’t avoid the toll Gwen’s actions take on her. Not for the weak of heart, this is a grim, fast-paced tale that stands knee-deep in dead bodies.”' Publishers Weekly
'"[T]his debut novel is relentlessly paced, full of global sets, slick action […] with a grim, ass-kicking antihero."—' Booklist
'“Gwendolyn, a strong female protagonist, narrates her tale. […] Full of international intrigue and social commentary, this page-turner contains interesting insights on power, corruption, and espionage. The abrupt ending emphasizes that Gwendolyn’s life has dramatically changed and new adventures are rapidly approaching. Featuring graphic violence, sexual situations, profanity, and a high body count, this book is appropriate for mystery and thriller readers who are ready for these kinds of scenes.”' VOYA, February 2017 (Vol. 39, No. 6) - Lynne Farrell Stover