This is known as the prison bible and the book that helped get me involved with the London Underworld scene in the late eighties.Pearson explores the London crime scene of the 60's and introduces us to the real Kray Family.It is the no nonsense approach by Pearson that makes this the daddy of all Kray publications and a must for all those wishing to know the real story of Ron, Reg, and Charlie.Still available in all good bookshops and the best place for Kray fans to start.

John Pearson released this book after Reggies death and it is a great follow up. He delves into the Twins involvement with Lord Boothby and Tom Driberg now that the red tape has finally been cut. He analyses the cult that surrounded the twins after the release of the film and concludes that keeping the legend alive was the most important thing in Reg Krays' life.

Not one of the best Kray books in my opinion, due to the fact that there are so many discrepancies in it. Nevertheless its a book you will find hard to put down. The admittance, finally by Reg, that he killed Jack the Hat was one of the books biggest selling points.A shock to those who served 15+ years for a crime that they all pleaded not guilty to i'm sure.

Simply a re-hash of Ronnie Krays' life story from 'Our Story.' Quite a thin hardback and with a lot of changes made from the original life story of Ron Kray. Ron wrote to me telling me not to buy the book and to tell the press it was 'all lies what they wrote'. I bought it all the same to add to my collection. Not very impressive.

My favourite book written by any member of the Kray family.Reg at last produces a masterpiece. He takes us through stories from the past the present and looks with hope to his future and possible release. A fascinating insight into the mind of one half of the notorious Kray brothers.

Charlies first book made interesting reading. For me it shows a divide between the three brothers which maybe isn't made apparent by any other writer including the Twins. If you knew the three of them you would know that they were individuals and not as one.A well written book and a must if you are to understand the whole Kray picture.

Colin Fry went into business with the Krays and decided to cut his losses soon after. He was a good friend of Charlie Krays and got together with him to produce this book which claimed to spill the beans on the Krays mafia contacts. It made interesting reading. Charlie confided in me however that a lot of the stories were 'pie in the sky to make a few quid.'The Krays mafia contacts were not what they seemed as it turned out. The people they put trust in were police informants and involved in an elaborate police sting.Interesting addition to any collection.

A Way Of Life by Reg Kray

I saw this book in Reggies handwriting as it was in progress so please don't believe the stories about Bradley Allardyce writing this. I was dissapointed with the content of the book. I expected a lot more from Reg and know that the original manuscript was altered considerably over the years. It makes good reading if you want to know who Reg slopped out with. The book simply fails to excite or inform.After his deathbed confessions on television this was his chance to correct any rumours or half truths. He failed to deliver. Or rather those who had the final say failed to deliver.

Married To The Krays by Kate Kray

Poor start to Mrs Krays' literary career but you can blame the publisher for that. I'm sure Kate would like to forget this effort which recieved a great deal of publicity on its release.Some good photos in it but the content and format leave a lot to be desired. A must if only to complete your collection.

Murder Madness and Marriage by Kate Kray

I enjoyed this book but had to take it all with a pinch of salt as i was bombarded with phonecalls and letters from Ron telling me to ring the papers as the book is full of lies'wot she wrote'.Ron was upset the Kate had commented on there sex life and there unwritten agreements on the matter. For me though it was well written and well researched and more than made up for her first book. Interesting book as it gives the reader the angle of the Twins from another perspective from someone who met them as captive men and not active gangsters.

Ronnie Kray ...Sorted by Kate Kray

This was released after Ron passed away. A book which in some instances contradicted what had been written in her two previous books. I found it quite amusing in some parts as i knew a lot of what i was reading was from the land of make believe. Reg was not happy with this particular book and wanted me to 'have a word with Kate'. I didn't bother. Reg could fight his own battles. This book again makes for interesting reading but can only serve to confuse those reading the Kray books with its constant switch from fact to fiction.Reg condemns these particular books in Way Of Life.

The Twins Free At Last by Kate Kray

It was only a matter of time before Kate released this her latest book on the Kray Twins. After the quick and succesive deaths of both Charlie and Reggie this book had all the hallmarks of a rush job for me. Pity because the content was not bad. Once again though the same stories were regurgitated and i felt rather cheated when i reached the final page. The photos were the books saving grace again really with the use of the photos taken of the twins in custody after there arrest in 1968 being the highlight. Kate has shown with her other books 'Hard Bastards' that she can indeed write an informative and interesting book based on fact. I wish her well in the future.

Inside The Kray Family by Joe Lee and Rita Smith

A refreshing addition to the Kray books in your local bookshop or library . Real family members who recall the twins from childhood to there heyday in the early sixties. Some great stories are recounted and paint us the real picture of Ron Reg and Charlie and there parents Violet and Charlie. The boys would be proud of this effort.

Inside The Firm by Tony Lambrianou

I could not put this book down when i first bought it. I think Tony captures the killing of Mcvitie in this book. You almost feel that you are there with him in the room. You share his highs and lows and the very lows. The book has just been re-released this year 2002 and for me stands alongside John Pearsons books for accuracy and for enjoyment. Once you start this you just can't stop.

Escape From The Kray Madness by Chris Lambrianou

No holds barred account of his association with the Twins and London Gangland in the sixties. One of the few Kray gang members to actually hold his hands up and say i was wrong and i'm going to do something about it. The book gives his graphic account of the whole madness surrounding the Krays and the firm as they faced heavy prison sentences.It also shows how he as a person re-shaped his life and started paying society back by helping young offenders. A great book. A man to be admired.

The Man Who Nicked The Krays Nipper Read & James Morton

As with all books on the Kray subject this is an updated version of events and unlike previous efforts you feel that 'Nipper' has almost developed a sympathy for the twins. This is a great book from the man who almost lost out on putting his greatest adversaries behind bars. His fight against corruption within the ranks is equally as hard a battle as trying to get people to make statements against the 'firm.' I am not a fan of James Morton but his collaboration on this project with 'Nipper' gives a fascinating and important view from the other side of the Kray story.

Getting It Straight Freddie Foreman & Tony Lambrianou

I found this book frustrating at the start, confusing in the middle and a good read towards the end. The book is set out as the lads spoke it in Freddies kitchen, or Tonys local boozer and it can be hard to follow. The best part of the book is when the chaps discuss Reggies' death and funeral. For the first time we are given there account of the scene at Reggies' deathbed and the reasons why neither showed there face at the subsequent funeral.The book also gives the chaps the chance to right a few wrongs that they feel have been written about them in other books.Not essential reading, but useful for that last few chapters.

The Barmaids Tale by Mrs X and James Morton

This book was always going to be released it was just a matter of time. The fact that the barmaid did not want to be named helped keep the Kray legend alive, and was good p.r. because it made the public feel that the krays could still harm and indeed would still want to harm the barmaid for opening her mouth to the police! Another James Morton book, Mrs X takes us back to the infamous night at the Blind Beggar and gives us an in depth account of what really happened. Having spoken to Ron about the night in question on two occasions i feel this on paper provides any Kray fan with the most accurate description of events.

Running With The Krays by Billy Webb

An in depth look at the relationship between the Kray brothers and the Webbs. Billy met the Krays and deserted the army with the young twins on countless occasions,he is described in the book as there friend ally and foe. The book is a mixture of his own life story, his involvement with Ronnie and Reggie and his own views on how and why they ended up with thirty years a piece.This book basically fills in the gaps that are missing from the twins accounts of those days on the run. The only other point to note is the painting by Ron of Jesus on the cross which can be found on the back cover. This type of painting by Ron is a rarity and very disturbing.

The Brutal Truth by Eric Mason

I have to say that i did not know much about Eric Mason before i read this book. Once i had turned the final page i knew that i had read the life story of one of the biggest players in sixties gangland. Eric is not one to boast about his exploits. On the contrary he admits that in life he has made mistakes.He takes the reader into the murky underworld and introduces us to some of the well known faces of that time. He rights a few wrongs and shows his complete dislike for the cowards who attacked him mob handed leaving him battered and bruised with an axe in his head. Since reading the book i have met Eric and i count him as a close friend. His help in putting together 'The Krays The Geordie Connection' has been invaluable.Respect is due.

Rise And Fall Of The Brothers Kray by Brian McConnell

A rarity this book and out of print. I picked a copy up for twenty quid in a crime book shop in London. Brian McConnell covered the Krays and there trial for the Daily Mirror and it is a frank assessment of how the press and media followed the Krays rise and fall. Brian pulls no punches and the book reads well and is a thorough investigation which took him seven years of hard work with help from Tom Tullett and Edward Vale.The book is important for any collection as it shows how the media felt about the Krays and as they are not individually involved with the major players they can give the reader a better idea of public perception at the time.

Respect by Freddie Foreman

Fred always said that he would never write a book but the temptation was too much as book after book was released with so many untruths in them written about him. This is the 'Godfather' of crime books from gangsters in that era. Fred pulls no punches and it is another one of those books where you will need to take a couple of days off work to read it as you will be gripped from page one. Fred is known as the 'Managing Director Of British Crime', buy and read this book and you will realise why.

The Enforcer - Albert Donoghue

Talk about milking the Krays name for financial gain. This book also appears under the title 'The Krays Lieutenant' also in hardback, and in my opinion not one of the best. Albert paints a different story to other firm members on most stories. It is his recollections of the escape and subsequent hiding of Frank Mitchell 'The Mad Axe-Man'that saves this book from the scrap heap. You can almost smell his fear as he walks away from the van with Mitchell and his murderers inside, expecting to cop one in the back of his head. I feel that this is the most accurate description of this particular event in Kray folklore.

Villains we have known - Reg Kray

Not one of Reggies better efforts literally but the photographic content makes this book worth every penny. The book gives Reggies insight into his peers whom he idolised at the race tracks in the 50's and into his friends and allies that he associated with throughout the sixties. There are countless previously unseen photos from various Kray nights out which any fan will find fascinating. There is even a photo of Reg and north eastern businessman Vince Landa which i found very interesting. It will be hard to get a copy of this book...but i do have one spare for a price.

Book of slang - Reg Kray

The worst book out there in my opinion. A few half decent photos cannot save this book. The foreword by Patsy Manning makes an interesting read but i don't have any interest in reading a book of cockney slang. I'm sure many of you would feel the same if i released a a book about geordie phrases! Well produced however and a must for all serious collectors.

Thoughts, Philosophy & Poetry - Reg Kray

A fascinating insight into the mind of one half of Britians most notorious gangsters. This was how i described the book to the press as i helped launch the book in the early nineties. The poetry is painful. Reg admitted that himself. The Philosophy drug and alcohol induced, but inspired by a book that he had read in Nottingham Jail, 'The Prophet' by Kahil Gibran. An important addition to any Kray collection as it shows you Reggies state of mind as he enters the final years of his sentence. Reg gave me ten poems whilst writing this book that he did not want to be included, and told me to 'use them as i see fit.' Those poems will appear in my book when it is released.

Unfinished business - Martin Fido

A book to accompany a Carlton television series a few years ago. This book reveals the truth behind the untimely end of Frank Mitchell. For years this story remained part of Kray folklore with noone really knowing what had happened to the 'Mad Axe-Man'. In a frank confession Freddie Foreman admits to killing Mitchell. Having already been tried for this crime and aqquited he can no longer be re-tried. There is a small possibility at the time of writing that the law know as 'double jepardy ' may be reversed which could cause Fred a few problems. Only time will tell. A concise book which also contains excerpts from confessions from the Lambrianous and Ronnie Bender after they had been sentenced. Again a book which is a must for those wanting to build the whole Kray picture.

Murder without conviction - John Dickson

'Scotch' Jack is not one to court publicity. So it was a surprise to see him on a Kray television documentary a couple of years ago. A new book on its way methinks. A shallow book. Jack however did drive Ronnie Kray to and from the Blind Beggar on that fateful night, so although quite thin and poor in content, the chapter where he concentrates on the killing of Cornell saves this book from being a complete flop. Not easily obtained, but a must for those who want to piece the full Kray jigsaw together.

Kray files - Colin Fry

I'll make no bones about the books by this man. I don't like them. I feel that they can be mis-leading and at times rely on fiction rather than fact. I've never met Colin Fry, but i would like too. I have a lot of questions to ask him.His appearance on 'Empire Behind Bars' made him a laughing stock. The books make a good read to be fair, but there again i enjoyed the film, and that was only loosely based on fact too. Worth a glance, but little else. Classic toilet reading material in my opinion.

Ronnie Kray - Laurie O'Leary

A fascinating read, and a great credit to the author who knew Ronnie Kray better than anyone. From childhood to the grave, Ronnie Kray uncut, this book could have had so many titles. A man among men somes Ron up and Laurie captures the Ronnie Kray that many fail to write about. Most prefer to concentrate more on the blood and the gore and lie through there front teeth. This book gives an insight into how Rons character developed, his mental health declined and the rise and fall of the brothers Kray. Most importantly this book deals in facts. An ideal companion on a long journey and a must for anyone studying the make-up of one half of the twins.

The Krays - the Final Countdown
Colin Fry

This was a rush job to,in my opinion, cash in on the fact that the Krays were now all dead and buried, and that things could be published without fear of retribution. A re-hash of old and new 'stories'. Again not one of my favourites. Fry too was a twin and describes himself as a distant relative of Charles Dickens. Story telling must run in the family. I bet Oliver and Bill Sykes are turning in there graves at this literary effort!

Organised Crime - J. Anderson Black

This is one of those rare cheap harback books that you can pick up at any second hand book shop or market stall. It covers criminals from Capone to Marks to Biggs, but the synopsis on the Krays makes good reading and the photos at the time that i bought this 1993, had never been published. It only takes you through the rise to power and ultimate fall and conviction, but, nevertheless worth having. Worthy noting that the Krays appear first in the book as Gangsters Number 1!

Murder In Cold Blood - Books Uk Ltd

This was originally released as part of the Murder Casebook Collection and is hard to get a hold of as it was a limited edition. The photos are plentiful and collectable and i like the way the chapters are set out. There are a few errors within the text but it's like a quick appraisal of the twins life so i'll forgive them. The book only goes up to Violet Krays' funeral but is ideal for anyone starting out and wanting to learn a bit about the basic Kray Twins story.

Who Killed Freddie Mills -Tony Van Den Bergh

There are countless stories about The Krays disposing of bodies in motorway foundations and in other peoples graves , and of being involved in many other unsolved murders. If they had a hand in all of these crimes they would have surpassed Harold Shipman. The case of Freddie Mills is one crime that was put down to the twins and this book suggests just that. It does however put a few other names in the frame, and the book lets you draw your own conclusions. I enjoyed this book and it opens up a new debate for any Kray fan.Did they do it? I touch on this subject in 'The Krays The Geordie Connection.'

The Brotherhood - Leslie Payne

What a job i had finding this book. It cost me £28 but well worth every penny. It is out of print and i obtained it from a book shop in Faversham! The book itself was worth every penny. It is of course written by the man whose evidence condemned the twins to 30 years in prison. He was a vital piece in the prosecution jigsaw. The book was heavily criticised on its release as many saw it as a bible for any budding criminal, as it concentrates on the long firm frauds. It gives you a new insight into the workings of the Kray firm, and shows you that they were indeed very well organised. At times they were literally printing money. Sadly they failed to invest in it.They failed to use Payne the brains knowledge, and that with there thirst for violence pushed Leslie Payne into the hands of the waiting 'Nipper' Read. A great book, and a must for any collector.

The survivor - Jimmy Evans

Quite an eye opener this book. A book with a different slant. Evans a career criminal basically slags off Freddie Foreman and family and his allies without a care in the world. Evans wife was playing around behind his back with one of Foremans relatives and he took revenge with a shotgun. Evans insists that Fred is an informer and that he helped put away the great train robbers in exchange for the police turning a blind eye to his crimes. It throws a new slant on the murder of 'Ginger Marks' and makes an interesting read. It gives you a lot of new stories...but when you finish the book...you wonder if thats all they really are.

The Krays - The Geordie Connection - Steve Wraith
(Review by Mick Gallagher)

'The Krays - The Geordie Connection' would at first glance lead you to believe that here was a book that would show just how far their 'empire' extended. Not just London but as far as Newcastle and beyond. Although Steve Wraith's book offers a version of events about a possible Geordie Connection that may or may not have happened....the title refers to his connection with the Krays from 1991 onwards. Having read many books by and about the Krays I was a bit disappointed to yet again have to plough through an already overworked history before reaching the book's real content. However the 'real content' when it arrives gives a greater insight into the Krays and how their minds really worked. Because Steve came to the Krays as an outsider, he approaches his involvement with them cautiously and objectively. And although he became a trusted friend and confidante he would always be wary of their previous reputations. Steve's first trip into Kray territory came about in 1990 after watching the film 'The Krays'.

After reading the credits, he saw where Reg was imprisoned and sent him a letter. And after receiving a reply from Reg, there was no turning back for young Stevie Wraith.

He tells us of his 'boys own' adventure as he gets more and more involved with the brothers. At first it was doing little favours, sending letters, birthday cards, meeting people for visits and then to money matters....organising fundraising events, selling T shirts, mugs, paintings, posters and all manner of things. Steve Wraith's recollections of his visits with Reg makes you realise just how entrepreneurial he (Reg) really was. He would try any avenue to make a few quid. One thing is for sure, Reg had an army of 'fans' doing little favours, sending little gifts and they were quite happy to do so because they were getting something in a return....a personal correspondence with the gangster REG KRAY.

Maybe that was how he managed to survive his 32 years in prison and not end up in Broadmoor alongside Ron. Steve describes how his fascination with the Krays moulded him and set him on a career he would not otherwise have chosen as he takes us on his personal journey from football club magazine editor and post office manager to managing the doors at some of the biggest clubs and pubs in Newcastle. In his many conversations and meetings with the brothers: He remembers Reg asking him to marry a woman he hardly knew just so that he could keep her wayward son on the straight and narrow! Ron Kray revealed to him details of the Cornell shooting that sickened Steve to the stomach. "He said he (Ron) went through it over and over in depraved sexual fantasies, using the scenario to reach orgasm". He also tells us of a 'hit' Ron asked him to carrry out on Kim Lane and Pete Gillete ... and the next time they met he was glad Steve had never carried it out! And although Ron could be warm and humorous he could just as quickly be dark and dangerous...and Steve realised that Ron could never be released from Broadmoor. Charlie spoke about his arrest and involvement in a £39 millon drugs deal that would net him 12 years in prison. And although his arrest was nothing short of 'entrapment' he persued the deal right to the end and would quite happily have been considered a drugs baron. The Geordie Connection is a breath of fresh air as far as Kray books are concerned. Its not about who killed who and why. Nor is it about who controlled what and when. It is about one boy's fantasy turning to reality. But was it the reality he envisaged? Find out in The Krays - The Geordie Connection.

The Krays - The Geordie Connection - Steve Wraith
(Review by T. Currie)

I read this book in about two sittings. Books on crime (especially the Krays!) are getting more tired & forgettable with a lack of original material. Certainly the ' can't put down' books are all but dead. This one for me was refreshing & informative, written from first hand memories & not a collection of good & bad sources. This book tells us about the twins 60's heyday, but it's the later years that really come to life for the first time. When people write first hand about people in prison, the author is of high value. How many people could write it ??? only a select few. In the 60's anybody & nobody could stake a claim to knowing the Krays, they were club owners & met hundreds. A slip on Ronnies spilt drink seems to result in a new " ME AND THE KRAYS" splurge.. Here we have 100% truth ( not to be taken for granted.) a journey that answers the questions never before answered with any satisfaction. Why did the twins treat Charlie like they did ??? What was Reg's state when Ron died ? What was it like to be an insider at the funeral, which was then second only to Churchill's ?? What was Ron Krays shocking theory on the never answered " who killed Freddie Mills" saga? It's all in here & more. Not written for sensationalism or shock value, just simply...THE WAY IT WAS !!!!

Catherine Howard Review
As I was hoping, it gives a good picture of what Ron and Reg were really like as people, which is often missing in books. Your book, Roberta's and Laurie O'Leary's are invaluable for this, really. The three books have a different slant, too, which makes them all the more illuminating on this point. I literally laughed out loud at the description of Ron's attempt to have you bump some people off! I think you understand him quite well. (I don't know why I say that, having never met either twin myself, but one can have an instinctive feel about people's characters not only from meeting them personally, but from what they say or write and others say about them, and photographs. You said some interesting things about judging people and how one does it in your book.) The description of the 60s underworld scene in Newcastle was new and interesting (Lander, Sibbet, Stafford and Luvaglio) as well, and I have always been interested in other people's walks of life, so the chapter on the doors was also interesting. If found the book unputdownable as others did, and there is only a handful of Kray books that are like that.
Keep writing, won't you? I think I recognised your voice in most of what was written.

I finally got the chance to finish your exciting book; at last; it was well worth the wait, what a fantastic read.
I found it to be both interesting and humorous, especially the one about a big mac!
The way in which the book was written was also captivating; you write about your reactions when meeting them and how you felt once you received acknowledgment from them.
Excerpts from the book also suggests how the they reacted to society outside whilst being inside; for instance your visits and how the traffic and weather can be contributing factors to your delay; they didn't quite grasp that one; or wasn't accepting it; whatever! I wouldn't argue either. Once again well done guys!!!! it's a credit to you; keep going; they would have been proud of that book.

Review by www.thekraytwins.com

It began on the fourteenth of November 1991, that being, Steve Wraith's first point of contact with the Krays...it being a letter to Steve from none other than Reg Kray. Steve first met Reg as a fan and later became a very close and trusted friend to all three Kray brothers!

The book really does illustrate the fact that Steve is his own person in the way that not everything the Kray's said was gospel! If Steve didn't agree with an idea he would tell the brothers. Looking at history one would only assume Steve was crazy or had a death wish in doing so, but when you look deep into it, it was because he was a friend being loyal and a man and the Kray's knew that too!

We are taken through the high's and also the low's of the friendship between Steve and the Kray brothers. On the funeral of Ronnie Kray it was Steve's job to ensure the personal safety of Charlie Kray. The story is fascinating, looking individually at the bond between each brother and Mr Wraith. The main thing about this book for avid Kray readers, is that, it is not the same old 60's story repeated from another angle it is fresh and it's refreshing to read, you are introduced to the sixties era but that's not a bad point, not everyone has read all the older books. It's worth every penny and would come recommended to any fan of the Kray's especially those hungry for new material on the otherwise unreported second half of the Kray Empire!!! If you've read the rest then you'll find this as fresh material.

Have you ever wondered who killed Freddie Mills? What about the Charlie Kray drug case? And the trips to Newcastle which before now have been myths? Well all is revealved in this book!!! Get it and find out how Steve Wraith became known as "The Geordie Connection".

TheKrayTwins.com

Review by Dick Hobbs

I was dreading reading this book. After 20years of working with, and studying East End villains, I have become jaded and bored by many of the wannabees seeking a bit of glamour by associating themselves in some way with the Kray family. Until the early 1990’s there were only a handful of books on the Krays, the best of which were John Pearson’s and Tony Lambrianou’s. However with the BBC’s competent but over stylised series The Underworld, and the long awaited, and in my opinion dull feature film of the Twins life and crimes, came an upsurge in British true crime books and a renewed popular interest in the strangely compelling era of 1960’s London. The Kray industry was born, and books videos and any number of money making devices came rolling off the production line, sometimes as a result of the most spurious connection with the Krays. As somebody once said, “What next Jack the Hat’s milliner?”
Now with the three brothers dead possibly the strangest book on the Krays has come on the market. The Geordie Connection is really three books in one. First authors Steve Wraith and Stuart Wheatman Tell the real story behind the Krays visits to Newcastle, and none of them measure up to the myths. This section of the book, based on interviews with key players such as Eric Mason, moves away from the ridiculous notion of the Krays trying to set up a mafia like empire of crime, and points to the sense of honour and personal commitment that went side by side with the twins more savage tendencies. It was also refreshing to read about Newcastle during this era; a forgotten history.
The book then traces Steve Wraith’s relationship with the Kray family. First he was a fan, then a friend and associate; hence The Geordie Connection. This relationship was often tense, and some of the incidents involving Reg in particular are particularly enlightening. One of the things that I like about this book is that Wraith is not a criminal, and did not get to know the Kray brothers until the 1990’s. This means that he feels no need to glamourise or sentimentalise, and he can be totally candid about the real heroes and villains involved with the family in their declining years.
For me the best section involves Steve Wraith’s relationship with Charlie Kray through the scams, charity events and his final prison sentence. Wraith and Wheatman have unpacked the sting operation that put the hapless Charlie away by using the kind of fresh perspective that can only be gained from insider knowledge.
In conclusion this is not a true crime book, but a very personal view of the Kray phenomena that is well written and avoids clichés and hard man posturing. Steve Wraith is one of the few people under the age of sixty to emerge from the Kray industry with his head up and a new story to tell

Review by J Grey

THE Kray Book To Own! Working in a library I often find these types of books to be the same, written by 'hard men', mainly about violence and not much else! Finally, a fantastic read from someone who knew the Krays, a real insight into their personalities, well researched and from a totally different angle to other Kray books. This book is a refreshing change, the writing is simple and effective and once you start reading it's impossible to put down! Well done Steve & Stu on a brilliant book!

Just wanted to say that i've finally read your book and thought it was brilliant, it seemed very honest, not at all biased and very easy to read, unlike alot of similar typed books....i'll definatley be recommending it to friends and at work Library! I might have to donate my copy to work as we've replaced a few copies now and they keep going missing! J. Grey

A man apart - Roberta Kray

This is a book which once you pick it up you can't put it down.Roberta may have only have been involved with Reg from 1996 but she got to know him better than most of his life long friends. She did love Reg. She didn't love what Reg was. Thats the difference in a nut shell. She didn't hate the gangster side of him, she just fell in love with the real Reg. The book covers there initial meeting, subsequent courtship, and eventual marriage.She uses the paperwork which Reg accumulated over 32 years to explain why he was never released. She puts to bed the stories over Reggies sexuality, and shares her pain and grief at his death from Cancer.This book will be released and re-released as many times as 'The Profession Of Violence' of that i am sure.I cannot pay it a bigger compliment.

Mad Frank And Friends by Frank Fraser

I liked this attempt more than Franks first book. It gives his views on the chaps that he has met throughout the years. There are stories here which obviously didn't make 'memoirs'and of course the odd rehashed story.It jumps about a bit and you stuggle to keep up with it at times but it's certainly worth buying a copy, if just for historical purposes. I'm not sure how this book would read if written now though!

Mad Frank Memoirs of a life of Crime by Frank Fraser

I found this book hard to read. I'm not just saying that because of the current climate between Frank and our mutual friends, but it's just hard work. The book covers Franks early years and covers his life of crime and subsequent fall from grace. He revels about his time inside and how much punishment both mental and physical that he could take. There are some graphic accounts. Fraser was the first of the chaps to realise you can make money from selling your story...for that he must be applauded.Writing however is not his forte!

Raving Lunacy - Dave Courtney

Stop The Ride was always going to a hard book to follow but Lunacy does it with much aplomb. This book concentrates on Daves involvement in the clubbing and rave culture and his relationship with Terry Turbo and One Nation.More hilarious stories featuring Dave and us boys. He covers his trips to Newcastle and a few nights we have had down the Bigg Market with a lot of humour. You can have a laugh about Mr 5 E's. You will just have to read it. Written with the same skill as his first effort a must for your gangster book shelf!

Stop the ride I want to get off - Dave Courtney

I saw this book take shape, and it's a huge credit to co-writer Marcus that this book reads like Dave sounds, if you know what i mean! From the early years to clubbing with me and the boys down the ministry, from dicing with death to Ronnie Krays funeral, this book really does have it all. I had to laugh out loud at some of the stories. Some of which i was present. At the time they don't seem so funny but now they are past and gone they make a bloody good read. I love this book. Pity Dave and Marcus spelt my name wrong three times though! It is me though...honest.

Dodgy Dave's little black book - Dave Courtney

A quirky little book which fits nicely in your back pocket and is a good read. It's really full of odds and sods which didn't make it into his other books. In it there is a dictionary of gangster speak, an a-z of who is who in the underworld and a few of daves funny stories.Even the boffin makes it into these pages. It won't take you long to read but a valuable addition to any Courtney collection.

The Guv'nor - Lenny Mclean

Released before his untimely death from a severe cancer this again is another Blake publication which for me makes the grade. I have never really been one for books on fighting or fighters. I draw the line at boxing, but there is something about Shaw v McLean which draws the most casual of observers in. Lennys book is an a-z of his life covering his underground fight career, being a doorman and the shady world of debt collecting.It makes you laugh and makes you think. 'I look what i am....a hard bastard' adorns the front cover. I don't think this sort of sensationalsim compliments what truly is a bestseller.

Prettyboy - Roy Shaw

On the cover of this book is a quote from Lenny McLean , Roys biggest rival. It says, 'He's the bastard i have ever met.' I'd have to second that.This book is one of those that you just can't put down. It takes you from the back streets of Stepney in 1936 where Roy was born to an 18 year prison sentence in 1963 for robbery. His fight career is covered in great depth including his infamous rumbles with McLean. A refreshing breath of fresh air this book becsause Roy tells it how it is. I'll let Roy have the final word. 'I don't huff and puff or growl at anyone, but i live by a merciless code. For me violence is simply a profession.'

Mr Nice - Howard Marks

The book that launched the man of a thousand faces from a life of crime into the media circut. This book is a laugh a minute. Howard takes you on his journey through his bizarre life as a small time drug smuggler to a big time player. The photographs of Howard in the book in all of his different guises show how he turned crime into a performance. Fascinating. He has gone on to perform a whole host of sell out talk ins the world over and there is now a live dvd available. A great book and something a bit different from the Kray genre.

The Krays Geordie Connection video & DVD (Review by Tony Birchall)

This video gives an in-depth introduction into the life of Geordieland's Steve Wraith. As a youngster Wraith was fascinated by The Kray Twins and has since written a book about his experiences with Ron and Reg. This 2003 production goes behind the scenes of Steve Wraith's life with footage of the man touring the streets of Newcastle, and introducing the viewers to places within the city of Newcastle where the twins often frequented. The city has changed since those days but Steve's fascination still continues as he explains, in his view, how the twins terrified not only the East End of London but were also notorious in his home city. 31 year old Wraith was always encouraged by Reg Kray to stay out of trouble, and to his credit he certainly has. Author of "The Krays - The Geordie Connection", he takes us on a small tour of the nightlife in Newcastle including the places where he currently works as a city security doorman. This is a video not only for people who have known "The Chaps" and their acquaintances, but for the newcomer who has never been introduced to the history behind the UK's gangster scene. It features Dave Courtney, Joey Pyle, Charlie Kray, Tony Lombrianou and the awesome Roy Shaw. Also in the film are brief clippings of Charlie Bronson's award winning artwork. There is footage from Jan Lamb's gangster celebrity talkshows including one that Jan attended at Eric Mason's Manchester pub. Eric was a close friend to The Twins and is also reciprocally supported by Steve Wraith. Eric is seen with the other "Chaps" at Wraith's book launch party at the notorious Blind Beggar pub in London's East End where George Cornell was shot by Ron Kray. There are some chilling recorded telephone conversations with Reggie and extracts of letters sent from prison. Viewers are given the low down on Ron and Reg's life even on the inside. Wraith explains how the gangster scene has now changed and who now runs the criminal underworld. However, you can't take away the history of the Kray era, nor can you fail to acknowledge the respect that the likes of Roy Shaw and Eric Mason etc still carry with them. The video also shows a softer side to the Krays and includes hospital footage of a children's hospital ward in Tyneside. Wraith still delivers the wishes of Ron and Reg to help perhaps the ill advantaged toddlers that are terminally ill. Some icons, in my view, are not included in the production but this doesn't make it a bad watch. In a nutshell, it's worth every penny. Tony Birchall

The Krays Geordie Connection video & DVD (Review by Ronnie Wilson)

A truly great video to watch gives a good insight in how a Geordie lad became friends with the Krays from first writing to the Krays to getting a visiting order to meet them, to doing odd job's for them, and how he came to turn the Krays legend into good by helping charity's. A must have Video for any Krays collection. Ronnie Wilson

The Krays Geordie Connection video & DVD (Review by Matt Leech)

The first Kray book was published in 1969, some months after the twins’ incarceration. Since then, the majority of books on the subject, all claimed to “lift the lid” on the notorious twins and were more often than not written by “those who knew them best.” There were exceptions, but they were few and far between.

The common link between all Kray books published between 1969 and 2002 is that they all concentrated on the twins’ active lives. From their birth in 1933 in what was little more than a slum dwelling off the Kingsland Road, charting their rise from the back streets of the East End, to the bright lights of the West End, from the back pages to the front pages and culminating in the seemingly motiveless murders which signalled their downfall. Each book reached it’s conclusion on 5th March 1969 in Number 1 Court of the Old Bailey, and almost without exception closed with Justice Melford Stephenson’s closing address ringing in the reader’s ear. “I’m not going to waste words on you. You will go to prison for 30 years. In my view, society has earned a rest from your activities.” THE END. Or was it?

Some notable authors closed their expose on Britain’s most notorious gangsters at that exact point. Brian McConnell and John Pearson to name but two. (Although later editions of Pearson’s “The Profession Of Violence” did go on to tell the story up until Violet Kray’s death in 1982.) And all of the Kray books left the reader with the impression that that was where the story ended.

One young man wanted to find out more however. He had read Pearson’s book, seen the film, and seen the ageing twins on news bulletins covering their beloved mother’s funeral, and wasn’t content with the ending of the story. He wanted to know more, and at that time, the only way to know more, was by contacting the twins himself. This was the beginning of another story, the story of Steve Wraith, The Geordie Connection.

Over the next ten years, Steve, a post office manager from Gateshead, engaged himself in a roller coaster of a relationship with Ronnie and Reggie Kray. From receiving initial standard replies to letters from well wishers, Steve visited the twins, became friends and eventually became “one of the family.” Entrusted with business deals, media liaison, charity work on their behalf, and some more macabre requests, Steve’s relationship with the Krays grew from a pen pal, to a much respected and trusted confidante.

On 24th October 2002, what would have been Ronnie and Reggie’s 69th birthday, there was a gathering in The Blind Beggar pub, Whitechapel. A stone’s throw from the now demolished Kray family home, and the site of Ronnie’s brutal assassination of underworld rival George Cornell. The gathering was the launch of a book. A Kray book. “Yet another Kray book” was the opinion of many. But this was not just another Kray book. Rather than ending in 1969, this book started over twenty years after that. The Geordie Connection had told his story.

The book takes the reader beyond the killings of McVitie and Cornell. Beyond the protection rackets and long firms, and far beyond the dingy East End streets which formed the backdrop the all of it’s predecessors. It told the second half of the Kray story. A story of greed, jealousy, manipulation, love, laughter, generosity, trust, tears and ultimately grief. Rather than merely adding to the already overflowing canvas portraying the twins as “good old East End heroes who loved their mum,” Steve’s book painted a new picture. A picture of Reg’s obsession with making money, and Ron’s obsession with giving it away! A picture of the large numbers of hangers on and “yes” men that were attracted to the twins, all jostling for position. A picture of the notoriety that went with being their friend, both good and bad, and a picture of the doors that their friendship and trust opened. Rather than focussing on feathering the Krays reputation, Steve’s book told a whole new story. It is a refreshing account of what “outsiders” to the Kray story see as a bizarre friendship between a respectable well brought up young man, and two of Britain’s most reviled murderers.

With all books of this nature, written by people who were not members of “the firm.” The first thing the reader asks themselves after putting the book down is, “it’s all very well telling the story, but can your story be backed up?” In the world of the Krays, this is an all too common question. As so many books have been written by people claming to have either grown up with them, been maimed by them, and shared a cell or even a bed with them. As expected, this question was asked of Steve Wraith, and he has answered it in style. Reading his story is one thing, but as of 24th October 2003, the Krays’ 70th birthday, it is now possible to watch the story of The Geordie Connection unfold.

Steve has amassed a huge portfolio of letters, photographs, video footage, answer phone messages, taped messages and scribbled, barely legible lists on discreetly folded post-it notes passed to him on visits. And he has now assembled these, linked with film of him telling his own story, whilst patrolling his “manor,” the streets of Tyneside. This, along with interviews with gangland legends who are now close friends of Steve’s through the twins, forms the latest addition to the Kray story. The Kray Geordie Connection video.

The viewer can see the change in Steve as the film progresses. From a fresh faced, apprehensive looking teenager on his first visit to Ron Kray in Broadmoor Hospital, to the tall, imposing, yet assuring figure that is now seen on the doors and floors of Newcastle’s premier entertainment hotspots night after night.

The film backs up Steve’s intention, which is laid out in the pages of his book. He does not see himself, and does not want others to see him as a successor to the Krays. He is proud that he earns a living, and is even more proud that it is legal. He started his relationship with the twins as a starstruck teenager, with a forte for earning a few quid, and saw them as a good marketing tool for his Newcastle United fanzine The Mighty Quinn, later to become The Number 9, and broke the mould of other Krayites by asking for something of them in return for work he had done. To his surprise, they delivered.

The Geordie Connection video charts the progress of Steve’s friendship with the Krays in the same way that his book does. But has the viewer spellbound with excerpts of Reg Kray’s high pitched, muffled cockney voice, barking orders at Steve on his answer phone. “Steve ring me at the prison thank you God bless Reg Kray.” Read that last sentence back at twice the speed and you will go some way to grasping the concept. It is clear from hearing the messages, that Steve was one in a long line of people who were receiving such instructions during the brief recess in Reg’s daily routine. Barely pausing for breath, Reg ends the call and no doubt goes on to dial the next number on his list, with the next request. Such excerpts have the viewer crossing their fingers in hope. Surely Steve isn’t just another “yes” man? The next recording of a conversation between Steve and Reg is pleasantly reassuring:

R.K. “I’ve heard that you’ve been arranging charity nights using my name.”
S.W. “Nope.”
R.K. “I’ve heard that you’ve been speaking to the press.”
S.W. “You should know me better than that by now.”

Although that is only a brief section of the conversation, at it’s conclusion, it is tempting to shout at the screen. “You go for it Steve! Stand up to him!” Such is the magnetism of this visual collection of invaluable Kray memorabilia. It is clear from the tone of such phone calls and some letters, that the twins were at times disappointed that they could not manipulate Steve, in the same way they had manipulated others who had befriended them. Using them for their own commercial gains.

What is also apparent from watching this tape, is that Steve has now become his own man. Whilst clearly upset at losing three close friends with the death of all three Kray brothers, Steve has gone on to build himself a reputation amongst The Chaps as a loyal, trustworthy, hardworking man, who will always go to the aid of a friend in need, or champion a worthy cause. This is never more evident than in the closing part of his video with the heart wrenching Bubble Appeal message. Evidence, if any is required, that contrary to the trend amongst people of the current generation who claim to be “a trusted friend of the Kray brothers,” they are not all telling their story for their own reasons and rewards.

Steve’s book was a story that had to be told. There were enough books which looked at the Krays through rose tinted spectacles. His video does more than reiterate the book’s message. It dispels many a Kray myth, and further enhances Steve’s already glowing reputation. It does exactly what the viewer hopes it will do. Confirms Steve’s story that the Krays were not simply prison inmates, in the same vein that they were not “just gangsters.” They were shrewd, clever, manipulative yet generous men, constantly in search of notoriety, yet constantly unaware that that notoriety was the very key, which kept them behind a locked door for over 30 years.

Steve Wraith is a rare exception to the rule in the Kray story, and an exception which may have the brothers a little bewildered as they look down on him. He has taken everything good from his relationship with them, and lives his life by his own set of rules. He has learned from them, and benefited from knowing them. And his video, as well as his book, tells the story that he wants to tell, and not what the Krays want to be heard. They are a valuable addition to any gangland collection.
The video closes with Steve telling his football team to put “footprints on the sands of time.” A very appropriate message from a man who walked alongside the footprints of the Krays for some time, and has now set out on his own unique journey.