Blog Archives
The Spy From Beijing
The Spy From Beijing, by Joan M. Kop, offers an electrifying journey through the world of espionage and intrigue. From the opening moments on an airplane, the narrative swiftly ensnares the reader in a whirlwind of unexpected events and introduces a cast of compelling characters who leave an indelible mark on the story.
In these initial scenes, we encounter Jen Hae Chu, known as Jenny to her coworkers, a quick-witted and adaptable protagonist, and David, a decisive figure who springs into action with remarkable alacrity. Kop’s storytelling prowess is evident as the plot seamlessly unfolds, keeping readers attuned to the characters’ ever-evolving trajectories. This book offers an engaging and thoroughly enjoyable experience, one that continually leaves you in suspense, eagerly anticipating each new twist and turn in the narrative.
One of the most notable strengths of The Spy From Beijing lies in the author’s adeptness at seamlessly interweaving the mission’s high-stakes drama with the idiosyncratic traits of its characters. These distinct characteristics not only contribute to the narrative’s complexity but also serve as both assets and obstacles, fostering depth in the storyline and the protagonists’ personal growth. As the reader becomes more acquainted with David and Jenny, Kop unveils their pasts, blending the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of their childhoods and upbringing. This background knowledge provides invaluable insight into their current roles and foreshadows their future endeavors.
I enjoyed this book and the author’s ability to craft distinct, memorable characters within a heart-pounding, fast-paced plot. Kop’s writing flows effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for readers seeking an absorbing, easily digestible story that can be enjoyed over a weekend or during a leisurely vacation. The evocative descriptions paint vivid images that enhance the overall reading experience, ensuring that you remain engrossed in the narrative with every passing chapter.
The Spy From Beijing is a riveting read that will appeal to both long-time readers of the spy/thriller genre and newcomers alike. Kop delivers a vibrant narrative that will hold your attention from the beginning and keep it until the final page.
Spies on Safari
Spies on Safari presents an engaging narrative that artfully merges the contrasting worlds of a London book club and a daring quest in the African wilderness. This novel cleverly blends elements of mystery and adventure, juxtaposing the routine of suburban life against the backdrop of an exhilarating, undercover mission.
Oliver Dowson exhibits a keen ability to balance the commonplace with the remarkable. Opening with a captivating prologue, the story immediately entices the reader, setting a tone of intrigue. The sharp contrast between the mundane London suburbs, with their chilly ambiance, and the vividly depicted, sweltering landscapes of Botswana and Namibia is striking. This transition from tranquil book club meetings to dynamic safari expeditions is both fluid and compelling. The narrative pace is thoughtfully calibrated, building momentum towards a climax brimming with action. Rich in unexpected twists, the plot maintains a sense of suspense and engagement.
The characters—Robert, Humphrey, Richard, and Beatrix—are skillfully crafted and intriguing, each bringing a unique set of abilities to the team. Their interactions and individual histories enrich the storyline. The novel’s shifting perspectives offer a deeper understanding of each character’s thoughts and motivations, enhancing the reader’s immersion in their journey. The dialogue is natural and contributes effectively to the story’s progression, drawing the reader into the heart of the mystery.
Spies on Safari is a novel that skillfully intertwines everyday drama with adventurous escapades. Dowson has crafted an entertaining and intellectually stimulating story, offering a fresh perspective within its genre. The vivid characterizations and suspenseful plot make it a commendable choice for readers who appreciate narratives that seamlessly bridge the gap between the familiar and the extraordinary.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0CMD4HD1M
Industrial Espionage
The Repurposed Spy follows a retired linguistics professor as he accepts a translation assignment and is suddenly thrust into the world of espionage. What inspired you to write this novel?
Somewhat surprised by the success of my first book, which was a travelogue (There’s No Business Like International Business), I decided to write a novel. I love travel, and often when I visit somewhere different my mind wanders and wonders what interesting things might be going on under the surface. I know something about industrial espionage, love languages and food, and this was a great opportunity to let my imagination rip and combine all these elements.
Mr. Jones is such an interesting character. What were some driving ideals behind his development?
I grew up in a family of school teachers and met many others as a result. I dreamed up Ronald Jones as an amalgam of several real examples that I met years ago – some of whom taught me as a teenager. The linguistic side is personal – being able to speak Spanish and Portuguese, I am fascinated by the myriad variants of the same language in different countries and regions, especially when I travel around Latin America.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
I’m guessing every author puts things from their own life in their novels! But there’s nothing autobiographical about The Repurposed Spy. What I did build in was my first-hand knowledge of all the places that Ronald Jones goes to and meetings similar to the ones he eavesdrops on. Oh, and the character Chameleon is inspired by a real life character – you’ll have to read my first book to guess which one.
Can fans expect to see more of Mr. Jones? What are you working on now?
I’ve had some reviews that have assumed that, after the end of The Repurposed Spy, there could be no sequel – but how wrong they are! The sequel – and what I hope will be the second in a series – titled Spies on Safari, comes out in November 2023. Not only does it explain what really happened to Mr. Jones, it reunites the other characters and introduces new cast members. Staying as true to life as an imaginary scenario can be, Spies on Safari is set in Africa, again all places that I have visited myself.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
After years spent teaching, Ronald Jones is ready to escape his chronic anxiety and distrust of others and resolves to explore the world. His first destination? Brazil – a place he once visited as a young man.
But just as he’s ready to embark on his adventure, the enigmatic Mr. Smith appears on his doorstep, turning his world upside down. Suddenly, Jones finds himself in a new and dangerous existence, surrounded by moody men in suits, shape-shifting female agents, spooks, and robotic controllers. With no apparent experience of this new world, Jones is in mortal danger and way out of his depth.
As you turn the pages of this gripping novel, you’ll be catapulted into a thrilling world filled with unexpected twists and turns. Will Jones cooperate with the mysterious figures surrounding him? And if he does, will they ever bring him back from the edge? Find out in this must-read book that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the – unpredictable – very end.
Ronald Jones, The Repurposed Spy, is a spy like no other you’ve ever read about.
So what are you waiting for? Book your one-way ticket to adventure and join Ronald Jones on an unforgettable journey around Latin America and beyond that will leave you breathless.
Drawn Into Danger
Drawn Into Danger: Living on the Edge in the Sahara by Keith Costelloe is an action-packed novel that follows 24-year-old Dave as he ventures into 1978 Algeria to teach English. Seeking an escape from the monotony of life in the UK, Dave is eager to explore this new world and delve into his bisexuality. However, as he becomes increasingly immersed in Algerian culture, events take a dramatic turn, and Dave is unwittingly drawn into a secret police operation to thwart a coup. The ensuing chaos forces him to question the true cost of revenge.
Costelloe’s narrative is fast-paced and engaging, making for an enjoyable read. While numerous characters are introduced throughout the story, the central focus remains on a select few. Dave, the protagonist, is well-developed, effectively capturing his overwhelming experiences within the unfamiliar environment. I would have loved to have seen more about Dave’s relationships with Sue and Moussa to get insights into his romantic connections. I found Dave’s inner struggles with his own sexuality realistic, and readers will be able to relate to his emotions. The themes of friendship and loyalty are strongly woven into this narrative, combined with the life-threatening danger and conspiracy. The historical context regarding Algeria’s past was fascinating and will appeal to those that enjoy historical fiction.
Drawn Into Danger: Living on the Edge in the Sahara is a novel brimming with action, and its concise storytelling ensures a quick and captivating read. Thrilling subplots surrounding the secret police and local culture will keep readers engaged until this suspenseful story’s end. Author Keith Costelloe’s ability to bring readers into his world through his descriptive writing makes this an unforgettable novel.
Pages: 230 | ASIN : B09TDCX4YZ
Battlegrounds
Battlegrounds, the first installment in a four-book series by Stephen A. Carter, offers readers an immersive and captivating tale set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. The novel opens with John Saxton, heir to a prominent shipping company, setting sail with his mentor and friend, Marcus Brown, a former slave. Together, they uncover a horrifying atrocity while intercepting a slave ship, which compels John to become a fervent supporter of the abolitionist cause. As the Civil War erupts, John and Marcus find themselves pitted against the captain of the slave ship, who is now attempting to smuggle weapons into the Confederacy. This initial conflict leads to a web of political intrigue and espionage that is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Carter masterfully blends historical accuracy with thrilling action scenes, creating a superb example of historical fiction. While the pacing of the novel can slow at times due to the inclusion of political intrigue and plotting, these elements contribute significantly to the story’s overall engagement, underscoring the high stakes and making each action sequence even more meaningful. The author’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the realistic portrayal of characters and settings, lending a palpable sense of authenticity to the narrative. The numerous illustrations included in the book serve to aid the reader’s visualization of the characters and settings.
Overall, Battlegrounds is a vividly imagined and captivating work of historical fiction. Carter expertly brings to life the dangerous and fascinating era of American history through engaging and fully fleshed-out characters, many of whom are based on real historical figures. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in thrilling stories of political intrigue and espionage set against the backdrop of the perilous time leading up to the Civil War.
Pages: 442 | ASIN: B0BHL55JCM
We Had A Reason To Fight
Ignition 2084 follows a warrior in the insurrection who is fighting for his people and a chance at freedom and peace from the ones that want to destroy all others. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Ignition 2084 was a response to 2020. Disease ran as rampant as racial disparities, politicians failed to prove their trustworthiness and care for the public, and violence was on the rise. Between the wrongful killings of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Breonna Taylor; the increase of domestic violence; the rampant deaths from COVID-19; it seemed that for many of us that year, we had a reason to fight for freedom and peace from the things (or in some cases, people) that were so determined to destroy all others.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
A lot of the characters in Ignition are based on real people from throughout my life. Some are friends, enemies, mentors, students, or family of mine, so when developing the characters I wanted them to be true to form. I wanted this to be a love letter to the people who helped me to become who I am, but I also wanted to recreate the realness of the people from whom the characters derived their base. They had to have their own views, not just the view that I present as the author. They had to present their own motivations for the good or bad that they do, and regardless of which side they fall on, there are always questionable thoughts, words and actions between them. Just like in life, I wanted to see how they would forge a path ahead, or even if they would.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The effects of war on family was one of the central themes, along with the effects of war on individuals. I wanted to explore the side of military life that I got to see as a military brat that often gets overshadowed in stories. There is an equal focus on survival and the inequality of rich and poor as it relates to the ideas of freedom and tyranny, and of course a somewhat obvious focus on racial tension.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
A sequel novel is underway, codenamed “Project ShadowStorm,” and is set to release around the holiday season this year. This one picks up where the last one leaves off, with a mixing of new and old characters that endeavor to put an end to the war that began in the first installment. There will be a lot more action, a few compelling moments, a few loose ends tied up, and a deepening of the in-world mythos as we continue to address some of the important issues in our society in the hopes of making real change over real conversations.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
The year is 2084, and the Hanzo Gear’s done a lot to level the playing field against Kingdom Scarlet in the last 38 years. After the Second Civil War destroyed America in 2020, the minorities displaced by the autocratic Kingdom split into three factions, all watching for just the right moment to strike back.
The Kabuto Sanctuary built a network of tunnels during the war, and relied on stealth and sabotage. The Yoroi Alliance, nestled in the Grand Canyon, lay numerous deadly traps to keep the outsiders at bay. The Yaiba Insurrection have continuously engaged their enemies directly, and when they were pushed to the brink of extinction, they created the Hanzo Gear.
The Reds are on the move again, more determined than ever to bring the other factions to heel. John Hamlin is the strongest warrior that the Insurrection has to offer, but when his home is invaded and the people he loves are threatened, captured or killed, the strength that had preserved his peace for years is called into question.
Red Sinai
Joseph Mather’s Red Sinai is a riveting and unforgettable spy thriller. From the very first page, readers are thrown into a high-stakes situation, and then transported back 23-hours to watch intelligence officer Captain Freya Coraline Mathew’s story unfold. This is a great way to capture readers attention right from the beginning, and I was certainly hooked. Fan-favorites from the first book, The Silver Prince, return, this time with a keen interest in northern Africa. In this fast-paced thriller, the United States and United Kingdom join forces to safeguard international protocols from a rogue campaign aiming to destroy Egypt and NATO. Working alongside Richard Armitage as the head of MI6’s Egypt desk, Freya Mathews investigates religious histories within the country’s development to save millions of people from a flood – only one of many threats they face in less than 24 hours.
With cliffhangers, plot twists, and shocking character deaths, Red Sinai is a relentlessly entreating espionage thriller. Readers are taken to some exotic location and many scenes were “picture-perfect” and serve the plot well. Freya has to pick apart clues to her case, and answers come from all directions.
Rather than facing day-to-day obstacles which would have slowed down the team’s operations, everything was accomplished speedily and efficiently. Considering the deep complexities and thematic nature of this book, I was surprised to find a plot that was easy to follow, and one that makes for an encapsulating read. Without having to focus on the context of modern-day London or other niche problems often found in political fiction, readers can focus solely on the characters and their perilous journey. My heart was warmed to see the collective strength and community in Mather’s Red Sinai, epitomizing the heroine spy for all thriller books on the market.
Red Sinai is an exciting crime novel that keeps one thing in mind all throughout the story; entertaining the reader. If you have no more Robert Ludlum books to read, then this should be the next book you pick up.
Pages: 237 | ASIN: B0BS1VN6CX
Baker Street Irregular
Baker Street Irregular by Craig W. Fisher is a story that has the reader questioning whether he is guilty or innocent? As we follow the protagonist, Bill, in the present, he is accused of a brutal murder. Clearly, he was there at the scene, and all the evidence points towards his involvement, but he claims to not be the killer and is keen to find out who truly did it, clearing his own name. Once a war hero, he definitely has the skills needed to get to the bottom of this. However, being in Berlin only a few years after the end of the war may make his investigation a little more complicated.
Gripping from the very offset, the story opens with the line, “One last check of his watch and a reassuring pat on the knife he kept in his jacket pocket, and he disappeared into the all-consuming darkness of the Berlin night.” Dark and mysterious, this has the reader drawn into the story from the beginning, keen to discover more about this compelling character. As the story progresses, it flashes between various times in the main character’s history, with each chapter exploring what led to his current situation. The author has done this wonderfully by heading each chapter with the date and location, making it easier for the reader to follow the plot.
Baker Street Irregular is an extremely intriguing espionage thriller. I could not wait to find out more about the main characters’ history during the war etc., as well as who really committed the murder in the present day (1947). It is a story that encompasses crime, spy novels, and war into one interesting tale. I would highly recommend this to anyone, as I found it hard to put down.
Page: 362 | ASIN : B0B7GNLFH7
LITERARY TITAN 