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Darby Stansfield #2
Stroganov
The travel agent promised hundreds of gorgeous women. What he got was the attention of a ruthless assassin.
*Previously titled Stroganov*
With his success as a telecom consultant to organized crime, Darby Stansfield turns his attention to his personal life. But his unconventional methods for finding love land him in the middle of a war between the Ukrainian government and a dangerous sex trafficking ring. In exchange for his safety, he offers to cooperate with the authorities. What he receives in return is the attention of Russia’s most feared criminal.
Continue the misadventures of Darby Stansfield in The Russian Problem. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed thrill ride through the former Soviet Union.
*Previously titled Stroganov*
With his success as a telecom consultant to organized crime, Darby Stansfield turns his attention to his personal life. But his unconventional methods for finding love land him in the middle of a war between the Ukrainian government and a dangerous sex trafficking ring. In exchange for his safety, he offers to cooperate with the authorities. What he receives in return is the attention of Russia’s most feared criminal.
Continue the misadventures of Darby Stansfield in The Russian Problem. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed thrill ride through the former Soviet Union.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2011
28 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Ty Hutchinson
78 books663 followersTy Hutchinson is a USA Today bestselling author who writes dark, high-concept thrillers that punch hard and don't let up.
A full-time nomad since 2013, he blends real-world detail with twisted imagination to deliver binge-worthy stories—where the rules are bent, the stakes are high, and the exits are never marked.
Living everywhere and nowhere, he's drawn to strange things and peculiar people—almost always leading to one question: what if?
A full-time nomad since 2013, he blends real-world detail with twisted imagination to deliver binge-worthy stories—where the rules are bent, the stakes are high, and the exits are never marked.
Living everywhere and nowhere, he's drawn to strange things and peculiar people—almost always leading to one question: what if?
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 27, 2012
This is book two of the Darby Stansfield thrillers and while there is some mention to book one, it is by no means necessary to read it. This works as a standalone book quite well. Having said that, you would be missing a treat but that's in another review! This time around Darby is rescuing kidnapped Russian ministers daughters, fleeing from hired assassins, working with the Russian Mafia and still trying to kickstart his lovelife.
This was fantastic and proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that Chop Suey wasn't a fluke. It was fast paced with short, punchy chapters that dragged me under and held me there breathless until the conclusion of the book. Along for the ride again were Tav - Darby's long suffering best friend and Harold - Darby's uber-nemesis bent on getting him fired from work. This time Darby is selling to the Russian Mafia and that lands him in a whole new bunch of trouble! As usual he is searching for the perfect girl but again it all goes wrong. All this to a backdrop of simultaneous action and humour.
This is a must read if you have read Chop Suey and a highly recommended if you haven't. A fast paced funny thriller - can't wait for book three!
This was fantastic and proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that Chop Suey wasn't a fluke. It was fast paced with short, punchy chapters that dragged me under and held me there breathless until the conclusion of the book. Along for the ride again were Tav - Darby's long suffering best friend and Harold - Darby's uber-nemesis bent on getting him fired from work. This time Darby is selling to the Russian Mafia and that lands him in a whole new bunch of trouble! As usual he is searching for the perfect girl but again it all goes wrong. All this to a backdrop of simultaneous action and humour.
This is a must read if you have read Chop Suey and a highly recommended if you haven't. A fast paced funny thriller - can't wait for book three!
October 3, 2012
Article first published as Book Review Stroganov by Ty Hutchinson on Blogcritics.
When a young man is on top of the world and looking for fun, where can he go? Re-setting your personal life can sometimes be difficult, but don’t always jump into situations that could backfire, know the ins and outs of every opportunity because they just may bring you more trouble than they are worth.
In Strogonov by Ty Hutchinson, we follow the sometimes goofy antics of Darby Stansfield. This time he is involved with the Russian mob, and is their consultant on the items he sells them. When he finds himself flush once more, he knows it is time to look for love. Is finding a woman through a dating service in the Ukraine really the right situation or will he land himself once again in danger?
Going forward Darby believes he has found the woman of his dreams, but when he inadvertently rescues a different woman from sex traffickers, his life is again in the spot light. Unaware that he is being tailed, he heads home to determine his life going forward. When the girl of his dreams is murdered before his eyes while he is Skyping with her on line, he is mortified. To make matters worse the murderer now has a better way to track him. As people begin to die, Darby finds himself deeper in trouble than he ever thought possible.
Can he get himself out of the mess he is now in without losing any more friends and still keep his secret intact. He is on the road to destruction, but he still has hope. If he can only make it through the danger just one more time, he is ready to change his life. But is it too late to make such a commitment?
Hutchinson has given us his usual fare of fun with Darby, but this time he has put in some teeth. The murders are vicious, and the murderer is both cunning and ruthless. Yet much in the way of the Pink Panther, Darby stumbles himself out of danger time and again, and the bad guys look like fools.
This time however the fools are more dangerous and deadly. The descriptions of the murders cause chills. There is a marked menace in the way that Darby is stalked by the murder. Darby’s character is just annoying enough at times that you can understand why the bad guys get crazy when going after him, and this time is no different. Darby has gotten a bit smarter and his luck keeps him from being killed, but those around him are not protected by that umbrella.
If you enjoy crime thrillers and suspense novels you will enjoy this book. The scenes and action seem real and draw you in. The story is over before you know it, and leaves you wanting more.
This book was received as a free copy from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
When a young man is on top of the world and looking for fun, where can he go? Re-setting your personal life can sometimes be difficult, but don’t always jump into situations that could backfire, know the ins and outs of every opportunity because they just may bring you more trouble than they are worth.
In Strogonov by Ty Hutchinson, we follow the sometimes goofy antics of Darby Stansfield. This time he is involved with the Russian mob, and is their consultant on the items he sells them. When he finds himself flush once more, he knows it is time to look for love. Is finding a woman through a dating service in the Ukraine really the right situation or will he land himself once again in danger?
Going forward Darby believes he has found the woman of his dreams, but when he inadvertently rescues a different woman from sex traffickers, his life is again in the spot light. Unaware that he is being tailed, he heads home to determine his life going forward. When the girl of his dreams is murdered before his eyes while he is Skyping with her on line, he is mortified. To make matters worse the murderer now has a better way to track him. As people begin to die, Darby finds himself deeper in trouble than he ever thought possible.
Can he get himself out of the mess he is now in without losing any more friends and still keep his secret intact. He is on the road to destruction, but he still has hope. If he can only make it through the danger just one more time, he is ready to change his life. But is it too late to make such a commitment?
Hutchinson has given us his usual fare of fun with Darby, but this time he has put in some teeth. The murders are vicious, and the murderer is both cunning and ruthless. Yet much in the way of the Pink Panther, Darby stumbles himself out of danger time and again, and the bad guys look like fools.
This time however the fools are more dangerous and deadly. The descriptions of the murders cause chills. There is a marked menace in the way that Darby is stalked by the murder. Darby’s character is just annoying enough at times that you can understand why the bad guys get crazy when going after him, and this time is no different. Darby has gotten a bit smarter and his luck keeps him from being killed, but those around him are not protected by that umbrella.
If you enjoy crime thrillers and suspense novels you will enjoy this book. The scenes and action seem real and draw you in. The story is over before you know it, and leaves you wanting more.
This book was received as a free copy from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
June 7, 2012
This is the third book of Ty's that I have read. Stroganov is my favorite so far. I am looking forward to reading Loco Moco to see what trouble Darby can get into.
I have to agree that the Darby series is indeed a mixture of the Office and Tarentino. There is a lot of action that may be considered rough and it also contains a lot of more cerebral humor and tongue in cheek humor.
I feel that I would recognize Darby if we were in the same room. Ty manages to give his characters personality. That goes for the bad guys too. I hope to never run into Ghostface or his twin.
A summary of this series is simply one word - FUN. I really enjoy the twists, characters, humor, action, etc. Keep up the great work Ty!
I have to agree that the Darby series is indeed a mixture of the Office and Tarentino. There is a lot of action that may be considered rough and it also contains a lot of more cerebral humor and tongue in cheek humor.
I feel that I would recognize Darby if we were in the same room. Ty manages to give his characters personality. That goes for the bad guys too. I hope to never run into Ghostface or his twin.
A summary of this series is simply one word - FUN. I really enjoy the twists, characters, humor, action, etc. Keep up the great work Ty!
August 26, 2012
This is the sequel to "Chop Suey", another Darby Stansfield thriller/mystery. They're basically pulp, but they're a fun ride and a decent story, let down mostly by really abysmal editing and proofreading. I'm tellin' ya, nothing can yank me right out of a story like the glaringly wrong word jumping out at me right in the middle of a really gripping tale.
That said, these are still a pretty fun read. The protagonist fancies himself the "telecommunications consultant to the underworld"; he's a low-level phone salesman on the verge of being fired when he decides to recruit gangs as his customers to show how being wired and wireless can improve their illegal operations and increase their profits. What follows are a series of unfortunate events.
That said, these are still a pretty fun read. The protagonist fancies himself the "telecommunications consultant to the underworld"; he's a low-level phone salesman on the verge of being fired when he decides to recruit gangs as his customers to show how being wired and wireless can improve their illegal operations and increase their profits. What follows are a series of unfortunate events.
April 15, 2012
Ty has done it again! Stroganov is the second book in the Darby Stansfield series. Once again, Darby let's his "Darbytastic" ideas take over his life with no thought as to how they may affect him or others around him. His big ideas lead Darby into situations that no one else would find themselves in.
This was a great book filled with lots of mystery and adventure. Just like "Chop Suey", there are twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat. I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. Ty Hutchinson is well on his way to becoming my new favorite author!
This was a great book filled with lots of mystery and adventure. Just like "Chop Suey", there are twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat. I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. Ty Hutchinson is well on his way to becoming my new favorite author!
August 2, 2012
I received this book from the Goodreads book giveaway.
This is the second book in the thriller series with the main character Darby Stansfield. In this book, as a consultant to the mob, Stansfield gets sent to Russia. I really like the main character and am anxious to read the first book "Chop Suey". Mr. Hutchinson's writing is good and easy to follow. He doesn't use "big" words or excessive descriptions when "small" words and short descriptions do the trick (and are easier to follow). This book is definitely a thriller and I would recommend holding off reading it until you have a weekend to sit down and read it all at once.
This is the second book in the thriller series with the main character Darby Stansfield. In this book, as a consultant to the mob, Stansfield gets sent to Russia. I really like the main character and am anxious to read the first book "Chop Suey". Mr. Hutchinson's writing is good and easy to follow. He doesn't use "big" words or excessive descriptions when "small" words and short descriptions do the trick (and are easier to follow). This book is definitely a thriller and I would recommend holding off reading it until you have a weekend to sit down and read it all at once.
July 6, 2012
So Darby, now a heavy, decides to take a vacation in Ukraine. Take a guess what happens. You got it, he stepped in it again and this time brought the trouble home with him to San Francisco. This may be my favorite of the Stansfield thrillers. It's a little darker, lots of action and a good sense of humor to lighten the mood every now and then. Overall, a very enjoyable read.
May 26, 2012
I enjoyed the first Darby book but this one had some amazing twists that I was not expecting! I'm not huge on gore though and these border on too much for me. Thus the reason for 4 stars instead of 5 from me.
May 11, 2012
After reading the book Stroganov I know I need to get my hands on the first one of this series and can't wait for the next one. It kept my attention throughout the entire book and I had a hard time putting it down.Five stars.
December 1, 2012
I picked this book up randomly & started reading it, and couldn't put it down.
This is the second book of three in a series, it won't spoil the books by reading this first, but would be ideal to read them in order.
Great read.
This is the second book of three in a series, it won't spoil the books by reading this first, but would be ideal to read them in order.
Great read.
December 28, 2012
Again, hapless Darby gets into crazy stuff with ... the Russian Mafiya... (as opposed to the Triads before). This was a little better, he is not quite as hapless, but still in way over his head, but he is learning.
Funny stuff!
Funny stuff!
February 20, 2012
I had to take away a star for sex and language because it really isn't my thing, but other than that, this book is awesome. Better than the first even! Funny, creative, suspenseful!
July 9, 2012
Again, Ty Hutchinson, do you not employ editors?
July 10, 2012
this was great book,I really enjoyed the characters and the plot.
October 15, 2012
Pretty good sequel to Chop Suey - I'll probably read the next one as well.
December 24, 2012
The character of Darby just makes me laugh...with all the situations he can get himself into
January 1, 2019
Another Darby keeper. Like Chop Suey, I felt as though I was traveling along with him in this witty crime story. Darby has something in common with my film hero, John McClane, he's always in the wrong place at the wrong time. Unlike John though, he brings it on himself working with criminals. Still a great story, great characters and well worth your time.
October 10, 2018
Very good
I liked this second book even more than the first. There was more action and mystery and I will get the next one.
I liked this second book even more than the first. There was more action and mystery and I will get the next one.
February 15, 2016
The second book in author Ty Huchinson's Darby Stanfield series, "Stroganov", pits Darby against Russian mobsters, and his nemesis at Telco Industries, Harold Epstein. Darby is THE go to guy for the underworld when it comes to the world of telecommunications to maximize profits. After helping the Triads in the first book become telecommunications friendly towards their business, Darby now is educating the Russian mob. Darby has made the local head of the Russian mob extremely happy boosting the gang's revenue and max profits to the dismay of the lieutenants in the mob. Darby decides he needs a vacation an a girlfriend asap. He signs up to go to Minsk to check out the most beautiful of Russian women. While overseas Darby does find the love of his life. Also while Minsk he accidentally saves the life of the 16 yr old daughter who's father is a very important government official. Darby arrives back home in San Francisco walking on air. However Darby's world begins to fall apart one piece at a time. With a very angry Russian gangster vowing revenge, and a phantom hitman named "Ghostface" on his tail Darby's life is upended. When his relationship to the fabulous Hillary (from Telco office) is shattered, Darby and best friend Tavish must keep moving to save their own lives. Detective Pete Sokolov from author Ty Hutchinson's 'Abby Kane' series makes an appearance to give Darby some help. Although story does read pretty quickly, and the characters are somewhat well developed the story at times was too comic bookish. Some of the camp was not really needed. I'm not a big fan of the first two Darby Stansfield books. Hutchinson's Abby Kane series is far superior. Giving this book three stars out of a possible five stars. "Stroganov", for me was just a so so enjoyable read. The farcical parts of the story kind of put me off to the story as a whole. Plus, Darby is not a protagonist I could really like. Darby is too much of a college type of frat boy (that I despise). So with one more book to go in series I'll see if story gets better. Hopefully so. Hutchinson is such a good writer, but Darby does him no favors.
July 12, 2013
Hey, it's fun and dames with Darby. Well, not so much fun or many games, but Darby likes to keep the tone light and breezy even when he’s dealing with the Russian mob, whether in San Francisco or Ukraine. He sells telecommunications equipment and is doing quite well, mostly because the local (SF) Russians have made him the sole provider for their account. Morality, shmorality. He’s got a product. They’ve got a need. Just business, right? Not like he’s selling AK-47’s.
Like any young guy with money, Darby’s prone to romance, so as we zoom around the city by the bay and other global hotspots, there’s plenty of nooky to go with the moola.
Hutchison Has the irritating habit of giving even minor characters their own chapters, so we know what everyone is thinking and doing all the time. Where’s the mystery in that? I’d like a bit more tease with my strip, personally.
Anyhow, Stroganov is an entertaining piece of literary candy. You can finish it in a short plane flight and be somewhat happy with both events.
Like any young guy with money, Darby’s prone to romance, so as we zoom around the city by the bay and other global hotspots, there’s plenty of nooky to go with the moola.
Hutchison Has the irritating habit of giving even minor characters their own chapters, so we know what everyone is thinking and doing all the time. Where’s the mystery in that? I’d like a bit more tease with my strip, personally.
Anyhow, Stroganov is an entertaining piece of literary candy. You can finish it in a short plane flight and be somewhat happy with both events.
August 17, 2013
Darby Stansfield is at it again, and now it's the Russian mob he sells his tech to. Darby is a great anti hero -- he just can't seem to stop doing the right thing -- even though he wants to be cool and make it to the top floor of his tech job, where all the "heavy hitters" hang out. He also can't keep a girlfriend to save his life, or hers. Any more info would be spoiler material. Darby is a loveable guy whose morals are a bit neutral -- at least on the outside.
July 1, 2014
This is my first Darby Stansfield thriller, and probably my last. I gave the book 3 stars because the plot held my interest for a while. Unfortunately, Hutchinson doesn't know when to quit and certainly doesn't know how to bring his plot to a conclusion. The book just ends, and that's it. However one cannot help but like Hutchinsons character Darby Stansfield. He is well portrayed as a shallow opportunist.
July 9, 2012
Good read, but not as good as book one. Looking forward to some More Darbytastic times in book three.
February 2, 2013
Pretty good. I really like Darby and I root for him, although I probably shouldn't.
April 2, 2016
Fans of the TV show Psych will recognize Darby Stansfield as a Shawn-like character without the restrictions of family-oriented broadcast. While Stroganov was fun, I think I liked Chop Suey better.
August 19, 2013
2.5 stars
May 19, 2014
Sequel to Chop Suey. Instead of Hong Kong the setting is The Ukraine.
February 10, 2016
Maybe 2.5. This was close to a no finish, but it did pick up some after about halfway through. Meh.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews