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Smokescreen
At an ancient cafe in Cairo, two veteran spies plot a covert mission to resolve - once and for all - the Israeli - Palestinian conflict. The pledge: Israel will make a major concession as part of the peace treaty. In Singapore, Jethro Westrope, a magazine journalist, stumbles onto the scene of a murder: the beautiful Niki Kishwani directs him, in her last breath, to a digital recorder, evidence that puts Jethro's life in serious danger. And, much worse, he is framed for Niki's murder. Jethro sets out to find Niki's killer and is drawn into a web of deception and intrigue involving officials from the Singaporean, Israeli, and American governments, each with a complex, competing, and potentially deadly agenda. Against this pulse-pounding backdrop, Jethro races to find answers and save himself -yet nothing is as it seems. He finds himself at the centre of a political plot so diabolical and sweeping in its world implications that he is stunned to discover tomorrow's news headlines today. He is being set up not only as a murderer but as an assassin, and something much larger than his own fate is in his hands.
- GenresThriller
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2013
7 people are currently reading
659 people want to read
About the author
Khaled Talib
20 books304 followersI am a former magazine journalist and Public Relations consultant.
I worked as a reporter for Singapore Tatler and spent several years in Egypt writing for an English-based magazine.
Since 2014, I have authored four thrillers, and I am a member of the International Thriller Writers.
Learn more about me at [www.khaledtalibthriller.com](http://w....
Publisher's Weekly review of Smokescreen:
https://www.publishersweekly.com/ASIN...
Stay connected with me: www.khaledtalibthriller.com
Author's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/khaled.talib/
BookBub:
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/khale...
I worked as a reporter for Singapore Tatler and spent several years in Egypt writing for an English-based magazine.
Since 2014, I have authored four thrillers, and I am a member of the International Thriller Writers.
Learn more about me at [www.khaledtalibthriller.com](http://w....
Publisher's Weekly review of Smokescreen:
https://www.publishersweekly.com/ASIN...
Stay connected with me: www.khaledtalibthriller.com
Author's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/khaled.talib/
BookBub:
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/khale...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 7, 2023
In an ancient hookah lounge/cafe in Cairo, two veteran spies have a clandestine meeting. They are planning an undercover mission to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict for good to bring peace to both regions. Israel vows to make some considerable concessions as part of the pact. Meanwhile, in Singapore, Jethro Westrope (aka Jet West) a reporter, discovers a murder scene at the home of Niki Kishwani, who uses her last breath to tell him to take her digital recorder. This not only puts Jet’s life in grave danger, he is then framed for her murder. As Jet tries to find who killed Niki and fabricated his guilt, he is drawn into a labyrinth of subterfuge and secrecy with officials from the governments of Israel, Singapore and America. Each government has its own reasons and agenda, and Jet is rushing to save his own life in a scenario where nothing is as it seems. He’s being set up as not just a murderer but as an assassin, and his fate and the fate of others rests in his hands.
This is another stellar novel of intrigue and suspense, beautifully and intelligently written by author Khaled Talib. It had me from the beginning, flipping pages as quickly as I could to discover what happened next! It is action-packed, full of intrigue, and explores a relationship of shared values and healthy respect between Singapore and Israel that I never knew existed; and with frightening realism, shows how government operatives behind the scenes, covertly and eerily. This sharp political thriller also illustrates how a completely innocent person can be framed using planted “evidence,” rumors and lies, putting the innocent’s life and reputation at risk which is terrifying, to say the least. It is most upsetting that the loss of innocent lives is considered collateral, if it’s considered at all. Mr. Talib’s vivid imagery puts readers right into the heart of where he wants us to take us, and makes us feel a range of emotions corresponding to the actions made real by his words. I highly recommend “Smokescreen” to anyone fond of politics, political thrillers, mystery/intrigue, and intelligent writing.
Id like to thank Booksprout, Khaled Talib, and Signal 8 Press/Typhoon Media for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
This is another stellar novel of intrigue and suspense, beautifully and intelligently written by author Khaled Talib. It had me from the beginning, flipping pages as quickly as I could to discover what happened next! It is action-packed, full of intrigue, and explores a relationship of shared values and healthy respect between Singapore and Israel that I never knew existed; and with frightening realism, shows how government operatives behind the scenes, covertly and eerily. This sharp political thriller also illustrates how a completely innocent person can be framed using planted “evidence,” rumors and lies, putting the innocent’s life and reputation at risk which is terrifying, to say the least. It is most upsetting that the loss of innocent lives is considered collateral, if it’s considered at all. Mr. Talib’s vivid imagery puts readers right into the heart of where he wants us to take us, and makes us feel a range of emotions corresponding to the actions made real by his words. I highly recommend “Smokescreen” to anyone fond of politics, political thrillers, mystery/intrigue, and intelligent writing.
Id like to thank Booksprout, Khaled Talib, and Signal 8 Press/Typhoon Media for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
May 25, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: http://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SMOKESCREEN by Khaled Talib is a fast-paced political espionage thriller set on the beautiful island of Singapore that has you second guessing every characters’ motives and actions as you race to the climax and conclusion. Smokescreen is also an apt title for this debut novel.
Jethro Westrope, also known as Jet West, is a feature writer for Singapore’s leading lifestyle magazine, Society. He leads a very public and pampered life which makes him an easy scapegoat in a high stakes political assassination plot. The Israelis and Palestinians are brokering for a permanent peace in Singapore and Jet is to be used as a pawn and framed as the assassin of the Israeli Prime Minister. The plot has major worldwide political ramifications that not only effect the two major players, but also the U.S. and Singapore.
Jet is pulled into the twisted plot when he is framed for the murder of a beautiful woman who tried to warn him of what was planned. As he tries to clear his name and find out who is responsible, Jet seeks the help of Nicole Wong, a senior prosecutor on the island and also a friend of the murdered girl. Neither knows who they can believe or completely trust as they weave through a twisted web of spies, double agents, and patriots to get to the truth and clear Jet’s name.
This thriller was tightly plotted with action, several dead bodies, revelations of deceit and twists that I can’t reveal due to spoilers throughout. You have to keep close tabs on all the players and their motives. The politics are thought provoking and the author handles the information sparingly with no preaching or information dump. Jet is an interesting and sympathetic lead character. The other characters are all well fleshed out and intriguing as you try to figure out if they are ‘good’ or ‘bad’.
This is a debut thriller that delivers and will have you coming back for more from this author!
SMOKESCREEN by Khaled Talib is a fast-paced political espionage thriller set on the beautiful island of Singapore that has you second guessing every characters’ motives and actions as you race to the climax and conclusion. Smokescreen is also an apt title for this debut novel.
Jethro Westrope, also known as Jet West, is a feature writer for Singapore’s leading lifestyle magazine, Society. He leads a very public and pampered life which makes him an easy scapegoat in a high stakes political assassination plot. The Israelis and Palestinians are brokering for a permanent peace in Singapore and Jet is to be used as a pawn and framed as the assassin of the Israeli Prime Minister. The plot has major worldwide political ramifications that not only effect the two major players, but also the U.S. and Singapore.
Jet is pulled into the twisted plot when he is framed for the murder of a beautiful woman who tried to warn him of what was planned. As he tries to clear his name and find out who is responsible, Jet seeks the help of Nicole Wong, a senior prosecutor on the island and also a friend of the murdered girl. Neither knows who they can believe or completely trust as they weave through a twisted web of spies, double agents, and patriots to get to the truth and clear Jet’s name.
This thriller was tightly plotted with action, several dead bodies, revelations of deceit and twists that I can’t reveal due to spoilers throughout. You have to keep close tabs on all the players and their motives. The politics are thought provoking and the author handles the information sparingly with no preaching or information dump. Jet is an interesting and sympathetic lead character. The other characters are all well fleshed out and intriguing as you try to figure out if they are ‘good’ or ‘bad’.
This is a debut thriller that delivers and will have you coming back for more from this author!
April 18, 2018
Smokescreen is a complex and fast-paced thriller set in Singapore, with glimpses of Isreal and Egypt. Jet, a fashion journalist, gets sucked into an international plot to kill a word leader. He has to find the real killer before the assassination happens, in order to clear his name.
It's surprisingly funny with excellent descriptions of the many settings. Honestly, this is faster-paced than I normally read, but I think fans of Jason Bourne and international conspiracy fiction will love it.
It's surprisingly funny with excellent descriptions of the many settings. Honestly, this is faster-paced than I normally read, but I think fans of Jason Bourne and international conspiracy fiction will love it.
July 13, 2014
Smokescreen is a thriller novel related to an espionage affair due to some political decisions and conspiracies.It is about Jethro Westrope, a journalist choosen to be involved in a political assassination. The events started after the murder of Niki, a Singapore Tourist Board PR officer.
The author possess an elegant writing style. We can feel him an author, a journalist, a political researcher, and even a movie maker. He shares with his readers many political issues and informations with specific dates and with real names and events that really happened. Sometimes he uses the dialect of certain languages like the egyptian, the hebrew, the american, the german...
The prologue and the epilogue reveal all the untold secrets.
A good book is a book that is capable to give the pleasure of reading, the knowledge, and a human touch that inspires you.
Smokescreen presents all these, it is a classy thriller full of actions.
This "very well written novel" deserves the five stars!
هذه الرواية هي عبارة عن أحداث تشويق تدور في معظمها في ستغافورة، حيث هناك مؤامرة استخباراتية تقضي باغتيال سياسي وإلصاق التهمة بصحفي بسيط. الأحداث تبدأ بعد قتل شابة تُدعى "نيكي" وهي ضابط علاقات عامة في هيئة سنغاقور السياحية.
أسلوب الكاتب أنيق وسلس ، أثناء قراءة هذه الرواية تشعر بأنك أمام كاتب، صحفي أو حتى مخرج سينمائي يبرع في تقديم التفاصيل التي تتناسب مع خيال القارىء. فلقد تمكن من إشراكنا في الكثير من الأحداث السياسية وتعريفنا على بعض الشخصيات وتوثيق كل ذلك بتواريخ وأماكن حقيقية.
البارز في هذه الرواية أيضًا إستخدام الكاتب للعديد من اللهجات، كالمصرية والعبرية والأميركية والألمانية.
المقدمة والنهاية وضّحتا عمق الأسرار التي ترافقت مع الأحداث.
الكتاب الجيد هو الكتاب القادر على إعطائنا متعة القراءة، المعرفة، وتلك المسحة الانسانية التي تلهمنا.
وهذه الرواية تمتلك كل هذه الصفات فهي رواية تشويق راقٍ مليئة بالأحداث البوليسية المثيرة.
رواية مكتوبة بأسلوب متقن وتستحق الخمس نجمات
The author possess an elegant writing style. We can feel him an author, a journalist, a political researcher, and even a movie maker. He shares with his readers many political issues and informations with specific dates and with real names and events that really happened. Sometimes he uses the dialect of certain languages like the egyptian, the hebrew, the american, the german...
The prologue and the epilogue reveal all the untold secrets.
A good book is a book that is capable to give the pleasure of reading, the knowledge, and a human touch that inspires you.
Smokescreen presents all these, it is a classy thriller full of actions.
This "very well written novel" deserves the five stars!
هذه الرواية هي عبارة عن أحداث تشويق تدور في معظمها في ستغافورة، حيث هناك مؤامرة استخباراتية تقضي باغتيال سياسي وإلصاق التهمة بصحفي بسيط. الأحداث تبدأ بعد قتل شابة تُدعى "نيكي" وهي ضابط علاقات عامة في هيئة سنغاقور السياحية.
أسلوب الكاتب أنيق وسلس ، أثناء قراءة هذه الرواية تشعر بأنك أمام كاتب، صحفي أو حتى مخرج سينمائي يبرع في تقديم التفاصيل التي تتناسب مع خيال القارىء. فلقد تمكن من إشراكنا في الكثير من الأحداث السياسية وتعريفنا على بعض الشخصيات وتوثيق كل ذلك بتواريخ وأماكن حقيقية.
البارز في هذه الرواية أيضًا إستخدام الكاتب للعديد من اللهجات، كالمصرية والعبرية والأميركية والألمانية.
المقدمة والنهاية وضّحتا عمق الأسرار التي ترافقت مع الأحداث.
الكتاب الجيد هو الكتاب القادر على إعطائنا متعة القراءة، المعرفة، وتلك المسحة الانسانية التي تلهمنا.
وهذه الرواية تمتلك كل هذه الصفات فهي رواية تشويق راقٍ مليئة بالأحداث البوليسية المثيرة.
رواية مكتوبة بأسلوب متقن وتستحق الخمس نجمات
January 7, 2014
This is a fast-paced espionage thriller that exposes the very real connections between Israel and Singapore. Israel established diplomatic relations with the island country in 1969 and the two nations enjoy a reportedly "extensive security relationship". This fact was confirmed by Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's controversial founding father, who wrote in his book that the Israel Defense Forces helped established the Singaporean army. Singapore has purportedly made major purchases of surplus IDF tanks, as well as aircraft, anti-aircraft missiles, and surveillance technologies.
In this thriller, someone wants the prime minister of Israel dead. This follows secret talks held between Israel and the Palestinians, including Hamas, which could lead to Israel making serious concessions in exchange for peace. The historic announcement detailing this peace deal is to be made in Singapore upon the prime minister's visit, and that is where the assassination will take place. Similar to conspiracy theories surrounding the killing of U.S. President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, blame for the assassination will be placed on a patsy to divert attention from the real conspirators.
The man chosen to take the blame for the assassination is "a simple guy" who works for a glossy Singapore magazine. Jet West is not the "next Jason Bourne" but he is thrown into a Bourne-like set of complications that quickly get out of control. A beautiful woman is murdered and Jet escapes the scene, yet the gun used to kill her is found in his apartment. But that is the least of Jet's worries. He soon learns that is going to be involved in the plot to kill the Israeli prime minister. "You're just the unlucky guy chosen to die," he is told, a sentence he refuses to accept.
What sets this thriller apart is its unique setting. The author brings Singapore alive with his vivid descriptions. "Exotic sights and smells dominated the old neighborhood: dried fish, fried noodles, funeral offerings, incense sticks, wooden clogs, paper umbrellas, and mountains of gaudy tourist hats." As Jet races through the narrow, noisy streets, the reader can't help but gawk at the scenes and sounds of the small island state.
Will Jet escape his role as the smokescreen - "the thing that'll thwart eyes away from the actual plan" - or will he arrive too late to prevent the assassination and his role as the biggest scapegoat in history since Lee Harvey Oswald? Read this exciting thriller to find out!
In this thriller, someone wants the prime minister of Israel dead. This follows secret talks held between Israel and the Palestinians, including Hamas, which could lead to Israel making serious concessions in exchange for peace. The historic announcement detailing this peace deal is to be made in Singapore upon the prime minister's visit, and that is where the assassination will take place. Similar to conspiracy theories surrounding the killing of U.S. President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, blame for the assassination will be placed on a patsy to divert attention from the real conspirators.
The man chosen to take the blame for the assassination is "a simple guy" who works for a glossy Singapore magazine. Jet West is not the "next Jason Bourne" but he is thrown into a Bourne-like set of complications that quickly get out of control. A beautiful woman is murdered and Jet escapes the scene, yet the gun used to kill her is found in his apartment. But that is the least of Jet's worries. He soon learns that is going to be involved in the plot to kill the Israeli prime minister. "You're just the unlucky guy chosen to die," he is told, a sentence he refuses to accept.
What sets this thriller apart is its unique setting. The author brings Singapore alive with his vivid descriptions. "Exotic sights and smells dominated the old neighborhood: dried fish, fried noodles, funeral offerings, incense sticks, wooden clogs, paper umbrellas, and mountains of gaudy tourist hats." As Jet races through the narrow, noisy streets, the reader can't help but gawk at the scenes and sounds of the small island state.
Will Jet escape his role as the smokescreen - "the thing that'll thwart eyes away from the actual plan" - or will he arrive too late to prevent the assassination and his role as the biggest scapegoat in history since Lee Harvey Oswald? Read this exciting thriller to find out!
May 27, 2014
The debut novel, SMOKESCREEN, by Khaled Talib is a riveting international suspense/thriller that has a unique plot, fast-pace action, and vivid descriptions.The story begins when unknown persons wants to kill the Israeli Prime Minster after the Israeli government secretly makes major concessions in a peace treaty with the Palestinians.The announcement of this historic peace deal is to be made in Singapore upon the prime minister's visit. An unsuspecting high society magazine reporter, Jet Westrope, has been picked to be the scapegoat for this assassination.
Jet is first pulled into the diabolical plot when he is framed for the murder of a beautiful woman who had tried to warn him of this conspiracy. On the run from unknown assailants, Jet must find out who is her murderer to clear his name. But in his desperate search for the truth, he is drawn deeper into danger when he uncovers his involvement in the sinister plan to assassinate the prime minister.There are several unexpected twists and heart-throbbing action leading to the climax.
What make this novel stand out was the unique plot and unexpected twists. Khaled Talib is a master at creating heart-throbbing action scenes. His vivid descriptions of Singapore and other locations made me feel as if I was there. A must read international thriller/suspense.
Jet is first pulled into the diabolical plot when he is framed for the murder of a beautiful woman who had tried to warn him of this conspiracy. On the run from unknown assailants, Jet must find out who is her murderer to clear his name. But in his desperate search for the truth, he is drawn deeper into danger when he uncovers his involvement in the sinister plan to assassinate the prime minister.There are several unexpected twists and heart-throbbing action leading to the climax.
What make this novel stand out was the unique plot and unexpected twists. Khaled Talib is a master at creating heart-throbbing action scenes. His vivid descriptions of Singapore and other locations made me feel as if I was there. A must read international thriller/suspense.
December 6, 2013
Smokescreen is a captivating story leading readers into the genre of espionage noir, revealing a rich and colourful tale of political deception across countries and continents. The author takes the time to paint enough background for each of the main characters and then weaves the story, cutting from different perspectives like a fast paced action movie. It felt like watching a Jason Bourne film as I flipped page after page following Jet West, a journalist whose life turns upside down when secret underground organizations target him to be the scape goat as they instigate a sinister plot to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minister.
I LOVED the cultural references and colloquialisms. "Solly, lah my England nosso good" had me in belly laughs.... And the way the author described the scenes, I could picture it. Very accurate and authentic.
The story was exciting and I loved the different characters. Chan was menacing and a love to hate evil guy. Jet West and Nicole were a great couple - together but not together - lots of good chemistry.
Talib vividly paints the surroundings making it easy to picture each scene such as the opening scene where the secret political meeting takes place in a quaint cafe in Cairo. Talib's use of authentic local cultural behaviours and colloquialisms make the characters come to life. The storyline is fresh and bold and the characters' protagonists and antagonists are entertaining and intriguing.
What I thoroughly enjoyed was Talib's subtle tongue-in-cheek underlying commentary throughout the story which pokes fun at the spy world and the different cultural idiosyncrasies between the characters. If you have some familiarity with the cultures portrayed in the story, you may find yourself chuckling from time to time as I did. I felt like it was a hidden story within a story making it an even richer experience reading it.
An espionage thriller injected with splashes of humour and insight makes Smokescreen, a must read for 2014.
My rating is an easy 5/5 stars.
I LOVED the cultural references and colloquialisms. "Solly, lah my England nosso good" had me in belly laughs.... And the way the author described the scenes, I could picture it. Very accurate and authentic.
The story was exciting and I loved the different characters. Chan was menacing and a love to hate evil guy. Jet West and Nicole were a great couple - together but not together - lots of good chemistry.
Talib vividly paints the surroundings making it easy to picture each scene such as the opening scene where the secret political meeting takes place in a quaint cafe in Cairo. Talib's use of authentic local cultural behaviours and colloquialisms make the characters come to life. The storyline is fresh and bold and the characters' protagonists and antagonists are entertaining and intriguing.
What I thoroughly enjoyed was Talib's subtle tongue-in-cheek underlying commentary throughout the story which pokes fun at the spy world and the different cultural idiosyncrasies between the characters. If you have some familiarity with the cultures portrayed in the story, you may find yourself chuckling from time to time as I did. I felt like it was a hidden story within a story making it an even richer experience reading it.
An espionage thriller injected with splashes of humour and insight makes Smokescreen, a must read for 2014.
My rating is an easy 5/5 stars.
July 19, 2015
I got this as a e-book from a goodreads friend who asked the authors permission if I could read it and post a review. I wasn't disappointed in reading it. It was full of action/adventure. I hope to read more books by this author.
January 30, 2021
Not a bad read at all. Shades of James Bond, without all the flare and nifty gadgets.
Good clean read with no major issues. How refreshing!
Three and a half stars
Good clean read with no major issues. How refreshing!
Three and a half stars
December 18, 2014
Smokescreen
By Khaled Talib
Plot
The scene of the story is set in the Island of Singapore, where the Israeli government are seeking to put an end to the Palestinian conflict; however several Israeli officials want to kill their own leader and plan to assassinate him by framing an innocent reporter called Jethro Westrope, commonly known as Jet West, who works for the country’s leading lifestyle magazine.
Jet initially thinks that one of the men that is chasing him is the husband of the wife he has been sleeping with and has no idea until Niki Kishwani, a public relations manager of the Singapore Tourism Board tries to warn him that there are some men who are following him and want to fame him for the murder of an important person. Jet finds himself in a situation where he is being chased by Chan’s henchmen while at the same time trying to clear his good name as Yung kills Niki, in an attempt to set Jet up for the murder. Jet is forced to go into hiding and meets Michael Dexter, who offers him refuge in his mansion. Michael encourages Jet to contact Nikis best friend, Nicole Wong and convince her he didn’t kill Niki, and that’s when even more dangers await as Jet goes from one threat to yet another and the smear campaign to make him a scapegoat for further murders only multiplies as the dead body count increases.
Will Jet be able to clear his name in time before he is framed for the Israelis Prime Minister premeditated murder, or will Chan and his men achieve their ultimate mission that will in effect change the course of all their paths?
Main Characters
Chan Boon Seng – Chief protocol officer of the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Characteristics – A big brusque man who doesn’t care if people like him or not, black eyes, black hair that’s shaved along the sides, streaked with white sleeked back. A graduate from the London School of Economics, exceptional military career, rising to the rank of Colonel, trained by the Israeli army.
Captain Eli Aviram – A tall lean man in his forties with a thin scar across his left cheek, Chan’s long time Israeli friend.
X – An old mysterious man, a former Israeli spy who is now a military consultant.
Jethro Westrope – Well-toned good-looking Eurasian, reporter, age 35, assistant editor at one of Singaporeans leading lifestyle magazines, half Irish, half Chinese.
Niki Kishwani – Public relations manager of the Singapore Tourism Board, age 28, a law graduate from a local university, a covert operative for Chan, a double agent.
Mary Yeo - Niki Kishwani assassin. Yung murders her in cold blood in a church she was seeking repentance.
Nicole Wong - Niki Kishwani best friend, a deputy public prosecutor.
Yung – A remorseless assassin, who was sentenced to a mental institution for observation and then to be hanged. Chan paid for his freedom after Yung had spent two years in prison, in return Chan expected absolute loyalty. A special operations force solider gone wrong, trained in counter-terrorist actions.
Michael Dexter – United States Ambassador to Singapore, a CIA official, his specific mission is to save the Israeli leader from assassination.
De Angelo – Loyal colleague of Dexter’s.
Dialogue
The dialogue is natural and flows well throughout the whole book with no signs of forced and unnecessary speech patterns with little or no reference to the use of profanity.
Writing
Smokescreen is undoubtedly one of the best written espionage thrillers I have had the honour of reading. I have read numerous spy novels but this book is in a league of its own as one of the greatest fast-paced, gripping and thought provoking plots that involves high-level politics, government cover-ups, covert missions and a high pursuit chase of an innocent man trying desperately to prove his innocence.
Khaled Talib is a master of depicting real life scenarios such as the current connections between Israel and Singapore into a work of unforgettable fiction that will leave you breathless and wanting more. I highly recommend this book to readers of Robert Ludlum and Tom Clancy.
My Rating:
5 stars
By Khaled Talib
Plot
The scene of the story is set in the Island of Singapore, where the Israeli government are seeking to put an end to the Palestinian conflict; however several Israeli officials want to kill their own leader and plan to assassinate him by framing an innocent reporter called Jethro Westrope, commonly known as Jet West, who works for the country’s leading lifestyle magazine.
Jet initially thinks that one of the men that is chasing him is the husband of the wife he has been sleeping with and has no idea until Niki Kishwani, a public relations manager of the Singapore Tourism Board tries to warn him that there are some men who are following him and want to fame him for the murder of an important person. Jet finds himself in a situation where he is being chased by Chan’s henchmen while at the same time trying to clear his good name as Yung kills Niki, in an attempt to set Jet up for the murder. Jet is forced to go into hiding and meets Michael Dexter, who offers him refuge in his mansion. Michael encourages Jet to contact Nikis best friend, Nicole Wong and convince her he didn’t kill Niki, and that’s when even more dangers await as Jet goes from one threat to yet another and the smear campaign to make him a scapegoat for further murders only multiplies as the dead body count increases.
Will Jet be able to clear his name in time before he is framed for the Israelis Prime Minister premeditated murder, or will Chan and his men achieve their ultimate mission that will in effect change the course of all their paths?
Main Characters
Chan Boon Seng – Chief protocol officer of the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Characteristics – A big brusque man who doesn’t care if people like him or not, black eyes, black hair that’s shaved along the sides, streaked with white sleeked back. A graduate from the London School of Economics, exceptional military career, rising to the rank of Colonel, trained by the Israeli army.
Captain Eli Aviram – A tall lean man in his forties with a thin scar across his left cheek, Chan’s long time Israeli friend.
X – An old mysterious man, a former Israeli spy who is now a military consultant.
Jethro Westrope – Well-toned good-looking Eurasian, reporter, age 35, assistant editor at one of Singaporeans leading lifestyle magazines, half Irish, half Chinese.
Niki Kishwani – Public relations manager of the Singapore Tourism Board, age 28, a law graduate from a local university, a covert operative for Chan, a double agent.
Mary Yeo - Niki Kishwani assassin. Yung murders her in cold blood in a church she was seeking repentance.
Nicole Wong - Niki Kishwani best friend, a deputy public prosecutor.
Yung – A remorseless assassin, who was sentenced to a mental institution for observation and then to be hanged. Chan paid for his freedom after Yung had spent two years in prison, in return Chan expected absolute loyalty. A special operations force solider gone wrong, trained in counter-terrorist actions.
Michael Dexter – United States Ambassador to Singapore, a CIA official, his specific mission is to save the Israeli leader from assassination.
De Angelo – Loyal colleague of Dexter’s.
Dialogue
The dialogue is natural and flows well throughout the whole book with no signs of forced and unnecessary speech patterns with little or no reference to the use of profanity.
Writing
Smokescreen is undoubtedly one of the best written espionage thrillers I have had the honour of reading. I have read numerous spy novels but this book is in a league of its own as one of the greatest fast-paced, gripping and thought provoking plots that involves high-level politics, government cover-ups, covert missions and a high pursuit chase of an innocent man trying desperately to prove his innocence.
Khaled Talib is a master of depicting real life scenarios such as the current connections between Israel and Singapore into a work of unforgettable fiction that will leave you breathless and wanting more. I highly recommend this book to readers of Robert Ludlum and Tom Clancy.
My Rating:
5 stars
January 6, 2014
A fast-paced page turner. Hugely enjoyable
Set on the island of Singapore, this high octane thriller from debut novelist Khaled Talib has everything the thriller reader could wish for. I like my thrillers fast-paced, full on and with high body counts. This novel does not disappoint in any of those aspects. I have been following Khaled on Twitter and his enlightening, inspiring and sometimes amusing muses have been a delight to read. His first foray into fiction doesn't disappoint. It is a roller coaster from start to finish. With a healthy sprinkling of shady spies (including the enigmatic X), ruthless assassins, and Chan, the ambitious, powerful and duplicitous politician, this book is difficult to put down.
At the centre of the story is the unfortunate Jet West, a journalist who is plunged into the middle of a plot to kill the Israeli prime minister. The Israeli government want to put an end to the Palestinian conflict by making major concessions to bring about peace. But there are those for whom peace with the Palestinians is to be avoided at all costs. Jet is chosen to be a scapegoat. Painted as a radicalised convert to Islam, he will be blamed for the murder of the prime minister of Israel when he comes to Singapore for an official State visit. Jet is framed for murder and on the run in a country where it is difficult to hide. What those who would see him as an easy target for manipulation find to their cost is that he is a fast learner, a man who quickly discovers who his friends really are. Courted by the American, diplomat, Dexter, Jet refuses to trust anybody except himself and Nicole, a friend of the woman whose murder Jet has been framed for.
The author weaves vivid and believable scenes, from the back streets of Cairo, where the story begins, to the pulsating atmosphere of Singapore, where the bulk of story is played out. There is even an exciting scene in a graveyard in Buenos Aires, giving more credence to the international flavour of the book.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this talented writer.
Set on the island of Singapore, this high octane thriller from debut novelist Khaled Talib has everything the thriller reader could wish for. I like my thrillers fast-paced, full on and with high body counts. This novel does not disappoint in any of those aspects. I have been following Khaled on Twitter and his enlightening, inspiring and sometimes amusing muses have been a delight to read. His first foray into fiction doesn't disappoint. It is a roller coaster from start to finish. With a healthy sprinkling of shady spies (including the enigmatic X), ruthless assassins, and Chan, the ambitious, powerful and duplicitous politician, this book is difficult to put down.
At the centre of the story is the unfortunate Jet West, a journalist who is plunged into the middle of a plot to kill the Israeli prime minister. The Israeli government want to put an end to the Palestinian conflict by making major concessions to bring about peace. But there are those for whom peace with the Palestinians is to be avoided at all costs. Jet is chosen to be a scapegoat. Painted as a radicalised convert to Islam, he will be blamed for the murder of the prime minister of Israel when he comes to Singapore for an official State visit. Jet is framed for murder and on the run in a country where it is difficult to hide. What those who would see him as an easy target for manipulation find to their cost is that he is a fast learner, a man who quickly discovers who his friends really are. Courted by the American, diplomat, Dexter, Jet refuses to trust anybody except himself and Nicole, a friend of the woman whose murder Jet has been framed for.
The author weaves vivid and believable scenes, from the back streets of Cairo, where the story begins, to the pulsating atmosphere of Singapore, where the bulk of story is played out. There is even an exciting scene in a graveyard in Buenos Aires, giving more credence to the international flavour of the book.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this talented writer.
January 15, 2014
"Smokescreen" by Khaled Talib is a fast paced, action packed and highly intelligent espionage thriller that I must highly recommend.
It concerns an assassination plot, in this case the killing of the Israeli Prime Minister on a visit to Singapore. Talib does an excellent job at showing the different sides and interests in this conspiracy story that has a great complexity of plot, to say the least.
Exposing connections between unlikely allies and focusing on the role of Singapore in the peace process covers some of the well researched and plausible background for the story, but this novel is not limited to political and diplomatic issues.
There is plenty of action, violence, sex even and powerful writing that makes for a gripping read and fast turning of the pages.
The setting in Singapore has been a particular plus for me for personal reasons but it adds a new aspect and dimension to the 'issue' of Israel and the peace negotiations that I am certain will be appreciated by many readers. There are several great scenes that as responsible reviewer I must not spoil for you but let me assure you that Talib is creative in his writing. Realistic dialogue, fast pacing and well chosen characters make for an explosive combination that keep the readers interest and suspense up throughout.
Excellent.
It concerns an assassination plot, in this case the killing of the Israeli Prime Minister on a visit to Singapore. Talib does an excellent job at showing the different sides and interests in this conspiracy story that has a great complexity of plot, to say the least.
Exposing connections between unlikely allies and focusing on the role of Singapore in the peace process covers some of the well researched and plausible background for the story, but this novel is not limited to political and diplomatic issues.
There is plenty of action, violence, sex even and powerful writing that makes for a gripping read and fast turning of the pages.
The setting in Singapore has been a particular plus for me for personal reasons but it adds a new aspect and dimension to the 'issue' of Israel and the peace negotiations that I am certain will be appreciated by many readers. There are several great scenes that as responsible reviewer I must not spoil for you but let me assure you that Talib is creative in his writing. Realistic dialogue, fast pacing and well chosen characters make for an explosive combination that keep the readers interest and suspense up throughout.
Excellent.
July 1, 2014
To all of the assassination buffs; THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!!!! Khaled Talib first presents us with factual information about the relationship between Israel and the island of Singapore. The fictional part begins where a high level figure wants to assassinate the Prime Minister of Israel once he makes a trip to Singapore and he along with a bunch of other well connected people will set up a patsy to take the fall for the murder. The patsy is a man named Jethro Westrope who is a journalist who keeps finding himself at the right place at the right time for a journalist. But as a human being wanting to live, wrong place at the wrong time. As Jethro is secretly manipulated by the high level guys to get him to the right place at the right time for them, he tries to figure out the strange circumstances around him. Will he turn out like Lee Harvey Oswald or will he escape the plot set up against him and the Prime Minister of Israel?
November 1, 2015
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
This was a surprising find! This is a political thriller and I was intrigued from the beginning. I enjoyed Khaled's writing immensely through it all. There was non-stop action and I loved how I was thrown into the middle of it all. The characters were amazingly portrayed and I found myself in awe of Khaled's world-building skills. They were all unforgettable in their own way and the humor Khlaed managed to throw in was an amazing addition. The pace was perfect for a book in this genre and I couldn't put it down from the moment Jet was introduced. I loved him from the start and my heart went out to him since he's the one chosen to take the blame for all the crimes being committed around him.
The only minor detail I would've liked to be added were translations to some of the phrases. This book mostly took place in Singapore and I don't know the language so I was forced to skip some lines. Other than that, I loved that ending!
This was a surprising find! This is a political thriller and I was intrigued from the beginning. I enjoyed Khaled's writing immensely through it all. There was non-stop action and I loved how I was thrown into the middle of it all. The characters were amazingly portrayed and I found myself in awe of Khaled's world-building skills. They were all unforgettable in their own way and the humor Khlaed managed to throw in was an amazing addition. The pace was perfect for a book in this genre and I couldn't put it down from the moment Jet was introduced. I loved him from the start and my heart went out to him since he's the one chosen to take the blame for all the crimes being committed around him.
The only minor detail I would've liked to be added were translations to some of the phrases. This book mostly took place in Singapore and I don't know the language so I was forced to skip some lines. Other than that, I loved that ending!
August 1, 2015
I received this book as an e book. It sure didn't disappoint at all. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. It was filled with action, had a great story line, was just a very good book. It should be on the best sellers list around here, and made into a movie. If you love thrillers, and good action, this is the book. I will certainly read more books by this author again.I sure hope I find some :)
October 20, 2017
This was very enjoyable. An enticing thriller with striking descriptions of the settings and characters which kept me turning the pages. The author writes like an artist with palette and canvas painting the scenes so vividly that you feel you are there watching the story evolve around you. The ending made me smile!
I heartily recommend this book to anyone who likes dynamic thrillers with political and historical information as a backdrop.
I heartily recommend this book to anyone who likes dynamic thrillers with political and historical information as a backdrop.
November 3, 2014
Smokescreen is a fast paced thriller that blends real life conspiracy with fiction. A tale of espionage at it's finest with a well developed cast of supporting characters. Khaled Talib takes his readers on an international voyage that can lead them to nearly looking over their shoulder as they progress through the streets. Yes, the feeling of being followed or spied upon is highly tangible in this book and I shudder to think how I would have felt had I read this while at home alone.
I was worried that this book would be too political for me, as while I know politics are important, I truly dislike the way people are towards each other when they are firmly one party or the other. Smokescreen did not have that feel to it. Yes, there were politics involved and definitely opinions present, but I did not feel like there was an agenda being pushed.
Jethro Westrope is our protagonist, a magazine journalist, who is framed for a murder he, of course, did not commit. Now, Jethro is pulled into a vicious web of deception and intrigue involving officials from numerous governments, who each have their own agenda. The race is on for poor Jethro as he searches for answers that will save his life and reveal the murderer and the hidden conspiracy.
I loved the scope of Smokescreen, how it spans the globe and keeps the readers enthralled in the detail and inevitability of what is happening. The twists and turns and moments of deception that lead up to the finale are movie-worthy. No, I would seriously want to see this as a film it was that entertaining to me.
I cannot recommend Smokescreen highly enough. It is definitely getting my coveted "Cappuccino" rating and even more worthy of this rating as I just found out while writing this review that this is Khaled Talib's debut novel. He has been published for other works, but Smokescreen is his first full novel. Major kudos and big thanks for such a fun and thrilling read!
I was worried that this book would be too political for me, as while I know politics are important, I truly dislike the way people are towards each other when they are firmly one party or the other. Smokescreen did not have that feel to it. Yes, there were politics involved and definitely opinions present, but I did not feel like there was an agenda being pushed.
Jethro Westrope is our protagonist, a magazine journalist, who is framed for a murder he, of course, did not commit. Now, Jethro is pulled into a vicious web of deception and intrigue involving officials from numerous governments, who each have their own agenda. The race is on for poor Jethro as he searches for answers that will save his life and reveal the murderer and the hidden conspiracy.
I loved the scope of Smokescreen, how it spans the globe and keeps the readers enthralled in the detail and inevitability of what is happening. The twists and turns and moments of deception that lead up to the finale are movie-worthy. No, I would seriously want to see this as a film it was that entertaining to me.
I cannot recommend Smokescreen highly enough. It is definitely getting my coveted "Cappuccino" rating and even more worthy of this rating as I just found out while writing this review that this is Khaled Talib's debut novel. He has been published for other works, but Smokescreen is his first full novel. Major kudos and big thanks for such a fun and thrilling read!
November 16, 2014
This evocative debut novel is an intriguing international thriller of conspiracy and espionage.
Glossy magazine journalist Jethro (Jet) Westrope is framed for the murder of a beautiful Singapore Tourist Board PR officer. Jet aims to uncover her real killer but he’s become embroiled in a deadly political plot to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minster – and Jet is the scapegoat, the Lee Harvey Oswald if you will, the unlucky guy chosen to die. A cat and mouse game ensues.
A planned historic peace deal between Israel and Palestine, set to be confirmed during the PM’s visit to Singapore, would see Israel making major concessions that the conspirators can’t allow.
Jet is a likeable lead as the fall guy in a situation being manipulated by the puppet masters, sinister organisations that seem to have the ability to write tomorrow’s headlines today and point evidence at any direction they wish. Shown as an extremist convert to Islam, Jet is to be blamed for the assassination. His only friend seems to be a friend of the murdered PR woman.
The cast of characters is memorable - the bad guys are suitably evil and ruthless and the untypical Singapore setting is a vivid one, as are the other locations in this jet setting novel that feels authentic and certainly entertains. The established and lesser-known relationship between Israel and Singapore is also explained in a book contains all the strengths of classic espionage.
Plenty of twists and well depicted action keeps the cinematic story driving along to its climax.
Glossy magazine journalist Jethro (Jet) Westrope is framed for the murder of a beautiful Singapore Tourist Board PR officer. Jet aims to uncover her real killer but he’s become embroiled in a deadly political plot to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minster – and Jet is the scapegoat, the Lee Harvey Oswald if you will, the unlucky guy chosen to die. A cat and mouse game ensues.
A planned historic peace deal between Israel and Palestine, set to be confirmed during the PM’s visit to Singapore, would see Israel making major concessions that the conspirators can’t allow.
Jet is a likeable lead as the fall guy in a situation being manipulated by the puppet masters, sinister organisations that seem to have the ability to write tomorrow’s headlines today and point evidence at any direction they wish. Shown as an extremist convert to Islam, Jet is to be blamed for the assassination. His only friend seems to be a friend of the murdered PR woman.
The cast of characters is memorable - the bad guys are suitably evil and ruthless and the untypical Singapore setting is a vivid one, as are the other locations in this jet setting novel that feels authentic and certainly entertains. The established and lesser-known relationship between Israel and Singapore is also explained in a book contains all the strengths of classic espionage.
Plenty of twists and well depicted action keeps the cinematic story driving along to its climax.
July 4, 2016
Reviewed by me as a member of Rosie Amber's Review Team
Smokescreen is a fast moving, all action, international thriller about an assassination conspiracy, involving movers and shakers at the highest levels—think '24', James Bond, The Bourne trilogy, etc.
Magazine journalist and superficial Singapore socialite Jethro Westropp (Jet West) is to be set up as 'the next Lee Harvey Oswald' - only he knows nothing about it, and has no hint that anything is wrong until he meets up with the beautiful and ill-fated Niki. 'He finds himself at the centre of a political plot so diabolical and sweeping in its world implications that he is stunned to discover tomorrow’s news headlines today': that comes from the blurb, one of the lines that made me want to read the book!
It's well written and I can tell it's well researched; Talib obviously understands the dark side of politics in the international arena. The characters are brilliantly over the top stereotypes—that's not a criticism as I think these sort of books and films rely on certain characters. Jet is perfect as the amusing and unsuspecting hero, but I enjoyed the dialogue between the older spies, agents and ne'er-do-wells best; X and the unscrupulous Chan and Yung, for instance. There are some good, witty lines!
There's a case for saying that these sort of stories work better in films than in books, but this is very convincing, it's a jolly good plot and I think anyone who loves this sort of books will thoroughly enjoy it. There's certainly never a dull moment.
Smokescreen is a fast moving, all action, international thriller about an assassination conspiracy, involving movers and shakers at the highest levels—think '24', James Bond, The Bourne trilogy, etc.
Magazine journalist and superficial Singapore socialite Jethro Westropp (Jet West) is to be set up as 'the next Lee Harvey Oswald' - only he knows nothing about it, and has no hint that anything is wrong until he meets up with the beautiful and ill-fated Niki. 'He finds himself at the centre of a political plot so diabolical and sweeping in its world implications that he is stunned to discover tomorrow’s news headlines today': that comes from the blurb, one of the lines that made me want to read the book!
It's well written and I can tell it's well researched; Talib obviously understands the dark side of politics in the international arena. The characters are brilliantly over the top stereotypes—that's not a criticism as I think these sort of books and films rely on certain characters. Jet is perfect as the amusing and unsuspecting hero, but I enjoyed the dialogue between the older spies, agents and ne'er-do-wells best; X and the unscrupulous Chan and Yung, for instance. There are some good, witty lines!
There's a case for saying that these sort of stories work better in films than in books, but this is very convincing, it's a jolly good plot and I think anyone who loves this sort of books will thoroughly enjoy it. There's certainly never a dull moment.
May 2, 2015
This is a compelling political spy thriller is Khaled Talib’s first novel, but a page turner every step of the way.
The story is set in Singapore, where the Israeli government are trying to end, once and for all the Israeli – Palestinian conflict.
However, not everyone agrees on how to do this. Radical factions have other ideas and they plan to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minster when he visits Singapore, but first they must find a scapegoat…
Enter Jethro (Jet) West, not a very appealing fellow, he is a journalist for a top life style magazine in Singapore. Happily sleeping around and living the high life, he soon he finds that his womanising ways and reputation have well and truly gone against him, when he is framed for the murder the Singapore Tourist Boards beautiful public relations manager Niki Kishwani.
However, as if this is not bad enough, he soon discovers his destiny has been decided, and it is far worse than he could imagine.
He has been especially chosen.
As the plot thickens, Jet finds himself being hunted, and the body counts rise, things become rapidly much worse for him as he desperately tries to clear his name.
The attention to detail and research which has gone into this absorbing book is amazing. With spies, corrupt government officials and plenty of twists and turns, Smokescreen is a well written and totally absorbing political spy thriller.
The story is set in Singapore, where the Israeli government are trying to end, once and for all the Israeli – Palestinian conflict.
However, not everyone agrees on how to do this. Radical factions have other ideas and they plan to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minster when he visits Singapore, but first they must find a scapegoat…
Enter Jethro (Jet) West, not a very appealing fellow, he is a journalist for a top life style magazine in Singapore. Happily sleeping around and living the high life, he soon he finds that his womanising ways and reputation have well and truly gone against him, when he is framed for the murder the Singapore Tourist Boards beautiful public relations manager Niki Kishwani.
However, as if this is not bad enough, he soon discovers his destiny has been decided, and it is far worse than he could imagine.
He has been especially chosen.
As the plot thickens, Jet finds himself being hunted, and the body counts rise, things become rapidly much worse for him as he desperately tries to clear his name.
The attention to detail and research which has gone into this absorbing book is amazing. With spies, corrupt government officials and plenty of twists and turns, Smokescreen is a well written and totally absorbing political spy thriller.
January 10, 2015
Jet West is a journalist for a lifestyle magazine in Singapore, his life is turned upside down when he is singled out to be a scapegoat in the assassination of a Prime Minister. Why him and why now? From the very first murder to the hair-raising climactic end there is not a single dull moment in this fast paced political espionage thriller. Jet is quite rightly not sure who to trust and has no formal training to aid him in this situation but with an ally in the American ambassador to Singapore, Jet navigates his way through an investigation to find out who killed Nicki Kishwani and why he is being framed.
I have to admit to being taken on an exhilarating ride by this thriller, despite Jet not being a character who is universally appealing or likeable, he grabs enough good will from the reader to make you want to root for him. There is action, deception, comedy and just a riveting plot that keeps you tuned into this exemplary thriller.
I recommend this book and wager there are very few thrillers out there that can boast a faster and more thrilling pace.
I have to admit to being taken on an exhilarating ride by this thriller, despite Jet not being a character who is universally appealing or likeable, he grabs enough good will from the reader to make you want to root for him. There is action, deception, comedy and just a riveting plot that keeps you tuned into this exemplary thriller.
I recommend this book and wager there are very few thrillers out there that can boast a faster and more thrilling pace.
June 17, 2016
The author, Khaled Talib, gave me a copy of this novel in exchange for my review.
“Smokescreen” is a political thriller. An intricate plot is put in place to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minister and pin the crime on an average bloke. The planning committee (of sorts) is comprised of agents used to living under the edge of society. They are masters of manipulating public perception. The plan Talib lays out for the reader is sinister and savvy. There are shades of the other side of Daniel Silva’s stories throughout “Smokescreen.”
“Smokescreen” has a large cast of characters and international setting. It is a complete and wholly satisfying story that leaves the door open for the return of the compelling everyman lead. Bringing current conflicts to the fictional page and providing “behind the big moves” insight is a great idea that former journalist, Talib, executes perfectly.
If you’re a fan of thrillers, “Smokescreen” will be your perfect read. Winner of the 2014 e-thriller.com “Thriller of the Month,” it is a story not to be missed. Pick it up today.
“Smokescreen” is a political thriller. An intricate plot is put in place to assassinate the Israeli Prime Minister and pin the crime on an average bloke. The planning committee (of sorts) is comprised of agents used to living under the edge of society. They are masters of manipulating public perception. The plan Talib lays out for the reader is sinister and savvy. There are shades of the other side of Daniel Silva’s stories throughout “Smokescreen.”
“Smokescreen” has a large cast of characters and international setting. It is a complete and wholly satisfying story that leaves the door open for the return of the compelling everyman lead. Bringing current conflicts to the fictional page and providing “behind the big moves” insight is a great idea that former journalist, Talib, executes perfectly.
If you’re a fan of thrillers, “Smokescreen” will be your perfect read. Winner of the 2014 e-thriller.com “Thriller of the Month,” it is a story not to be missed. Pick it up today.
March 15, 2015
Smokescreen by Khaleb Taleb tells the story of a Singapore journalist, Jet West, who is framed for murder by Israeli officials who plan to murder their leader in order to create a resolution to the Palestinian conflict.
Unfortunately, I did find the whole nature of the book quite implausible, and although I enjoyed certain aspects of the book, particularly the descriptions of life in Singapore, I found the characters were quite two dimensional and not particularly well developed at all, and the plot itself at certain points difficult to follow. It was also quite hard to understand the motivation of the characters, and therefore I felt it was a book that had a lot of promise, but didn’t really deliver to my expectations.
Unfortunately, I did find the whole nature of the book quite implausible, and although I enjoyed certain aspects of the book, particularly the descriptions of life in Singapore, I found the characters were quite two dimensional and not particularly well developed at all, and the plot itself at certain points difficult to follow. It was also quite hard to understand the motivation of the characters, and therefore I felt it was a book that had a lot of promise, but didn’t really deliver to my expectations.
June 25, 2015
I was born and bred in Singapore, and even though i live in the United States, I am still a Singapore girl at heart. For this reason, I troll reads for anything on Singapore, and this is what initially attracted me to this book. I loved the imagery and local characters which I found well described. It is an action packed and fast paced read for this genre and for any reader interested in the Singapore scene today. I recommend this for an easy fun read.
Esther Kofod
THE LIBYAN
www.estherkofod.com
Esther Kofod
THE LIBYAN
www.estherkofod.com
November 26, 2014
Khaled Talib's first novel is an action packed political thriller that had me guessing the ending right until the very end. An intelligent read, with an excellent twists, turns and plots, with well thought out characters and vivid descriptions.
December 14, 2018
El Fishawy Café (Cairo’s Khan el-Khalili souk district). Michael Dexter (50, US Ambassador Singapore) was enjoying his drink.
X had his next assignment for him.
Raffles City. The Stamford (70-story); Equinox restaurant (69th floor) 14 PPL including Prime Minister Haim Abiymelek had been brutally murdered by a bomb.
Sands Sky Park. Jethro Alvin “Jet West” Westrope (son, ½-Irish/Chinese) checked into the Hotel.
Niki Kishwani (28, assassin, Singapore Tourism Board PR mgr., lawyer) introduced herself to him.
Suki read The Singapura Herald headline: 2 PPL had been killed & many more were injured at the shootout that took place at Alkaff Mansion.
Chan Boon Seng (Singapore, foreign ministry’s chief protocol officer) had 2 assignments for Yung (assassin, paranoid schizophrenic).
Ten Courts of Hell antechamber. Mary Yeo (assassin, P/G) would not be doing her rituals ever again.
Marrakech Moroccan restaurant (Boat Quay, Singapore River). Niki & Nicole Wong (AG attorney) & were enjoying their drinks/dinner.
Suddenly windows were blown out, concrete flew everywhere as the building exploded. Screams/cries of pain rang out.
Bodies & pools of blood laid all around.
The 2 of them had survived.
Tanjung Breeze Condominium. Niki (double agent) had taken a shower & was trying to relax for the evening.
Jet (magazine reporter) stopped by Niki’s. There was no answer.
The final room Jet went into, it wasn’t a pleasant sight. She spoke to him as she lay dying.
Niki’s Hindu funeral/burial were held.
What were Alice & John were being confronted by Michael Dexter (diabetic), & Robert DeAngelo (CIA, Stanford U BA; chemical engineering, former military) about?
What surprise did the Dragon Man have for Hong Kong Chong?
What were X & Michael going to do next?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written adventure book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great adventure movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Prolific Works (formerly Instafreebie) Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
X had his next assignment for him.
Raffles City. The Stamford (70-story); Equinox restaurant (69th floor) 14 PPL including Prime Minister Haim Abiymelek had been brutally murdered by a bomb.
Sands Sky Park. Jethro Alvin “Jet West” Westrope (son, ½-Irish/Chinese) checked into the Hotel.
Niki Kishwani (28, assassin, Singapore Tourism Board PR mgr., lawyer) introduced herself to him.
Suki read The Singapura Herald headline: 2 PPL had been killed & many more were injured at the shootout that took place at Alkaff Mansion.
Chan Boon Seng (Singapore, foreign ministry’s chief protocol officer) had 2 assignments for Yung (assassin, paranoid schizophrenic).
Ten Courts of Hell antechamber. Mary Yeo (assassin, P/G) would not be doing her rituals ever again.
Marrakech Moroccan restaurant (Boat Quay, Singapore River). Niki & Nicole Wong (AG attorney) & were enjoying their drinks/dinner.
Suddenly windows were blown out, concrete flew everywhere as the building exploded. Screams/cries of pain rang out.
Bodies & pools of blood laid all around.
The 2 of them had survived.
Tanjung Breeze Condominium. Niki (double agent) had taken a shower & was trying to relax for the evening.
Jet (magazine reporter) stopped by Niki’s. There was no answer.
The final room Jet went into, it wasn’t a pleasant sight. She spoke to him as she lay dying.
Niki’s Hindu funeral/burial were held.
What were Alice & John were being confronted by Michael Dexter (diabetic), & Robert DeAngelo (CIA, Stanford U BA; chemical engineering, former military) about?
What surprise did the Dragon Man have for Hong Kong Chong?
What were X & Michael going to do next?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written adventure book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great adventure movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Prolific Works (formerly Instafreebie) Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
August 4, 2022
I wanted to like it - espionage set in Singapore, assassination, intrigue etc etc. But I think it just fell flat for me, especially because the main character (Jet) comes off as obnoxious. A lot of the dialogue rings "trying to be suave or slick" but falls more in the category of unrealistic and greasy.
So a few personal gripes:
1) why is it that every single female character is either sexually attracted to him (no, seriously, even the junior prosecutor at the AGC who has just seen his face for five minutes during work hours while she's doing Work) or dead? ???
2) the way the author references locations in Singapore comes off as trying to show that he knows these places exist - so it feels more disruptive to the flow of the story. See: "Ashok Kishwani, a prominent lawyer at Raffles Place, Singapore's financial and business district" - like, yes, a lot of top law firms are in Raffles Place but this phrasing is just odd. You could have just referenced an actual law firm or said that he was a senior counsel or a prominent figure in the legal industry and that would have felt more natural.
3) maybe this was written in 2013, so times were different, but I don't know what's harder to believe - a deputy public prosecutor who doesn't have internet service at home because there's too much of it at work (what even.) or the fact that the police came across a literal crime scene, corpse and all, and just went out of the room without Checking The Place To See If The Perpetrator Is Still There.
4) there's a white guy who's the boss of chinatown called "Hong Kong Chong" ...
I think maybe if you're in the mood for James Bond, you might find this good, but honestly I just can't take it seriously.
So a few personal gripes:
1) why is it that every single female character is either sexually attracted to him (no, seriously, even the junior prosecutor at the AGC who has just seen his face for five minutes during work hours while she's doing Work) or dead? ???
2) the way the author references locations in Singapore comes off as trying to show that he knows these places exist - so it feels more disruptive to the flow of the story. See: "Ashok Kishwani, a prominent lawyer at Raffles Place, Singapore's financial and business district" - like, yes, a lot of top law firms are in Raffles Place but this phrasing is just odd. You could have just referenced an actual law firm or said that he was a senior counsel or a prominent figure in the legal industry and that would have felt more natural.
3) maybe this was written in 2013, so times were different, but I don't know what's harder to believe - a deputy public prosecutor who doesn't have internet service at home because there's too much of it at work (what even.) or the fact that the police came across a literal crime scene, corpse and all, and just went out of the room without Checking The Place To See If The Perpetrator Is Still There.
4) there's a white guy who's the boss of chinatown called "Hong Kong Chong" ...
I think maybe if you're in the mood for James Bond, you might find this good, but honestly I just can't take it seriously.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2021
Five stars An intelligent, fast-paced spy thriller.
I love the title of this first spy-thriller by Khaled Talib (he just published number four, Spiral). The title sounds like a spy thriller that SHOULD have been filmed by Alfred Hitchcock—North by Northwest, Vertigo, Topaz—Smokescreen.
Talib’s fast-paced plot could have been ripped off the headlines today, pointing out fascinating facts about Israel-Palestine relations and Singapore.
Singapore, the author’s home town, is exotic to this American reader, and his characters—Eurasian, Chinese, Muslim—are not the usual characters the reader finds in a typical Lee Child thriller—much to this book’s benefit.
Descriptions of the exotic places are vivid and well-drawn, the characters are three-dimensional, portrayed with sympathy. Except for the villains, who are truly, truly evil. As for some of the good guys—but no plot spoilers in this review.
Recommended for all readers!
I love the title of this first spy-thriller by Khaled Talib (he just published number four, Spiral). The title sounds like a spy thriller that SHOULD have been filmed by Alfred Hitchcock—North by Northwest, Vertigo, Topaz—Smokescreen.
Talib’s fast-paced plot could have been ripped off the headlines today, pointing out fascinating facts about Israel-Palestine relations and Singapore.
Singapore, the author’s home town, is exotic to this American reader, and his characters—Eurasian, Chinese, Muslim—are not the usual characters the reader finds in a typical Lee Child thriller—much to this book’s benefit.
Descriptions of the exotic places are vivid and well-drawn, the characters are three-dimensional, portrayed with sympathy. Except for the villains, who are truly, truly evil. As for some of the good guys—but no plot spoilers in this review.
Recommended for all readers!
November 18, 2018
Recieved free for review:
The hidden world of political espionage is unknown to most people.
This gives a plunge into that world combined with a glimpse into a foreign culture.
Didn't think I would like it at first, but ended up truly absorbed!
The hidden world of political espionage is unknown to most people.
This gives a plunge into that world combined with a glimpse into a foreign culture.
Didn't think I would like it at first, but ended up truly absorbed!
November 30, 2017
If you are prepared for a B-league thriller, you might find this book acceptable; it is just that the incredibly high reviews led me to think this was something more....well, it’s not.
Here is the shortlist of what makes is B-league:
# silly action as plot replacement
# cardboard characters and wooden dialogues
# significant plausibility issues
I managed to bear with all the above for about half the book, then I thought “enough”and I gave it up...
Here is the shortlist of what makes is B-league:
# silly action as plot replacement
# cardboard characters and wooden dialogues
# significant plausibility issues
I managed to bear with all the above for about half the book, then I thought “enough”and I gave it up...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews