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The Asymmetric Man
A dramatic adventure and love story Embark on a gripping journey of sacrifice and self-discovery in The Asymmetric Man, a thrilling tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Vietnam War. Follow Blake, a young recruit turned undercover agent, as he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, survival and forbidden love. From war-ravaged Saigon to seemingly impenetrable jungle and the tranquility of a Buddhist monastery, this riveting novel explores the power of recognising and embracing one's true calling, no matter the cost.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 23, 2023
7 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 7, 2024
This was such an unexpected, beautiful, thought-provoking story. I initially thought the book was going to be an adventure/spy, all action story, and whilst there were some elements of this, the book is ultimately about self-discovery, growth, love, and sacrifice.
The book is nicely written, and the different timelines gave a more detailed picture of Blake's journey. There were some really interesting characters, and the main characters were well rounded.
The setting is brought to life with the descriptions of food, people, and scenery, and this kept me engaged with the story as it felt real.
The author evoked lots of emotion in this story, despite the main character being fairly stiff and socially awkward. Seeing how Blake went through some traumatic experiences, yet finding his inner peace and who he was meant to be, was very moving.
I highly recommend this unique and interesting take on the journey of self-discovery.
In addition, reading this book as a read along was a truly great experience. The questions made me really reflect on my own life and my journey to where and who I am now. What a great experience!
With thanks to the author and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
The book is nicely written, and the different timelines gave a more detailed picture of Blake's journey. There were some really interesting characters, and the main characters were well rounded.
The setting is brought to life with the descriptions of food, people, and scenery, and this kept me engaged with the story as it felt real.
The author evoked lots of emotion in this story, despite the main character being fairly stiff and socially awkward. Seeing how Blake went through some traumatic experiences, yet finding his inner peace and who he was meant to be, was very moving.
I highly recommend this unique and interesting take on the journey of self-discovery.
In addition, reading this book as a read along was a truly great experience. The questions made me really reflect on my own life and my journey to where and who I am now. What a great experience!
With thanks to the author and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
March 27, 2024
The Asymmetric Man by Alex Rushton.
Book 1 of 3: Blake Carter.
Embark on a gripping journey of sacrifice and self-discovery in The Asymmetric Man, a thrilling tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Vietnam War. Follow Blake, a young recruit turned undercover agent, as he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, survival, and forbidden love. From war-ravaged Saigon to seemingly impenetrable jungle and the tranquillity of a Buddhist monastery, this riveting novel explores the power of recognising and embracing one's true calling, no matter the cost.
I really did enjoy this book. I got into it straight away. The cover and blurb drew me in. The start of each chapter you had where they were and the month and year. I did like Blake. Action from the start. I felt like I was there watching everything. Very well written. I loved the vivid description of the different places he goes to. The way Blake learns Buddhism. It was explained so well. I loved how he was with Cathy. I did like Khien. I'm looking forward to the next book. 4*.
Book 1 of 3: Blake Carter.
Embark on a gripping journey of sacrifice and self-discovery in The Asymmetric Man, a thrilling tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Vietnam War. Follow Blake, a young recruit turned undercover agent, as he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, survival, and forbidden love. From war-ravaged Saigon to seemingly impenetrable jungle and the tranquillity of a Buddhist monastery, this riveting novel explores the power of recognising and embracing one's true calling, no matter the cost.
I really did enjoy this book. I got into it straight away. The cover and blurb drew me in. The start of each chapter you had where they were and the month and year. I did like Blake. Action from the start. I felt like I was there watching everything. Very well written. I loved the vivid description of the different places he goes to. The way Blake learns Buddhism. It was explained so well. I loved how he was with Cathy. I did like Khien. I'm looking forward to the next book. 4*.
November 27, 2023
A real page turner,I couldn’t put it down.
I was given a review copy, and was really happy to read it. Blake Carter is enigmatic, making him a really interesting character. The story takes us to Vietnam at the height of the Vietnamese war where Blake is under cover and constantly in danger..
I was particularly impressed by the scenes in Saigon, the Buddhist Monastery and the jungle, with its own very real dangers. They were so vividly written it was as if the author had actually been there. I enjoyed everything about this book; the mystery, the danger, being with Blake on his journey and the tender moments involving Cathy. A great read.
Next, I’m going to read Cathy’s story (The Girl at Conway Place).
Oh and I love the cover. Spent hours gazing at it , imaging Blake deep in his thoughts about his life.
I was given a review copy, and was really happy to read it. Blake Carter is enigmatic, making him a really interesting character. The story takes us to Vietnam at the height of the Vietnamese war where Blake is under cover and constantly in danger..
I was particularly impressed by the scenes in Saigon, the Buddhist Monastery and the jungle, with its own very real dangers. They were so vividly written it was as if the author had actually been there. I enjoyed everything about this book; the mystery, the danger, being with Blake on his journey and the tender moments involving Cathy. A great read.
Next, I’m going to read Cathy’s story (The Girl at Conway Place).
Oh and I love the cover. Spent hours gazing at it , imaging Blake deep in his thoughts about his life.
January 5, 2024
A real thriller set in Saigon in the days of the Vietcong and it’s full of action but also a love story and about how someone can change and become more than they thought possible.
I found the story gripping and the changes from city to jungle to a monastery and the changes in time from war days to more recent times and back again to be very clever and meant the story never slowed.
The protagonist Blake is an interesting and complex character and the themes of loss and redemption came through strongly.
Highly recommended.
I found the story gripping and the changes from city to jungle to a monastery and the changes in time from war days to more recent times and back again to be very clever and meant the story never slowed.
The protagonist Blake is an interesting and complex character and the themes of loss and redemption came through strongly.
Highly recommended.
March 29, 2024
This astonishing novel had me hooked from the get-go and kept me wanting more. I was fascinated by the charismatic protagonist, Blake Carter. The scenes in Saigon and the jungle were vividly portrayed and I felt I was there with him as he struggled to stay alive in the face of overwhelming odds.
I definitely recommend this book. Be prepared to be amazed.
I definitely recommend this book. Be prepared to be amazed.
December 8, 2024
All in all, I enjoyed this book!
#Spiritualism or Materialism - you decide.. 🤔
#Spiritualism or Materialism - you decide.. 🤔
March 30, 2024
Having recently learned that I don’t enjoy military thrillers, I was dubious when I picked this one up. But I’d already signed up for the tour, and I honor my commitments. And, like the one time I was forced to watch a play about World War II on my birthday, it turned out better than OK! That turned out to be one of my favorite plays during my semester abroad in England. And this book was pretty awesome!
While the book is “set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Vietnam War,” it also flits to different timelines, following the main character through different times in his life and career. I definitely saw what the author could have meant by “asymmetric man,” but of course these sorts of things are wibbly, and you might interpret it differently – so I don’t want to spoil that for you. But it is incredibly interesting to watch. The sex is a little more graphic than I prefer, but it probably barely rates on the spicy scale for most people – unless you’re a clean romance/closed-door fan like me. The violence levels were what you would expect in a book involving war. And the story has something for pretty much everyone – romance, adventure, family, friendships, religion, philosophy.
Blake, sometimes John, is a great character. He’s very stoic, almost to the point of making you wonder if he’s a sociopath. He’s definitely a morally grey hero, and in the end, I was left wondering if he really was the hero of this story or not. I loved his friend in Vietnam, Khein. He was one of my favorite characters, Cathy, his British receptionist being my other favorite. Hoa, Khein’s daughter is also a wonderful character!
I’ll admit I don’t know much about this period. We didn’t make it that far in history at my school. We always started back at a certain point and never got past WWII with any depth. Several times we did a rush job in the decades after that leading up to the years I was in school, but I never really learned much. I also don’t know much about Vietnam, so I enjoyed getting an insight into their culture.
I always love a good timeline jump story, but I did get a little confused by this one, especially in the beginning. But I did manage to catch on eventually. I was a little saddened by the ending, but the author included a note saying this is a prequel to her other two books – so maybe there is hope for the things I didn’t prefer.
If you enjoy epic historical fiction filled with romance, war, espionage, religion, and more, this is a great story for you. It’s got a little something for everyone, so people who like to read will probably enjoy this book. I was a little skeptical because I’ve recently learned war books aren’t my cup of tea, but I was pleasantly surprised! This isn’t like any book I’ve read before!
Content Warnings: Murder, Violence, Death, SA, Graphic Adult Situations, Adult Language, War, Religious Ideation
While the book is “set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Vietnam War,” it also flits to different timelines, following the main character through different times in his life and career. I definitely saw what the author could have meant by “asymmetric man,” but of course these sorts of things are wibbly, and you might interpret it differently – so I don’t want to spoil that for you. But it is incredibly interesting to watch. The sex is a little more graphic than I prefer, but it probably barely rates on the spicy scale for most people – unless you’re a clean romance/closed-door fan like me. The violence levels were what you would expect in a book involving war. And the story has something for pretty much everyone – romance, adventure, family, friendships, religion, philosophy.
Blake, sometimes John, is a great character. He’s very stoic, almost to the point of making you wonder if he’s a sociopath. He’s definitely a morally grey hero, and in the end, I was left wondering if he really was the hero of this story or not. I loved his friend in Vietnam, Khein. He was one of my favorite characters, Cathy, his British receptionist being my other favorite. Hoa, Khein’s daughter is also a wonderful character!
I’ll admit I don’t know much about this period. We didn’t make it that far in history at my school. We always started back at a certain point and never got past WWII with any depth. Several times we did a rush job in the decades after that leading up to the years I was in school, but I never really learned much. I also don’t know much about Vietnam, so I enjoyed getting an insight into their culture.
I always love a good timeline jump story, but I did get a little confused by this one, especially in the beginning. But I did manage to catch on eventually. I was a little saddened by the ending, but the author included a note saying this is a prequel to her other two books – so maybe there is hope for the things I didn’t prefer.
If you enjoy epic historical fiction filled with romance, war, espionage, religion, and more, this is a great story for you. It’s got a little something for everyone, so people who like to read will probably enjoy this book. I was a little skeptical because I’ve recently learned war books aren’t my cup of tea, but I was pleasantly surprised! This isn’t like any book I’ve read before!
Content Warnings: Murder, Violence, Death, SA, Graphic Adult Situations, Adult Language, War, Religious Ideation
March 29, 2024
‘The Asymmetric Man’ is an engaging read that left me with an overwhelming sense of peace. I know this is classed as ‘adventure fiction’ but it is so much more - an interesting and enlightening take on the horrors of war, the coldness of those involved and how change really is possible. Now you all know I love a thriller but it wasn’t this side of the book that appealed to me, it was the main character’s road to spirituality. As a Buddhist myself I found his journey to find inner peace fascinating and thought-provoking.
Blake is recruited straight out of university by MI6 and soon finds himself in the uneasy situation of the Vietnam War. He isn't there officially and his colleagues believe him to be a translator. He has a personal remit though which brings him into extreme danger. He ends up spending time lost in the jungle and eventually reaches the safe haven of a Buddhist monastery.
This is truly a story about recognising the true you and learning to embrace that. However, saying that the book is packed full of exciting espionage, exotic locations, love and hope! I flew through this book in one morning, it was enthralling and I couldn't put it down. It's full of rich descriptions, well-formed and complex characters with a great sense of location and historical setting.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Blake is recruited straight out of university by MI6 and soon finds himself in the uneasy situation of the Vietnam War. He isn't there officially and his colleagues believe him to be a translator. He has a personal remit though which brings him into extreme danger. He ends up spending time lost in the jungle and eventually reaches the safe haven of a Buddhist monastery.
This is truly a story about recognising the true you and learning to embrace that. However, saying that the book is packed full of exciting espionage, exotic locations, love and hope! I flew through this book in one morning, it was enthralling and I couldn't put it down. It's full of rich descriptions, well-formed and complex characters with a great sense of location and historical setting.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
November 23, 2023
An action packed novel that will keep you entertained from page one to page three hundred and fifty nine.
This is my first novel by Alex and I have to say I was floored. From beginning to end I was locked into the story of Blake as he navigates life undercover. You jump right in on the action from the beginning at times I could feel my heart beating as crazily as I can imagine this main characters was while facing down these scary situations. With such descriptive writing I could at times imagine I was along side this character during his adventures.
Ruston writes an amazing historical fiction that takes you back in time, I remember studying the Vietnam war at school but this novel had me not only learning more but feeling that I was there amidst all the chaos. I really enjoyed that there was bit of a romance sub plot in there along all the thrilling action and it worked so well with the story line.Fresh and stimulating you will never find yourself with a dull moment while reading this. The author does an excellent job of keeping your brain active and guessing while reading this novel.
This is my first novel by Alex and I have to say I was floored. From beginning to end I was locked into the story of Blake as he navigates life undercover. You jump right in on the action from the beginning at times I could feel my heart beating as crazily as I can imagine this main characters was while facing down these scary situations. With such descriptive writing I could at times imagine I was along side this character during his adventures.
Ruston writes an amazing historical fiction that takes you back in time, I remember studying the Vietnam war at school but this novel had me not only learning more but feeling that I was there amidst all the chaos. I really enjoyed that there was bit of a romance sub plot in there along all the thrilling action and it worked so well with the story line.Fresh and stimulating you will never find yourself with a dull moment while reading this. The author does an excellent job of keeping your brain active and guessing while reading this novel.
November 24, 2023
This the first book I have ever read by this author. This is definitely an action packed book filled with spies, love, and more!
This is the story of Blake, a man on the other side of the world in Vietnam. He was recruited from college to go to a special training program for M-I6, the UK’s secret intelligence service. Blake goes to Vietnam due to the program. He is there to assassinate someone who MI6 wants taken out. Blake is undercover as John Miller and no one actually knows who is is except a few very strategically placed people from MI6.
The entire story is about Blake’s journey as a MI6 agent and there is a romance with someone named Cathy throughout the book as well. Blake meets Cathy years later in London and is himself not anyone undercover this time. There are several chapters that the characters time travel back and forth between 1967 in Vietnam to 1979 in London.
I really enjoyed the Buddhist monastery making that a part of the story, as I am a Buddhist. I as well liked the time travel aspect in the story it was a good engaging way of making the reader want to keep reading!
This is the story of Blake, a man on the other side of the world in Vietnam. He was recruited from college to go to a special training program for M-I6, the UK’s secret intelligence service. Blake goes to Vietnam due to the program. He is there to assassinate someone who MI6 wants taken out. Blake is undercover as John Miller and no one actually knows who is is except a few very strategically placed people from MI6.
The entire story is about Blake’s journey as a MI6 agent and there is a romance with someone named Cathy throughout the book as well. Blake meets Cathy years later in London and is himself not anyone undercover this time. There are several chapters that the characters time travel back and forth between 1967 in Vietnam to 1979 in London.
I really enjoyed the Buddhist monastery making that a part of the story, as I am a Buddhist. I as well liked the time travel aspect in the story it was a good engaging way of making the reader want to keep reading!
April 3, 2024
This is the first book in a new and intriguing series - Blake Carter.
In this first book we meet Blake as he embarks on a dangerous journey, set during the Vietnam war, as an undercover agent.
I was initially drawn to this one by the interesting title and front cover. The blurb suggested that it might not be one of my usual reading genres - but I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed the way the different themes and stories threaded in and out of each other.
This was, in part, a difficult read and I learned so much about this period of time - the descriptive writing really transported me to the streets of Saigon and conveyed the difficult and treacherous atmosphere surrounding the effects of the war.
On the flip side of this, we also caught the calming and spiritual effects as Blake travels through the other side and I found the scenes in the Buddhist temple to be really fascinating and thought-provoking.
I liked that we had the dual timeline format here as we were able to gain some background into Blake's past and how he came to be at this point in life.
A really enjoyable read and I'd be keen to continue with this series in the future.
In this first book we meet Blake as he embarks on a dangerous journey, set during the Vietnam war, as an undercover agent.
I was initially drawn to this one by the interesting title and front cover. The blurb suggested that it might not be one of my usual reading genres - but I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed the way the different themes and stories threaded in and out of each other.
This was, in part, a difficult read and I learned so much about this period of time - the descriptive writing really transported me to the streets of Saigon and conveyed the difficult and treacherous atmosphere surrounding the effects of the war.
On the flip side of this, we also caught the calming and spiritual effects as Blake travels through the other side and I found the scenes in the Buddhist temple to be really fascinating and thought-provoking.
I liked that we had the dual timeline format here as we were able to gain some background into Blake's past and how he came to be at this point in life.
A really enjoyable read and I'd be keen to continue with this series in the future.
April 2, 2024
Embark on a gripping journey of sacrifice and self-discovery in "The Asymmetric Man," a thrilling tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Vietnam War. Follow Blake, a young recruit turned undercover agent, as he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, survival, and forbidden love.
From war-ravaged city to seemingly impenetrable jungle and the tranquility of a Buddhist monastery, this riveting novel explores the power of recognizing and embracing one's true calling, no matter the cost.
Rushton's writing style is engaging and descriptive, allowing readers to vividly imagine the whole world building in front of their eyes. The character development is rich and nuanced. I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored.
"The Asymmetric Man" is a captivating novel that combines espionage, sacrifice, and love, all set against a backdrop of historical turmoil. If you enjoy thrilling stories with well-developed characters, this book is worth diving into!
From war-ravaged city to seemingly impenetrable jungle and the tranquility of a Buddhist monastery, this riveting novel explores the power of recognizing and embracing one's true calling, no matter the cost.
Rushton's writing style is engaging and descriptive, allowing readers to vividly imagine the whole world building in front of their eyes. The character development is rich and nuanced. I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored.
"The Asymmetric Man" is a captivating novel that combines espionage, sacrifice, and love, all set against a backdrop of historical turmoil. If you enjoy thrilling stories with well-developed characters, this book is worth diving into!
April 3, 2024
A split time novel telling the story of MI5 undercover agent Blake Carter in 1967 Saigon (and its outlying jungle vividly brought to life using sensory descriptive language,) and London in 1979 focusing on Blakes life and work as a retired agent where his romance with Cathy starts.
Not knowing anything about the Vietnam War or Buddhism didn't hamper the enjoyment and understanding of this novel, but it has generated a number of Google searches, especially about meditations.
I'm glad I read this book, especially the action parts in 1967 Vietnam and Blakes spiritual development as a reaction to his contempt for the "excessive and meaningless pursuit of money and the God's of consumerism" of 1979 London.
Not knowing anything about the Vietnam War or Buddhism didn't hamper the enjoyment and understanding of this novel, but it has generated a number of Google searches, especially about meditations.
I'm glad I read this book, especially the action parts in 1967 Vietnam and Blakes spiritual development as a reaction to his contempt for the "excessive and meaningless pursuit of money and the God's of consumerism" of 1979 London.
April 2, 2024
The Asymmetric Man ( the first book in the Blake Cater series) by Alex Rushton is an action adventure thriller in which we follow Blake, an undercover agent who's embarking on a dangerous mission during the Vietnam War.
I found the writing to be brilliantly descriptive, so much so that you really do feel yourself transported to the Vietnam of those days, and everything feels so real. The author has quite obviously done some seriously extensive research.
I also found the combination of the spiritual themes and the spy thriller themes to be an interesting mix. Not something you see too often so I enjoyed those aspects of the read.
The characters had decent depth and the storyline flowed well.
All in all, an enjoyable read.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
I found the writing to be brilliantly descriptive, so much so that you really do feel yourself transported to the Vietnam of those days, and everything feels so real. The author has quite obviously done some seriously extensive research.
I also found the combination of the spiritual themes and the spy thriller themes to be an interesting mix. Not something you see too often so I enjoyed those aspects of the read.
The characters had decent depth and the storyline flowed well.
All in all, an enjoyable read.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
March 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this exciting book that is both adventure and thriller as well as a tender romance. The author handles the different genres with consummate skill and the result is a highly enjoyable book. Blake is an undercover agent working in Saigon during the Vietnamese war. He leads a double life that leads to adventure and eventually danger. The love story is tender and believable. But at its heart this book is about one man’s spiritual journey over many years. A thrilling and enjoyable book that I don’t hesitate in recommending.
March 23, 2024
Alex Rushton takes us on an interesting adventure, following Blake Carter, a young recruit who gets offered covert work by secret intelligence service MI6.
After being sent to Vietnam during the war, Blake ends up in a situation that sees him fighting for survival in the jungle. These chapters were so well written. I could really picture the scenes and Blake’s terrible and seemingly endless situation.
What photos after in the monastery made for fascinating reading and I really enjoyed following Blake’s self reflection and finding peace. This was a very interesting read.
After being sent to Vietnam during the war, Blake ends up in a situation that sees him fighting for survival in the jungle. These chapters were so well written. I could really picture the scenes and Blake’s terrible and seemingly endless situation.
What photos after in the monastery made for fascinating reading and I really enjoyed following Blake’s self reflection and finding peace. This was a very interesting read.
November 8, 2024
So this was a really different type of read for me. I got right into the book and I had to stop to read the blurb because I don't usually do that. I just go into the book blind. As I read the blurb I was shocked to see that is book was about sacrifice and self discovery. The back drop of this book is set in espionage and the Vietnam War and a jungle in the far east. So then I was intrigued and I had to keep reading.
I was so shocked by this read. How the author blended this book so well was pure genius. I mean the action the adventure and the zen feeling left me going what is happening! He makes you really feel what the characters are feeling it's crazy. I was so invested in this book !!
I loved how none of the characters are the same. None really jump out at you or stick with you because it isn't that type of book. I mean don't get me wrong I felt what they were feeling for sure that I did.
Oh did I enjoy reading about Blake in the jungle and at times I felt I was with him so much so I felt my skin crawl and I wanted a shower and to change my sheets.
And then we get the zen parts In the monastery and I felt like I could take a nap.
I absolutely loved this book and I was so shocked by how well the author wrote this story was truly amazing.
I was so shocked by this read. How the author blended this book so well was pure genius. I mean the action the adventure and the zen feeling left me going what is happening! He makes you really feel what the characters are feeling it's crazy. I was so invested in this book !!
I loved how none of the characters are the same. None really jump out at you or stick with you because it isn't that type of book. I mean don't get me wrong I felt what they were feeling for sure that I did.
Oh did I enjoy reading about Blake in the jungle and at times I felt I was with him so much so I felt my skin crawl and I wanted a shower and to change my sheets.
And then we get the zen parts In the monastery and I felt like I could take a nap.
I absolutely loved this book and I was so shocked by how well the author wrote this story was truly amazing.
November 2, 2024
This is actually the second time I've read this book, and I loved it even more this time around. One of my favourite things was that the ending wasn't the traditional "happy ever after, love conquers all." The characters did end up happy and it's nice to see a story where people's happiness isn't tied to a relationship. And material possessions aren't everything, sometimes less is more.
I love Blake. This book really is a journey of self discovery for him. From army recruit to undercover agent to Buddhist monk to rich businessman. He really did try out a variety of personas which meant he really knew what he wanted by the end. The juxtaposition of his survival in the jungle and subsequent life in the monastery was so well written.
Cathy was a brilliant character too. She was really well written and believable. Her excitement at learning how CDs were made and worked was infectious. I'd never really thought about it until reading this book, and can only conclude that it's some kind of magic.
There was a great blend of action and adventure in the jungle, and normal life back at home. It made the whole book feel more real and the non-linear timeline worked really well in this instance.
Overall this was an utterly fantastic page turner and I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series in the near future.
I love Blake. This book really is a journey of self discovery for him. From army recruit to undercover agent to Buddhist monk to rich businessman. He really did try out a variety of personas which meant he really knew what he wanted by the end. The juxtaposition of his survival in the jungle and subsequent life in the monastery was so well written.
Cathy was a brilliant character too. She was really well written and believable. Her excitement at learning how CDs were made and worked was infectious. I'd never really thought about it until reading this book, and can only conclude that it's some kind of magic.
There was a great blend of action and adventure in the jungle, and normal life back at home. It made the whole book feel more real and the non-linear timeline worked really well in this instance.
Overall this was an utterly fantastic page turner and I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series in the near future.
October 31, 2024
I was hooked by this book even from the prologue. Multi lingual, coolheaded Blake Carter is offered an undercover agent role with a Far East Embassy, utilising his skills as a translator. The position takes him to Saigon where he encounters violence, cold blooded executions, harsh jungle conditions but also love and enlightenment. Later he has choices to make about where he truly belongs.
This is a brilliant read, spanning the 1960’s to 1980 and encompassing Borneo, Saigon, Cairo and the UK. I enjoyed the sections around Buddhism, its spiritual practises of meditation and contemplation and learning about the customs and foods of Vietnam. Alex Rushton creates an authentic depiction of Saigon’s sounds, smells and sights and also those of the jungle. I could almost hear the animals and touch the lush green foliage. This is an excellent book and a fitting title. I felt for Blake and his tough decisions and I liked the multifaceted plot. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this refreshing read.
This is a brilliant read, spanning the 1960’s to 1980 and encompassing Borneo, Saigon, Cairo and the UK. I enjoyed the sections around Buddhism, its spiritual practises of meditation and contemplation and learning about the customs and foods of Vietnam. Alex Rushton creates an authentic depiction of Saigon’s sounds, smells and sights and also those of the jungle. I could almost hear the animals and touch the lush green foliage. This is an excellent book and a fitting title. I felt for Blake and his tough decisions and I liked the multifaceted plot. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this refreshing read.
November 7, 2024
Thanks to the author for the copy 💕
I really did like this book when I started it out, drawn in by suspense as well as how action packed the chapters and the characters were. However, for me the book sadly just dragged out way too much to a point of putting me in a bit of a slump (however that could just be my preference of only liking things set 80s onwards).
I really did like this book when I started it out, drawn in by suspense as well as how action packed the chapters and the characters were. However, for me the book sadly just dragged out way too much to a point of putting me in a bit of a slump (however that could just be my preference of only liking things set 80s onwards).
October 31, 2024
The Asymmetric Man by Alex Rushton sweeps you off your feet and takes you on a wild ride through the heart of Vietnam, where love and bravery intertwine in the most unexpected ways. Blake, our charming young recruit, transforms from a naive soldier to a daring undercover agent, and along the way, he grapples with self-discovery, sacrifice, and that oh so forbidden love that makes your heart race!
Rushton's prose paints vivid landscapes, from the bustling streets of Saigon to serene Buddhist monasteries, making you feel like you're right there alongside Blake in every pulse-pounding moment. This story is not just about war; it’s about finding your voice amidst the chaos and the courageous choices that define us.
If you crave a tale filled with adventure, romance, and profound moments of introspection, look no further! Grab a cozy blanket and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions The Asymmetric Man is sure to leave a lasting spark in your heart! 🌺📖💖
Rushton's prose paints vivid landscapes, from the bustling streets of Saigon to serene Buddhist monasteries, making you feel like you're right there alongside Blake in every pulse-pounding moment. This story is not just about war; it’s about finding your voice amidst the chaos and the courageous choices that define us.
If you crave a tale filled with adventure, romance, and profound moments of introspection, look no further! Grab a cozy blanket and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions The Asymmetric Man is sure to leave a lasting spark in your heart! 🌺📖💖
November 1, 2024
I’d seen good reviews about this book so definitely wanted to read it for myself, although it mentioned it was set alongside the Vietnam war…not something I know much about, it actually didn’t overpower the story and was still an great read if that’s not your sort of thing. The book had a bit of everythIng, action, romance, suspense and adventure to lots of different countries. I liked that the book was fairly fast paced and jumped to the important parts. I really liked the spirituality the book had too, it’s something I have got into in my own life in recent years and love reading books that feature it too.
October 31, 2024
A highly enjoyable read combining the topics of war and spirituality. These are not topics that usually go together but the author does a great job of combining the two and showing both sides of a person.
I loved reading about the transformation of the main character Blake from a cold hearted assassin to a Buddhist monk - quite the transformation after all!
Before reading this book I didn’t know anything about the Vietnamese war so I learnt about this too. It is an interesting subject that I want to read more about.
I loved reading about the transformation of the main character Blake from a cold hearted assassin to a Buddhist monk - quite the transformation after all!
Before reading this book I didn’t know anything about the Vietnamese war so I learnt about this too. It is an interesting subject that I want to read more about.
October 31, 2024
Thank you Alex Rushton and love book tours for having me on the adventure read along and for my gifted copy of the book.
I found this book intriguing, I wasn't hooked but I liked reading it, it's full of adventure, sacrifice and self discovery, dramatic adventure love story, it points out the choices in lives and outlines goals that should and could be in lives.
I found this book intriguing, I wasn't hooked but I liked reading it, it's full of adventure, sacrifice and self discovery, dramatic adventure love story, it points out the choices in lives and outlines goals that should and could be in lives.
November 4, 2024
I loved this book! At the start, I thought that it was going to be in the traditional format of before and now; however, I loved the way that it was done. We meet Blake back in the day when he was going undercover, and even though he seemed very aloof and a loner, there was something about him that was intriguing. He was definitely ruthless in the early part of the book, and then when you meet him in the future, he seems to have lost that quality, which I think is a good thing.
We then skip forward a few years where Cathy is going for a job where Blake is recruiting. I like Cathy's character as she genuinely wanted the job and she was willing to work hard. I liked the fact that she had no interest in gossiping with 'the girls' in the office who were only fishing for information anyway and they seemed very close to Norman who seemed like a shady character.
The relationship between Blake and Cathy was lovely to see, and it remained very professional for as long as they could. I wasn't sure if something was going to happen between them, due to Blake's reserved nature and the mystery surrounding him, despite the office girls' efforts to uncover more about him, he managed to remain a handsome enigma.
I loved the scenes with Blake & Cathy's trip, and I really loved how the rest of Blake's past was told as he shared it with Cathy. Even though I knew that Blake was okay, my heart was racing reading this part. I was absolutely gripped by his journey through the jungle, and I was willing him on to get to the monastery safely.
I found that even as I was reading about Blake's time at the monastery, I was so relaxed as he was explaining how he had felt there. It really made me think about how aware of things I am (or not!) and I found this part thought-provoking. I didn't see the ending coming, and I was really surprised as I was reading it, but in hindsight, it does make sense. It has left me wanting more, which is always a good thing. Is there more to get? I'm unsure but will remain hopeful!
We then skip forward a few years where Cathy is going for a job where Blake is recruiting. I like Cathy's character as she genuinely wanted the job and she was willing to work hard. I liked the fact that she had no interest in gossiping with 'the girls' in the office who were only fishing for information anyway and they seemed very close to Norman who seemed like a shady character.
The relationship between Blake and Cathy was lovely to see, and it remained very professional for as long as they could. I wasn't sure if something was going to happen between them, due to Blake's reserved nature and the mystery surrounding him, despite the office girls' efforts to uncover more about him, he managed to remain a handsome enigma.
I loved the scenes with Blake & Cathy's trip, and I really loved how the rest of Blake's past was told as he shared it with Cathy. Even though I knew that Blake was okay, my heart was racing reading this part. I was absolutely gripped by his journey through the jungle, and I was willing him on to get to the monastery safely.
I found that even as I was reading about Blake's time at the monastery, I was so relaxed as he was explaining how he had felt there. It really made me think about how aware of things I am (or not!) and I found this part thought-provoking. I didn't see the ending coming, and I was really surprised as I was reading it, but in hindsight, it does make sense. It has left me wanting more, which is always a good thing. Is there more to get? I'm unsure but will remain hopeful!
November 13, 2024
This book took me by surprise. It was both captivating and enjoyable and completely different to what I thought it would be like after reading the book description.
This book was full of action that had me turning the pages following the journey of the Asymmetric man through self-discovery and sacrifice. Not only is this book incredibly written, it is so detailed and really pulls you into the amazing world with interesting characters.
This was a unique and wonderful read that I would highly recommend to others.
This book was full of action that had me turning the pages following the journey of the Asymmetric man through self-discovery and sacrifice. Not only is this book incredibly written, it is so detailed and really pulls you into the amazing world with interesting characters.
This was a unique and wonderful read that I would highly recommend to others.
December 2, 2024
What a thrilling and tense read this was. Our main character Blake goes on quite an adventure through the Vietnam Jungle during the war. He starts off as quite a heartless man but throughout the story he discovers his true self and his perspective on life completely changes. It’s a story of survival and discovery and realising what we are capable of when in really tough situations. I thought it was really well written and the descriptions of the jungle were so vivid I felt like I was there with him. You’ll really feel like you’ve been on an adventure when reading this book. I highly recommend if you enjoy an action adventure story with a side of romance.
October 6, 2024
I've really enjoyed reading this! Alex has created a truly incredible character in Blake. His personality shines and when he meets Cathy, he has another purpose in life. I like how he goes from translator to surviving in the jungle to becoming a monk and finding another purpose to his existence.
The jungle segment also shows resilience from Blake, having to hunt to survive but also endure lack of food and water at times.
I cannot imagine how hard the decision for Blake is at the end, torn between a new life as a monk or progress with Cathy. Both choices are beneficial but only one choice can be decided in the end. You can't be in two places at once!
I liked reading about the monastery, it does sound like a peaceful place and I also feel grateful to Sunnido for saving Blake's life, his story is also one of great importance.
I would recommend this for something a bit different, a man finding his true path in life and living with the peace and calm he deserves.
The jungle segment also shows resilience from Blake, having to hunt to survive but also endure lack of food and water at times.
I cannot imagine how hard the decision for Blake is at the end, torn between a new life as a monk or progress with Cathy. Both choices are beneficial but only one choice can be decided in the end. You can't be in two places at once!
I liked reading about the monastery, it does sound like a peaceful place and I also feel grateful to Sunnido for saving Blake's life, his story is also one of great importance.
I would recommend this for something a bit different, a man finding his true path in life and living with the peace and calm he deserves.
April 23, 2024
War and Peace
In ‘The Asymmetric Man’ Alex Rushton has created a story as intriguing as its title. Be prepared for a rollicking ride you will feel in your stomach as well as your heart.
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and its aftermath, Rushton weaves a tale of espionage and romance that leads inexorably to one man’s search for inner peace. That man is Blake Carter – hero and anti-hero, soldier and spy, lover and loner. He is a man of mystery and action, but one who struggles to find a meaningful existence.
We are taken smoothly back and forth through two decades, and are in this way able to witness Blake’s life first-hand: from the violence of the jungles of Vietnam, to the intrigue of rarefied life at Cambridge, to the exotic sights and sounds of foreign lands.
While ‘The Asymmetric Man’ is ingeniously plotted, perhaps its greatest strengths lie in its human touch and in its ability to provoke introspection – both in the reader and in Blake. Through his journey, we explore themes of identity, morality, and the search for meaning in a world torn apart by war. In the end, the reader – having been swept up in two decades of twists and turns and hope and despair – finally comes to rest, along with Blake, to ponder what is key to this novel – the nature of sacrifice and redemption, and the true cost of inner peace.
In ‘The Asymmetric Man’ Alex Rushton has created a story as intriguing as its title. Be prepared for a rollicking ride you will feel in your stomach as well as your heart.
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and its aftermath, Rushton weaves a tale of espionage and romance that leads inexorably to one man’s search for inner peace. That man is Blake Carter – hero and anti-hero, soldier and spy, lover and loner. He is a man of mystery and action, but one who struggles to find a meaningful existence.
We are taken smoothly back and forth through two decades, and are in this way able to witness Blake’s life first-hand: from the violence of the jungles of Vietnam, to the intrigue of rarefied life at Cambridge, to the exotic sights and sounds of foreign lands.
While ‘The Asymmetric Man’ is ingeniously plotted, perhaps its greatest strengths lie in its human touch and in its ability to provoke introspection – both in the reader and in Blake. Through his journey, we explore themes of identity, morality, and the search for meaning in a world torn apart by war. In the end, the reader – having been swept up in two decades of twists and turns and hope and despair – finally comes to rest, along with Blake, to ponder what is key to this novel – the nature of sacrifice and redemption, and the true cost of inner peace.
September 16, 2024
Vietnam, and its troublesome history, is one of those topics that I know very little of what happened. So I was very interested in learning more. The scene is set so vibrantly, I felt it was incredibly descriptive, and that really helped me picture this tale coming to life.
The tale is told in two time zones, present day and a few years prior, where Blake recounts his time working for MI6 and in the An Lac Monastery.
I found the monks and the time at An Lac to be riveting, I loved reading this section.
There were lots of action and thrilling scenes over the start to middle of the tale, I'm not huge on an action thriller, but I can appreciate how well it was done.
I found it to be a gripping read, I barely wanted to put it down and finished it the day after I started it.
This is the first in a trilogy, and while I'd be intrigued to find out where the author goes with this story, I believe it would have worked as a singular story just as much, as nothing is left open particularly here.
It's a really interesting story that I'm sure many will enjoy.
The tale is told in two time zones, present day and a few years prior, where Blake recounts his time working for MI6 and in the An Lac Monastery.
I found the monks and the time at An Lac to be riveting, I loved reading this section.
There were lots of action and thrilling scenes over the start to middle of the tale, I'm not huge on an action thriller, but I can appreciate how well it was done.
I found it to be a gripping read, I barely wanted to put it down and finished it the day after I started it.
This is the first in a trilogy, and while I'd be intrigued to find out where the author goes with this story, I believe it would have worked as a singular story just as much, as nothing is left open particularly here.
It's a really interesting story that I'm sure many will enjoy.
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