Mission Churchill

by Alex Abella

In 1933 Cuba, a deadly game of cat and mouse unfolds. An IRA sharpshooter, driven by vengeance and a relentless mission, has Winston Churchill in his crosshairs. But just as the assassin is about to strike, Churchill's tenacious bodyguard, Walter Thompson, intervenes, forcing the killer into the shadows.

Years later, amid the fiery rain of the German Blitz on London, Thompson locks eyes with a ghost from Havana—the very same assassin. But now, the stakes are higher. As Thompson dives deeper into the city's underworld, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy within the British government, threatening to topple Churchill and hand victory to Hitler.

Racing against time amidst the backdrop of a city in chaos, Thompson must decipher the twisted web of treachery to save his nation and the man he's sworn to protect. But at what cost?

Dive into a high-octane thriller where history hangs in the balance, alliances are tested, and one man stands against the darkness.

Genres: Historical Fiction

284 pages, Paperback

Published January 22, 2024

About the author

Papá was a poet. I am not.

But I am a writer--journalist, novelist, playwright, screenwriter, news writer. I've tried practically everything that can be done with words upon a page, screen, or any medium, in all genres except poetry.

So far.

The first time I ever wrote anything for publication--or so I thought--I was eight years old. Like many boys who want to be writers, I wrote an adventure story, about knights in armor, if I recall correctly. I thought someone somewhere would publish it but, alas, I had no agent so...

But seriously...the next time I pursued my writing obsession was during high school in New York, when I was determined to break into The New Yorker. I sent the magazine a host of stories--none of which, mercifully, were published, or survived.

Finally, success! I began writing film reviews for my school newspaper, The Columbia Spectator, then, after graduation, became a writer for a small publication in New York.

Moving to California, I joined The San Francisco Chronicle, but was fired the day after I wrote practically the entire front page. You need more ground strokes, said my editor.

So I went to play for the electronic bullpen, becoming a reporter/news writer/producer at KTVU-TV in the San Francisco Bay Area. While there I won an Emmy (group) for newswriting, was nominated for another Emmy for reporting, worked as a foreign correspondent in Central America, wrote a cookbook on bananas, drank too much, partied too much and was thoroughly miserable.

I realized if I stayed a journalist I'd either burn out or commit suicide by age 50. So I quit the daily grind and moved to Hollywood. Since I speak fluent Spanish (I was born in Cuba, remember?) I became a court interpreter in Los Angeles and in the process founded a labor union for interpreters.

Based on my experiences in Los Angeles Superior Court, I wrote a thriller, "The Killing of the Saints," which, to my surprise, became a New York Times Notable Book. I did the movie adaptation for Paramount, then wrote something totally different, "The Great American," a historical novel based on the true story of William Morgan, an Ohio-born American who became one of the leaders of the Cuban Revolution of 1959.

I wrote two follow-ups to Saints, "Dead of Night," and 'Final Acts," then, shaken up by the tragedy of 9/11, I returned to journalism. My research on terrorism led me to co-write "Shadow Enemies: Hitler's Secret Terrorist Plot against the United States," about a band of saboteurs Germany sent by U-boat to the U.S. in 1941.

Then, wanting to explore how the U.S. had become Imperial Rome, I wrote "Soldiers of Reason: The Rand Corporation and the Rise of the American Empire," a study of the world's most influential think tank, which laid the intellectual foundation for the modern world we live in.

I wrote two novels in between: "More Than A Woman," a romance set in California's wine country, and "Shanghai," a hardboiled detective story set in Havana in the dangerous interval between the death of a tyranny and the birth of another.

My latest book is "Mission Churchill," a historical thriller set in 1930s Cuba and in London during the Blitz, featuring a revenge driven IRA assassin determined to terminate the Prime Minister, and have Hitler win the war.

Oh, and since I do have a life, in between books and jobs and sundry obsessions, I married a lovely (and very patient) woman, Armeen, whom I met at KTVU. We have three great kids. For now I split my time between lovely Solana Beach and the new Athens of the Western World, Los Angeles.

That's all for me. I hope to hear from you soon.

Take care.

Alex

Reviews

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this book. It read very much like a nonfiction.

My background in WWII is extensive and I am found the historical references in the story was spot on. That is commendable.

Characters were strong and easy to follow, and gave credible support to the story.

It was a book that I could not put down.

I highly recommend.

“Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own”

[Lilisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun, even-paced historical thriller that held my attention to the end. From Cuba to the U.K., the target is the larger than life Winston Churchill - much beloved, much despised - depending on your viewpoint. Much is at stake - vengeance, independence, victory. Marcus Riley, staunch IRA supporter; Winston Churchill the irascible British politician who later became Britain’s prime minister; and Churchill’s bodyguard Walter Thompson are the main characters. As Riley doggedly pursues Churchill, Thompson must keep Churchill safe at all costs, despite the combined forces that are determined to bring down the pugnacious Churchill. I enjoyed the storyline, writing - engaging and at times humorous, insights into the characters, and the historical backdrop against which the story is set. This was definitely an enjoyable and fun read. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[David Lucero · Rating 5 out of 5]

An imaginative historical thriller about one of our most influential world leaders during a time when the world needed men like Churchill most. This is an excellent page-turner!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot is going on in this novel...so many characters with their own agendas in the plot against Churchill. There is the IRA, the Duke of Windsor, fascist members of the British aristocracy, Hitler fanatics, Scotland Yard, MI5, and even a Nicaraguan dwarf. Most of the story is set in 1940, in the darkest days of the Blitz, which adds plenty of confusion to the plot.

At times I felt like I had been given a round, 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle to put together while blindfolded. There is a plethora of Cuban history worked in and though interesting, didn't seem necessary in the long run. Many American readers may not be familiar with Churchill's connection through his policies to Ireland which fueled the IRA's hatred of him. If you only know Churchill through his famous WW II speeches, you may be surprised to discover that his feet were made of clay.

When the entire plot was revealed, it was truly ingenious. I found it gratifying that Churchill's loyal bodyguard, Walter Thompson, had the best ending of all. I do love an underdog.

Many thanks to NetGalley & The Book Whisperer for providing the digital ARC. All opinions & the review are my own.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

A taut thriller involving assassination attempts by an IRA supporter on the life of Winston Churchill in Cuba (1933) and during the Blitz years later in London. Britain's PM and his intrepid bodyguard Walter Thompson and the conflicts in both eras come vividly to life, creating a gripping narrative Churchill fans will adore!

[Steve Rufle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting read. Did not know what to expect each chapter. A cat and mouse chase for an IRA assassin attempting to kill Churchill.

Learned a few things about PM Churchill and others in the British government during the bombings of London.

I found this a fast read. Read as an ARC with no expectation of a positive review.

[Toni Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by another book written by Warren Adler “Target Churchill”, this thriller involves the assassination attempts against Winston Churchill in 1933 Cuba and during the German Blitz on London by IRA sharpshooter, Marcus Riley, who was looking for revenge for the poor treatment of the Irish by the British. His orders came from Germany. But Winston was never alone, everywhere he went, tenaciously shadowing him was Walter Thompson, his thrusted bodyguard.

This intriguing plot explores the lack of popularity of Churchill and the plans assassinations on his life. It read much as nonfiction however it is definitely fiction, although multiple attempts were made during his time has Prime Minister, those describes in this story did not occurred.

Following Thompson trying to find Riley is quite a ride, action packed and exiting and the gripping narrative brings everything alive and is a joy to read. The author recreated scenes in England during the Blitz that is chilling and heartbreaking. The atmosphere, characterization and the presentation are top notch.

This taut thriller should please most historical fiction buff. I for one was glued to every word as the story unfolded eager to see if Riley would reach his target and end his mission...I like this determined villain...

Thank you to the Book Whisperer for providing me with this ARC

[enjoyingbooksagain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mission Churchill by Alex Abella is a historical thriller that follows the attempts of an IRA assassin to kill Winston Churchill in 1933 Cuba and 1940 London.
The book is fast-paced and suspenseful, with vivid descriptions of the historical settings and events. The author does a good job of blending fiction and fact, and explores the what-ifs of history. The book also portrays the complex personality of Churchill, who is both admired and despised by different factions. The book is well-researched and includes a bibliography and an author’s note that explain the sources and inspirations behind the story.
If you’re interested in Churchill and or the World War II era you’ll find this book to be interesting.

[Carrie LaFontaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not often a big fan of historical fiction but this book was definitely an exception. The characters were so vivid that they jump off the page and the action kept me moving through the story. Highly recommend!

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review a prerelease copy of this book.

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGalley for the copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion. We meet Winston Churchill in Cuba in 1933 where he was at the time and his bodyguard thwarts a would be assassin. We see a side of Churchill that we have never seen before. He does not get along with his wife and they lead almost separate lives. He is also dependent on a vast number of people. A very interesting book about the man.

[Sandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't read the books that Mission Churchill is inspired by, but Alex Abella has given us a slamdinger of a mystery here! Mission Churchill is about Winston Churchill in a fictional world of intrigue and wh0-done it. Churchill was a prolific man in a very prolific era, this book makes him more winsome, entertaining, and jovial.

While Winston Churchill is visiting Cuba during one of their revolutions he meets a man bent on killing Churchill because of what happened in his Country fighting for freedom from the British Empire.

This book is entertaining, it brings in many aspects of World War II and the Cuban Revolution. I've studied Churchill and this book brings some fun into his quirky personality. The surrounding cast of characters will make you wonder if any of their personality is based on the real people surrounding Winston Churchill. I sure hope so.

Thank you, Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book!

[Silver Screen Videos · Rating 2 out of 5]

Winston Churchill is probably the most essential non-monarch in British history and one of the most extraordinary personalities. He has been the subject of countless fiction and non-fiction works, and his actual exploits could fill a library. So, it’s unsurprising that author Alex Abella made the wartime Prime Minister the central character of his new historical thriller, “Mission Churchill.” But Abella wasn’t content to dramatize various aspects of Churchill’s life. Instead, he invents an alternative history for Churchill, replete with imaginary crises and fictional speeches patterned after his style. However, Abella’s Churchill isn’t nearly as interesting as the real thing, and the novel is a tepid, padded effort.

Based on the publisher’s statement, the novel “Mission Churchill” was “inspired” by a work by Warren Adler entitled “Target Churchill.” Both books concern fictional assassination plots against Churchill. Beyond that central premise, though, the two works have little in common. Most of “Mission Churchill” takes place in England in September 1940. What’s left of the British army is in shambles after the Dunkirk evacuation, and the Luftwaffe has begun a nightly bombardment of English cities. That much of the story is factual. Against that historical backdrop, Abella creates an elaborate assassination plot against Churchill. The triggerman is Marcus Riley, a fanatical IRA member with a deep, personal hatred of the Prime Minister. Riley is aided by various undercover German agents in prominent positions in the British government. (The Germans apparently have more operatives in England than the British.) These agents help smuggle a powerful secret weapon into England that will make Riley’s job easier. The only person with a clue of what’s happening is Churchill’s bodyguard, Walter Thompson (another real person). Thompson had met Riley years earlier, and when he spotted the Irishman again in England, he deduced Riley was up to no good.

A fictional assassination plot against Churchill has the makings of an excellent historical thriller (as evidenced by Warren Adler’s book). “Mission Churchill” isn’t that thriller. The author spends too much time introducing the various plotters and explaining their motivations. These plotters include the real-life Duke of Windsor and various fictional government figures. Despite (or, perhaps, because of) its plethora of villains, “Mission Churchill” lacks the tautness of a first-rate thriller. An excellent author like Frederick Forsyth can create down-to-the-wire suspense in this type of scenario, with audiences wondering if the plot will succeed (even though they already know the answer). Here, Thompson, the book’s ostensible hero, always seems too far from the action. (He and the other authorities also seem very gullible in accepting “evidence” of Riley’s supposed death on multiple occasions.)

While “Mission Churchill” is too unfocused to be a terrific thriller, it’s also not very effective as historical fiction or a character study of Churchill. The first quarter of the book takes place in Cuba in 1933. Churchill, no longer associated with the government, and Thompson meet Riley for the first time and get involved in the Cuban revolution that took place that year. Although the revolution occurred (eventually leading to the ascension of Fulgencio Batista, Castro’s predecessor, to power), Churchill was nowhere near Cuba then. This episode in Cuban history is little-known and worthy of a full-length book treatment discussing the various individuals and factions involved. However, the primary purpose of this imaginary prequel to “Mission Churchill” is to have Thompson walk in on Churchill in bed with a local woman. (Years later, in England, the now-Prime Minister meets what might be a love child that resulted from his affair.)

Having wasted almost one-quarter of his novel on an imaginary trip to Cuba, the author gives Churchill another fictitious crisis to overcome: a vote of no confidence. While Churchill’s popularity waned later in the war, he was pretty popular in September 1940. The only tangible result of this phantom no-confidence vote is to allow the author to draft a speech that he believes Churchill might have given in such an event. Unfortunately for the author and readers, Churchill was a much better speechwriter than Abella.

Based on some reviews I’ve read of “Mission Churchill,” many readers have accepted the author’s version of Churchillian history. I admit the events Abella describes were at odds with my understanding of Churchill’s life, so I did follow-up research to verify my facts before writing this review. I have no problem with authors changing or creating a new version of history to make a story more interesting or suspenseful, but there was absolutely no need for Abella to do so here. The various Churchill subplots are mere filler whose only purpose seems to be to create character foibles that turn one of England’s greatest leaders into a character from a third-rate soap opera. Churchill isn’t the only character to get the soap operatic treatment here. The author’s attempts at character development for the villains typically involve mentioning their often bizarre sexual preferences.

I was very disappointed in “Mission Churchill.” Alex Abella takes a fascinating thriller premise and turns it into a confusing, lackluster story with some gratuitous kink thrown in. He also distorts Winston Churchill’s life for no good purpose and probably leaves many readers with incorrect notions about the man. The author is an experienced journalist who should have known better. Churchill’s life story is fascinating enough without the need for pointless embellishment. This book is a mission that goes wrong in the first chapter.

NOTE: The publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. However, the decision to review the book and the contents of this review are entirely my own.

[Jess · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book more. I enjoy historical fiction, and a plot to remove one of the great historical figures of World War 2 certainly is compelling. Unfortunately, I felt like side stories and distractions played too much of a role while the suspense wasn't built as well as it might have been.

I was particularly bothered by certain sexual aspects of this book. I'm no prude, and I don't mind romantic entanglements or sexual situations when they add to a story. Here, they seemed like no more than unnecessary additions. I was particularly troubled by some references to underaged scenarios. The one character whose priest molested him is unfortunately all too believable. And in that case, it was supposed to be part of the character's motivation for his actions. But given both his background and the different loyalties the war brought, there seemed motivation enough without that. Still, fine, if that helped drive him, I could live with that.

That aside, was this necessary?: "Lady Clementine Churchill was dreaming about sex" with a "handsome young hussar . . . She only allowed him to caress her budding breasts under her nightgown--for in her dream she had become fourteen again." 14? Seriously?

Seriously, while it's clear the Churchill marriage had its challenges, what was the point of this? Even if it was a dream and wasn't actual underage sex, why put this in at all? It's repellent.

I also didn't like that the bad guys in this seemed to be disproportionately gay. "His sexuality gave him entry into another subset of English life, the aristos who developed a taste for sodomy in the student halls of Eaton and Oxford." (Oh, and that a call boy a key player in this hires is named Archibald Leach, the real name of Cary Grant... I'm not even sure the point, but why even go there?) When Ian Fleming was misogynistic or bigoted in his James Bond books, I shrugged it off as the attitudes of a different era, but this is a new book and these pieces were unnecessary.

Then we get to the treatment of Edward VIII. Not exactly someone I care about, particularly since it appears he was rather chummy with Hitler, but I've read quite a bit and don't recall seeing anything that puts him in so dark a light as to be complicit in an effort to eliminate the Prime Minister of England. Also, in yet another unnecessary sexual scene, was infantilizing him necessary? "'Come here, bad boy. I think you need correction,' said Wallis. 'Yes, mommy,' said the duke, ascending the stairs."

All these things and a part about Winston Churchill's sex life really added nothing to what I expected was going to be a tale of an attempt to eliminate the PM and his loyal protector's efforts to protect him.

While I didn't love this book, I still thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review an advance copy.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mission Churchill by Alex Abella is an excellent piece of historical fiction. There are a lot of things we all know about Churchill and there are some probably only scholars know. Some of both are in this book. Winston was a pretty spoiled man, especially as he got older. He was a spendthrift, always needing clothing, liquor, and cigars, with several homes to support. His wife was out of patience with his spending. The story started when he was in Cuba, during the revolution that put Bautista in power. There he had an affair; he and his wife were at odds at the moment and she was back in England. That affair was to pop up later in his life. In Cuba we also met Thompson, an officer from Scotland Yard that was permanently assigned to guard Churchill. He corrected Churchill early on that he was a guard, not a valet or maid. He would run some sorts of errands but only if asked properly, not ordered about. It was a conversation that Churchill seemed to take to heart. While they were in Cuba there was a failed assassination attempt. It was Thompson who saved Churchill’s life from another such attempt, because he recognized the killer. Also included were stories about Winston working in the bathtub and wandering around in an open robe. It was a thoroughly entertaining book with plenty going on. It covered a lot of ground so out of necessity it skipped much.

That he was a great man, history has proven. That many were against him, history has also proven. From what I know this book seems to be a pretty accurate portrait of his personality, although there is only a limited bibliograph. Abella is a noted writer and reporter. It was an enlightening book, especially in view of today’s political climate where there is so much criticism of personality and personal habits. I enjoyed reading about Winston Churchill.

Thank you Book Whisperer for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #Netgalley #BookWhisperer #AlexAbella #MissionChurchill

[Daphne Sharpe · Rating 4 out of 5]

The job of being Prime Minister pre-war was as eventful as the war itself when it finally arrived.
1933, Winston Churchill is in Cuba. Marcus Riley, an Irishman, sees Churchill and Walter Thompson, his bodyguard and is irate. This is the man who ruined his beloved Ireland! Marcus and his uncle make plans to kidnap Churchill and hold him hostage for ransom. Marcus would rather kill him outright, for all the blood he has on his hands. Thanks to Thompson, this act is foiled and the pair return to London.
1940, London is experiencing the effects of the Blitz. King George and the Queen are not fond of Churchill, there are murders of dissent from the Cabinet, and powerful rich people would rather sue for peace than fight.
Marcus and Thompson clash many times throughout this novel, it is a busy read and very action packed. I felt the most admiration for Thompson, the bodyguard. Churchill was one to set his own agenda, which must have been exhausting, to make plans for keeping him safe and then have all up in the air at the last moment.
This novel gives a real idea of the depth of feeling about appeasement in England, the upper classes wanted the peace to continue their privileged lives, and some actually thought we would be better off being governed by Hitler, whereas the common folk wanted none of this, they wanted to take the fight to the Germans, show them who was Boss!!
This book shows much of the politics that were happening in the background. What we know of Churchill is accurately depicted, he was extravagant and bossy, short tempered, but he did have much on his shoulders, and he did have his ‘ black dog’ of despair, but he got the job done.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers Book Whisperer, for my advance copy, freely given in exchange for my honest review. Four star read. I will leave a copy to Goodreads and Amazon UK.

[Doreen Prentiss Gabriellini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mission Churchill by Alex Abella is a tension filled historical fiction novel. This is my first book by Alex Abella and I was delighted. The plot is very intriguing and the book moves along at a good pace. I think any historical fiction fan would definitely find this worth the read.

Apparently the story is a continuation of a book by Warren Adler entitled “Target Churchill”. I did not read that book. I cannot tell you if the continuation is valid. However, I feel this book is definitely a stand alone and there would be no need to read Mr. Adler’s book in order to read this one.

Basically, without giving too much away, this novel involves several assassination attempts on Prime Minister Churchill. The first occurring in Cuba during 1933 and the second during WWII. The dogged assassin is an IRA operative who wants revenge for the mistreatment of the Irish by the British.

While Churchill plays a very prominent role in the book, it is his bodyguard, who lurks in the shadows of the Prime Minister who really is the star of the book. Walter Thompson, Winston’s trusted bodyguard, is everything you could look for in a tenacious protector. Following Thompson trying to find this IRA operative is quite the journey. It is packed with intrigue, suspense, action and daring do.

Mr. Abella’s characters are deep and you find yourself cheering at their successes and worrying about them if something goes wrong. The settings are vivid and intricate. You can picture yourself in Cuba and in the UK. You can smell the woods, the steam in the bathroom, the winding and maze like hallways and dirt paths.

Mr. Abella is a good writer and I enjoyed the story very much.

[Richard Derus · Rating 4 out of 5]

REAL Rating: 3.5* of five, rounded up

The Publisher Says: In 1933 Cuba, a deadly game of cat and mouse unfolds. An IRA sharpshooter, driven by vengeance and a relentless mission, has Winston Churchill in his crosshairs. But just as the assassin is about to strike, Churchill's tenacious bodyguard, Walter Thompson, intervenes, forcing the killer into the shadows.

Years later, amid the fiery rain of the German Blitz on London, Thompson locks eyes with a ghost from Havana—the very same assassin. But now, the stakes are higher. As Thompson dives deeper into the city's underworld, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy within the British government, threatening to topple Churchill and hand victory to Hitler.

Racing against time amidst the backdrop of a city in chaos, Thompson must decipher the twisted web of treachery to save his nation and the man he's sworn to protect. But at what cost?

Dive into a high-octane thriller where history hangs in the balance, alliances are tested, and one man stands against the darkness.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.

My Review: Top-shelf prose and superior grasp of the telling detail, and the timing necessary to deploy them together. I had to go look up stuff to see how much fiction and fact resembled each other...a really high compliment from me. I don't give it more stars because the antagonist is a cipher to me, and that really seriously reduces the internal tension of the narrative.

I recommend the read to Alan Furst and W.E.B. Griffin readers. This is one y'all will be glad to read by a writer most of y'all won't have encountered before.

[Stanley McShane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read his full review on Rosepoint Publishing.

This book explores the lack of popularity of Sir Winston Churchill. The poor treatment of the Irish by the British in the 18th and 19th centuries has left a hate for the aristocratic British by the people of Ireland. The Prime Minister was the target of disaffected Irishmen looking for revenge.

The story begins with an accidental meeting between an Irishman tasked with killing the man in a jewelry store in Havana, Cuba! At that time Churchill was a member of Parliament and had a number of detractors who could not understand why he did not simply sue for peace.

The assassin, Marcus Riley, cannot believe his luck! Running into that hated man in a jewelry shop in Havana! His attempts are thwarted by a member of Scotland Yard named Thompson who shadows Winston everywhere.

Alex Abella has devised a very intriguing and intricate plot around the killing of the perceived enemy of Ireland. The orders come from Germany as do a very sophisticated new weapon.

The end result is an example of hate and revenge at their best! Churchill’s life hangs in the balance as does the fate of the free world. This book will captivate you as a reader and raise additional questions about that time in history. 4.5 stars – CE Williams

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book. These opinions are my own.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the Book Whisperer and Netgalley for an ARC of this book. This opinion is mine and probably not what they hoped.

I read a lot of historical fiction - it is my favorite genre. I thought this book would be perfect for me as I have been reading a lot about WWII the last couple of months. As much as I wanted to like this book, I honestly did not and it was a chore to finish it. I think this book is way more fiction, than historical, which would be okay if the storyline was good. Churchills’ body guard, Thompson, is really the main character of the story, yet his character is not interesting.Too much time is spent in the first part of the book introducing the would be assassin, Riley, who meets Churchill and Thompson by accident in Cuba in 1933. The premise of the story really had promise, but there are too many distractions and unneeded side stories (almost like a checklist - someone who is gay, someone who has been molested, sex dreams, an extramarital affair, etc.), that should have been edited out. While I did learn some new things about Winston Churchill (after researching myself to find out what WAS real), the plot of this book does not flow well. I was often left scratching my head over the characters' actions that just didn't make sense and the ending was a disappointment as well. There are lots of good books about Churchill, both fiction and non-fiction, and sadly, this book misses the mark.

[skketch · Rating 2 out of 5]

📚✈🕵️‍♂️NOVEL THOUGHTS🕵️‍♂️✈📚

This book was a disappointment in that it was a very loose interpretation of a spy novel/thriller. There was very little build up of tension for the cat and mouse game that Churchill's bodyguard Thompson must go through in order to keep Riley from his assassination attempts of Churchill. The story does take place in London during WWII when Churchill is Prime Minister and does follow some of the history of his vote of no confidence that occurred during his time in that position but while there were probably attempts on his life, this story was total fiction. There is a network of bad actors that are from the Nazi party as well as the IRA blending both groups to get Churchill out of the way as he was not in favor of giving in to the Germans attempts to take over the globe with their Aryan ideas and world domination as some countries had already done (ie France).
There were a number of non sequesters like when Lady Clementine has to find a way to reign in some of Winston's debt and the promise she makes to write her memoir. This was not needed to the story at all. And there were more characters than were needed to move the story along. The book just needed to be tighter, with more excitement to keep the reader engaged. Unfortunately, this story was just a big miss for me.

[René · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is nitro fueled and unputdownable—smart and chock full of twists, toppers and surprises!
I’ve been a fan of this author since I read The Killing of The Saints when I worked at Paramount and then kept reading both his nonfiction — Soldiers of Reason is great reporting — as well as his fiction, The Great American is a great story well told. So when Mission Churchill came along I got a reviewer’s copy slipped to me by a friend in NY.
This is the best fun I’ve had on the page in ages. I envy the reader that misses his train stop because they decided to start reading it. The Cuba open sets the tone beautifully and characters are real and well drawn. Still, second half sees the stakes shoot way up and so too the action.
Thompson is a great point of view character and everyone you meet along the way rings authentic, no matter how unique or surprising. Churchill is a fun, engaging force of nature. We’ve seen so many immaculate versions of Churchill that it’s terrific to see him come to life here.
The writing is detailed and everything seems well researched or at least cleverly invented or both.
It’s great to finish the last page of a book and feel like you can’t wait for the follow up but yeah this was one of those.

[Eunice R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the author Alex Abella has many published books and acclaim therefrom under his belt, there was something about this book I just couldn't get very hooked into. I did skim over some parts, I confess, but otherwise read to the end of the book. Perhaps, it just was not my cup of tea.

Others may find the life of Winston Churchill being in the line of fire of an assassin's gun of interest. I did learn a thing or two about him though as this is rather a plausable work of historical fiction, given the facts of such atttempts on this volatile man. Thompson was a handy man to have around too.

On a more positive note, I did find the multicultural input somewhat absorbing, especially since I don't know much about Cuba's history.

Those who do not wish to read about bedroom intimacies should take caution.

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

October 2023

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy given by NetGalley and the publisher.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This an alternate or the author's point of view on the life of Winston Churchill, and we are page turning for answers.
I know that politicians have attempts on their lives, but Winston here is really not liked by many people, including some war machines which included the evil that was present in Europe, when Winston was Prime Minister. There is also a man whom blames him directly for the death of his brother, and IRA supporter, whom seems to have more than nine lives, and has no regard for human life.
Thank goodness Mr. Churchill has a body guard, Walter Thompson, with skills that equal James Bond!
You will soon experiencing the Country of Cuba, and then back to England, and then bombs falling every night, and such destruction!
We know that Churchill survives, but the attempts here make you wonder, and the danger becomes so great you will wonder if Mr Thompson is alive at the end!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Book Whisperer, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Jann Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

It would have been a fast page turner, but I kept googling different people to see if they were real. Churchill, of course, was authentic but I didn't know he actually stayed in Cuba for a bit. Walter Thompson was indeed Churchill's body guard and Churchill's life was threatened 13 times. The rest is fiction - all built around the facts and it's exceptionally told. You know Churchill avoided being assassinated - but still, you hold your breath as you read to see if Riley, an angry Irishman with an axe to settle with Churchill, will actually execute the British Prime Minister.
Abella does a good job of recreating scenes in England during the early part of the war. I had never really thought about the disposal of hundreds (even thousands?) of bodies who naturally died, but most of whom had been killed by the Germans. (Most were incinerated).
I've gotta see if this guy has written some other books as this one is a slam dunk.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Winston Churchill before and during World War II. Walter Thompson is Churchill's bodyguard and friend. He takes his job very seriously.

Mr. Churchill, wildly popular with the common people, was not so popular with many of his upperclass countrymen who wanted to capitulate to Hitler. He also had old enemies from the IRA. Keeping him alive turns out to be a cat and mouse game over a period of years between Thompson and Marcus O'Riley, an Irishman out for vengeance. Additionally Nazi infiltrators are also trying to take potshots at Churchill. When both enemies collaborate, Thompson has his hands full.

This is truly a suspenseful thriller. I find myself wanting to find out what, if any, of this story has a factual basis. Mr. Abella certainly knows how to keep the action going and the reader interested.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this historical fiction story which reads more like a political thriller. The action starts in Havana while Churchill and his bodyguard stay there during the Cuban Revolution. There an attempt on Churchill's life by an IRA sharpshooter is foiled by his dedicated bodyguard Walter Thompson. Years later, they run into him in London, and a cat-and-mouse sets in motion between the sharpshooter, Marcus Riley, and Churchill's bodyguard.

I love political thrillers and historical fiction so I found it interesting. In this story, Churchill wasn't very likable between his relationship with Ireland as well as his insistence on fighting Hitler and Nazi Germany. I enjoyed the relationship between Churchill and the bodyguard. It was definitely a page-turner and I had to keep reading to find out what happened next. This is a good read and I look forward to reading more books by this author.

Thanks to Book Whisper, Netgalley, and the author for this ARC!

[Kathleen Riggs · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mission Churchill

Mission Churchill is a thriller involving the assassination attempts against Winston Churchill—in 1933 Cuba and during the German Blitz on London. Walter Thompson who is Churchill’s bodyguard, saves the Prime Minister, whilst uncovering a wide conspiracy at the highest levels of British society to dispose of Churchill. There is a lot of suspense that starts in Cuba and picks up years later in England.
A host of other historical figures are mentioned in this book including members of the British government, Irish Republican Army sympathizers and Nazi including Hitler who all have a role in the plot to murder Churchill. This is a good thriller especially if you are interested in history. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[PJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable, well-crafted story about a fictional assassination attempt on Churchill's life. If you can get past trying to figure out what was real and what wasn't (something I found myself hung up on), the plot and its progression are rather intriguing.
I find I might not be as fond of historical fiction as I thought I was! My problem here is because it is recent history, my parent's generation, anyway.
Therefore, I was constantly breaking my focus to research what was fact and what was fiction. Maybe I should have paid more attention to WWII history in school. One last issue is that I didn't see the point of including and naming Archie Leach (who we all know as Cary Grant), and that segment could have surely been left out.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC edition in exchange for an honest review.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mission Churchill by Alex Abella was a solid historical fiction about an assassination plot against Winston Churchill in 1933 Cuba and following up in London 1940. The same assassin is determined to carry out his plot, but he is not prepared for Walter Thompson, tenacious bodyguard to Churchill.

This book is heavy on action and plot rather than characterization. The pacing was even but intense and the writing was solid. I wish there had been an author's note indicating whether any of the plot was based on historical fact or was all fictionalized using real historical figures.

I will recommend this to readers who like fast-paced historical fiction.

Thank you to Book Whisperer and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Cuba in 1933 to England during WWII there was an assassin on Winston Churchill's trail. Why? It was up to his loyal and skilled bodyguard, William Thompson, to protect Churchill no matter what. In this well written work of historical fiction, the story moves very quickly. Well plotted and complex, secrets are revealed, and tension builds as the assassin gets closer to achieving his goal.
Packed with drama and intrigue, I found Mission Churchill to be an exciting story. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Book Whisperer through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.