Lisbon '41: Amongst the spies and the intrigue of wartime Lisbon lies a deadly secret.

by Malcolm Havard

Wartime Lisbon. Ex-cop, Dinis Lopes just wants to be left alone. The state has other ideas...
A VIP visitor to Portugal has left behind a deadly secret that can change the course of history. Lopes is tasked with finding it - without knowing what he's looking for.

" A little bit Gamache. A little bit Frost. A little bit Wallander. And I can't wait for the sequel." ARC reviewer.

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2024

About the author

Malcolm started writing fiction around 10 years ago, self-publishing three novels through Amazon including a mountaineering thriller, The Last Mountain, which has had more than 10,000 downloads. He also has two books published by a small publisher, including a collection of WW1 stories which topped the Amazon anthology best-sellers list at Christmas 2014.
His short stories have done well in a number of competitions, including runner-up placings for those run by Henshaw Press and the Mere Literary Festival.
Having written in several genres early in his career, Malcolm has now settled into writing historical fiction.
This includes LMF, a WW2 novel set during the RAFs controversial night bombing campaign, Leviathan, a novella about a young, frightened pilot hunting Zeppelins in the night during WW1, The Neutral Zone, a collection of short stories, and Eleven Days, a novel set around the events of 'Bloody April'. 1917.
LATEST NEWS!
The long-awaited sequel to LMF, The Way Back, is published 15 March 2021.

Reviews

[Chris Maddix · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's 1941, the continent of Europe is embroiled in World War II, and the nation of Portugal is doing its best to remain neutral, to the extent that it has created a gestapo-like PVDE in an attempt to root out socialist influence and minimize the influence of immigrants. A murder of a policeman named DaSilva takes place, and two former police, Dinis Lopes and Alvares Costa, are hired by the PVDE to investigate the crime.

Things are not as they seem. Both Lopes and Costa are forced to accept their jobs. Lopes does not get along with his wife, who thinks his occupation to be insufficient, and has an affair with a singer named Margarida. The two have a son, now three years old, for whom Lopes pays support, and the PVDE uses this information to blackmail him into taking the position. Costa is similarly approached. He accepted a bribe and lost his police job. The two quickly become aware that the case is far more than a murder investigation. In fact, it involves recorded conversations from British royalty on technology that many on both sides consider far more valuable than human life to obtain.

This is a crackling good detective yarn. It fills some gaps about Portugal's role in WWII. Characters are well developed. The hero, Lopes, is heroic, yet displays many human faults. No character in this story is without weakness - Lopes at one point suggests that he will go to the US with Jewish Elena Katz, in spite of his marriage to one woman and son with another, and Lopes's boss is one of the consummate bad guys. The story kept me riveted. Give it a try.

[Swati · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisbon"41"
Firstly I would like to appreciate to the writer... For his hard work... Because this book took me into this war...
After reading some thriller books and all.. I was not a big fan of this genres book book... This book took me to the parallel world..

This book is basically about a cop who was get involved into a murder investigation which will change everything....

The environment shown in this was perfect and well written... And amazing...
So I really really recommend this book to all genres lover.. Just give this book a try Atleast..

[Rene Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lisbon 41" by Malcolm Harvard is an extraordinary blend of historical fiction and thriller that captivates from the first page to the last. Set against the backdrop of World War II in the neutral yet precariously poised city of Lisbon, Harvard weaves a narrative that is as enlightening as it is gripping.

The story follows a cast of vividly drawn characters, each with their own intricate backstories and motivations, navigating the murky waters of espionage, intrigue, and survival. Harvard's meticulous research is evident, painting a detailed and atmospheric picture of 1941 Lisbon – a city teeming with spies, refugees, and opportunists. His portrayal of the tension and uncertainty of the time is both palpable and immersive.

What sets "Lisbon 41" apart is Harvard's masterful storytelling. The plot is meticulously crafted, with twists and turns that keep the reader on edge. The pacing is impeccable, balancing action with deep, introspective moments that provide a profound understanding of the characters' inner conflicts and the moral ambiguities they face.

Harvard's prose is both elegant and accessible, making the historical context easily digestible without sacrificing depth or complexity. His ability to intertwine factual historical events with fictional elements creates a narrative that is not only believable but also incredibly engaging.

"Lisbon 41" is more than just a thriller; it's a profound exploration of humanity during one of history's most tumultuous periods. Malcolm Harvard has delivered a compelling and thought-provoking read that will linger in the minds of its readers long after the final page is turned.

In conclusion, "Lisbon 41" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and thrillers alike. It's a book that promises not only to entertain but also to enlighten, providing a fresh perspective on a crucial era in history. Harvard has set a high bar with this novel, establishing himself as a significant voice in the genre. Highly recommended.

[Luis Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy a well written, atmospheric, historical fiction novel, complete with a unique setting and a flawed, but compelling protagonist- I would strongly recommend Malcom Havard's "Lisbon 41." The setting is Lisbon, Portugal, during the opening of World War II, a city seeping with spies, assassins and intrigue by both the allies and Nazis as they attempt to influence neutral Portugal's actions during this period. Portugal's dictator, Salazar, like his neighbor next door, Franco, is attempting to stay in between the two opposing factions. Our protagonist, Inspector Lopes, has been recently dismissed by the police for political and lifestyle scandals, and is abruptly pressed into service with the notorious Secret Police to investigate a murder of a rookie policeman. That's when the fun starts.

Inspector Lopes, like many of the anti-heroes of Scandinavian Noir police procedures is a deeply flawed man, in a loveless marriage, on the outs with his mistress, and estranged from his young son. For me, in what was the most compelling part of the story, Lopes becomes involved with a beautiful, young (and quite feisty) Jewish refugee and they have quite the unconventional love relationship. The story takes a lot of interesting twists and turns, before coming into focus by the end. Very well spun by Mr. Havard. While the character development isn't necessary deep, it's clever enough to really hook you. It's been awhile since I really cared about the characters in a novel like I did here. A real credit to the author.

The descriptions of Lisbon are delicious, and the author takes care to make the story as believable as possible. Slight nit pick on some of the editing, but it really didn't take away from this absolutely wonderful story. Highly recommended.

[Fedythereader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and @booktaster_ from Instagram for sharing a copy of this book with me!!!

“Don’t worry, we know all there is to know about you, and there are no charges.’‘So why—?’‘We are offering you a job.”

I feel like I truly needed a new thriller/mystery book to read and get back to the genre. Add to that, the fact that this one is set in Lisbon, Portugal right before the start of WWII and that the Duke and Duchess of Windsor are mentioned with all the speculations about their role during the war … I was hooked !!!! An ex-detective now without a job because he refused to stand down in front of a powerful man, now with a new job: investigating the death of a policeman. But soon enough he and his partner will have to face the truth of what’s about to become the most brutal and horrid war of our times. This book surprised me in a way I wa not expecting. I felt enthralled by it and so interested in what was about to happen that I simply did not feel like putting it down! And it only seemed to grow worse, the more I was reading. The intricacies of the characters and their dynamics and their relationships and the secrets and corruption and complicated stories they were trying to hide … it’s almost impossible to stand there and not taking part in the action. As for our detective … he is the kind of character you can’t easily define. Unsatisfied, not necessarily a good man but good at his job nonetheless. And at the end he does go through to the end in what he is facing … but you’ll end up with conflicting feelings about him. I feel like I would like to read more of his adventures!

“He wasn't going to stop”

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a WWII spy thriller set in Lisbon.

Spy thrillers are a type of book that I've taken an interest in more recently, and I see them as a type of book that I can get stuck into, sink my bookworm teeth into. I enjoy a historical thriller, and this is a type of book that I might choose, if I'm in the mood for something a little more challenging than my usual go-to option of cosy mystery.

Sometimes, a book can have a curious way of drawing in the reader, and this was my experience here. At the beginning, I couldn't pinpoint anything specific about the storyline or characters that intrigued me. I just kept on reading, and the more I turned the pages, the more drawn in I became. After a while, I found my interest was piqued by particular words and phrases, or by the actions of the characters, stopping to ask myself, "why did they do that, then?" Before I reached the end of the book, I realised that I had somehow become emotionally invested, and concerned with the choices of the main characters.

I think that as a reader, it can be all too easy to say "just one more chapter", and before you know what's happened, you've read the entire book. This book drew me in little by little, and I think there was something about the writing that built suspense in such a subtle way, that I didn't realise it was happening. I'd say that's very clever. If you like wartime thrillers, give this book a try.

[Kyla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lisbon 41 takes its name from the story taking place in Lisbon, Portugal in 1941. Recently fired police officer Denis Lopes finds himself “recruited” i.e. forced into a position with the fascist secret police. While the new position gives him a great deal more power, he is not entirely comfortable using fear as leverage. Still, the extra leverage comes in handy when he is tasked with finding a thing. He doesn’t know what the thing is, but he and his new assistant go off in search of it, ignoring his suspicion that his assistant is a spy for his boss.
After much intrigue, the thing is found to be a tape of someone talking. Lopes eventually finds the individual speaking on the tape is, Well, never mind. Let’s not spoil the fun. It seems as if everyone wants this mysterious tape and more intrigue ensues, with kidnappings and gunplay as the tape is sought.
For readers who enjoy a good novel of spy derrinng do and intrigue with a pretty girl at the heart of the tale, Lisbon 41 comes highly recommended. This review has been kept short to avoid any spoilers from slipping in. Pick up the book and enjoy the twists and turns.

[Kathleen Van Lierop · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy stories where history gently wraps itself around a finely-woven detective mystery, then Lisbon '41 by Malcolm Havard is an absolute gem waiting to be discovered.

Malcolm Havard paints Lisbon with great care—one can almost smell the sea air and hear the footsteps on the cobbled streets of Alfama. The tension of a city holding its breath in wartime neutrality is ever-present, but it never overwhelms the quieter moments of introspection or the subtleties of character development.

What I appreciated most was the blend of atmosphere and authenticity. This isn't a frantic thriller with car chases and explosions—it’s something more refined. Lopes is a thoughtful and human protagonist, and his investigation unfolds with satisfying depth. The moral grey zones of 1940s politics add an extra layer of intrigue.

For readers of historical fiction who prefer their mysteries with substance and soul, Lisbon '41 is a standout. I truly enjoyed every page and look forward to reading more from this author. A wonderful introduction to a series with real promise.

Of cours I give a 5 star rating for this book!

[Augustine · Rating 3 out of 5]

In Lisbon '41, you're thrown into the chaos of World War II, landing smack dab in the middle of Lisbon. Dinis Lopes, an ex-cop, gets roped into a murder investigation that quickly spirals into something much bigger—a conspiracy with huge consequences.

Set during a time when Portugal is desperately trying to stay out of the war, the book paints a vivid picture of the tension and danger lurking around every corner. Lopes, the main guy, is flawed but real, making tough choices and facing his own demons along the way.

The best part? The book really makes you feel like you're right there in Lisbon, dodging bullets and unraveling secrets. But sometimes, the story feels like it jumps around a bit too much, and you wish you had more background info to connect all the dots.

Overall, Lisbon '41 is a solid read if you're into wartime intrigue and suspense. It might not be the most mind-blowing book out there, but it definitely keeps you hooked until the end. Worth a shot if you're looking for something different to dive into.

[Luis Gouveia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Portugal during World War II offers a setting rich with potential for espionage fiction, and this novel makes good use of it. However, the story relies heavily on dialogue which, although often engaging, leaves little room for deeper character development. At times, the dialogue is overly explanatory and occasionally includes anachronistic remarks that feel more reflective of contemporary discourse than of Portugal in 1941. Additionally, several Portuguese names are incorrect or appear Spanish rather than Portuguese.

That said, the book is easy to read and succeeds in keeping the reader engaged through its plot. The central secret of the story is plausible and appropriate for the period. Certain details are particularly effective, for example, when the main characters describe a strange new object crucial to the story. Through a series of descriptions, the reader gradually realizes that the object is a tape recorder, something that was new at the time.

In conclusion, ithe plot and setting are interesting enough that I plan to order at least the second book in the series.

[Nipun Bamania · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping tale set in Lisbon, and the year is 1941. The period of the second world war. Portugal a country that sees influx of refugees and spies, both at the same time. People fleeing the Nazi atrocities trying to find refuge in Portugal. The book starts with the murder of a junior police officer patrolling the streets at night with a senior.
Dinis Lopes, a dismissed cop, is suddenly summoned by the PVDE, a special investigation department to look into the murder. Lopes battling his past, as well as a troubled marriage has his task cut out, as he faces opposition from within the department too.
However, it is not just a simple murder investigation, as various powerful players plan to disrupt the investigation.
Whether Lopes succeeds to overcome these hurdles, and crack the case, forms the core of the book, while trying to save his marriage too.
A fast paced historical thriller, with tailor made characters, and readable language makes for a thrilling read.

[Sofiya’s Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pack your bags, we are headed to Portugal 🇵🇹

Taking place a few years after the beginning of WW2 this is an exciting and thrilling mystery!
Lots of banter with some shocking moments that keeps you hooked and wanting to know more.

A little touch of romance, a badass grandma, this was a good read. Inspector Dinis Lopes is a lovable character, kind of reminding me of David Rossi from Criminal Minds.

Being a little over 200 pages long, I’d say it’s medium/fast paced in plot, and a quick read in general 😊

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting premise with well-rounded characters and a killer plot. Dialogs weren't the best for me—and maybe it's just me, but the prose was simple yet gripping and filled with suspense.

Overall, I enjoyed this thriller piece of World War II history, written in the backdrop of an underrated and less presented setting.

[Cerys Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting book

I really enjoyed this book.The plot was well thought out, and the characters believable. And it was based in Portugal which was interesting. Definitely worth a read.

[David Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable spy thriller set during WW2 in Lisbon. Kept me hooked from the first to the last page. I really recommend this book.