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Mike Kingdom Thrillers #2
This Is Not a Pipe
BY THE LONGLISTED SPY MASTER BOOK PRIZE 2025 AUTHOR DAVID JARVIS
‘David Jarvis is in a league of his own ... all clever plotting and fast-paced action one would expect from Charles Cumming, combined with the sophisticated realism and deft characterisation of vintage John le Carré.’
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘This book has everything a reader could wish for, excitement, dodgy dealers and humour.’
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘I was so invested in this book that I got up early one morning because as soon as I woke I was thinking about what might happen next!’
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
A new and personal mission for Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom
When the brother-in-law of former CIA analyst Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom goes missing, she has very little to work with. Last heard of in Málaga three weeks earlier, Mike doesn’t know what name he was using, what country he was working in, or what he was doing. This is not going to be a routine missing person investigation.
A UK government minister killed
Mike is reluctantly forced back into the field when a British government minister is killed in France, en route to Spain, but the death offers Mike a vital first clue to solving her brother-in-law’s disappearance. How are the two incidents connected?
A geopolitical storm
The trail for answers leads Mike across Europe and into North Africa, where the competition for control of the region’s natural resources brings a new level of danger for Mike. Can she unravel the mystery before hidden forces silence her?
This Is Not a Pipe is the gripping and thought-provoking second thriller in the Mike Kingdom Series by UK author David Jarvis – ideal for fans of Tom Clancy, Saul Herzog and Frederick Forsyth.
'An exceptional series.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I’ve seen nothing but good reviews for this one and I'm pleased to say they were all correct.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Compelling!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'For an Intelligent espionage thriller with a difference, full of sparks of humour and a very real life feel, this book ticks every box.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘David Jarvis is in a league of his own ... all clever plotting and fast-paced action one would expect from Charles Cumming, combined with the sophisticated realism and deft characterisation of vintage John le Carré.’
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘This book has everything a reader could wish for, excitement, dodgy dealers and humour.’
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘I was so invested in this book that I got up early one morning because as soon as I woke I was thinking about what might happen next!’
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
A new and personal mission for Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom
When the brother-in-law of former CIA analyst Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom goes missing, she has very little to work with. Last heard of in Málaga three weeks earlier, Mike doesn’t know what name he was using, what country he was working in, or what he was doing. This is not going to be a routine missing person investigation.
A UK government minister killed
Mike is reluctantly forced back into the field when a British government minister is killed in France, en route to Spain, but the death offers Mike a vital first clue to solving her brother-in-law’s disappearance. How are the two incidents connected?
A geopolitical storm
The trail for answers leads Mike across Europe and into North Africa, where the competition for control of the region’s natural resources brings a new level of danger for Mike. Can she unravel the mystery before hidden forces silence her?
This Is Not a Pipe is the gripping and thought-provoking second thriller in the Mike Kingdom Series by UK author David Jarvis – ideal for fans of Tom Clancy, Saul Herzog and Frederick Forsyth.
'An exceptional series.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I’ve seen nothing but good reviews for this one and I'm pleased to say they were all correct.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Compelling!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'For an Intelligent espionage thriller with a difference, full of sparks of humour and a very real life feel, this book ticks every box.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 19, 2023
In the world of spy thriller writers David Jarvis is in a league of his own. This new novel has all the clever plotting and fast-paced action one would expect from Charles Cumming, combined with the sophisticated realism and deft characterisation of vintage John le Carré.
The locations are beautifully drawn and provide a rich literary backdrop to a plot which takes on board the ever present threat of Russian interference in the supply of gas to western Europe. It's up-to-date; it's valid; it's deeply compelling, and a sense of urgency permeates every single page. The intensity of the plotting is counterbalanced with splendid witty dialogue and the central character, Mike Kingdom, is appealing and strong enough to lead a whole series of spy thrillers.
The locations are beautifully drawn and provide a rich literary backdrop to a plot which takes on board the ever present threat of Russian interference in the supply of gas to western Europe. It's up-to-date; it's valid; it's deeply compelling, and a sense of urgency permeates every single page. The intensity of the plotting is counterbalanced with splendid witty dialogue and the central character, Mike Kingdom, is appealing and strong enough to lead a whole series of spy thrillers.
February 8, 2024
I’ve seen nothing but good reviews for this one and I'm pleased to say they were all correct.
Mike Kingdoms quiet life is interrupted when her ex-boss (and nemesis) puts her on the trail of her missing brother in law. It's a job that sends her to Morocco and into the middle of a dangerous geopolitical storm
This is Not a Pipe is the perfect balance of action and humour and I whizzed through it. It's a great storyline and David manages to take a fairly complex story and create something really readable and entertaining.
It’s also perfectly paced and while it’s fiction, I learned a lot about Morocco and the politics and history of the wider area
Will certainly be picking up the previous book in the series -The Tip of the Iceberg - and I’m looking forward to seeing the series develop
Highly recommend
Mike Kingdoms quiet life is interrupted when her ex-boss (and nemesis) puts her on the trail of her missing brother in law. It's a job that sends her to Morocco and into the middle of a dangerous geopolitical storm
This is Not a Pipe is the perfect balance of action and humour and I whizzed through it. It's a great storyline and David manages to take a fairly complex story and create something really readable and entertaining.
It’s also perfectly paced and while it’s fiction, I learned a lot about Morocco and the politics and history of the wider area
Will certainly be picking up the previous book in the series -The Tip of the Iceberg - and I’m looking forward to seeing the series develop
Highly recommend
January 2, 2024
Mike Kingdom gets an unwanted visitor to her remote cabin in the woods. Yes, its her former boss the food obsessed Head of the CIA’s London Station and controller of the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence services collaboration (between the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand). Mike swore never to work for him again, but this time Leonard has some bait. Mike’s brother-in-law Randy has been working under cover and has wandered ‘off reservation’. Leonard wants him found and brought into line, there is to be a G20 summit in Morocco shortly and nothing is to get in its way. By way of ‘help’ he tells her Randy might be in Spain, France, Italy, Algeria or Morocco, but his working ‘legend’ is not known. Another clue is in the newspaper he discards when he leaves. Frustrated by the request, but Randy is family, her only link to her late husband, Mike boots up her computer and becomes engrossed.
The British Energy Minister Johnny Musselwhite is on his way to Spain but has arranged a meeting with his French counterpart on route, so he can work the trip into his expenses of course. The Embassy in Paris decides to send a chaperone to smooth his way, with this task eventually falling to Walter Flushing a newbie at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Johnny is fond of the ‘Colombian marching powder’ so the assignment proves taxing for young Walter.
These two strands will come to intertwine, but as with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby the road leads to Morocco…
A memorable start, “Who could ever forget that splash” as a tourist trips over the hem of her kaftan and falls headfirst into a channel where the fish filleters throw the fish offal. We are back in the playfully amusing world of David Jarvis, where accidents waiting to happen do so with some mirth.
Here we have another excellent slice of geo-political skullduggery that is suffused with dry humour and wry wit. The plot whilst relatively straightforward is skilfully overlaid with deceptions, quite fittingly in a world where misplaced trust can prove fatal and loyalties are seemingly negotiable. The storyline progresses at a nicely judged pace and what could be a heavy-going subject matter lighted by amusing incident and sparkling humour, so never gets dull. From the opening slapstick to word play of Walter’s middle name being Cecil to the florid description of Leonid even the dourest reader will find something to chuckle about.
The settings are interesting and well used; a luxury villa in Spain belonging to the super rich and in a bold contrast, the dusty street markets of Morocco. Both prove taxing for our intrepid ‘fish out of water’ analyst dabbling at being a field agent, who is often in a bit of a sweat, which is uncomfortable if you wear a wig. Mike’s hotel in Marrakech manages to be both exotic and slightly unsettling in equal measure.
Mike is the central character of course and her personality is fleshing out well making her an engaging heroine even if she does get herself into tight spots. As she comes to realise people who want her expertise never seem to tell her the full story.
The author has a deft touch when it comes to creating cameo roles too. There is the Aussie backpacker Josie, another one sparing with the truth; an amusingly nicknamed security guard Wazz who has more depth than might be imagined and I think will appear again; and the fish gutter’s dog Kella who all bring added interest to the story.
Most of all though it is the author’s ability to nail the character of the venal, mendacious politicians, advisers and those who pull the strings. Gone are the days of the public serving politician, now they all seem to be self-serving, our democracy gives us a vote every five years, but do we really know who is in control? Is it parliament, big business, bodies like the EU or more shady Bilderberg Group? Is it any wonder some people head down the rabbit hole of conspiracy theories. As there is little the ordinary man can do, get yourself a comfy chair and immerse yourself in this wonderful story.
This Is Not a Pipe vividly brings to life the murky world of geo-politics with wit and style.
The British Energy Minister Johnny Musselwhite is on his way to Spain but has arranged a meeting with his French counterpart on route, so he can work the trip into his expenses of course. The Embassy in Paris decides to send a chaperone to smooth his way, with this task eventually falling to Walter Flushing a newbie at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Johnny is fond of the ‘Colombian marching powder’ so the assignment proves taxing for young Walter.
These two strands will come to intertwine, but as with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby the road leads to Morocco…
A memorable start, “Who could ever forget that splash” as a tourist trips over the hem of her kaftan and falls headfirst into a channel where the fish filleters throw the fish offal. We are back in the playfully amusing world of David Jarvis, where accidents waiting to happen do so with some mirth.
Here we have another excellent slice of geo-political skullduggery that is suffused with dry humour and wry wit. The plot whilst relatively straightforward is skilfully overlaid with deceptions, quite fittingly in a world where misplaced trust can prove fatal and loyalties are seemingly negotiable. The storyline progresses at a nicely judged pace and what could be a heavy-going subject matter lighted by amusing incident and sparkling humour, so never gets dull. From the opening slapstick to word play of Walter’s middle name being Cecil to the florid description of Leonid even the dourest reader will find something to chuckle about.
The settings are interesting and well used; a luxury villa in Spain belonging to the super rich and in a bold contrast, the dusty street markets of Morocco. Both prove taxing for our intrepid ‘fish out of water’ analyst dabbling at being a field agent, who is often in a bit of a sweat, which is uncomfortable if you wear a wig. Mike’s hotel in Marrakech manages to be both exotic and slightly unsettling in equal measure.
Mike is the central character of course and her personality is fleshing out well making her an engaging heroine even if she does get herself into tight spots. As she comes to realise people who want her expertise never seem to tell her the full story.
The author has a deft touch when it comes to creating cameo roles too. There is the Aussie backpacker Josie, another one sparing with the truth; an amusingly nicknamed security guard Wazz who has more depth than might be imagined and I think will appear again; and the fish gutter’s dog Kella who all bring added interest to the story.
Most of all though it is the author’s ability to nail the character of the venal, mendacious politicians, advisers and those who pull the strings. Gone are the days of the public serving politician, now they all seem to be self-serving, our democracy gives us a vote every five years, but do we really know who is in control? Is it parliament, big business, bodies like the EU or more shady Bilderberg Group? Is it any wonder some people head down the rabbit hole of conspiracy theories. As there is little the ordinary man can do, get yourself a comfy chair and immerse yourself in this wonderful story.
This Is Not a Pipe vividly brings to life the murky world of geo-politics with wit and style.
December 21, 2023
This Is Not a Pipe by David Jarvis is the second book in his series starring Mike Kingdom, the ex-CIA Analyst who is based in the UK as a freelancer. When her former boss tells her that her brother in law is missing, she sets out to find him, not realising she will end up back in the field again.
Mike is such a strong character and is so well-drawn in this exciting thriller that I could picture her in a tv series or movie series. We see some characters from the previous book, so although this would work as a standalone, I really think there is a benefit to reading the first book, The Tip of the Iceberg, as you will have more understanding of Mike and what has shaped her into the person she is, in addition to the other characters.
There were familiar characters, like her former boss Leonard, and Charles Yelland who still has to be pinned down given his tendency to give snippets of the truth without the whole picture. I really liked Wazz, who was security for Charles Yelland in Spain. I loved the easy way he communicated with Mike and their matching energies and sense of humour. I hope we get to see him again in a future book.
This is a rollercoaster of a geopolitical thriller, with kidnappings, murder, and plenty of intrigue. The North African element of the story, focusing on the gas pipelines from Africa to Europe feels very current, and there were references to the pipeline issues relating to Russia, and even a nod to the death of the Queen. Culminating events with a G20 summit also feel very ‘now’, and added to the suspense of the novel.
The way in which David Jarvis writes is engaging and intelligent, with a dry humour to it, and it really pulls you into his storytelling. I was so invested in this book that I got up early one morning because as soon as I woke I was thinking about what might happen next! There is such a finesse to this series of books that it seems incredible to me that David Jarvis has not yet been given a publishing deal. Seriously, if you love an intelligent thriller with multi-dimensional characters and packed with intrigue and action, you need to read the Mike Kingdom series.
Mike is such a strong character and is so well-drawn in this exciting thriller that I could picture her in a tv series or movie series. We see some characters from the previous book, so although this would work as a standalone, I really think there is a benefit to reading the first book, The Tip of the Iceberg, as you will have more understanding of Mike and what has shaped her into the person she is, in addition to the other characters.
There were familiar characters, like her former boss Leonard, and Charles Yelland who still has to be pinned down given his tendency to give snippets of the truth without the whole picture. I really liked Wazz, who was security for Charles Yelland in Spain. I loved the easy way he communicated with Mike and their matching energies and sense of humour. I hope we get to see him again in a future book.
This is a rollercoaster of a geopolitical thriller, with kidnappings, murder, and plenty of intrigue. The North African element of the story, focusing on the gas pipelines from Africa to Europe feels very current, and there were references to the pipeline issues relating to Russia, and even a nod to the death of the Queen. Culminating events with a G20 summit also feel very ‘now’, and added to the suspense of the novel.
The way in which David Jarvis writes is engaging and intelligent, with a dry humour to it, and it really pulls you into his storytelling. I was so invested in this book that I got up early one morning because as soon as I woke I was thinking about what might happen next! There is such a finesse to this series of books that it seems incredible to me that David Jarvis has not yet been given a publishing deal. Seriously, if you love an intelligent thriller with multi-dimensional characters and packed with intrigue and action, you need to read the Mike Kingdom series.
October 29, 2023
My thoughts about David Jarvis’s This Is Not A Pipe. Writer David Jarvis has perfectly created an engrossing sequel. The sharp writing, well-written suspense, impressive characters, and gripping storyline are the major highlights of this spellbinding spy suspense thriller. The opening scene is absorbing, initial chapters are fast-paced, humorous, and engaging. Each chapter is written with the right balance of entertainment and thrills. The character development was rightly achieved and various subplots are opened well. David Jarvis’s This Is Not A Pipe is well executed & it takes the series to another level, the suspense will keep the readers on the edge of their seats. David Jarvis’s This Is Not A Pipe story, begins with How would you go about finding a relative if they had gone missing abroad? For Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom, this should have been all in a day’s work. After all, she had previously been a search analyst for the CIA in London. Unfortunately, she didn’t know which name her brother-in-law was using, what he was doing or even in which country he was working. His phone had been used in Málaga three weeks previously and then gone dead. Her initial investigations were off to a slow start until the killing of a British government minister in France on his way to Spain gave her that vital first clue. That’s all Mike Kingdom needed – until she befriended a fish gutter’s dog, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Overall This is how a sequel should be written after the first book’s success. I m at a loss of words. Everything seems so perfect. Brilliant writing, amazing characters. This is engaging, entertainig and thrilling. I would like to say a big thank you to Author David Jarvis for kindly sending me a gifted copy of this spectacular thriller I’ve enjoyed reading.
March 10, 2024
When reading a new author I often wonder what the book will be like and will I enjoy it, with this book I had no fears from the opening pages I knew this was a book for me. There is also a familiarity to the characters even though I did not know who they were, you are soon drawn into their world
There is an assuredness and quality to the writing which gave me a feeling that this was going to be something special. An intelligent and slickly plotted contemporary spy thriller, it is very much a book for today, with it’s richly drawn out locations.
Taking Russia as one of its central theme, and its continual threat to destabilise the west, geo-politics are at play, there is a lot admire about the plotting, the author weaves the action around a fast paced narrative, as the action seamlessly moves between continents. There are two strands to the plot which merge together. One thing that I did find interesting was the interplay between government heads and the decisions they made as the story developed.
I loved the characters within the book, they all carried that air of believeability. Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom struck as a very astute, quick thinking person, not really a field agent she adapted well to her changing circumstances, one of my favourite characters though was Leonard, there was a wit and charm about him that belied his persona. It was interesting that each character within the book belonged, there to enhance the story, another point which came across strongly were the locations used, you really got a sense of place and feel for the geography
It is a read in which the action moved quickly allowing the plot to develop, peppered with twists and turns designed to increase the suspense, the action builds into a climatic finale. it is also a read not without a dry wit and humour, there is a depth to the dialogue throughout
As with many spy novels there is plenty of mis direction and sub plotting, along with underhand dealings, it leaves just enough doubt to keep you second guessing, it certainly captures your attention in an absorbing and engaging read
Overall this was a thought provoking and more than satsyfying read, one which I thoroughly enjoyed from an author to watch out for.
There is an assuredness and quality to the writing which gave me a feeling that this was going to be something special. An intelligent and slickly plotted contemporary spy thriller, it is very much a book for today, with it’s richly drawn out locations.
Taking Russia as one of its central theme, and its continual threat to destabilise the west, geo-politics are at play, there is a lot admire about the plotting, the author weaves the action around a fast paced narrative, as the action seamlessly moves between continents. There are two strands to the plot which merge together. One thing that I did find interesting was the interplay between government heads and the decisions they made as the story developed.
I loved the characters within the book, they all carried that air of believeability. Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom struck as a very astute, quick thinking person, not really a field agent she adapted well to her changing circumstances, one of my favourite characters though was Leonard, there was a wit and charm about him that belied his persona. It was interesting that each character within the book belonged, there to enhance the story, another point which came across strongly were the locations used, you really got a sense of place and feel for the geography
It is a read in which the action moved quickly allowing the plot to develop, peppered with twists and turns designed to increase the suspense, the action builds into a climatic finale. it is also a read not without a dry wit and humour, there is a depth to the dialogue throughout
As with many spy novels there is plenty of mis direction and sub plotting, along with underhand dealings, it leaves just enough doubt to keep you second guessing, it certainly captures your attention in an absorbing and engaging read
Overall this was a thought provoking and more than satsyfying read, one which I thoroughly enjoyed from an author to watch out for.
December 16, 2023
This Is Not A Pipe by David Jarvis
Published 28 October 2023
Troubadour Publishing
How would you go about finding a relative if they had gone missing abroad?
For Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom, this should have been all in a day’s work. After all, she had previously been a search analyst for the CIA in London. Unfortunately, she didn’t know which name her brother-in-law was using, what he was doing, or even in which country he was working. His phone had been used in Málaga three weeks previously but had gone dead. Her initial investigations were off to a slow start until the killing of a British government minister in France on his way to Spain gave her that vital first clue. That’s all Mike Kingdom needed – until she befriended a fish gutter’s dog ...
I was really looking forward to this second outing for Mike Kingdom after reading The Tip Of The Iceberg recently, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Mike is such a cool character to read, and whether she's at home in her cabin, or out in the field where she doesn't think she belongs, her personality gets her into, and out of sticky situations galore again here.
Across Spain, Morocco, and France, Mike chases down leads in this fast-paced thriller. Some supporting characters make a return, and new faces emerge that Mike may well meet again, who knows?
A tense crime caper brilliantly interspersed with touches of light humour.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
Published 28 October 2023
Troubadour Publishing
How would you go about finding a relative if they had gone missing abroad?
For Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom, this should have been all in a day’s work. After all, she had previously been a search analyst for the CIA in London. Unfortunately, she didn’t know which name her brother-in-law was using, what he was doing, or even in which country he was working. His phone had been used in Málaga three weeks previously but had gone dead. Her initial investigations were off to a slow start until the killing of a British government minister in France on his way to Spain gave her that vital first clue. That’s all Mike Kingdom needed – until she befriended a fish gutter’s dog ...
I was really looking forward to this second outing for Mike Kingdom after reading The Tip Of The Iceberg recently, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Mike is such a cool character to read, and whether she's at home in her cabin, or out in the field where she doesn't think she belongs, her personality gets her into, and out of sticky situations galore again here.
Across Spain, Morocco, and France, Mike chases down leads in this fast-paced thriller. Some supporting characters make a return, and new faces emerge that Mike may well meet again, who knows?
A tense crime caper brilliantly interspersed with touches of light humour.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
November 5, 2023
This is Not a Pipe is the 2nd in the series featuring Analyst turned Field Operative Mike Kingdom.
Being quite an avid reader of the Spy/Espionage Genre, I was thrilled when I read The Tip of the Iceberg by David Jarvis as he blew some fresh air in what can often be a tired and repetitive genre. And he’s nailed the brief again in this 2nd book.
The writing is very easy to read, the characters are growing by the book, Mike is tough and resilient but you can feel that she could break at anytime as past events hover over her, and Leonard, her boss, adds so much as he is where David Jarvis shows the more fun side to his writing in what really is a very up to date thriller in terms of the world we are currently in.
This is the 3rd book I have read by David Jarvis and what stands out each time is how well researched and intelligent his story’s are. They are based on real world events and possibilities and each time i find myself looking parts up and it’s all real. I know a lot more now about the Western Sahara than I ever thought I might!
The Plots are great, the pacing is perfect to keep you reading and the settings have a real authentic feel, I loved the riad in Morocco.
For an Intelligent Espionage thriller with a difference, full of sparks of humour and a very real life feel, this book ticks every box.
David Jarvis is a fantastic author. Superb Read.
Being quite an avid reader of the Spy/Espionage Genre, I was thrilled when I read The Tip of the Iceberg by David Jarvis as he blew some fresh air in what can often be a tired and repetitive genre. And he’s nailed the brief again in this 2nd book.
The writing is very easy to read, the characters are growing by the book, Mike is tough and resilient but you can feel that she could break at anytime as past events hover over her, and Leonard, her boss, adds so much as he is where David Jarvis shows the more fun side to his writing in what really is a very up to date thriller in terms of the world we are currently in.
This is the 3rd book I have read by David Jarvis and what stands out each time is how well researched and intelligent his story’s are. They are based on real world events and possibilities and each time i find myself looking parts up and it’s all real. I know a lot more now about the Western Sahara than I ever thought I might!
The Plots are great, the pacing is perfect to keep you reading and the settings have a real authentic feel, I loved the riad in Morocco.
For an Intelligent Espionage thriller with a difference, full of sparks of humour and a very real life feel, this book ticks every box.
David Jarvis is a fantastic author. Superb Read.
November 12, 2023
This is the third David Jarvis book I’ve read, and he’s done it again, written a book that is relevant and compulsive. Spies, terrorists, kidnappings, dodgy politicians and businessmen all feature in this book set in North Africa, France, Spain and the UK.
The G20 are meeting in Marrakech, there is unrest between Algeria and Morocco over Western Sahara and it’s natural resources, the feisty and determined Mike Kingdom is asked to find her missing brother in law, Head of Petronello is being as evasive as ever and a British Minister is murdered whilst in France. As ever there is a hapless semi hero, a CIA Chief for whom truth is an alien concept and a dog who saves the day.
This is book full of action, conspiracy, mystery and twists and I’m delighted to see Mike Kingdom back in harness after her exploits in The Tip of the Iceberg. An analyst turned reluctant field agent, and still suffering from injuries from a previous mission, Mike must save the day and in the process maybe find “a good man”
I loved this book, as I have the previous ones. They are well written and researched, the characters recognisable as people we either know or know of. I’ve recommended the previous books to other people and this is no different
The G20 are meeting in Marrakech, there is unrest between Algeria and Morocco over Western Sahara and it’s natural resources, the feisty and determined Mike Kingdom is asked to find her missing brother in law, Head of Petronello is being as evasive as ever and a British Minister is murdered whilst in France. As ever there is a hapless semi hero, a CIA Chief for whom truth is an alien concept and a dog who saves the day.
This is book full of action, conspiracy, mystery and twists and I’m delighted to see Mike Kingdom back in harness after her exploits in The Tip of the Iceberg. An analyst turned reluctant field agent, and still suffering from injuries from a previous mission, Mike must save the day and in the process maybe find “a good man”
I loved this book, as I have the previous ones. They are well written and researched, the characters recognisable as people we either know or know of. I’ve recommended the previous books to other people and this is no different
March 16, 2024
Hmm, where to begin trying to review this!
This is advertised as a spy thriller, not usually my genre, although if they are all written like this I'm clearly missing out.
This is the second in a series. Mike (Michaela) is still struggling after events from whatever happened in book one, where she lost her husband and her hair.
She is an analyst and lives remotely in Oxford. However when her boss comes and says a member of her family is missing, how can she refuse.
The book is non stop. There's a whole bunch of great characters, some odious, some hilarious and quirky. I loved Wazz, and the Australian.
Considering there are a lot of characters I never lost my way at any point.
All of this is set between Spain, and Marrakech. There is a summit featuring the world leaders of the UK, USA and Canada, Australia etc. So it adds another layer of intrigue, and different approaches to security.
At the centre of this is a pipe. A pipe that supplies gas, yes really! It makes sense when you read it. Must admit, until reading this, I didn't know important phosphates were either.
I read this in one sitting. It was just written in a way that flowed so brilliantly you couldn't stop. Can't wait to read more and I hope there's a lot more to come from Mike. She's a great character.
This is advertised as a spy thriller, not usually my genre, although if they are all written like this I'm clearly missing out.
This is the second in a series. Mike (Michaela) is still struggling after events from whatever happened in book one, where she lost her husband and her hair.
She is an analyst and lives remotely in Oxford. However when her boss comes and says a member of her family is missing, how can she refuse.
The book is non stop. There's a whole bunch of great characters, some odious, some hilarious and quirky. I loved Wazz, and the Australian.
Considering there are a lot of characters I never lost my way at any point.
All of this is set between Spain, and Marrakech. There is a summit featuring the world leaders of the UK, USA and Canada, Australia etc. So it adds another layer of intrigue, and different approaches to security.
At the centre of this is a pipe. A pipe that supplies gas, yes really! It makes sense when you read it. Must admit, until reading this, I didn't know important phosphates were either.
I read this in one sitting. It was just written in a way that flowed so brilliantly you couldn't stop. Can't wait to read more and I hope there's a lot more to come from Mike. She's a great character.
November 5, 2023
This is the second Mike Kingdom story & can be read as a standalone but I would recommend that you read ‘The Tip of the Iceberg ‘ first as this will help with understanding Mike & the other characters involved.
Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom has left her previous job as an analyst for the CIA in London & is at home waiting for a call from a client when her old boss turns up unexpectedly. He has called on Mike to ask if she will find a missing person. She initially declines until he, Leonard, reveals that it is her brother in law, Randy, & with this news she knows she can’t refuse. Her initial attempts to trace Randy are fruitless until a British government minister dies in France, which leads Mike on a trail to Spain & Morocco.
This is another truly thought provoking & gripping story that interweaves international tensions about who controls the earth’s natural resources. Mike is back in the field again. A real page turner but not sure if it’s a ‘two pairs of pants day’ (IYKYK). Ready for the next adventure.
Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom has left her previous job as an analyst for the CIA in London & is at home waiting for a call from a client when her old boss turns up unexpectedly. He has called on Mike to ask if she will find a missing person. She initially declines until he, Leonard, reveals that it is her brother in law, Randy, & with this news she knows she can’t refuse. Her initial attempts to trace Randy are fruitless until a British government minister dies in France, which leads Mike on a trail to Spain & Morocco.
This is another truly thought provoking & gripping story that interweaves international tensions about who controls the earth’s natural resources. Mike is back in the field again. A real page turner but not sure if it’s a ‘two pairs of pants day’ (IYKYK). Ready for the next adventure.
June 18, 2024
4.5⭐
How do you go about finding a relative who has gone missing abroad? Well for former, CIA, analyst Michaela 'Mike' Kingdom this should be an easy question to answer.
Well, it would be if she knew what name her missing brother-in-law was using. What he was last doing or even which country he was last seen working in.
But lucky for her she does know when his mobile phone was last used. The only problem is that was three weeks ago in Málaga and since then a British government minister who was heading to Spain has been found dead in France.
So, Mike picks up the trail which eventually leads her to Morocco and a dangerous political storm as a G20 summit is due to take place and its imperative it does so.
And with such a great cast of characters, humour and skulduggery. This is Not a Pipe is another cracking geopolitical thriller. That once again brilliantly brings the world of murky politicians, secrets and spies to life.
My thanks to author David Jarvis for my copy of This is Not a Pipe. 😊
How do you go about finding a relative who has gone missing abroad? Well for former, CIA, analyst Michaela 'Mike' Kingdom this should be an easy question to answer.
Well, it would be if she knew what name her missing brother-in-law was using. What he was last doing or even which country he was last seen working in.
But lucky for her she does know when his mobile phone was last used. The only problem is that was three weeks ago in Málaga and since then a British government minister who was heading to Spain has been found dead in France.
So, Mike picks up the trail which eventually leads her to Morocco and a dangerous political storm as a G20 summit is due to take place and its imperative it does so.
And with such a great cast of characters, humour and skulduggery. This is Not a Pipe is another cracking geopolitical thriller. That once again brilliantly brings the world of murky politicians, secrets and spies to life.
My thanks to author David Jarvis for my copy of This is Not a Pipe. 😊
July 8, 2024
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story starts off with Mike straight way which I just loved, I can imagine her little cabin ( bedsit) in the middle of a pine forest in Oxfordshire because it feels so real.
As with the previous book this story is also richly detailed and you know that so much time has been taken by the author to research it all.
What I enjoyed the most was walking next to Mike as she doggedly investigated the disappearance of her brother-in-law Randy, she really left no stone unturned.
This was an action filled and humorous thriller that kept me engaged and invested in the outcome, which I enjoyed.
This story starts off with Mike straight way which I just loved, I can imagine her little cabin ( bedsit) in the middle of a pine forest in Oxfordshire because it feels so real.
As with the previous book this story is also richly detailed and you know that so much time has been taken by the author to research it all.
What I enjoyed the most was walking next to Mike as she doggedly investigated the disappearance of her brother-in-law Randy, she really left no stone unturned.
This was an action filled and humorous thriller that kept me engaged and invested in the outcome, which I enjoyed.
December 31, 2023
Having thoroughly enjoyed The Tip of the Iceberg I knew without a shadow of a doubt the next book in the series would be just as gripping. Mike Kingdom continues to be such a fabulous character with so many layers to unravel.
A well written, fast paced yet humorous thriller. Also the added plot twists as expected continue to keep the reader fully engaged until the end.
Looking forward to seeing what happens to Mike next!
A well written, fast paced yet humorous thriller. Also the added plot twists as expected continue to keep the reader fully engaged until the end.
Looking forward to seeing what happens to Mike next!
December 3, 2023
Firstly, I love the title! This took me back to my media studies when I studied the "pipe". Yet again this had me laughing from page 1 with the author's wit in strong force from the off. A gripping plot, superb characters that are well developed and a good pace throughout.
This author just seems to go from strength to strength.
This author just seems to go from strength to strength.
November 2, 2023
Yet another enthralling, well written book. Thoroughly enjoyed this and raced through it.
June 15, 2024
Another exceptional book in the series, and David does it again, keeps the reader on their toes throughout.
This time it’s Mike’s brother in law that goes missing and Leonard wants her to find him. Poor Mike, she tried to get out of Leonard’s clutches, but somehow she never seems to, and gets dragged into more espionage and life threatening situations, that a lesser mortal would balk at.
What follows is a race against time, across the continents of Africa to find her brother in law and get him home safe. On route she meets friends and foes and it’s one fabulous story.
This book has everything a reader could wish for, excitement, dodgy dealers and humour. It also makes y me wonder how real it is, as I said before nothing surprises me!
My thanks to David and Hobeck for the ARC.
This time it’s Mike’s brother in law that goes missing and Leonard wants her to find him. Poor Mike, she tried to get out of Leonard’s clutches, but somehow she never seems to, and gets dragged into more espionage and life threatening situations, that a lesser mortal would balk at.
What follows is a race against time, across the continents of Africa to find her brother in law and get him home safe. On route she meets friends and foes and it’s one fabulous story.
This book has everything a reader could wish for, excitement, dodgy dealers and humour. It also makes y me wonder how real it is, as I said before nothing surprises me!
My thanks to David and Hobeck for the ARC.
July 3, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed Book 1 in this series, so was thrilled to be sent a copy of book 2 by the author. Then asked if I would take part in a blog tour. We are back with Michaela ‘Mike’ Kingdom who is still struggling with things that happened in book 1. Who insists she is not a field agent and is just an analyst or should I say ex analyst for the CIA and five eyes. When she is contacted by her former boss Leonard, who she swore she would never work for again, she is told he needs her help to find her brother in law Randy. He could be in Spain, France, Italy, Algeria or Morocco, he needs to be found and bought in line, as there is a G20 summit in Morocco which involves world leaders from the UK, USA, Canada and Australia etc. and Leonard wants nothing to get in the way. But is there more to the story than that? As Mike starts looking on her computer she learns a lot about pipelines that supply gas, is this what it’s all about?
In the meantime the, British Energy Minister Johnny Musselwhite is on his way to Spain, but stops in France for a meeting, Walter Flushing is sent by the Embassy in Paris as a chaperone, but after Johnny arrives he goes straight to his hotel room for an early night, and agrees to meet Walter the following morning, but when he doesn’t come down, Walter goes to check on Johnny, with no reply he gets someone with a master key to let him in. They find Johnny dead on his bed after what appears to be a cocaine overdose. Walter finds this a little too much and just wants to return home to the UK, except he picked something up in Johnny’s room, which someone else is looking for.
From the opening pages this story will grab you, if you have read book 1 you will have already met some of the characters. And will understand Mike a little better. But not to worry if you haven’t read the first as this can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. This is a well written well plotted contemporary spy thriller.
Charles Yelland is back again, who still only gives very small snippets of the truth unless he is really pinned down. I liked Wazz and the initial conversation he had with Mike they both seem to have a similar sense of humour. He was employed to protect Charles Yelland after he was warned of a death threat.
In the meantime the, British Energy Minister Johnny Musselwhite is on his way to Spain, but stops in France for a meeting, Walter Flushing is sent by the Embassy in Paris as a chaperone, but after Johnny arrives he goes straight to his hotel room for an early night, and agrees to meet Walter the following morning, but when he doesn’t come down, Walter goes to check on Johnny, with no reply he gets someone with a master key to let him in. They find Johnny dead on his bed after what appears to be a cocaine overdose. Walter finds this a little too much and just wants to return home to the UK, except he picked something up in Johnny’s room, which someone else is looking for.
From the opening pages this story will grab you, if you have read book 1 you will have already met some of the characters. And will understand Mike a little better. But not to worry if you haven’t read the first as this can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. This is a well written well plotted contemporary spy thriller.
Charles Yelland is back again, who still only gives very small snippets of the truth unless he is really pinned down. I liked Wazz and the initial conversation he had with Mike they both seem to have a similar sense of humour. He was employed to protect Charles Yelland after he was warned of a death threat.
July 5, 2024
I received a Proof copy with a request for my honest review.
This political crime thriller follows ‘Mike’ Kingdom, a former CIA analyst who when approached by an ex-colleague discovers her brother-in-law is missing,
As an analyst she tries to work out where he could be, but soon decides she may have to travel and work in the field even though she is not trained.
Meanwhile, a British minister is found dead in his hotel room in France, and with the G20 summit looming and new plans for the energy sector revealed it seems that someone will do anything to stop these developments.
Will ‘Mike’ find her brother-in-law? Who else is in danger?
This political crime thriller has an element of espionage as well as the mystery of where ‘Mike’s’ mission will take her.
There is a lot of politics involved, which doesn’t personally interest me, but the character ‘Mike’ does still make this an exciting read, as she is a determined, strong woman.
There are a few moments which add a little light relief, when ‘Mike’ finds herself in unusual situations, and with some of the interactions with some of the other characters.
Overall, a political crime thriller, where a mission to save a relative may turn deadly.
This political crime thriller follows ‘Mike’ Kingdom, a former CIA analyst who when approached by an ex-colleague discovers her brother-in-law is missing,
As an analyst she tries to work out where he could be, but soon decides she may have to travel and work in the field even though she is not trained.
Meanwhile, a British minister is found dead in his hotel room in France, and with the G20 summit looming and new plans for the energy sector revealed it seems that someone will do anything to stop these developments.
Will ‘Mike’ find her brother-in-law? Who else is in danger?
This political crime thriller has an element of espionage as well as the mystery of where ‘Mike’s’ mission will take her.
There is a lot of politics involved, which doesn’t personally interest me, but the character ‘Mike’ does still make this an exciting read, as she is a determined, strong woman.
There are a few moments which add a little light relief, when ‘Mike’ finds herself in unusual situations, and with some of the interactions with some of the other characters.
Overall, a political crime thriller, where a mission to save a relative may turn deadly.
July 2, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Troubador for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is the second book based on Mike (Michaela) Kingdom. Mike is recovering from injuries from over 2 years ago where her husband was killed overseas. Mike is brought in my her old boss from the CIA to try to find her brother-in-law who has gone missing. The story is based on an oil pipeline project and the ramifications it brings to certain characters. The background, the story begins with a death of a senior British Politian in France. Mike becomes involved when Charles Yelland is mentioned and we find that the PEGASUS project is discovered to be one of the reasons for the Politian's death. This book is well written and the descriptions of the locations are well described. Mike is in put in to a shocking situation, where she survives with a little help from ASIS! No more from me as you will need to read this unputdownable thriller for yourselves.
This is the second book based on Mike (Michaela) Kingdom. Mike is recovering from injuries from over 2 years ago where her husband was killed overseas. Mike is brought in my her old boss from the CIA to try to find her brother-in-law who has gone missing. The story is based on an oil pipeline project and the ramifications it brings to certain characters. The background, the story begins with a death of a senior British Politian in France. Mike becomes involved when Charles Yelland is mentioned and we find that the PEGASUS project is discovered to be one of the reasons for the Politian's death. This book is well written and the descriptions of the locations are well described. Mike is in put in to a shocking situation, where she survives with a little help from ASIS! No more from me as you will need to read this unputdownable thriller for yourselves.
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