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John Cook #2
The Berlin Agent
England 1940: Paris has fallen to the Third Reich. Farmer John Cook and society heiress Lady Margaret are waiting for the day when German tanks roll across the green fields of their homes. Both are ready for the moment they will disappear into the woods and the fields to carry out their top-secret orders - to do whatever it takes to fight the Nazis once they arrive on British soil.
Their worst fears are realised when a parachutist drops from a German bomber during an air raid. Arriving at the scene, Cook finds the white silk hanging from a branch, and a mysterious crate containing a complex piece of machinery. The spy is nowhere to be found.
But at night, Cook and Margaret hear German voices in the darkness. Reports come in of others hearing similar things, and there are whispers of an agent from Berlin...
With enemies already hiding among them, how far will Cook and Margaret go to protect the country and the people they love?
'John Cook is the Jack Reacher of 1940's Britain' - Damien Lewis
EVERYONE IS GRIPPED BY STEPHEN RONSON:
'A brilliant noir thriller set in the darkest days of the Second World War' - Stephen Leather
'A vivid sense of place with tension on every level, The Last Line dripped with historical detail and authenticity. I absolutely loved it!' - Marion Todd
'This is an excellent debut novel with a gripping storyline' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'This is a first class 5 star read that is a cleverly written compelling, captivating historical crime thriller that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys an unputdownable thrilling read' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Stephen has a way of describing his characters so tremendously that you really fall in love with them. John, Margaret and Doc for me are just the most incredible characters' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A superb novel which I thoroughly enjoyed' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'If you like Lee Child then you will like this book. It has all the familiar hallmarks . . . vivid writing, well crafted characters, excellent plot and a crusading Superman with definite ideas about right and wrong and meting out his version of justice' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Their worst fears are realised when a parachutist drops from a German bomber during an air raid. Arriving at the scene, Cook finds the white silk hanging from a branch, and a mysterious crate containing a complex piece of machinery. The spy is nowhere to be found.
But at night, Cook and Margaret hear German voices in the darkness. Reports come in of others hearing similar things, and there are whispers of an agent from Berlin...
With enemies already hiding among them, how far will Cook and Margaret go to protect the country and the people they love?
'John Cook is the Jack Reacher of 1940's Britain' - Damien Lewis
EVERYONE IS GRIPPED BY STEPHEN RONSON:
'A brilliant noir thriller set in the darkest days of the Second World War' - Stephen Leather
'A vivid sense of place with tension on every level, The Last Line dripped with historical detail and authenticity. I absolutely loved it!' - Marion Todd
'This is an excellent debut novel with a gripping storyline' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'This is a first class 5 star read that is a cleverly written compelling, captivating historical crime thriller that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys an unputdownable thrilling read' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Stephen has a way of describing his characters so tremendously that you really fall in love with them. John, Margaret and Doc for me are just the most incredible characters' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A superb novel which I thoroughly enjoyed' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'If you like Lee Child then you will like this book. It has all the familiar hallmarks . . . vivid writing, well crafted characters, excellent plot and a crusading Superman with definite ideas about right and wrong and meting out his version of justice' - Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
342 pages, Paperback
Published December 16, 2025
341 people are currently reading
3838 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Ronson
4 books69 followersStephen Ronson grew up in Sussex, and spent a large part of his childhood exploring the woods and fields around Uckfield, many of which were still dotted with reminders of WW2 - pill boxes, tank traps, nissen huts, and graffiti left by soldiers awaiting D-Day.
He is a passionate student of local history, and when he learnt about Auxiliary Units - groups of men who were instructed to lay low during the predicted nazi invasion and lead the fight back, he knew he had to write about a Sussex farmer, one with a love of the land, and a natural desire and ability to get the job done.
Many of the locations and characters in the John Cook series are inspired by real places and real people. In particular, Stephen was inspired by his grandparents, Eric, Bessie, Peter and Vera, each of whom did their bit on the home front.
He is a passionate student of local history, and when he learnt about Auxiliary Units - groups of men who were instructed to lay low during the predicted nazi invasion and lead the fight back, he knew he had to write about a Sussex farmer, one with a love of the land, and a natural desire and ability to get the job done.
Many of the locations and characters in the John Cook series are inspired by real places and real people. In particular, Stephen was inspired by his grandparents, Eric, Bessie, Peter and Vera, each of whom did their bit on the home front.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 24, 2025
I previously enjoyed The Last Line, so was eager to see what awaited John Cook and Lady Margaret in the sequel!
In this instalment, France has fallen and Dunkirk has been evacuated. Tension and paranoia run high as German invasion looms on the horizon. A parachute drops from the sky one evening – a spy is among them, nowhere to be found. German voices are soon heard in the darkness. What follows makes for an action-packed, gripping read.
“If there was a parachutist hiding out in my patch, I backed myself to track him down.”
The Berlin Agent is an entertaining rollercoaster ride – I was reeled in by the fast-paced chapters, frenetic action and suspense. Nothing treads water. The opening chapter was great for setting the scene, highlighting the current state of war, and subtly recapping events from the first book.
The dialogue is tight and there’s an increased confidence in this second outing – the flow and rhythm, vivid descriptions. I looked forward to reading it each night. John Cook’s inner dialogue was just as enjoyable as the one-liners he delivered with perfect timing and humour.
The well-developed lead characters were likeable and possessed great chemistry. You really come to care for the likes of John Cook, Lady Margaret, Frankie, Elizabeth, Uncle Ned and co. They each have intriguing backstories. Farming scenes were a great addition too, reinforcing that side to John – a case of two lives, one man.
“If you want something done, do it yourself.”
I love the attention to detail in this series – an impressive amount of research has been poured into it, adding such authenticity to everything. You learn while reading – even though it’s fiction. It makes the reader feel like they’re living alongside the main characters in 1940s Britain. The ‘author notes’ give fascinating insight into that aspect of the book!
Action scenes were riveting and well-choreographed, sometimes reminding me of Alistair MacLean, mixed with Foyle's War or James Bond - but for a modern audience. It touches on issues more relevant than ever, such as misinformation, right-wing propaganda and fake news. I hope these books get optioned for film or TV someday, as they would be an absorbing watch.
The Berlin Agent had a satisfying ending that left me eager for the next in the series – I’m already looking forward to The Blitz Secret! I enjoyed experiencing wartime Sussex with John Cook and Lady Margaret, and feel the series has truly arrived and found its feet with this one.
“How different history would be, if all men had to confront the reality of failure as much as the excitement of victory, before they chose their path.”
In this instalment, France has fallen and Dunkirk has been evacuated. Tension and paranoia run high as German invasion looms on the horizon. A parachute drops from the sky one evening – a spy is among them, nowhere to be found. German voices are soon heard in the darkness. What follows makes for an action-packed, gripping read.
“If there was a parachutist hiding out in my patch, I backed myself to track him down.”
The Berlin Agent is an entertaining rollercoaster ride – I was reeled in by the fast-paced chapters, frenetic action and suspense. Nothing treads water. The opening chapter was great for setting the scene, highlighting the current state of war, and subtly recapping events from the first book.
The dialogue is tight and there’s an increased confidence in this second outing – the flow and rhythm, vivid descriptions. I looked forward to reading it each night. John Cook’s inner dialogue was just as enjoyable as the one-liners he delivered with perfect timing and humour.
The well-developed lead characters were likeable and possessed great chemistry. You really come to care for the likes of John Cook, Lady Margaret, Frankie, Elizabeth, Uncle Ned and co. They each have intriguing backstories. Farming scenes were a great addition too, reinforcing that side to John – a case of two lives, one man.
“If you want something done, do it yourself.”
I love the attention to detail in this series – an impressive amount of research has been poured into it, adding such authenticity to everything. You learn while reading – even though it’s fiction. It makes the reader feel like they’re living alongside the main characters in 1940s Britain. The ‘author notes’ give fascinating insight into that aspect of the book!
Action scenes were riveting and well-choreographed, sometimes reminding me of Alistair MacLean, mixed with Foyle's War or James Bond - but for a modern audience. It touches on issues more relevant than ever, such as misinformation, right-wing propaganda and fake news. I hope these books get optioned for film or TV someday, as they would be an absorbing watch.
The Berlin Agent had a satisfying ending that left me eager for the next in the series – I’m already looking forward to The Blitz Secret! I enjoyed experiencing wartime Sussex with John Cook and Lady Margaret, and feel the series has truly arrived and found its feet with this one.
“How different history would be, if all men had to confront the reality of failure as much as the excitement of victory, before they chose their path.”
September 23, 2024
“Courage is found in unlikely places.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien
Author Stephen Ronson brings us ‘The Berlin Agent’, follow up to his excellent WWII thriller ’The Last Line’.
England 1940. Since Paris fell to the Third Reich, England is expecting an invasion. In the event of a German invasion of Britain, covert volunteer resistance forces, or Auxiliary Units, had been instructed in guerrilla warfare to thwart the Nazi invasion.
Enter farmer John Cook (former Army Sergeant Major), and society heiress Lady Margaret. Both are ready to leave their normal lives behind in order to carry out top secret orders to do whatever it takes to fight the Nazis should they invade their beloved country.
The Luftwaffe already fill the skies, and one dark night a parachutist drops from one such bomber during an air raid. Cook is first on the scene and discovers a crate containing a mysterious piece of machinery, but the accompanying parachutist is nowhere to be seen. However, this is clearly an attempt by the Nazis to infiltrate the country and find out as much as they can preceding the expected invasion.
In the midst of darkness, Cook and Lady Margaret hear German voices, and they’re not the only ones. Was the parachutist an agent from Berlin?
This is another winner from Mr Ronson, which gives us terrific insight into WWII from the perspective of war on the home front, and particularly those who had trained to take on the Nazis in the event of an invasion.
An exciting read with plenty of tension, humour, and some heart pounding moments, as the author paints a picture of wartime Britain and places the reader firmly in that painting, allowing us to imagine just how it felt.
The author’s notes at the end give some indication of just how much research went into creating this fictional story of Sussex wartime farmer John Cook, resulting in an authentic and riveting read.
*I was invited to read The Berlin Agent by the publisher and have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
― J.R.R. Tolkien
Author Stephen Ronson brings us ‘The Berlin Agent’, follow up to his excellent WWII thriller ’The Last Line’.
England 1940. Since Paris fell to the Third Reich, England is expecting an invasion. In the event of a German invasion of Britain, covert volunteer resistance forces, or Auxiliary Units, had been instructed in guerrilla warfare to thwart the Nazi invasion.
Enter farmer John Cook (former Army Sergeant Major), and society heiress Lady Margaret. Both are ready to leave their normal lives behind in order to carry out top secret orders to do whatever it takes to fight the Nazis should they invade their beloved country.
The Luftwaffe already fill the skies, and one dark night a parachutist drops from one such bomber during an air raid. Cook is first on the scene and discovers a crate containing a mysterious piece of machinery, but the accompanying parachutist is nowhere to be seen. However, this is clearly an attempt by the Nazis to infiltrate the country and find out as much as they can preceding the expected invasion.
In the midst of darkness, Cook and Lady Margaret hear German voices, and they’re not the only ones. Was the parachutist an agent from Berlin?
This is another winner from Mr Ronson, which gives us terrific insight into WWII from the perspective of war on the home front, and particularly those who had trained to take on the Nazis in the event of an invasion.
An exciting read with plenty of tension, humour, and some heart pounding moments, as the author paints a picture of wartime Britain and places the reader firmly in that painting, allowing us to imagine just how it felt.
The author’s notes at the end give some indication of just how much research went into creating this fictional story of Sussex wartime farmer John Cook, resulting in an authentic and riveting read.
*I was invited to read The Berlin Agent by the publisher and have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
November 28, 2024
4.5 stars
Another impressive book and a follow-up to The Last Line. Once again, John Cook and Lady Margaret are thrust into continuing events of WWII as the war intensifies and the bombing raids begin.
Notably, this starts with John observing a single parachute cascade to the ground. Thus the fight for survival begins and John and Margaret, along with some new characters have to deal with not only the uppermost echelons of society as well as the people on the ground, like the labourers and John's farming community and family. Margaret's character is further expanded, and she, along with John, are literally ordered to do 'whatever it takes.'
The book highlights the subject of Nazi sympathizers and the powerful reach of WWII propaganda. The medium of radio communication is also at the forefront, and a secret wartime base called Aspidistra is the central feature. Altogether, a fasicinating insight into the home front in the thick of wartime. I can't wait for more on John's adventures in book 3.
Another impressive book and a follow-up to The Last Line. Once again, John Cook and Lady Margaret are thrust into continuing events of WWII as the war intensifies and the bombing raids begin.
Notably, this starts with John observing a single parachute cascade to the ground. Thus the fight for survival begins and John and Margaret, along with some new characters have to deal with not only the uppermost echelons of society as well as the people on the ground, like the labourers and John's farming community and family. Margaret's character is further expanded, and she, along with John, are literally ordered to do 'whatever it takes.'
The book highlights the subject of Nazi sympathizers and the powerful reach of WWII propaganda. The medium of radio communication is also at the forefront, and a secret wartime base called Aspidistra is the central feature. Altogether, a fasicinating insight into the home front in the thick of wartime. I can't wait for more on John's adventures in book 3.
September 4, 2024
Summary: John Cook, Esq. and Lady Margaret return in the sequel to The Last Line. Cook is getting prepared for the season harvest when he sees a parachuter descend from a German bomber into his field in the dark of night. He finds the parachute and a crate of mysterious damaged equipment but no sign of whoever landed in the field. In the countryside people begin to pick up snippets of German radio broadcasts and there are whispers of German sympathizers, or Fifth Columnists as they are known. Who can be trusted, and who is secretly working for the other side? John and Margaret are ordered to do ‘whatever it takes’.
Thoughts: This second novel featuring John Cook and Lady Margaret delves into the subject of Nazi sympathizers and WWII propaganda, which I knew very little about previously. They inveigle their way into a circle of Fifth Columnists to discover their plans and find a German agent. Radio communications, including an actual secret wartime radio installation called Aspidistra, are a central feature in the novel. In the midst of all this intrigue and the threat of German bombers, the harvest still needs to be done and life must continue. Like the first novel, it is an interesting look at the home front in the thick of wartime. I appreciate the amount of research and work that must go into these novels as the setting, tone and details all feel so authentic. Fans of historical fiction will dive in and love this series.
Many thanks to Hodder & Stoughton/Hachette UK for the copy to read.
Thoughts: This second novel featuring John Cook and Lady Margaret delves into the subject of Nazi sympathizers and WWII propaganda, which I knew very little about previously. They inveigle their way into a circle of Fifth Columnists to discover their plans and find a German agent. Radio communications, including an actual secret wartime radio installation called Aspidistra, are a central feature in the novel. In the midst of all this intrigue and the threat of German bombers, the harvest still needs to be done and life must continue. Like the first novel, it is an interesting look at the home front in the thick of wartime. I appreciate the amount of research and work that must go into these novels as the setting, tone and details all feel so authentic. Fans of historical fiction will dive in and love this series.
Many thanks to Hodder & Stoughton/Hachette UK for the copy to read.
October 8, 2025
Ronson's writing is visually descriptive and his almost poetic prose bring the story to life on the page.
The small country town is riddled with war propaganda, air raids, enemy infiltrations, Nazi sympathisers and covert operations.
The War Ag Dept is reviewing farm outputs and has complete control over every aspect of food production, taking over farms that don't comply.
John is a wonderful protagonist. He cares for the people of his village and feels he needs to help everyone. Protecting his small village whilst also working for his country against the Germans.
The Berlin Agent had more of a political lean than The Last Line which was more of a murder mystery with the war as a backdrop. Although there were a few mysteries at play which kept me engaged with the story.
The small country town is riddled with war propaganda, air raids, enemy infiltrations, Nazi sympathisers and covert operations.
The War Ag Dept is reviewing farm outputs and has complete control over every aspect of food production, taking over farms that don't comply.
John is a wonderful protagonist. He cares for the people of his village and feels he needs to help everyone. Protecting his small village whilst also working for his country against the Germans.
The Berlin Agent had more of a political lean than The Last Line which was more of a murder mystery with the war as a backdrop. Although there were a few mysteries at play which kept me engaged with the story.
October 4, 2024
It's 1940 and a German invasion along the South Coast of England is imminent. A parachute drops from a German bomber during a night-time air raid and is spotted by farmer John Cook. He rushes to the scene and discovers the parachute hanging from a tree — but there's no sign of the parachutist. Upon searching the area, a smashed wooden crate is found in the undergrowth; its contents a strange-looking machine. It would appear a German spy has landed on British soil.
This second book featuring John Cook paints a vivid picture of rural life under threat from wartime invasion. The author sets the scene perfectly and the story pulls the reader in. A veteran of the First World War, John Cook is prepared to sacrifice his life for his country. Skills acquired as a soldier have stood him in good stead for what is about to happen.
The plot is excellent and compelling — it's a period in my country's history I'm personally very interested in. The characters feel realistic and the pacing is spot on. I really hope the author has more books planned. A great read!
This second book featuring John Cook paints a vivid picture of rural life under threat from wartime invasion. The author sets the scene perfectly and the story pulls the reader in. A veteran of the First World War, John Cook is prepared to sacrifice his life for his country. Skills acquired as a soldier have stood him in good stead for what is about to happen.
The plot is excellent and compelling — it's a period in my country's history I'm personally very interested in. The characters feel realistic and the pacing is spot on. I really hope the author has more books planned. A great read!
August 26, 2024
Thank you Hodder & Stoughton & specially to the author via Netgalley.co.uk for the opportunity to review The Berlin Agent ARC pre publication. This is Stephen Ronsons second outing with John Cook the down to earth farmer with a dearth of experience behind him both in local knowledge, 1st WW trench fighting the Huns and no holds barred when the need arises. First off when reading the authors notes at the end of the story you can feel the depth of knowledge and research that's gone into this novel, factual information with some embellishment like all good stories have. I do enjoy action. thrillers and war and learnt a few things - looking them up to realise for instance that the Aspidistra (yes the front parlour plant so well loved by the UK and the comical song sung by Gracie Fields in 1942 'The biggest Aspidistra in the World') was also used as the name for a secret broadcast generator built in 1942 in Sussex! well you learn something new every day.
In this second outing we learn much about John Cook and his determination to thwart Hitlers invasion of the UK during the 'phoney war' and the tension you can cut with a knife awaiting to see if Hitler will invade, his motto being 'if you want something done , do it yourself'; John gets himself embroiled with 5th Columnists, British sympathisers and anti jew propaganda to infiltrate Hitlers spies dropped in by parachute. Getting himself firmly in the action with huge risks to himself. I can feel that we will read more about John and the balancing act between law and disorder. Book three perhaps.
In this second outing we learn much about John Cook and his determination to thwart Hitlers invasion of the UK during the 'phoney war' and the tension you can cut with a knife awaiting to see if Hitler will invade, his motto being 'if you want something done , do it yourself'; John gets himself embroiled with 5th Columnists, British sympathisers and anti jew propaganda to infiltrate Hitlers spies dropped in by parachute. Getting himself firmly in the action with huge risks to himself. I can feel that we will read more about John and the balancing act between law and disorder. Book three perhaps.
November 7, 2024
The coast of England, 1940.
Paris has fallen. The war and its German forces are inching ever closer. The fear that they will soon move through John Cook's fields is real. And it all too soon becomes a reality when a parachute drops from the sky. Cook is able to find it, and a mysterious piece of machinery along with it. But the spy, if that is what they are, is nowhere to be found, and the enemy is far closer than John knows.
I must admit that there was a moment, not that very long ago, when I became somewhat tired of World War II stories. But here is an author who has completely restored my faith in the genre. Mostly because his approach is so very different from the other stories that are out there. These are regular people fighting with what they have against an enemy they currently can't quite see yet. They come from various walks of life, some have no skills whatsoever but they're happy to learn and do their bit.
I find it utterly fascinating to realise that amidst all this fear of the war landing in front of their doors, people were still out there farming the land. One must still eat, after all. But that daily grind seems so inconceivable and is very much in contrast with people's preparation for the doom that might befall them. Kind of like, sure, hey, planes are flying overhead. Could be us, could be them, but let's fix the tractor first. Boggles the mind somewhat, doesn't it?
As much as John Cook has that Reacher vibe, I find him much more likeable. He will always try to do what's right. His heart is in the right place, he's smart about things, and a brilliant tactician. Yet, in 'The Berlin Agent', he seemed slightly more infallible than in the previous book, somewhat less invincible. It felt to me as if he was missing important clues along the way, that he was failing to see the big picture. Not that I knew what it was at first, but I did have my eye on certain people. Whereas John's approach of "if you want something done right, do it yourself" might just get him in trouble.
For someone who reacts rather "eeww-y" to anything romance, I adore the complicated relationship John and Margaret have. There is still so much the reader, and John for that matter, needs to learn about her. In her own right, she is a force to be reckoned with. But also, this massive mystery you want to get to know better. Just like with any other enigmatic character, you sometimes wonder if she can be trusted entirely. It was also a true delight so see characters like Elizabeth and Frankie finding their way somehow.
Who is the spy? What are they looking for? Will they find it? Or will John be able to put the pieces of the puzzle together in order to thwart their mission? Guess you'll have to read it to find out. Prepare yourself for yet another action-packed adventure. 'The Berlin Agent' grabbed my attention from the very first page and didn't let go. I found it quite hard to put down and late at night, I most definitely fell victim to that whole "one more chapter" thing. A suspenseful, tense and well-plotted addition to the series and can't wait for the next one!
Paris has fallen. The war and its German forces are inching ever closer. The fear that they will soon move through John Cook's fields is real. And it all too soon becomes a reality when a parachute drops from the sky. Cook is able to find it, and a mysterious piece of machinery along with it. But the spy, if that is what they are, is nowhere to be found, and the enemy is far closer than John knows.
I must admit that there was a moment, not that very long ago, when I became somewhat tired of World War II stories. But here is an author who has completely restored my faith in the genre. Mostly because his approach is so very different from the other stories that are out there. These are regular people fighting with what they have against an enemy they currently can't quite see yet. They come from various walks of life, some have no skills whatsoever but they're happy to learn and do their bit.
I find it utterly fascinating to realise that amidst all this fear of the war landing in front of their doors, people were still out there farming the land. One must still eat, after all. But that daily grind seems so inconceivable and is very much in contrast with people's preparation for the doom that might befall them. Kind of like, sure, hey, planes are flying overhead. Could be us, could be them, but let's fix the tractor first. Boggles the mind somewhat, doesn't it?
As much as John Cook has that Reacher vibe, I find him much more likeable. He will always try to do what's right. His heart is in the right place, he's smart about things, and a brilliant tactician. Yet, in 'The Berlin Agent', he seemed slightly more infallible than in the previous book, somewhat less invincible. It felt to me as if he was missing important clues along the way, that he was failing to see the big picture. Not that I knew what it was at first, but I did have my eye on certain people. Whereas John's approach of "if you want something done right, do it yourself" might just get him in trouble.
For someone who reacts rather "eeww-y" to anything romance, I adore the complicated relationship John and Margaret have. There is still so much the reader, and John for that matter, needs to learn about her. In her own right, she is a force to be reckoned with. But also, this massive mystery you want to get to know better. Just like with any other enigmatic character, you sometimes wonder if she can be trusted entirely. It was also a true delight so see characters like Elizabeth and Frankie finding their way somehow.
Who is the spy? What are they looking for? Will they find it? Or will John be able to put the pieces of the puzzle together in order to thwart their mission? Guess you'll have to read it to find out. Prepare yourself for yet another action-packed adventure. 'The Berlin Agent' grabbed my attention from the very first page and didn't let go. I found it quite hard to put down and late at night, I most definitely fell victim to that whole "one more chapter" thing. A suspenseful, tense and well-plotted addition to the series and can't wait for the next one!
January 5, 2025
Book 2 in the John Cook WWII series was another hit! I received a copy from Hodder & Stoughten via Netgalley. It came out in November last year.
Just like the first book, this sequel is a gripping World War II thriller that expertly blends espionage, suspense, and human resilience. Set in 1940 England, the story follows farmer John Cook and Lady Margaret as they prepare to resist the looming Nazi invasion. Both are secretly trained to defend their homeland, ready to vanish into the countryside and fight from the shadows if the enemy arrives.Their mission becomes urgent when a German parachutist lands during an air raid, leaving behind a mysterious crate with a complex device. Though the spy escapes, German voices soon echo in the darkness, and suspicions of an undercover agent spread through the village. With fear and paranoia rising, Cook and Margaret must unravel the mystery while navigating danger on all sides.
Themes of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice are intricately woven together, creating and capturing the tension of a nation on the brink of invasion. The dynamic partnership between Cook and Margaret adds depth, while the relentless suspense keeps you hooked to the pages. This, together with a historically accurate background, turns it into a great WWII thriller!
5/5 ⭐️
Just like the first book, this sequel is a gripping World War II thriller that expertly blends espionage, suspense, and human resilience. Set in 1940 England, the story follows farmer John Cook and Lady Margaret as they prepare to resist the looming Nazi invasion. Both are secretly trained to defend their homeland, ready to vanish into the countryside and fight from the shadows if the enemy arrives.Their mission becomes urgent when a German parachutist lands during an air raid, leaving behind a mysterious crate with a complex device. Though the spy escapes, German voices soon echo in the darkness, and suspicions of an undercover agent spread through the village. With fear and paranoia rising, Cook and Margaret must unravel the mystery while navigating danger on all sides.
Themes of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice are intricately woven together, creating and capturing the tension of a nation on the brink of invasion. The dynamic partnership between Cook and Margaret adds depth, while the relentless suspense keeps you hooked to the pages. This, together with a historically accurate background, turns it into a great WWII thriller!
5/5 ⭐️
October 26, 2024
The second book in the John Cook series. It is fiction based loosely on fact and is set near Uckfield in Sussex during the summer of 1940 where Cook is a farmer. France has just fallen and everyone is expecting the German Forces to invade at any time. John is ex-army but too old for signing up but he has been asked to lead an Auxiliary section in the area should the invasion happen. If called into service lifespan was estimated at about 2 weeks!
Briefly, alongside running his farm Cook becomes embroiled with a German plot to sabotage a local radio transmitter vital to the defence of the country. Cook takes no prisoners and having to cope with fifth columnists and work with Lady Margaret at the same time makes for daring, dangerous and devilish times.
An excellent plot kept the tension high in this compelling and gripping story. I wasn’t aware of the depth of training undertaken by those expected to act as Resistance in the event of a German invasion. Well researched and the authors notes are worth a read. An enjoyable and exciting novel.
Briefly, alongside running his farm Cook becomes embroiled with a German plot to sabotage a local radio transmitter vital to the defence of the country. Cook takes no prisoners and having to cope with fifth columnists and work with Lady Margaret at the same time makes for daring, dangerous and devilish times.
An excellent plot kept the tension high in this compelling and gripping story. I wasn’t aware of the depth of training undertaken by those expected to act as Resistance in the event of a German invasion. Well researched and the authors notes are worth a read. An enjoyable and exciting novel.
September 10, 2024
A great seque
I had read and enjoyed the authors previous novel The Last line which is set in the period of World War II when it appeared that German invasion of England was inevitable. During the first novel we meet John Cook who has been tasked with staying undercover as a south coast UK farmer in order to disrupt German invading forces.
This novel is the sequel to the previous novel and we are in 1940. John must react when an enemy parachute is appears to land in one of his fields
The book grabbed me from the first chapter and I was greedily devouring it in one sitting . Reading the novels is like reading a grown-up famous five or should it be secret seven with added violence and a bit of sex. the story is fast moving and keeps your attention throughout the characters are realistic enough to make you believe in them but have that two dimensional quality perhaps if they goodies and baddies in Dick Barton special agent or the war magazines my older cousins used to read and which my grandmother called Trash Mags . all great fun you know the goodies will prevail in the end and you keep reading.
The authors writing style is clear flowing and easily read reading these novels has been fun.
I thoroughly recommend for those who like a fast paced historical action story .
I read copy of the novel on NetGalley UK. The novel is published on the 7th of November 2024 by Hodder and Stoughton
This review will appear on NetGalley UK, Goodreads, and my book blog by Sarah S books.WordPress.com.
After publication it will also appear on Amazon UK
I had read and enjoyed the authors previous novel The Last line which is set in the period of World War II when it appeared that German invasion of England was inevitable. During the first novel we meet John Cook who has been tasked with staying undercover as a south coast UK farmer in order to disrupt German invading forces.
This novel is the sequel to the previous novel and we are in 1940. John must react when an enemy parachute is appears to land in one of his fields
The book grabbed me from the first chapter and I was greedily devouring it in one sitting . Reading the novels is like reading a grown-up famous five or should it be secret seven with added violence and a bit of sex. the story is fast moving and keeps your attention throughout the characters are realistic enough to make you believe in them but have that two dimensional quality perhaps if they goodies and baddies in Dick Barton special agent or the war magazines my older cousins used to read and which my grandmother called Trash Mags . all great fun you know the goodies will prevail in the end and you keep reading.
The authors writing style is clear flowing and easily read reading these novels has been fun.
I thoroughly recommend for those who like a fast paced historical action story .
I read copy of the novel on NetGalley UK. The novel is published on the 7th of November 2024 by Hodder and Stoughton
This review will appear on NetGalley UK, Goodreads, and my book blog by Sarah S books.WordPress.com.
After publication it will also appear on Amazon UK
December 11, 2024
1940 and England can be raided any moment and on the south coast a parachutist is spotted but not capture so starts an adventure involving our hero, John Cook.
He is all action and doesn't mind killing or inflicting injury on anyone who stands in his way. As a hero he is similar to Rory Clements's spy, Professor Tom Wilde.
The Berlin agent uses events and military installations they may have existed but plausible to weave an imaginative plot with plenty of scope to continue. Who knows, the action could eventually move from the south coast to Germany.
He is all action and doesn't mind killing or inflicting injury on anyone who stands in his way. As a hero he is similar to Rory Clements's spy, Professor Tom Wilde.
The Berlin agent uses events and military installations they may have existed but plausible to weave an imaginative plot with plenty of scope to continue. Who knows, the action could eventually move from the south coast to Germany.
November 29, 2025
Again, brilliant! I love the mixture of real events and fictional "ordinary" people, particularly when I don't know much about the real events! I also enjoyed the tension all through the book: whom to trust, whom to distrust? Cook is a fascinating character with a deep sense of justice... I can't wait for the next book in the series!
November 25, 2024
Second outing for John Cook and Lady Margaret. This one sees them looking for a mysterious parachutist dropped by a German plane whilst trying to figure out what the local Nazi sympathisers are up to. Gripping, exciting and well worth picking up
October 1, 2024
Beginning in June 1940, this book takes up shortly after the events of The Last Line. World War 2 is raging and Paris has surrendered - German tanks are expected in Britain any day now. John Cook, a farmer and former soldier near the south coast of England, has been tasked with creating stalling diversions in the event of the German invasion. When a parachute is found in the woods, it quickly becomes clear that not only has a spy arrived, they clearly have help from someone local. John and his companion Margaret are on a mission to ferret out the spy before it's too late.
I really enjoyed this book. John Cook has been described elsewhere as a 1940's Jack Reacher, and I think that is very apt. Several plotlines run concurrently and as well as being an intriguing thriller with some very unexpected turns, this is a story of the reality of living in war time Britain, which I found very enlightening. Don't be put off by the fact that it's second in a series, the events of book one are well explained.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the review copy, I can't wait for book three!
#TheBerlinAgent
#NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book. John Cook has been described elsewhere as a 1940's Jack Reacher, and I think that is very apt. Several plotlines run concurrently and as well as being an intriguing thriller with some very unexpected turns, this is a story of the reality of living in war time Britain, which I found very enlightening. Don't be put off by the fact that it's second in a series, the events of book one are well explained.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the review copy, I can't wait for book three!
#TheBerlinAgent
#NetGalley
March 1, 2025
The story begins just a few weeks after the events in The Last Line. It is June 1940, France has fallen, the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) has been driven back to a small portion of the coast. A mixture of good luck and bloody-minded determination has seen the bulk of the forces evacuated from Dunkirk. A miracle of sorts, spun as a moral victory, but John Cook who is aiding the evacuated soldiers can see at what cost. He knows the phony war is over in deadly earnest, the real war may well be over soon and if it is, it will be the German’s that have won.
Through the eyes of John Cook the author manages to capture the feeling of the public at that time. The shock of the BEF being routed, the fear of imminent invasion, the suspicion of potential enemy aliens and the paranoia of the possibility of a Fifth Columnist in their midst. This is well expressed and convincingly conveyed. The sheer helplessness at not being able to strike back and the fear of the inevitable defeat, unless the RAF can turn back the German bombers softening up the South ready of invasion. When John Cook sees a parachutist jump from a low flying German plane, he races to the scene hoping to apprehend any German spy. He arrives too late, finding the empty parachute tangled in a tree, but he’s not the only one there. There is a member of the landed gentry, except he is no gentleman as Cook has come across him before, during the first war. He’s a man Cook can’t trust, and their paths inevitably will cross again…
John Cook, an action hero with much more complexity and baggage than most. A beautifully imagined, well-rounded character but also a trained killer, a man battling with his past trying to keep a grip on his sense of morality. In a war that will inflict horrors on humanity the latter is going to be in short supply, keeping a perspective and a sense of what is right and wrong will be essential for self-survival. Cook has been lucky to find a soulmate in Lady Margaret and they have quickly established themselves as a formidable duo. She is shrewd, gives Cook the insight into the establishment and ruling classes, also helping to smooth off some of his rougher edges. The chemistry between the two is fabulous, their relationship feels natural, unusual perhaps considering their class differences, but they are a meeting of equals in their strength of personality.
The plot is one of secrets and the steps needed to keep them so. The Allies whilst battling to stay in the war were working away furiously to develop an edge, Polish cryptanalysts were giving Bletchley Park a start on cracking the enigma, whilst engineers and scientists were working on new technologies. The latter proves significant and is plausibly woven within the storyline, taking enough from what was developed to be convincing. They way that Cook’s superiors ration the information he is given strengthens the notion that maintaining secrets and thinking ‘outside the box’ is what gave the Allies the edge. Not only this we get a sense of the steps brave people take to maintain these secrets at all costs, but they also knew it was important and that was sufficient to get their commitment.
This is a story all about the balance of power and sacrifice. Pitching ordinary people willing to fight for King and Country, willing to lay down their lives for their family and friends, as opposed to those care little for the future providing, they remain in a position of power, elitism at its worst. Some in the establishment and upper classes openly flirted with the Nazis and Moseley’s fascists, but for some it wasn’t for ideological reasons, but rather naked self-interest.
The storyline includes plenty of intrigue and action, such there are no flat or boring passages. It also manages to incorporate the thoughts and feelings of ordinary folk within the incidents. This is skilful writing that captures a mood of a country at a point of time. The pacing is pretty much ideal, building up to a frantic finale that is surprising and poses fraught dilemmas for the central characters, including an unexpected twist and a hook for book three.
Through the eyes of John Cook the author manages to capture the feeling of the public at that time. The shock of the BEF being routed, the fear of imminent invasion, the suspicion of potential enemy aliens and the paranoia of the possibility of a Fifth Columnist in their midst. This is well expressed and convincingly conveyed. The sheer helplessness at not being able to strike back and the fear of the inevitable defeat, unless the RAF can turn back the German bombers softening up the South ready of invasion. When John Cook sees a parachutist jump from a low flying German plane, he races to the scene hoping to apprehend any German spy. He arrives too late, finding the empty parachute tangled in a tree, but he’s not the only one there. There is a member of the landed gentry, except he is no gentleman as Cook has come across him before, during the first war. He’s a man Cook can’t trust, and their paths inevitably will cross again…
John Cook, an action hero with much more complexity and baggage than most. A beautifully imagined, well-rounded character but also a trained killer, a man battling with his past trying to keep a grip on his sense of morality. In a war that will inflict horrors on humanity the latter is going to be in short supply, keeping a perspective and a sense of what is right and wrong will be essential for self-survival. Cook has been lucky to find a soulmate in Lady Margaret and they have quickly established themselves as a formidable duo. She is shrewd, gives Cook the insight into the establishment and ruling classes, also helping to smooth off some of his rougher edges. The chemistry between the two is fabulous, their relationship feels natural, unusual perhaps considering their class differences, but they are a meeting of equals in their strength of personality.
The plot is one of secrets and the steps needed to keep them so. The Allies whilst battling to stay in the war were working away furiously to develop an edge, Polish cryptanalysts were giving Bletchley Park a start on cracking the enigma, whilst engineers and scientists were working on new technologies. The latter proves significant and is plausibly woven within the storyline, taking enough from what was developed to be convincing. They way that Cook’s superiors ration the information he is given strengthens the notion that maintaining secrets and thinking ‘outside the box’ is what gave the Allies the edge. Not only this we get a sense of the steps brave people take to maintain these secrets at all costs, but they also knew it was important and that was sufficient to get their commitment.
This is a story all about the balance of power and sacrifice. Pitching ordinary people willing to fight for King and Country, willing to lay down their lives for their family and friends, as opposed to those care little for the future providing, they remain in a position of power, elitism at its worst. Some in the establishment and upper classes openly flirted with the Nazis and Moseley’s fascists, but for some it wasn’t for ideological reasons, but rather naked self-interest.
The storyline includes plenty of intrigue and action, such there are no flat or boring passages. It also manages to incorporate the thoughts and feelings of ordinary folk within the incidents. This is skilful writing that captures a mood of a country at a point of time. The pacing is pretty much ideal, building up to a frantic finale that is surprising and poses fraught dilemmas for the central characters, including an unexpected twist and a hook for book three.
November 11, 2024
My Review –
Thank you so much to Hodder & Stoughton for so generously sending me a finished copy of The Berlin Agent.
I couldn’t wait to start reading The Berlin Agent, so I cast aside my current read and went straight in to 1940’s Sussex and the wonderful John Cook!
In the first book in the series we learnt that John Cook who is a farmer was asked to form a top secret group of men who will hunker down and resist the Nazis when they invade the shore of Great Britain, being in a coastal Country their disruption will be the first wave of fighting the invaders would meet. John Cook is a Farmer but he fought in WW1 and is an intelligent and strong man. His girlfriend Lady Margaret is also helping John with any intelligence jobs and together they create a formidable team!
In The Berlin Agent Paris has just fallen to the German Army and rumours that an invasion on British shores is imminent, is making everyone jumpy. When John sees a parachute in the middle of an air raid, he rushes to the scene to find a silk parachute and a broken box containing a strange machine but no parachutist, his worst fears are realised.
What follows is a taught and gripping thriller where we join John and Margaret in flushing out the German spy. As always the cast of characters is quite large but all are written with perfection, and the language and sense of place are exceptional. Stephen Ronson really knows how to take the reader from today to 1940’s Wartime Britain, the descriptions of farming life and the countryside really make this a visceral read. I felt like I was actually there with John during the harvest scenes. The plot is tightly woven and The Berlin Agent is a real page turner from beginning to end. I raced through the book and there are some monumental twists too, which I hope will lead into book 3! ( I so don’t want to have to wait a year to read it!)
Some writers make too much of the Wartime setting but Stephen is able to keep the mix of descriptive scenes and dialogue at a great balance. It is very clear that he has done his research and indeed I learnt some things especially about farming during the War, and how vital it was to keep the Nation fed.
A really excellent second novel in the series, John Cook is like a Farmers James Bond, and I love his character so much. The Berlin Agent is a brilliant WW2 thriller and if that is one of your preferred genres, then this needs to be on your reading list!
A brilliant 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read. I’m so looking forward to book 3!
Thank you so much to Hodder & Stoughton for so generously sending me a finished copy of The Berlin Agent.
I couldn’t wait to start reading The Berlin Agent, so I cast aside my current read and went straight in to 1940’s Sussex and the wonderful John Cook!
In the first book in the series we learnt that John Cook who is a farmer was asked to form a top secret group of men who will hunker down and resist the Nazis when they invade the shore of Great Britain, being in a coastal Country their disruption will be the first wave of fighting the invaders would meet. John Cook is a Farmer but he fought in WW1 and is an intelligent and strong man. His girlfriend Lady Margaret is also helping John with any intelligence jobs and together they create a formidable team!
In The Berlin Agent Paris has just fallen to the German Army and rumours that an invasion on British shores is imminent, is making everyone jumpy. When John sees a parachute in the middle of an air raid, he rushes to the scene to find a silk parachute and a broken box containing a strange machine but no parachutist, his worst fears are realised.
What follows is a taught and gripping thriller where we join John and Margaret in flushing out the German spy. As always the cast of characters is quite large but all are written with perfection, and the language and sense of place are exceptional. Stephen Ronson really knows how to take the reader from today to 1940’s Wartime Britain, the descriptions of farming life and the countryside really make this a visceral read. I felt like I was actually there with John during the harvest scenes. The plot is tightly woven and The Berlin Agent is a real page turner from beginning to end. I raced through the book and there are some monumental twists too, which I hope will lead into book 3! ( I so don’t want to have to wait a year to read it!)
Some writers make too much of the Wartime setting but Stephen is able to keep the mix of descriptive scenes and dialogue at a great balance. It is very clear that he has done his research and indeed I learnt some things especially about farming during the War, and how vital it was to keep the Nation fed.
A really excellent second novel in the series, John Cook is like a Farmers James Bond, and I love his character so much. The Berlin Agent is a brilliant WW2 thriller and if that is one of your preferred genres, then this needs to be on your reading list!
A brilliant 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read. I’m so looking forward to book 3!
January 15, 2025
Stephen Ronson and The Berlin Agent is a new author for me, but there is an earlier book, The Last Line, where John Cook the main character of The Berlin Agent is introduced. Having thoroughly enjoyed the more recent book, I will certainly look out for The Last Line. In The Berlin Agent, John Cook is, now in Uckfield, an East Sussex famer who had served in the Eleventh Battalion of the Royal Sussex Regiment from 1916 in the Great War, later known as World War I. The story in the book opens in June 1940, when everywhere, including Uckfield, is full of our soldiers who had been rescued from Dunkirk. John had tried to sign up again for WWII, but at age 40 he was told he would be better off taking on the responsibility of setting up an auxiliary unit of similar age locals in Uckfield and being prepared to lead a resistance group in the event of an expected German invasion. The book covers a fairly short period in 1940 WWII between Dunkirk in June, and the start of The Battle of Britain in July. During this time John is busy keeping a large farm going with a lot of help from Bill Taylor his farm manager and other volunteers at the busiest times. John is also busy with members of his auxiliary group, but he then discovers that there is a group of locals who would really like the UK to sign an armistice with Germany (as did France, having been quickly defeated) rather than let the war continue. The main part of the book evolves with John trying to find out who in the local group is communicating with Germany’s Berlin, but I am not going to reveal any of that activity as it would spoil the book, but obviously there is a Berlin Agent who is eventually discovered.
John’s adventures during the course of the book are really well written and there are several extremely violent escapades which certainly meant that I wanted to keep reading and find out what happens next. All in all, this was an excellent book which I really enjoyed and I am sure that you all will too. Many thanks go to Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book for review.
John’s adventures during the course of the book are really well written and there are several extremely violent escapades which certainly meant that I wanted to keep reading and find out what happens next. All in all, this was an excellent book which I really enjoyed and I am sure that you all will too. Many thanks go to Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book for review.
Read
November 14, 2024When Hodder and Stoughton got in touch to say they were publishing a novel called The Berlin Agent and I might like to request it on NetGalley because the author was Stephen Ronson and I’d previously enjoyed his first novel The Last Line, quite frankly they had me at “Berlin”. Having lived in the city and with strong family ties there going back to the late 1940s, I’m a big fan of anything connected to the city’s twentieth-century history.
However, this story turned out to be set in Uckfield, so I put my expectations aside and settled in for a wartime romp through the Sussex countryside. It kicks off one month after the events of the previous novel. We are again in the capable hands (or should that be fists?) of John Cook, part farmer, part sleuth, part killing machine. A veteran of the Great War, Cook is battle-hardened, battle-weary and battle-ready.
Following the evacuation of Dunkirk and the surrender of France, many inhabitants of England’s south coast expect a Nazi invasion any day. In anticipation of this, Cook has been appointed to a secret disruptor force to commit acts of sabotage against the invaders after they arrive. In the meantime he is kept busy trying to track down an enemy parachutist believed to have landed close to his farm. But it’s not the only mystery he’s investigating. Why have an elderly couple been murdered in their home? What is a flamboyant, appeasing local landowner really up to? Who are the trio of soldiers who’ve taken up residence on Cook’s land? And why does Cook keep seeing an apparently carefree young couple with a minder in tow?
A great one for fans of all-action adventure and a sure-fire hit for Stephen Ronson.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
However, this story turned out to be set in Uckfield, so I put my expectations aside and settled in for a wartime romp through the Sussex countryside. It kicks off one month after the events of the previous novel. We are again in the capable hands (or should that be fists?) of John Cook, part farmer, part sleuth, part killing machine. A veteran of the Great War, Cook is battle-hardened, battle-weary and battle-ready.
Following the evacuation of Dunkirk and the surrender of France, many inhabitants of England’s south coast expect a Nazi invasion any day. In anticipation of this, Cook has been appointed to a secret disruptor force to commit acts of sabotage against the invaders after they arrive. In the meantime he is kept busy trying to track down an enemy parachutist believed to have landed close to his farm. But it’s not the only mystery he’s investigating. Why have an elderly couple been murdered in their home? What is a flamboyant, appeasing local landowner really up to? Who are the trio of soldiers who’ve taken up residence on Cook’s land? And why does Cook keep seeing an apparently carefree young couple with a minder in tow?
A great one for fans of all-action adventure and a sure-fire hit for Stephen Ronson.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
February 1, 2025
Review
After previously dabbling into the authors world and style of storytelling I was looking forward to reading this one.
Paris has fallen to the Third Reich and Farmer John Cook is on the lookout for spies.
Tension is high and one night a parachute is seen in the sky.. Cook sets out to find out who or what was dropped but things are a little muddled in the dark and who or whatever it was remains a mystery.
Cook tries to get on with his day to day life while keeping an eye out.. and two things quickly become apparent… at times strange voices can be heard.. are they German? And if so where are they?
The second thing is.. could there be trouble closer to home..there’s a lot of drama but is anything connected? Cook is a man of principle and he won’t stand by when someone needs help.. but can he keep everyone safe?
There’s a complex web of events that link wonderfully but at the same time mean the reader is thrown off the scent right until the moment the author wants you to know more. It’s a engaging puzzle waiting to be solved.
Plot and characters both developed at an easy to read pace.. there’s lots of meat on the bone with this one, plenty to get to grips with but it’s clever and gripping in it’s nature. The plot and characters support each other in the development so nothing felt out of place or rushed.
The only word I can think of to sum up the story is EXCITING. From first page to last it’s fun and intriguing, an exciting bunch of characters and you never really know what will happen next. 5/5 stars!
After previously dabbling into the authors world and style of storytelling I was looking forward to reading this one.
Paris has fallen to the Third Reich and Farmer John Cook is on the lookout for spies.
Tension is high and one night a parachute is seen in the sky.. Cook sets out to find out who or what was dropped but things are a little muddled in the dark and who or whatever it was remains a mystery.
Cook tries to get on with his day to day life while keeping an eye out.. and two things quickly become apparent… at times strange voices can be heard.. are they German? And if so where are they?
The second thing is.. could there be trouble closer to home..there’s a lot of drama but is anything connected? Cook is a man of principle and he won’t stand by when someone needs help.. but can he keep everyone safe?
There’s a complex web of events that link wonderfully but at the same time mean the reader is thrown off the scent right until the moment the author wants you to know more. It’s a engaging puzzle waiting to be solved.
Plot and characters both developed at an easy to read pace.. there’s lots of meat on the bone with this one, plenty to get to grips with but it’s clever and gripping in it’s nature. The plot and characters support each other in the development so nothing felt out of place or rushed.
The only word I can think of to sum up the story is EXCITING. From first page to last it’s fun and intriguing, an exciting bunch of characters and you never really know what will happen next. 5/5 stars!
October 2, 2024
Summer 1940 and, following the fall of France, the people of Britain are anxiously waiting for news of an invasion by the Germans, none more so than the people living on the south coast of England.
Amongst those people is John Cook, former soldier now farmer, who has been tasked by shadowy people in Whitehall with gathering together a group of like-minded individuals prepared to create trouble for the Germans following the invasion. Causing trouble is what John is good at as he hates injustice and is always ready to intervene.
One day John sees a parachutist falling from a German plane. Working out where he thinks the landing area will be he charges off in search of the Berlin agent.
This was a really enjoyable book, full of action and easy to read. One thing I particularly enjoyed was the way in which the description of people continuing to live their everyday lives in the shadow of the threat of invasion was interwoven into the main story.
I received this ARC from NetGalley, having requested it due to the title and general description of the book. I then realised that this was book number 2 in a series so I got a copy of book one – The Last Line. Equally enjoyable and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Although The Berlin Agent can be read as a standalone I do really recommend that you read The Last Line first as I feel you’ll get a more complete picture of John Cook.
Amongst those people is John Cook, former soldier now farmer, who has been tasked by shadowy people in Whitehall with gathering together a group of like-minded individuals prepared to create trouble for the Germans following the invasion. Causing trouble is what John is good at as he hates injustice and is always ready to intervene.
One day John sees a parachutist falling from a German plane. Working out where he thinks the landing area will be he charges off in search of the Berlin agent.
This was a really enjoyable book, full of action and easy to read. One thing I particularly enjoyed was the way in which the description of people continuing to live their everyday lives in the shadow of the threat of invasion was interwoven into the main story.
I received this ARC from NetGalley, having requested it due to the title and general description of the book. I then realised that this was book number 2 in a series so I got a copy of book one – The Last Line. Equally enjoyable and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Although The Berlin Agent can be read as a standalone I do really recommend that you read The Last Line first as I feel you’ll get a more complete picture of John Cook.
November 9, 2024
It is June 1940. Despite the intense bombing and artillery fire, 328,000 Allied troops have been successfully evacuated from the Dunkirk beaches and transported back to England.
John Cook, who was entrusted with the responsibility of forming a covert unit, the Auxiliary Unit, comprised of former military personnel, farmers, and landowners, unexpectedly encounters a former teacher of his. Upon noticing concerning bruises on her wrist, he feels compelled to accompany her home, where he discovers that she and her husband are facing eviction from their home. True to his character, he cannot simply stand by and allow this injustice to occur. This turn of events leads him to reconnect with a former schoolmate named Kate. However, it becomes evident that Kate is not the actual landlord but rather an intermediary. The question arises: who is after the Leckies' land, and for what purpose? Could it be connected to the mysterious fenced-off structure that has been erected nearby?
Why he is hearing strange voices speaking German in the woods. Could it be related to the parachute he observed descending in the forest and the damaged radio he discovered?
Soon, Cook and Margaret find themselves attempting to infiltrate German sympathizers. Will he be able to uncover the identity of the parachuter and at what price?
Another captivating read, and after that ending, I can not wait for the next installment!
John Cook, who was entrusted with the responsibility of forming a covert unit, the Auxiliary Unit, comprised of former military personnel, farmers, and landowners, unexpectedly encounters a former teacher of his. Upon noticing concerning bruises on her wrist, he feels compelled to accompany her home, where he discovers that she and her husband are facing eviction from their home. True to his character, he cannot simply stand by and allow this injustice to occur. This turn of events leads him to reconnect with a former schoolmate named Kate. However, it becomes evident that Kate is not the actual landlord but rather an intermediary. The question arises: who is after the Leckies' land, and for what purpose? Could it be connected to the mysterious fenced-off structure that has been erected nearby?
Why he is hearing strange voices speaking German in the woods. Could it be related to the parachute he observed descending in the forest and the damaged radio he discovered?
Soon, Cook and Margaret find themselves attempting to infiltrate German sympathizers. Will he be able to uncover the identity of the parachuter and at what price?
Another captivating read, and after that ending, I can not wait for the next installment!
January 28, 2025
In 1940s Britain the Second World War is progressing with The Third Reich taking over Paris, France. John Cook and Lady Margaret are gearing up for the tanks to come rolling across the channel any day, so they can carry out their top secret mission to fight the Nazis when they arrive. When a German parachutist is dropped from a plane one night during an air raid, John discovers the leftovers dropped with him - a machine in a crate and white silk hanging close by on a branch. But the mysterious parachutist is no where to be found.
Word soon starts spreading when people start reporting the German speaking voices coming from the fields, and when John and Margaret her it for themselves they have to do anything and everything it takes to protect their county from invasion. But who is this person, and what is the machine that was dropped with him?
I really enjoyed the first instalment of the John Cook series, and this was a lovely addition. Moving on from the first story, we see the characters develop along with their complex relationships. John has several of those, not only with Lady Margaret, but with members of his own family and those residing at the farm with them. John is still able to hold his own, despite the things he has thrown at him this time! The story was great, and kept me interested throughout. Great ending too, I hope there’s more to come from John cook, I can’t wait to see what he gets up to next!
Word soon starts spreading when people start reporting the German speaking voices coming from the fields, and when John and Margaret her it for themselves they have to do anything and everything it takes to protect their county from invasion. But who is this person, and what is the machine that was dropped with him?
I really enjoyed the first instalment of the John Cook series, and this was a lovely addition. Moving on from the first story, we see the characters develop along with their complex relationships. John has several of those, not only with Lady Margaret, but with members of his own family and those residing at the farm with them. John is still able to hold his own, despite the things he has thrown at him this time! The story was great, and kept me interested throughout. Great ending too, I hope there’s more to come from John cook, I can’t wait to see what he gets up to next!
October 27, 2024
John Cook #2
England, 1940: Paris has fallen to the Third Reich. Farmer John Cook and society heiress Lady Margaret are waiting for the day when German tanks roll across the green fields of their homes. Both are ready for the moment they will disappear into the woods and the fields to carry out their top-secret orders - to do whatever it takes to fight the Nazis once they arrive on British soil. The worst fears are realised when a parachutist drops from a German bomber during an air raid. Arriving at the scene, Cook finds the white silk hanging from a branch, and a mysterious crate containing a complex piece of machinery. The spy is nowhere to be found.
This story covers Nazi sympathisers and WWII propaganda. A German bomber drops a parachutist, and farmer John Cook rushes to the scene only to find a mysterious crate and the parachute hanging from the tree, but there was no sign of the parachutist. John Cook becomes involved with a plot to sabotage a local radio transmitter to help defend the country.
I like the author's style of writing. This fast-paced historical fiction held my attention throughout. Several sub-plots were running this thrilling read. The characters were well-developed.
Published 7th November 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Hodder&Stoughton and the author #StephanRonson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
England, 1940: Paris has fallen to the Third Reich. Farmer John Cook and society heiress Lady Margaret are waiting for the day when German tanks roll across the green fields of their homes. Both are ready for the moment they will disappear into the woods and the fields to carry out their top-secret orders - to do whatever it takes to fight the Nazis once they arrive on British soil. The worst fears are realised when a parachutist drops from a German bomber during an air raid. Arriving at the scene, Cook finds the white silk hanging from a branch, and a mysterious crate containing a complex piece of machinery. The spy is nowhere to be found.
This story covers Nazi sympathisers and WWII propaganda. A German bomber drops a parachutist, and farmer John Cook rushes to the scene only to find a mysterious crate and the parachute hanging from the tree, but there was no sign of the parachutist. John Cook becomes involved with a plot to sabotage a local radio transmitter to help defend the country.
I like the author's style of writing. This fast-paced historical fiction held my attention throughout. Several sub-plots were running this thrilling read. The characters were well-developed.
Published 7th November 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Hodder&Stoughton and the author #StephanRonson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2025
There seems to be a fashion for spy thrillers set in World War Two. Having read three by Rory Clement, I thought it might be interesting to compare them with the work of another writer.
Much of the appeal of both Clement and Stephen Ronson is in the way they re create the world of the 1940s at war. How accurate their accounts are is hard to say but it is interesting to read them none the less.
What I found interesting was Ronson's account of how farming was impacted and how the emphasis was on maximising food production. This goes beyond the institution of land girls and supervision to prevent food going into the black market which I have previously encountered in Foyle's War. The role of the War Agriculture Executive Committees and the Farm Inspectors was something novel. Ronson also picks up on A G Street's revelations in Shameful Harvest, where a farmer refusing to surrender his farm is unceremoniously shot by the police when he engages in a stand off.
John Cook has been compared by reviewers to Jack Reacher. Certainly the way both can take on more than one adversary in unarmed combat is the same but when we examine Cook's backstory we are asked to suspend belief. Cook, we are told, served in World War One then remained in the military after the war, making him by 1940 in his forties. Yet he subdues young thugs and violent Blackshirts with equal ease.
Much of the appeal of both Clement and Stephen Ronson is in the way they re create the world of the 1940s at war. How accurate their accounts are is hard to say but it is interesting to read them none the less.
What I found interesting was Ronson's account of how farming was impacted and how the emphasis was on maximising food production. This goes beyond the institution of land girls and supervision to prevent food going into the black market which I have previously encountered in Foyle's War. The role of the War Agriculture Executive Committees and the Farm Inspectors was something novel. Ronson also picks up on A G Street's revelations in Shameful Harvest, where a farmer refusing to surrender his farm is unceremoniously shot by the police when he engages in a stand off.
John Cook has been compared by reviewers to Jack Reacher. Certainly the way both can take on more than one adversary in unarmed combat is the same but when we examine Cook's backstory we are asked to suspend belief. Cook, we are told, served in World War One then remained in the military after the war, making him by 1940 in his forties. Yet he subdues young thugs and violent Blackshirts with equal ease.
November 2, 2024
This is an unforgettable story where the reader is transported back to the 1040s, into a country at war. It is so well written that as you read you are given a glimpse into a life so far removed from our own time. As the pages turn the reader becomes acquainted with the hardships faced and through the written word we can see and hear and taste and smell and feel the fear of those caught up in it all, it felt like I was back in time with them. Every noise I heard in my own time eg an aircraft in the sky and loud noise made me feel like I was back listening for the bombers in the sky. Sitting in the twilight of today with the first chills of winter felt like I was back in time, so powerful was the atmosphere the author created. It felt like the parachute had landed in my garden, I felt the terror of the moment. It made me realise that bravery comes in many forms and sometimes we have to become vulnerable to become brave. Thank you to the author for writing this so realistically; thank you to Hodder and Stoughton and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ahead of publishing - my review is that it is one of the best reads I have experienced. I loved every minute.
October 25, 2024
Thank you to the publisher for inviting me to read this book through Net Galley.
After reading Stephen Ronson's first book The Last Line I couldn't wait to read his next book. This book is excellent with a strong opening sequence which set up the main conflict immediately. I enjoyed the fight scenes and I wanted to keep reading. The story in all is very engaging and the concept was so intriguing forcing me to read way past my bedtime as I wanted to know what would happen next. It is very authentic and must have required a lot of research. I have enjoyed the way Margaret and Cook's relationship has developed over the two stories and I hope this continues into a third book. The reference to Agatha Christie is fantastic, thumbs up for that. Overall the characters and vivid and the book's descriptions prompting fantastic visualization. It's made me want to go back to the south east of England. I have enjoyed this and would very much like to read more books set within the world wars. I've found a new genre through these books and I would love to read more.
After reading Stephen Ronson's first book The Last Line I couldn't wait to read his next book. This book is excellent with a strong opening sequence which set up the main conflict immediately. I enjoyed the fight scenes and I wanted to keep reading. The story in all is very engaging and the concept was so intriguing forcing me to read way past my bedtime as I wanted to know what would happen next. It is very authentic and must have required a lot of research. I have enjoyed the way Margaret and Cook's relationship has developed over the two stories and I hope this continues into a third book. The reference to Agatha Christie is fantastic, thumbs up for that. Overall the characters and vivid and the book's descriptions prompting fantastic visualization. It's made me want to go back to the south east of England. I have enjoyed this and would very much like to read more books set within the world wars. I've found a new genre through these books and I would love to read more.
October 28, 2024
Having read the first book in this historical series I so glad to get the opportunity to read ‘The Berlin Agent. The next book in the John Cook series.
England June 1940 The war is raging, and Paris has fallen under the third Reich, and everyone is waiting for the Germans to arrive on British shores. John Cook, a local farmer who wanted to join the war but now too old discovers a parachute on the outskirts of his farm. But the person is missing and there is a crate with a strange contraption left inside. John goes on toe search for the Spy when he hears German voices in the woods, The Germans must already arrive.
This is well research historical story based on facts. It is also a great atmospheric and action-packed thriller with well written plot. The story has some great likeable characters especially John and Lady Maragret that made me want to keep turning the pages to find out more, This is a great read and I will look forward to book 3. 5 stars from me.
England June 1940 The war is raging, and Paris has fallen under the third Reich, and everyone is waiting for the Germans to arrive on British shores. John Cook, a local farmer who wanted to join the war but now too old discovers a parachute on the outskirts of his farm. But the person is missing and there is a crate with a strange contraption left inside. John goes on toe search for the Spy when he hears German voices in the woods, The Germans must already arrive.
This is well research historical story based on facts. It is also a great atmospheric and action-packed thriller with well written plot. The story has some great likeable characters especially John and Lady Maragret that made me want to keep turning the pages to find out more, This is a great read and I will look forward to book 3. 5 stars from me.
November 1, 2024
Another good installment of John Cook and Lady Margaret. I like how the two characters are from different backgrounds but fit together so well. John Cook, a military man and Lady Margaret make a good team and it's an enjoyable read. So much happens in this book but it's easy to follow, keeps you engaged and it's believable.
Miriam is introduced, as is Vaughan, characters that come into themselves later on. You also meet Freddie and Elizabeth, two children that help on the farm.
I like how fast paced Stephen's books are, this is the second book and would make more sense read in order as you get John's background from the first book. I can imagine him being a really genuine guy, one that looks after you and will defend your honour. He knows his tasks but doesn't like putting ones close in danger and will do his best to keep them safe.
Enjoyable and was happy to see that John will return in another book at some point.
Miriam is introduced, as is Vaughan, characters that come into themselves later on. You also meet Freddie and Elizabeth, two children that help on the farm.
I like how fast paced Stephen's books are, this is the second book and would make more sense read in order as you get John's background from the first book. I can imagine him being a really genuine guy, one that looks after you and will defend your honour. He knows his tasks but doesn't like putting ones close in danger and will do his best to keep them safe.
Enjoyable and was happy to see that John will return in another book at some point.
November 8, 2024
I was looking forward to this as I had enjoyed The Last Line very much, and it didn't disappoint.
The story focuses on Nazi sympathisers and the role that propaganda played in the Second World War which is something I don't know very much about. It's incredibly interesting to learn of the tactics that were used and how the people on the home front played such an important part in the war effort. The amount of research that Stephen must do is vast and he really brings this time in history to life with the way he combines the almost mundanity of life in rural England in the 40's with the horrors of what is going on in the world.
John Cook is like the WWII equivalent of The Equalizer, willing to coldly dispatch people if necessary for the greater good and equipped with the skills and strength to do so, he's a great character with a strong sense of morality. His interactions with the evacuee children show his softer side as he tries to build relationships with them and encourages them to learn the ways of the country. Margaret is one of those silently strong women, seeming to not have a care in the world but shouldering anything that needs to be done without a bat of her eye.
The pace of the writing is fast and adds to the mounting tension as the story reaches its climax, which hooked me right in. A great second instalment.
The story focuses on Nazi sympathisers and the role that propaganda played in the Second World War which is something I don't know very much about. It's incredibly interesting to learn of the tactics that were used and how the people on the home front played such an important part in the war effort. The amount of research that Stephen must do is vast and he really brings this time in history to life with the way he combines the almost mundanity of life in rural England in the 40's with the horrors of what is going on in the world.
John Cook is like the WWII equivalent of The Equalizer, willing to coldly dispatch people if necessary for the greater good and equipped with the skills and strength to do so, he's a great character with a strong sense of morality. His interactions with the evacuee children show his softer side as he tries to build relationships with them and encourages them to learn the ways of the country. Margaret is one of those silently strong women, seeming to not have a care in the world but shouldering anything that needs to be done without a bat of her eye.
The pace of the writing is fast and adds to the mounting tension as the story reaches its climax, which hooked me right in. A great second instalment.
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