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Jeff Bradley #1
The Field of Blackbirds
When Arben Shala disappears in Eastern Europe, Jeff Bradley promising Arben’s wife he will find her husband and bring him home travels to the UN administered Serbian province of Kosovo. With help from American Morgan Delaney, Barry Briggs an Australian working with the UN and the enigmatic Lee Caldwell an agent for the world’s largest private security firm, Jeff uncovers a criminal conspiracy responsible for a series of bombings across Europe.
Ignoring death threats Jeff and Morgan dig deeper and when the shocking truth behind Arben’s disappearance is finally uncovered it sets in motion a chain of events that brings Kosovo to the brink of civil war and NATO troops onto the streets of Kosovo’s major cities.
‘The Field of Blackbirds by Thomas Ryan is a gripping, fast paced thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, as you continue to flip through the pages of the novel, unable to stop your need to know what is going to happen next. Set mostly within the volatile borders of Kosovo, the action and danger is believable and written in a knowledgeable way.
This book is great at interweaving international agencies and real life situations into the fabric of the story, creating an unnerving tale that bounces off of the pages as if you were right there running along the streets with Jeff and Morgan. Ryan does an excellent job describing the settings, and all of the characters are intricately developed, so that you are rooting for the heroes, and begging for the villains to receive the punishments they deserve. The Field of Blackbirds is an action packed thriller that you won’t want to put down.
Ignoring death threats Jeff and Morgan dig deeper and when the shocking truth behind Arben’s disappearance is finally uncovered it sets in motion a chain of events that brings Kosovo to the brink of civil war and NATO troops onto the streets of Kosovo’s major cities.
‘The Field of Blackbirds by Thomas Ryan is a gripping, fast paced thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, as you continue to flip through the pages of the novel, unable to stop your need to know what is going to happen next. Set mostly within the volatile borders of Kosovo, the action and danger is believable and written in a knowledgeable way.
This book is great at interweaving international agencies and real life situations into the fabric of the story, creating an unnerving tale that bounces off of the pages as if you were right there running along the streets with Jeff and Morgan. Ryan does an excellent job describing the settings, and all of the characters are intricately developed, so that you are rooting for the heroes, and begging for the villains to receive the punishments they deserve. The Field of Blackbirds is an action packed thriller that you won’t want to put down.
411 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2012
181 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Ryan
7 books86 followersThomas Ryan has been a soldier in a theatre of war, traded in Eastern Europe, trampled the jungles of Asia, and struggled through the trials of love and loss; ideal life experiences for a would be author. Schooled by professionals, who have helped him hone his literary skills, Ryan is quickly establishing himself as a skilled writer of thriller novels and short stories. He considers himself foremost, a story teller, a creator who has enthusiastically plunged his psyche into the world of creativity and fantasy. With the reader in mind he weaves colourful characters into the fabric of his riveting storylines. Taking readers on a thrilling journey is what motivates Ryan as a writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 23, 2014
The Field of Blackbirds by Thomas Ryan is a gripping conspiracy thriller that will have the reader gasping for breath many times throughout this brilliant book.
Jeff Bradley's vineyard in New Zealand needs an influx of cheap wine. He sends his manager, Arben Shala to his home country of Kosovo to acquire bulk wine. But Arben disappears without trace, leaving Jeff no alternative but to search for his missing friend. Jeff soon realizes he is up against it as he suspects foul play from every official he meets. He teams up with a motley crew of UN contractors and delves into the murky world of corruption and terrorism.
Thomas Ryan paints a bleak landscape of a country left in tatters after a cruel war. His characters are superbly fleshed out, even the bad guys get their moment to shine, but it's the cat-and-mouse play between Jeff and a contract bomber that grabs the reader by the scruff of the neck and never lets up the pace until the nail-bighting finale.
This FIVE STAR thriller is highly recommended for all lovers of Clancy, Ludlum, Van Lustbader and MacLean.
Jeff Bradley's vineyard in New Zealand needs an influx of cheap wine. He sends his manager, Arben Shala to his home country of Kosovo to acquire bulk wine. But Arben disappears without trace, leaving Jeff no alternative but to search for his missing friend. Jeff soon realizes he is up against it as he suspects foul play from every official he meets. He teams up with a motley crew of UN contractors and delves into the murky world of corruption and terrorism.
Thomas Ryan paints a bleak landscape of a country left in tatters after a cruel war. His characters are superbly fleshed out, even the bad guys get their moment to shine, but it's the cat-and-mouse play between Jeff and a contract bomber that grabs the reader by the scruff of the neck and never lets up the pace until the nail-bighting finale.
This FIVE STAR thriller is highly recommended for all lovers of Clancy, Ludlum, Van Lustbader and MacLean.
May 18, 2013
Thrillers like this aren't my usual choice, but this is up-to-date and it's an enjoyable read.
May 24, 2015
I liked this story, and I was sitting here trying to figure out why. It's not easily cubbie-holed into genre. It's not really action-packed. The main male character is former New Zealand SAS, but you won't find him doing any impressive flying martial artistry that would woo his 30-something red haired (red is the new blond), green eyed (green is the new blue)30-something squeeze. It's all very realistic. It's not a thriller nor a mystery, in fact the reader knows whodunit before the main characters. It's simply a well-paced well told story with fleshed out characters to which a reader can relate.
That's when I read the bio. This author lived what he wrote. Mr. Ryan is a story teller and that's his genre. The imagery was not over-stated but well-stated. You could actually feel the cold and you were slopping around in the mud along side the characters. (I still wonder if Jeff ever got that pair of warm gloves. hehe)
I'm not saying there was not action, there was, but with a realism that shown through. I'm not saying there was not a building relationship, there was, but by an attractive 30 something man who was a little shy around women..."all thumbs"... all realistic. Because this novel smacked of realism, you truly believed what was written.
I had a couple of chuckles when I read this book. One was at myself when I thought "New Zealand has an SAS???" Well, of course they do, silly girl. One was when the author put the incongruous word "reckon" in the mouth of a born and bred lady from Los Angeles. Remember, Mr Ryan, America has many, many dialects.... almost as many as Scotland (don't ask...*sigh*).
I have to applaud the author for asking friends to proofread and using an actually breathing editor to add the polish. I'm so very tired of e-writers who do not and my patience wears thin.
I enjoyed the story.
That's when I read the bio. This author lived what he wrote. Mr. Ryan is a story teller and that's his genre. The imagery was not over-stated but well-stated. You could actually feel the cold and you were slopping around in the mud along side the characters. (I still wonder if Jeff ever got that pair of warm gloves. hehe)
I'm not saying there was not action, there was, but with a realism that shown through. I'm not saying there was not a building relationship, there was, but by an attractive 30 something man who was a little shy around women..."all thumbs"... all realistic. Because this novel smacked of realism, you truly believed what was written.
I had a couple of chuckles when I read this book. One was at myself when I thought "New Zealand has an SAS???" Well, of course they do, silly girl. One was when the author put the incongruous word "reckon" in the mouth of a born and bred lady from Los Angeles. Remember, Mr Ryan, America has many, many dialects.... almost as many as Scotland (don't ask...*sigh*).
I have to applaud the author for asking friends to proofread and using an actually breathing editor to add the polish. I'm so very tired of e-writers who do not and my patience wears thin.
I enjoyed the story.
May 24, 2015
“The Field of Blackbirds” eBook was published in 2015 (May) and was written by Thomas Ryan (http://www.thomasryanwriter.com). This is Mr. Ryan’s first novel.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘PG’ as there are instances of Violence and Mature Language. This Thriller novel is set primarily in contemporary Kosovo. The primary character is Jeff Bradley, who has retired from the SAS and now has a vineyard in New Zealand.
Bradley travels to Kosovo to discover what has happened to his vineyard manager, Arben Shala. He meets Morgan Delaney who is there working with USAID, and who had briefly met with Shala. Bradley at first is unable to find any trace of Shala, but does encounter a few who he thinks are criminals and have something to do with Shala’s disappearance.
Before long Bradley is introduced to Lee Caldwell, a US official that appears to have ties to the CIA or another clandestine agency. Soon he finds that not only is he mixed up with organized crime, but that there are also ties to terrorist bombers as well. Things are further complicated with his growing attraction to the young Ms. Delaney.
I spent about 7.5 hours with this novel and found it to be engaging, though I do think that there could have been more to it. There was action and suspense. The plot was good enough, as were the characters. I give this novel a 3.5 (rounded up to 4) out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘PG’ as there are instances of Violence and Mature Language. This Thriller novel is set primarily in contemporary Kosovo. The primary character is Jeff Bradley, who has retired from the SAS and now has a vineyard in New Zealand.
Bradley travels to Kosovo to discover what has happened to his vineyard manager, Arben Shala. He meets Morgan Delaney who is there working with USAID, and who had briefly met with Shala. Bradley at first is unable to find any trace of Shala, but does encounter a few who he thinks are criminals and have something to do with Shala’s disappearance.
Before long Bradley is introduced to Lee Caldwell, a US official that appears to have ties to the CIA or another clandestine agency. Soon he finds that not only is he mixed up with organized crime, but that there are also ties to terrorist bombers as well. Things are further complicated with his growing attraction to the young Ms. Delaney.
I spent about 7.5 hours with this novel and found it to be engaging, though I do think that there could have been more to it. There was action and suspense. The plot was good enough, as were the characters. I give this novel a 3.5 (rounded up to 4) out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
July 28, 2015
Fast-paced, thrilling and fun.
The Field of Blackbirds is a gripping and well-written thriller that races along at a crackling pace.
Jeff Bradley is a New Zealander and former soldier in the SAS. Jeff's trusted friend and business associate Arben has traveled to Kosovo to settle a dispute over a vineyard owned by his family, and to acquire an influx of inexpensive wine for Jeff's own vineyard. When Arben promptly disappears Bradley vows to go to Kosovo and find him.
After some time spent getting the run around from a crooked attorney Bradley learns Arben has been murdered in jail. He vows to find out who killed his friend and why, and to extract his revenge. With the help of his salty and emotional driver Sulla, a band of New Zealand citizens working in Kosovo and a beautiful redhead he sets out to do so.
But nothing is easy in a country marred by war and lawlessness. Bradley must face double and triple crosses, corrupt officials, blood feuds and terrorists in order to accomplish his mission.
Author Thomas Ryan does a stellar job of character development in Blackbirds. The book's setting is superb- The narrative is at its best when Ryan is describing the country, it's people and customs, and the civil war and its subsequent UN involvement. He also does a great job with dialogue- it's crisp and it crackles and is very believable.
It's hard to believe that Ryan is a first-time novelist with Blackbirds. I'm eager to see what else he has to offer.
The Field of Blackbirds is a gripping and well-written thriller that races along at a crackling pace.
Jeff Bradley is a New Zealander and former soldier in the SAS. Jeff's trusted friend and business associate Arben has traveled to Kosovo to settle a dispute over a vineyard owned by his family, and to acquire an influx of inexpensive wine for Jeff's own vineyard. When Arben promptly disappears Bradley vows to go to Kosovo and find him.
After some time spent getting the run around from a crooked attorney Bradley learns Arben has been murdered in jail. He vows to find out who killed his friend and why, and to extract his revenge. With the help of his salty and emotional driver Sulla, a band of New Zealand citizens working in Kosovo and a beautiful redhead he sets out to do so.
But nothing is easy in a country marred by war and lawlessness. Bradley must face double and triple crosses, corrupt officials, blood feuds and terrorists in order to accomplish his mission.
Author Thomas Ryan does a stellar job of character development in Blackbirds. The book's setting is superb- The narrative is at its best when Ryan is describing the country, it's people and customs, and the civil war and its subsequent UN involvement. He also does a great job with dialogue- it's crisp and it crackles and is very believable.
It's hard to believe that Ryan is a first-time novelist with Blackbirds. I'm eager to see what else he has to offer.
October 5, 2013
I do not read a lot of crime thrillers but Thomas Ryan's The Field of Blackbirds has made me rediscover an affection for the genre. I very rarely give out five star reviews but this was one of those rare books that was hard to put down.
What begins as a New Zealand vineyard owner's quest to find his missing friend, Arben Shala, in Kosovo after he disappears turns into an international hunt for a terrorist network that are blowing up the European landscape. There's double crossing, corruption at the highest official level, secret agencies and murder.
While the story is fictitious it feels very real. The characters, both Jeff, Morgan, Sulla and their enemies are all well crafted characters with their own personalities. The bad guys are not shady, pantomine figures which you never see, they feel like real people.
Thomas Ryan has hit the nail on the head with HIS crime thriller, offering a believable portrayal of the covert world of terrorist hunting with a balanced mix of danger, humour and romance thrown in. A story with many twists that will keep you turning the page. I hope to see Jeff Bradley returning in a sequel.
What begins as a New Zealand vineyard owner's quest to find his missing friend, Arben Shala, in Kosovo after he disappears turns into an international hunt for a terrorist network that are blowing up the European landscape. There's double crossing, corruption at the highest official level, secret agencies and murder.
While the story is fictitious it feels very real. The characters, both Jeff, Morgan, Sulla and their enemies are all well crafted characters with their own personalities. The bad guys are not shady, pantomine figures which you never see, they feel like real people.
Thomas Ryan has hit the nail on the head with HIS crime thriller, offering a believable portrayal of the covert world of terrorist hunting with a balanced mix of danger, humour and romance thrown in. A story with many twists that will keep you turning the page. I hope to see Jeff Bradley returning in a sequel.
September 9, 2016
"The Field of Blackbirds" by Thomas Ryan is an excellent thriller set in Eastern Europe, mainly Kosovo and other former Yugoslavian countries. Arben Shala, now a citizen of New Zealand, returns to Kosovo and suddenly he mysteriously disappears. Jeff Bradley flies to Europe to find him.
What follows is a multi-layered and well plotted story that shows the complexities of the political, ethnical and diplomatic situation in the country and gives an interesting insight into the unstable situation on the Balkan with impressive expertise.
The story itself is captivating - not just for the action and the suspense, but also for its great descriptions of the beautiful setting and the well chosen characters.
Very accomplished and competent and highly recommended.
What follows is a multi-layered and well plotted story that shows the complexities of the political, ethnical and diplomatic situation in the country and gives an interesting insight into the unstable situation on the Balkan with impressive expertise.
The story itself is captivating - not just for the action and the suspense, but also for its great descriptions of the beautiful setting and the well chosen characters.
Very accomplished and competent and highly recommended.
January 14, 2020
A very good thriller which i enjoyed listening to. The story line was good and the flow was smooth.
November 28, 2015
A surprising debut delivering an enjoyable, action-packed read with modern-day echoes of Tom Clancy or Alistair MacLean.
Back when I was an adolescent, I loved to read Alistair MacLean novels. They were packed with adventure, international intrigue, interesting characters, and some mystery. To me, MacLean’s novels were captivating stories that were just flat-out enjoyable to read. Later I read Tom Clancy, who had some of the same elements, only with more convoluted multi-strand scenarios and far more technical detail.
So why am I reminiscing about library loves from twenty plus years ago, as I start a review of the debut release from a new Kiwi author?
Because in a strange way reading Thomas Ryan’s FIELD OF BLACKBIRDS pleasantly reminded me of those MacLean tales. Ryan’s first thriller is just a flat-out enjoyable read, with good characters that draw you in more and more as the story unfolds, plenty of action and intrigue to keep the pulse up and mind racing, all happening in an exotic locale where the lines between ‘good guys and bad guys’ can get pretty blurred.
Arben Shala, a vineyard manager in New Zealand, disappears while visiting his native Kosovo on a business trip. His boss, former special forces soldier Jeff Bradley, is concerned, particularly given an enigmatic message that could mean his good friend Arben is in grave danger. Bradley thought war zones were part of his old life, not his current one, but he travels to war-torn Kosovo to try to find Arben.
He finds an opaque world where the officials he asks for help might be more crooked than the criminals. Teaming up with some international aid workers and UN peacekeepers, Bradley navigates the dangerous landscape where conspiracy and treachery are everyday occurrences, and the disappearance of a vineyard manager might be just the tiniest tip of a far more sinister and dangerous iceberg.
Thomas Ryan does a good job of crafting the world of his story, and drawing the reader in. I found myself initially intrigued, then enjoying the read more and more as it went on. There are some nice twists, and plenty of interesting characters, heroes and villains, locals and visitors to Kosovo alike. I also really liked how Ryan - himself a veteran of war zones - brought Kosovo to life: it's history, people, geography. It felt like a complete canvas, a good backdrop to Ryan's well-told thriller tale.
A very solid debut that's an enjoyable and intriguing read, and left me wanting more from both this author and his main characters. Recommended.
This review was first published on Crime Watch: http://kiwicrime.blogspot.com
Back when I was an adolescent, I loved to read Alistair MacLean novels. They were packed with adventure, international intrigue, interesting characters, and some mystery. To me, MacLean’s novels were captivating stories that were just flat-out enjoyable to read. Later I read Tom Clancy, who had some of the same elements, only with more convoluted multi-strand scenarios and far more technical detail.
So why am I reminiscing about library loves from twenty plus years ago, as I start a review of the debut release from a new Kiwi author?
Because in a strange way reading Thomas Ryan’s FIELD OF BLACKBIRDS pleasantly reminded me of those MacLean tales. Ryan’s first thriller is just a flat-out enjoyable read, with good characters that draw you in more and more as the story unfolds, plenty of action and intrigue to keep the pulse up and mind racing, all happening in an exotic locale where the lines between ‘good guys and bad guys’ can get pretty blurred.
Arben Shala, a vineyard manager in New Zealand, disappears while visiting his native Kosovo on a business trip. His boss, former special forces soldier Jeff Bradley, is concerned, particularly given an enigmatic message that could mean his good friend Arben is in grave danger. Bradley thought war zones were part of his old life, not his current one, but he travels to war-torn Kosovo to try to find Arben.
He finds an opaque world where the officials he asks for help might be more crooked than the criminals. Teaming up with some international aid workers and UN peacekeepers, Bradley navigates the dangerous landscape where conspiracy and treachery are everyday occurrences, and the disappearance of a vineyard manager might be just the tiniest tip of a far more sinister and dangerous iceberg.
Thomas Ryan does a good job of crafting the world of his story, and drawing the reader in. I found myself initially intrigued, then enjoying the read more and more as it went on. There are some nice twists, and plenty of interesting characters, heroes and villains, locals and visitors to Kosovo alike. I also really liked how Ryan - himself a veteran of war zones - brought Kosovo to life: it's history, people, geography. It felt like a complete canvas, a good backdrop to Ryan's well-told thriller tale.
A very solid debut that's an enjoyable and intriguing read, and left me wanting more from both this author and his main characters. Recommended.
This review was first published on Crime Watch: http://kiwicrime.blogspot.com
July 16, 2016
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Former SAS soldier Jeff Bradley thought he had left warzones behind when he inherited a vineyard in rural New Zealand. But now his vineyard manager, Arben Shala, has gone missing in his native Kosovo. An enigmatic message tells Jeff that his friend is in grave danger.
Determined to find Arben and bring him home, Jeff travels to Kosovo and finds a lawless state in the grip of criminal gangs. Corrupt officials obscure every lead. With the help of USAID director Morgan Delaney, Jeff delves into the province’s seedy underworld and uncovers a conspiracy of terrifying scale. A web of dark connections links the captors with a terrorist bombing campaign across Europe, and now it is no longer just Arben whose survival is at stake.
Double-crossed by allies, watched at every turn, can Jeff get to the heart of the conflict before the warlords get to him?
This was a well-written novel, with lots of action and no end of bad guys - it just didn't really offer anything new as far as plot goes.
There are some very easy comparisons here to some of the books I read as a teenager - Alistair MacLean, Desmond Bagley etc - and that is not a bad thing. A lot of the same elements appear in those old books as appear in this novel - a good, strong hero, lots of action and a field of bad guys that makes it hard to know where to look next. And I really enjoy all that. It is tightly written, not really a wasted word. I really liked the twists and turns that kept this novel rolling along. The other thing that really worked for me was the descriptions of Kosovo - never having been to the country, I felt that I had a reasobale understanding of how the city looks and the types of people who inhabit it.
However, the one thing that helped me enjoy this book was also a part of its downfall - to me, it lacked a freshness, an identity of its own. It felt like I was reading a book by one of the past masters (which, isn't terrible) but it just wasn't that original. Missing persons, terrorist plots, double-crosses, and corruption at the highest levels. It was just that I was really hoping for something just a little more.
Overall, though, this is a recommended thriller full of international intrigue and action, with a race-against-time story. Give it a look!
Paul
ARH
Former SAS soldier Jeff Bradley thought he had left warzones behind when he inherited a vineyard in rural New Zealand. But now his vineyard manager, Arben Shala, has gone missing in his native Kosovo. An enigmatic message tells Jeff that his friend is in grave danger.
Determined to find Arben and bring him home, Jeff travels to Kosovo and finds a lawless state in the grip of criminal gangs. Corrupt officials obscure every lead. With the help of USAID director Morgan Delaney, Jeff delves into the province’s seedy underworld and uncovers a conspiracy of terrifying scale. A web of dark connections links the captors with a terrorist bombing campaign across Europe, and now it is no longer just Arben whose survival is at stake.
Double-crossed by allies, watched at every turn, can Jeff get to the heart of the conflict before the warlords get to him?
This was a well-written novel, with lots of action and no end of bad guys - it just didn't really offer anything new as far as plot goes.
There are some very easy comparisons here to some of the books I read as a teenager - Alistair MacLean, Desmond Bagley etc - and that is not a bad thing. A lot of the same elements appear in those old books as appear in this novel - a good, strong hero, lots of action and a field of bad guys that makes it hard to know where to look next. And I really enjoy all that. It is tightly written, not really a wasted word. I really liked the twists and turns that kept this novel rolling along. The other thing that really worked for me was the descriptions of Kosovo - never having been to the country, I felt that I had a reasobale understanding of how the city looks and the types of people who inhabit it.
However, the one thing that helped me enjoy this book was also a part of its downfall - to me, it lacked a freshness, an identity of its own. It felt like I was reading a book by one of the past masters (which, isn't terrible) but it just wasn't that original. Missing persons, terrorist plots, double-crosses, and corruption at the highest levels. It was just that I was really hoping for something just a little more.
Overall, though, this is a recommended thriller full of international intrigue and action, with a race-against-time story. Give it a look!
Paul
ARH
July 5, 2014
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite at www.ReadersFavorite.com.
Thomas Ryan opens A Field of Blackbirds with a captivating scene wherein Arben Shala finds he must get out of Kosovo—and quickly. There to check on a vineyard his family has long owned for his employer, Jeff Bradley, a New Zealand vineyard owner, Shala is caught in a web of governmental deceit and corruption. Bradley leaves his home, promising Shala’s wife that he will find Arben and bring him home. Once in Kosovo, he meets up with Sulla, his driver, Morgan Delaney, an American who assists him in identifying the local crooks who plan to steal Shala’s land, and others connected with local law enforcement and the UN. Meanwhile, Lee Caldwell (is he CIA, or?) tracks terrorists from country to country, finally landing in Kosovo. Together, Bradley and Caldwell lead their friends and cohorts to solve the mysteries of who is trying to steal Shala’s land, what government official is behind the corruption, what interest do international terrorists have in Kosovo, and what exactly happened to Shala?
In A field of Blackbirds, Thomas Ryan takes readers to a land where bureaucratic corruption is the rule and honesty the exception. Readers witness first-hand, what comes of a people when its government can be bought and sold through illegal shenanigans. It is a healthy reminder that “character” matters, that we should require honesty as a key trait in those who govern, and of what transpires when principles of honesty and holding no man above the law, are not followed. I particularly enjoyed visiting the land of Kosovo, one long held in the grips of war. Thomas Ryan reminds readers that without guiding principles, moving from poverty to plenty, from shackles to freedom, is a difficult if not impossible task.
Also posted at www.Oathtaker.com and on BookLikes, added to Facebook and two Google review groups, tweeted and cover pinned.
Thomas Ryan opens A Field of Blackbirds with a captivating scene wherein Arben Shala finds he must get out of Kosovo—and quickly. There to check on a vineyard his family has long owned for his employer, Jeff Bradley, a New Zealand vineyard owner, Shala is caught in a web of governmental deceit and corruption. Bradley leaves his home, promising Shala’s wife that he will find Arben and bring him home. Once in Kosovo, he meets up with Sulla, his driver, Morgan Delaney, an American who assists him in identifying the local crooks who plan to steal Shala’s land, and others connected with local law enforcement and the UN. Meanwhile, Lee Caldwell (is he CIA, or?) tracks terrorists from country to country, finally landing in Kosovo. Together, Bradley and Caldwell lead their friends and cohorts to solve the mysteries of who is trying to steal Shala’s land, what government official is behind the corruption, what interest do international terrorists have in Kosovo, and what exactly happened to Shala?
In A field of Blackbirds, Thomas Ryan takes readers to a land where bureaucratic corruption is the rule and honesty the exception. Readers witness first-hand, what comes of a people when its government can be bought and sold through illegal shenanigans. It is a healthy reminder that “character” matters, that we should require honesty as a key trait in those who govern, and of what transpires when principles of honesty and holding no man above the law, are not followed. I particularly enjoyed visiting the land of Kosovo, one long held in the grips of war. Thomas Ryan reminds readers that without guiding principles, moving from poverty to plenty, from shackles to freedom, is a difficult if not impossible task.
Also posted at www.Oathtaker.com and on BookLikes, added to Facebook and two Google review groups, tweeted and cover pinned.
July 25, 2015
Fifteen years ago I spent a lot of quality time in Kosovo, and "The Field of Blackbirds" took me back to that time and place. The author does an excellent job immersing the reader in the unique atmosphere of Kosovo. From the black birds to the corruption to the importance of family to the general state of disrepair, he nailed it.
The protagonist, Jeff Bradley, is a likable character, as are many of the friends he makes along the way. The bad guys are just that: pretty much all bad. There is a clear line in this world between good and evil. Unfortunately the Kosovo I knew was rarely that black and white.
Occasionally the plot swerves from believable to implausible, but for the most part it is highly readable. I found the second half of the book very hard to put down; there were a few very late nights spent clicking the page button on my Kindle.
Overall, a great read, and one I can recommend to adult readers. I look forward to Jeff Bradley's next adventure.
The protagonist, Jeff Bradley, is a likable character, as are many of the friends he makes along the way. The bad guys are just that: pretty much all bad. There is a clear line in this world between good and evil. Unfortunately the Kosovo I knew was rarely that black and white.
Occasionally the plot swerves from believable to implausible, but for the most part it is highly readable. I found the second half of the book very hard to put down; there were a few very late nights spent clicking the page button on my Kindle.
Overall, a great read, and one I can recommend to adult readers. I look forward to Jeff Bradley's next adventure.
November 6, 2015
I enjoyed it very much.
This story seems to proceed The Mark of Halam. I read first. Thomas Ryan is a gifted storyteller. I apologize in my first review I gave your main character your kudos. I enjoyed really getting to know the characters. I hope there is another where the one who escapes gets his. Of course there is always another bad dude somewhere. A different read for me, but I really liked it a lot. It is a must read. You won't be disappointed. Thank you for the hours of adventure.
This story seems to proceed The Mark of Halam. I read first. Thomas Ryan is a gifted storyteller. I apologize in my first review I gave your main character your kudos. I enjoyed really getting to know the characters. I hope there is another where the one who escapes gets his. Of course there is always another bad dude somewhere. A different read for me, but I really liked it a lot. It is a must read. You won't be disappointed. Thank you for the hours of adventure.
February 3, 2016
I was pleasantly surprised by this novel, which I picked up on a whim (free on Kindle for Samsung) and started reading without knowing anything about it. I liked the style of writing- surprisingly good for a debut novel. (though it was cringe worthy at places).
I took more than a week reading it. I liked it so much that I stopped reading to do my bit of research on kosovo and other places mentioned in the book. I am looking forward to read the next installment of the series as my guilty pleasure.
I took more than a week reading it. I liked it so much that I stopped reading to do my bit of research on kosovo and other places mentioned in the book. I am looking forward to read the next installment of the series as my guilty pleasure.
March 14, 2016
The story does try to give the reader a feeling of what Prishtina in Kosovo is like under the watch of the UN, with criminal elements holding the reins of law unchecked. But that's all, nothing about how real people live, so be prepared. Jeff Bradley, the hero, is not James Bond, he seems to be quite tame, and slow to see a lady in need at his elbow; he didn't get to kill anybody at all, in fact his lady friend had to do it. And the American hand of vengeance in the story is also a disappointment.
June 10, 2015
This book by Ryan is a full-blown international intrigue and mystery. He does not get lost in some details or side-tracked by other interesting themes. He has put together a compelling book which is pleasant to read and gripping in the story.
Received it from Goodreads and am happy that I did.
J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the Isms" "Wesley's Wars" and "To Whom It May Concern"
Received it from Goodreads and am happy that I did.
J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the Isms" "Wesley's Wars" and "To Whom It May Concern"
August 8, 2018
3.5 stars
This is a highly enjoyable thriller, with vivid, beautiful descriptions of Kosovo. I am finding the books I am reading that are set in what was Yugoslavia for much of my life very interesting. After each book I am seeking more information on the history of the region. Each book makes me more intrigued and I am hoping to find some literary books set in the region to follow up and learn more.
This is a highly enjoyable thriller, with vivid, beautiful descriptions of Kosovo. I am finding the books I am reading that are set in what was Yugoslavia for much of my life very interesting. After each book I am seeking more information on the history of the region. Each book makes me more intrigued and I am hoping to find some literary books set in the region to follow up and learn more.
May 30, 2017
Excellent thriller
The author wove a suspenseful tale, bringing forth truly remorseless, greedy bad guys. He painted a grim picture of life in Kosovo and surrounding countries. Jeff Bradley was a bit unbelievable at times, but proved to be persistent and resourceful when the chips were down.
The author wove a suspenseful tale, bringing forth truly remorseless, greedy bad guys. He painted a grim picture of life in Kosovo and surrounding countries. Jeff Bradley was a bit unbelievable at times, but proved to be persistent and resourceful when the chips were down.
November 15, 2023
First Timer
I’ve not read any of Thomas Ryan’s previous books but these came as a result of an offer if buying the series.
I’m glad I did, well researched and a good storyline with characters that we get to know just enough about.
A decent enough read, I look forward to the next in the series.
I’ve not read any of Thomas Ryan’s previous books but these came as a result of an offer if buying the series.
I’m glad I did, well researched and a good storyline with characters that we get to know just enough about.
A decent enough read, I look forward to the next in the series.
March 13, 2017
The field of blackbirds
Definitely a different story than others of recent and one I thoroughly enjoyed. The research the author demonstrated came through in a good manner and enlightened me on many of the issues around the unique Kosovo area. Few novels have been this good.
Definitely a different story than others of recent and one I thoroughly enjoyed. The research the author demonstrated came through in a good manner and enlightened me on many of the issues around the unique Kosovo area. Few novels have been this good.
June 4, 2017
Great Story
I really like this author, he writes like he's there. I sure never want to see Kosovo if it's anything like what's described in this book but that too added to the story. Good intrigue, many turns which kept it moving. Getting ready for book two.
I really like this author, he writes like he's there. I sure never want to see Kosovo if it's anything like what's described in this book but that too added to the story. Good intrigue, many turns which kept it moving. Getting ready for book two.
June 18, 2018
Great story
His is the second book by Thomas that I have read and I was not disappointed. Lots of action, plenty of twists and turns and rally strong characters. Looking forward to the next one.
His is the second book by Thomas that I have read and I was not disappointed. Lots of action, plenty of twists and turns and rally strong characters. Looking forward to the next one.
June 2, 2017
Fly blackbirds fly
Great READ . YOU made the characters come to life. It was a very enjoyable story and hope to enjoy many more.
Great READ . YOU made the characters come to life. It was a very enjoyable story and hope to enjoy many more.
August 14, 2017
Interesting
A little slow at first but then it picked up. I really enjoyed it A lot of different characters to keep up with
A little slow at first but then it picked up. I really enjoyed it A lot of different characters to keep up with
October 25, 2017
Interesting
I learned a lot more than I knew about that part of the world and the Kosovan ways. Compelling action and a love story to boot.
I learned a lot more than I knew about that part of the world and the Kosovan ways. Compelling action and a love story to boot.
April 12, 2023
A good thriller with excellent likeable heroes and believable events.
July 31, 2014
The Field of Blackbirds by Thomas Ryan is a thriller about Jeff Bradley, a former New Zealand military man, and his dangerous quest to find his missing friend.
Jeff’s business associate Arben has travelled to Kosovo to see into a dispute over his family’s vineyard. Jeff gets a message from his panicked friend, and then suspects the worst when Arben disappears.
In a swirl of corrupt officials and honest friends who are almost impossible to tell apart, Jeff looks for Arben in the corrupt post-war city. Double crosses and shadowy events turn Jeff’s search into a dangerous plunge into the Kosovo bitter weather to find the truth.
The Field of Blackbirds is a well-written journey into the desperation of people struggling to regain, or retain, their humanity in the soup of crooked local politics. Mixed in was a ghost intelligence agency on a relentless pursuit of an international terrorist. The taut plot had twists to the end. Thomas Ryan’s well-drawn characters mad me cheer their successes and also doubt their motives. The story’s sense of place was so well defined that at times I felt the numbness of Jeff’s gloveless hands, and I wrinkled my nose at the sour odor of fear.
Readers who love thrillers that make them stay up all night would enjoy The Field of Blackbirds. Be sure to wear gloves while reading this book to keep Kosovo’s frigid winter from nipping your fingers as you turn the pages.
Jeff’s business associate Arben has travelled to Kosovo to see into a dispute over his family’s vineyard. Jeff gets a message from his panicked friend, and then suspects the worst when Arben disappears.
In a swirl of corrupt officials and honest friends who are almost impossible to tell apart, Jeff looks for Arben in the corrupt post-war city. Double crosses and shadowy events turn Jeff’s search into a dangerous plunge into the Kosovo bitter weather to find the truth.
The Field of Blackbirds is a well-written journey into the desperation of people struggling to regain, or retain, their humanity in the soup of crooked local politics. Mixed in was a ghost intelligence agency on a relentless pursuit of an international terrorist. The taut plot had twists to the end. Thomas Ryan’s well-drawn characters mad me cheer their successes and also doubt their motives. The story’s sense of place was so well defined that at times I felt the numbness of Jeff’s gloveless hands, and I wrinkled my nose at the sour odor of fear.
Readers who love thrillers that make them stay up all night would enjoy The Field of Blackbirds. Be sure to wear gloves while reading this book to keep Kosovo’s frigid winter from nipping your fingers as you turn the pages.
June 12, 2015
First I would like to state that I received this book through the Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity and honor in being able to read this book. When I received this book I began reading it at once. I really enjoy the authors writing style. You are pulled into the book from the very beginning and you don't want to put the book down. It kept me on the edge of my seat reading from cover to cover. The Field of Blackbirds is such a wonderful conspiracy thriller that has the reader gasping for air throughout this amazing book. The author paints a picture for your mind to see such a bleak country left in such tatters and disarray from a cruel war. All of the characters are very well portrayed thought out, even the bad charters get their moments to shine and come to life and these pages. The author makes you feel as if this is all happening to someone very close to you. There are some great twist and turns in the story too that the author has tossed into the story to keep you on your toes and on the edge of your seat. When you are finished you wish you weren't. This is a most wonderful read and I highly recommend that anyone who enjoys a good read needs to read this book. This is a book that I will be sure to read over and over and a must for anyone's library.
February 23, 2014
If you love a good, conspiracy thriller then this is the book for you.
Fast-paced action and a clever plot set against the raw back-drop of a shattered Kosovo, this is the story of friendship and justice.
When his friend goes missing in Kosovo whilst working for him, Jeff Bradley is forced to go there himself to discover what has happened. Unravelling a long stream of corruption at the highest level in the country's justice system, Jeff is joined by an army of friends and other seekers of justice.
With plenty of action and intrigue this story moves at a fast and gripping pace.
Fast-paced action and a clever plot set against the raw back-drop of a shattered Kosovo, this is the story of friendship and justice.
When his friend goes missing in Kosovo whilst working for him, Jeff Bradley is forced to go there himself to discover what has happened. Unravelling a long stream of corruption at the highest level in the country's justice system, Jeff is joined by an army of friends and other seekers of justice.
With plenty of action and intrigue this story moves at a fast and gripping pace.
January 13, 2015
Fast and gripping! 5*****
The Field Of Blackbirds: A Jeff Bradley Thriller
by Thomas Ryan
An excellent read for fans of thriller stories and with a bundle of twists and engaging situations to develop the reader's thoughts.
Arben Shala journeys back to Kosovo and as the story unfolds, he disappears, creating an amazing novel with backdrops of incredible storytelling.
A fast and gripping piece of writing - highly recommended - an author to watch! 5*****
The Field Of Blackbirds: A Jeff Bradley Thriller
by Thomas Ryan
An excellent read for fans of thriller stories and with a bundle of twists and engaging situations to develop the reader's thoughts.
Arben Shala journeys back to Kosovo and as the story unfolds, he disappears, creating an amazing novel with backdrops of incredible storytelling.
A fast and gripping piece of writing - highly recommended - an author to watch! 5*****
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