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The Traitor's Story
When fifteen-year-old American Hailey Portman goes missing in Switzerland, her desperate parents seek the help of their neighbor, Finn Harrington, a seemingly quiet historian rumored to be a former spy.
Sensing the story runs deeper than anyone yet knows, Finn reluctantly agrees to make some enquiries. He has little to go on other than his instincts, and his instincts have been wrong in the past - sometimes spectacularly wrong.
But he gets involved anyway, never imagining that Hailey’s disappearance might be linked to the tragic events that ended his career six years earlier, drawing him back into a deadly world that has neither forgiven nor forgotten.
Sensing the story runs deeper than anyone yet knows, Finn reluctantly agrees to make some enquiries. He has little to go on other than his instincts, and his instincts have been wrong in the past - sometimes spectacularly wrong.
But he gets involved anyway, never imagining that Hailey’s disappearance might be linked to the tragic events that ended his career six years earlier, drawing him back into a deadly world that has neither forgiven nor forgotten.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2016
1944 people are currently reading
4133 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Wignall
41 books560 followersArmy Child till age nine.
Settled back in a small town in the west of England.
Lancaster University - degree in Politics &
International Relations.
Writer.
Also writes as K.J. Wignall
Email: kevin@kevinwignall.com
Settled back in a small town in the west of England.
Lancaster University - degree in Politics &
International Relations.
Writer.
Also writes as K.J. Wignall
Email: kevin@kevinwignall.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 397 reviews
July 22, 2016
Author Kevin Wignall has written a compelling and complex novel which switches easily back and forth from the past to the present day. Now living a quiet life in Switzerland, Finn Harrington is working on a novel giving little thought to his past life as a spy. That is about to change dramatically when a neighbour knocks on Finn’s door asking for help to find her daughter Hailey who has disappeared. Agreeing to look into why she has run away, Finn is as perplexed as her parents while reading a note Hailey left behind stating, “I’m with friends and I’ll be safe”. Pursing some leads, Finn discovers he is back on the radar of powerful and influential individuals who have a score to settle. Fast paced, high-quality writing style, convincing characters; it doesn’t get any better than this! Recommended to all readers.
** Thank you to Publisher Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. **
** Thank you to Publisher Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. **
June 15, 2016
This is an absorbing and thought provoking thriller that probes the shadowy world of spying and the complex and fascinating characters that inhabit that world. Residing in Switzerland, Finn Harrington is a historian, and former spy, whose girlfriend has left him. He is an emotionally closed and reticent man. He finds himself reluctantly drawn into the search for a missing American girl, Hailey Portman, the daughter of a neighbour.
The story shifts into the past and we begin to glimpse Finn's past and how he came to withdraw from that world and instead focus on his writing. The past and present interweave as Finn discovers that there is surveillance on him. With ruminations of the nature of killing, the person who carries it out and when it might take place outside the expected remit, this is a compelling story. A lot of thought, planning and research has gone into this well constructed world and the characterisation carries layers of complexity and depth of personality. With intrigue, tension and action, I highly recommend this intricate thriller. Thanks to Thomas and Mercer for an ARC.
The story shifts into the past and we begin to glimpse Finn's past and how he came to withdraw from that world and instead focus on his writing. The past and present interweave as Finn discovers that there is surveillance on him. With ruminations of the nature of killing, the person who carries it out and when it might take place outside the expected remit, this is a compelling story. A lot of thought, planning and research has gone into this well constructed world and the characterisation carries layers of complexity and depth of personality. With intrigue, tension and action, I highly recommend this intricate thriller. Thanks to Thomas and Mercer for an ARC.
February 3, 2017
Kevin Wignall’s 2016 novel The Traitor’s Story is one that fits in the category of “get past a slow beginning because the end is worth it”.
To be fair, I never thought of invoking my 100 page rule, but Wignall does develop the hell out of this one on the way to a very satisfying end.
Telling a story in two alternating timeline perspectives, Wignall describes a retired intelligence agent living in Switzerland who finds himself drawn back into his former spy life by an odd circumstance. Told with style and verve, this was nonetheless sometimes hard to follow and with some casual violence that was disconcerting.
One part is told in the now and a second part is told in an earlier time, in Estonia, as our protagonist recalls an operation that signaled the disreputable end to his service. I found that I was more intrigued by the remembered past until the last quarter of the novel when Wignall turned it up to eleven and really tied the room together nicely.
Well written and entertaining.
To be fair, I never thought of invoking my 100 page rule, but Wignall does develop the hell out of this one on the way to a very satisfying end.
Telling a story in two alternating timeline perspectives, Wignall describes a retired intelligence agent living in Switzerland who finds himself drawn back into his former spy life by an odd circumstance. Told with style and verve, this was nonetheless sometimes hard to follow and with some casual violence that was disconcerting.
One part is told in the now and a second part is told in an earlier time, in Estonia, as our protagonist recalls an operation that signaled the disreputable end to his service. I found that I was more intrigued by the remembered past until the last quarter of the novel when Wignall turned it up to eleven and really tied the room together nicely.
Well written and entertaining.
July 14, 2016
I loved The Traitors story. It was just perfect read at perfect time for me – I’d had a few disappointing starts with some novels so when I looked up having read half of this in one sitting, with a sudden jolting realisation that I was late for things I was supposed to be turning up to (sorry Hayley – you know what I’m like) it was like YAY. Book love kicking in.
This is a quietly absorbing thriller with some hugely fascinating characters and, as you can see from the above, a highly addictive quality, you just don’t want to stop reading. A complex plot that is still entirely and intensely readable, as we follow Finn both in his past and present, one of the best things about it is the sheer depth the author brings to the characters and the world they inhabit. In Finns case a rather shadowy world – I do love a good spy story especially one this good- but also bringing a rich context to the more mundane. The entire novel is beautifully written, absolutely engaging and never falters. An utterly banging read from the first sentence to the last sentence and all of the bits in between.
Its not like its just a straight up thriller either. Atmospheric, thought provoking in parts, multi layered and completely believable, its a fictional world you can sink into and lose your own reality for a while. Plus it had Jonas. Really – I adored that character with a passion. I think perhaps I’d like an entire novel following him around – if I ruled the world…
Finn himself is entirely perfect as a main protagonist, deeply intriguing and going on somewhat of a personal journey, flawed yet engaging, whilst Jonas might be the heart here Finn is the soul. Plus you know, its a blinking good telling of a blinking good story. Kevin Wignall it turns out is a true storyteller.
Definitely highly recommended by me – no prevarication. Don’t miss it!
Little interview with the author here for anyone interested.
http://lizlovesbooks.com/lizlovesbook...
This is a quietly absorbing thriller with some hugely fascinating characters and, as you can see from the above, a highly addictive quality, you just don’t want to stop reading. A complex plot that is still entirely and intensely readable, as we follow Finn both in his past and present, one of the best things about it is the sheer depth the author brings to the characters and the world they inhabit. In Finns case a rather shadowy world – I do love a good spy story especially one this good- but also bringing a rich context to the more mundane. The entire novel is beautifully written, absolutely engaging and never falters. An utterly banging read from the first sentence to the last sentence and all of the bits in between.
Its not like its just a straight up thriller either. Atmospheric, thought provoking in parts, multi layered and completely believable, its a fictional world you can sink into and lose your own reality for a while. Plus it had Jonas. Really – I adored that character with a passion. I think perhaps I’d like an entire novel following him around – if I ruled the world…
Finn himself is entirely perfect as a main protagonist, deeply intriguing and going on somewhat of a personal journey, flawed yet engaging, whilst Jonas might be the heart here Finn is the soul. Plus you know, its a blinking good telling of a blinking good story. Kevin Wignall it turns out is a true storyteller.
Definitely highly recommended by me – no prevarication. Don’t miss it!
Little interview with the author here for anyone interested.
http://lizlovesbooks.com/lizlovesbook...
June 14, 2016
When we first meet Finn Harrington he is a successful author with poor social graces living in Switzerland with his partner who has decided they need time apart.
His passion is historical fiction based on real life events. However we have already read the opening chapter entitled History which goes back just 6 years and introduces a much different picture of Finn. Although we don't meet him, he is spoken about and suddenly the link is made that perhaps he is the subject of this book. The Traitor's Story.
The book then progresses almost inertly in the present; it is a standing joke that he was a spy in his previous life and that is the only impetus his neighbours need in their desperation to find a daughter who has run away from home. Through her friend Jonas he learns more and clues point to her going off to Sweden to start a new relationship as a 15 year old but already more grown up in her own mind.
Seemlessly woven into this present story more history is revealed in the events leading up to the failed mission that identified Finn as a Traitor.
Try as you might as a reader you perhaps don't warm to him as a person in the present but the past is a whole lot more complicated; and then Finn appears to do something heroic. Now we're routing for him, feeling confused as his past catches up with him in Luncerne and has reprocussions on his relationships. He doesn't know who is taking an interest in him or why now.
There are also parallels in his relationships in the past with his girlfriend Sofi and Adrienne's difficulties getting to know him after 4 years together. His life is full of secrets and lies and it is very interesting the way the author shows his fledgling journey into truth and a degree of self revelation.
The further you read you more you fear it can not end well for him but your emotions have turned upside down based on one action that you feel has truely defined him rather than the deceit and corrupt behaviour that left him a Traitor.
A truely facinating book; re-inventing the spy thriller. Full of action based set pieces like chances, confrontations and interrogations. Killings by chance, opportunity or self preservation. While at times a sense of normality, family life and future aspirations.
Not a convential page turner in the sense of high octane throwaway scenes, but reflective and as the title suggests a story. Probing into motives, the desire for revenge, the smell of duplicity and basic needs of humanity. How does a spy readjust into normal life? Can their tradecraft ever allow them to form normal relationships? What if the reason you hold back is instilled and because others have already committed such actions against you? If your career ended under a cloud can you complain when the storm comes and the past catches up with you? Get to think a bit when reading a thriller.
Kevin Wignall seems to understand this world well and shocks you with his creative writing that humanises his characters and sees some evil in all, not just black and white, good or bad. As Finn says of killing "It's what we do to protect ourselves and the people we care about". This may redeem him in some eyes, but the author is ahead of us suggesting Finn may kill not just by necessity but for revenge, and we are left wondering how we would behave in his world and grateful we don't meet some of the people he encounters in the course of this book.
I especially loved the book signing incidents dropped into the story which I'm sure Mr Wignall wrote with a big smile on his face. "In the business lounge in Geneva yesterday, a guy asked me to sign one of my books." "Does that happen alot?" "No, not very much ........." Sheer class!
Everyone will enjoy this book, which not only entertains, but allows you to think. Please don't think too long this side of reading it and make this book a must read for 2016.
His passion is historical fiction based on real life events. However we have already read the opening chapter entitled History which goes back just 6 years and introduces a much different picture of Finn. Although we don't meet him, he is spoken about and suddenly the link is made that perhaps he is the subject of this book. The Traitor's Story.
The book then progresses almost inertly in the present; it is a standing joke that he was a spy in his previous life and that is the only impetus his neighbours need in their desperation to find a daughter who has run away from home. Through her friend Jonas he learns more and clues point to her going off to Sweden to start a new relationship as a 15 year old but already more grown up in her own mind.
Seemlessly woven into this present story more history is revealed in the events leading up to the failed mission that identified Finn as a Traitor.
Try as you might as a reader you perhaps don't warm to him as a person in the present but the past is a whole lot more complicated; and then Finn appears to do something heroic. Now we're routing for him, feeling confused as his past catches up with him in Luncerne and has reprocussions on his relationships. He doesn't know who is taking an interest in him or why now.
There are also parallels in his relationships in the past with his girlfriend Sofi and Adrienne's difficulties getting to know him after 4 years together. His life is full of secrets and lies and it is very interesting the way the author shows his fledgling journey into truth and a degree of self revelation.
The further you read you more you fear it can not end well for him but your emotions have turned upside down based on one action that you feel has truely defined him rather than the deceit and corrupt behaviour that left him a Traitor.
A truely facinating book; re-inventing the spy thriller. Full of action based set pieces like chances, confrontations and interrogations. Killings by chance, opportunity or self preservation. While at times a sense of normality, family life and future aspirations.
Not a convential page turner in the sense of high octane throwaway scenes, but reflective and as the title suggests a story. Probing into motives, the desire for revenge, the smell of duplicity and basic needs of humanity. How does a spy readjust into normal life? Can their tradecraft ever allow them to form normal relationships? What if the reason you hold back is instilled and because others have already committed such actions against you? If your career ended under a cloud can you complain when the storm comes and the past catches up with you? Get to think a bit when reading a thriller.
Kevin Wignall seems to understand this world well and shocks you with his creative writing that humanises his characters and sees some evil in all, not just black and white, good or bad. As Finn says of killing "It's what we do to protect ourselves and the people we care about". This may redeem him in some eyes, but the author is ahead of us suggesting Finn may kill not just by necessity but for revenge, and we are left wondering how we would behave in his world and grateful we don't meet some of the people he encounters in the course of this book.
I especially loved the book signing incidents dropped into the story which I'm sure Mr Wignall wrote with a big smile on his face. "In the business lounge in Geneva yesterday, a guy asked me to sign one of my books." "Does that happen alot?" "No, not very much ........." Sheer class!
Everyone will enjoy this book, which not only entertains, but allows you to think. Please don't think too long this side of reading it and make this book a must read for 2016.
October 4, 2017
Rounding to a 5. An excellent mystery-thriller-spy novel. I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
The story weaves back and forth between the protagonist's past and present. Rarely for me, I was almost equally interested in the two timelines.
I continually wanted to get back to this novel, and enjoyed the often subtle but persistent tension and suspense. I found the protagonist largely believable for the genre, and the characters overall interesting, people I cared about.
The story weaves back and forth between the protagonist's past and present. Rarely for me, I was almost equally interested in the two timelines.
I continually wanted to get back to this novel, and enjoyed the often subtle but persistent tension and suspense. I found the protagonist largely believable for the genre, and the characters overall interesting, people I cared about.
July 13, 2016
Loved this book so much, what a great spy story! Finn Harrington has very poor social skills and is an historian who has separated from his partner, he came home one day to find that she had moved out without letting him know. The book moves from 6 years ago when Finn found himself in some deep trouble to now, and this time frame allows us to get to know Finn who is rather a complex character. His neighbours daughter goes missing and Finn is asked to help find her, Finn also discovers that he has been under surveillance which is somehow tied to the old agency he used to work for. This is really a very good portrayal of the characters Wignall has created, totally engrossing and thrilling plot, I didn't want to put it down till I finished it. Highly recommended.
June 27, 2016
An unusual and intelligent espionage thriller
Finn Harrington is a successful author of history books, however 6 years earlier he had a vastly different life as a spy and that past threatens to catch up with him and destroy the legend he has created in Lausanne.
This is the first Kevin Wignall book I’ve read and from what I’ve seen I’ll definitely read more. This is not your average airport paperback spy thriller, it’s an intelligent novel exploring the nature of love and loyalty.
Whilst the book makes you think, there’s still plenty of action whilst Finn grapples with his past and his battle to retain his new life and the lives of those around him.
Recommended.
Finn Harrington is a successful author of history books, however 6 years earlier he had a vastly different life as a spy and that past threatens to catch up with him and destroy the legend he has created in Lausanne.
This is the first Kevin Wignall book I’ve read and from what I’ve seen I’ll definitely read more. This is not your average airport paperback spy thriller, it’s an intelligent novel exploring the nature of love and loyalty.
Whilst the book makes you think, there’s still plenty of action whilst Finn grapples with his past and his battle to retain his new life and the lives of those around him.
Recommended.
November 29, 2018
I was surprised how good this book was! I had never heard of this author but with Amazon's continual advertising of good books, I found this one. They were right. I couldn't put this down. I warmed up to Finn Harrington quickly and also quickly distinguished between the chapters about the past and the present. Jonas stole my heart! All of the characters were good. I enjoyed traveling between London, Helsinki, Tallin and Kaliningrad.
August 4, 2016
Finn Harrington is an published historian living in Switzerland with his own history as a British Spy he'd like to keep hidden. That history becomes problematic when Hailey, his neighbors' 15 year old daughter disappears and her mother pleads with Finn to find her and bring her home. Finn's initial reluctance stems from his questionable exit as a British agent in Estonia six years earlier and his hope of staying under the radar. He soon realizes that Hailey's disappearance might be linked to his own complicated past in British Intelligence and agrees to find Hailey. How he accomplished that while dealing with old enemies still bent on revenge makes this an exciting and entertaining book.
This is a relatively low key story that builds slowly but locks the reader in place with a starkly original premise and likable characters. It reminded me of John Le Carrie's classic "The Spy Who Came in From The Cold", a thinking man's spy thriller.
This is a relatively low key story that builds slowly but locks the reader in place with a starkly original premise and likable characters. It reminded me of John Le Carrie's classic "The Spy Who Came in From The Cold", a thinking man's spy thriller.
February 5, 2017
I may have been influenced by some personal bias here (see below for that) but this seemed extremely weak in terms of engaging characters and plot. Ex-spy Finn Harrington (the supposed "traitor" of the title) searches for the runaway daughter of a neighbour due to her possible connection to his past which turns out to be a story of how he rescued a possible sex-trafficked teenager from an Estonian mob figure in Tallinn during his espionage days. It all seemed pretty thin and not very dramatic.
After leaving his espionage career behind Harrington is a historical non-fiction writer and keeps explaining to anyone who will listen that his next book is about the Albigensian Crusade and the persecuted Cathar sect in early 13th century France (the original source of the expression "Kill them all, God will know his own," supposedly said by the Papal legate). That story seemed much more interesting than the one he was investigating.
I'll confess to an Estonian bias here: The villain Karasek has a name previously completely unknown to me in any Estonian context, but he is definitely described as "the Estonian" who "spoke Estonian." Tallinn, Estonia is the setting for the pre-story here but there isn't anything specifically described that leaves any impression of detailed research having taken place. So all of that left a weak impression on me. I realize that it won't matter to others.
After leaving his espionage career behind Harrington is a historical non-fiction writer and keeps explaining to anyone who will listen that his next book is about the Albigensian Crusade and the persecuted Cathar sect in early 13th century France (the original source of the expression "Kill them all, God will know his own," supposedly said by the Papal legate). That story seemed much more interesting than the one he was investigating.
I'll confess to an Estonian bias here: The villain Karasek has a name previously completely unknown to me in any Estonian context, but he is definitely described as "the Estonian" who "spoke Estonian." Tallinn, Estonia is the setting for the pre-story here but there isn't anything specifically described that leaves any impression of detailed research having taken place. So all of that left a weak impression on me. I realize that it won't matter to others.
January 12, 2018
This book's biggest flaw (for me) was it couldn't get me to care for the hero. I didn't sympathise with him. I didn't feel for him. I didn't care if he won or lost. I kept reading because I thought a book with 4+ on GoodReads must mean something is great! But till the end, there was nothing better than mediocre writing and unbelievable (and incompetent) spies.
September 26, 2018
I was reminded of this author recently...happily. This is a great read with some of my favorite elements that keep me engaged/invested: intelligent, conflicted, complex protagonist; believable portrayals of unique and lively peripheral characters; action that can be visualized without frightening me (efficient kills) and international locations rich in history.
Our protagonist is living under the radar for six years, or so he thinks...and boom goes the old enemies from prior intelligence work raising the head of the dragon(s).
Kindle Unlimited
Our protagonist is living under the radar for six years, or so he thinks...and boom goes the old enemies from prior intelligence work raising the head of the dragon(s).
Kindle Unlimited
June 10, 2016
The Traitor's Story by Kevin Wignall.
Finn Harrington is a historian (rumored to be a former spy). Returning home after a research trip, he learns that his girlfriend has left him. He hasn't had a chance to really consider why she left and whether or not her absence is permanent, when a neighbor appears at his door asking for his help--her fifteen-year-old daughter is missing.
Finn initially brushes her off. A reticent and withdrawn man, he has his own circumstances to consider. After some thought, however, he agrees to look into the situation. Finn's search for the missing girl intrigues him and somehow initiates Finn's reinvolvement with himself and others.
The story moves from present to past, allowing the reader to become privy to the events in Finn's past that have led to his disengagement with others and his almost total withdrawal into his writing. Gradually, Finn becomes more approachable, more engaged with the world and those who inhabit it.
Some of the detail in the sections about the past could have been abbreviated. While past circumstances are crucial to the plot in the present, this portion sometimes interrupted the pace.
Nevertheless, The Traitor's Story was a compelling read about a complex individual who must come to terms with his past and his present, and I really enjoyed it.
NetGalley/Thomas & Mercer
Mystery/Suspense. June 21, 2016. Print length: 384 pages.
Finn Harrington is a historian (rumored to be a former spy). Returning home after a research trip, he learns that his girlfriend has left him. He hasn't had a chance to really consider why she left and whether or not her absence is permanent, when a neighbor appears at his door asking for his help--her fifteen-year-old daughter is missing.
Finn initially brushes her off. A reticent and withdrawn man, he has his own circumstances to consider. After some thought, however, he agrees to look into the situation. Finn's search for the missing girl intrigues him and somehow initiates Finn's reinvolvement with himself and others.
The story moves from present to past, allowing the reader to become privy to the events in Finn's past that have led to his disengagement with others and his almost total withdrawal into his writing. Gradually, Finn becomes more approachable, more engaged with the world and those who inhabit it.
Some of the detail in the sections about the past could have been abbreviated. While past circumstances are crucial to the plot in the present, this portion sometimes interrupted the pace.
Nevertheless, The Traitor's Story was a compelling read about a complex individual who must come to terms with his past and his present, and I really enjoyed it.
NetGalley/Thomas & Mercer
Mystery/Suspense. June 21, 2016. Print length: 384 pages.
August 14, 2018
I read another Wignall a while ago and was interested in this one becasue it's set in places I've lived and worked. I didn't really feel like the places mattered though. There was noting Lausanne specific about Lausanne, Geneva specific about Geneva, Tallinn specifc about Tallinn. The story could have happened anywhere. The only real feel for a place I got was the Törni hotel in Helsinki, which was a pretty good segment. The formula is a former semi-bad guy gets a chance at redemption, which naturally leads to some convoluted plot twists, but these books are still good, fast reads when you want to read something but don't want anything too heavy.
September 19, 2020
Fun thriller but nothing special. The writing quality is average. Repetive sentences, with a lot of explanation and telling. The plot is decent. For a moment there is a great, surprise twist that turns out to be mistaken. I wish the plot was presented better though. It's the character development that is weak.
The characters are all static, predictable stock characters, except the protagonist. His motives dont make sense to me. He apparently is emotionless and oblivious towards his girlfriend but is willing to risk everything for people he has never met. I don't know, he doesn't seem like a real person.
It's entertaining...but it has reminded me why I used to like classic literature so much lol
The characters are all static, predictable stock characters, except the protagonist. His motives dont make sense to me. He apparently is emotionless and oblivious towards his girlfriend but is willing to risk everything for people he has never met. I don't know, he doesn't seem like a real person.
It's entertaining...but it has reminded me why I used to like classic literature so much lol
June 10, 2016
This is an exciting and very different spy story. Finn Harrington believes he has successfully retired from clandestine operations, but he is shaken when his neighbor's daughter goes missing and he discovers he has been the subject of surveillance by a mysterious company with ties to his old agency. The story is less about spies and more about people. As action takes place in the present, flashbacks reveal the many people involved and how they have contributed to the present. The action is thrilling, and the suspense grows as Finn is forced to confront the issues from his past. Definitely worth reading.
December 13, 2017
It's a fast paced story, that takes you from one situation and location to the next in a matter of sentences. Kevin Wignall wastes no time with details that don't matter to the story and keeps it chugging along, keeping you glued to the book and turning pages. The lead character has some pretty gaping flaws as a spy, but you can rationalize that with the narrative that he never really enjoyed being one and hence never got too good at it, but his field operative skills remain A-grade. It doesn't quite add up, but if you can get past that, the story is interesting enough with its fair share of twists and turns and eventually leaves a more than satisfactory feeling about it.
June 24, 2016
One of the year's best so far.
Others have already detailed the plot here, so I don't feel a need to.
I've been a fan of Wignall's since his early days and it's not only good to see him back and in top form with a terrific espionage novel that's up with the recent best.
One minor detail I liked: because the story cuts back and forth over six years, those chapters in the past are titled HISTORY to avoid any confusion.
Also especially liked the detailed changes of scene from Lausanne to Estonia to Stockholm and Helsinki. The climactic scenes in Scandinavia are especially strong.
Others have already detailed the plot here, so I don't feel a need to.
I've been a fan of Wignall's since his early days and it's not only good to see him back and in top form with a terrific espionage novel that's up with the recent best.
One minor detail I liked: because the story cuts back and forth over six years, those chapters in the past are titled HISTORY to avoid any confusion.
Also especially liked the detailed changes of scene from Lausanne to Estonia to Stockholm and Helsinki. The climactic scenes in Scandinavia are especially strong.
July 11, 2016
“The Traitor’s Story” eBook was published in 2016 and was written by Kevin Wignall (http://www.kevinwignall.com). Mr. Wignall has published nearly 20 novels.
I received a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I categorize this novel as ‘PG’ because it contains scenes of Violence. The novel is set mostly in Switzerland though some scenes take place in other European locations.
The main character is Finn Harrington, currently a popular author of historical fiction novels, but formerly a British spy. When 15 year old Hailey Portman, a neighbor disappears, her mother comes to seek Harrington’s help. While he barely knows Portman and her family, he agrees to look into the disappearance.
At first there seems to be foul play involved, but the more Harrington looks at Portman, he comes to think that she has disappeared on her own. He follows her trail to find her and bring her home. Along the way he discovers that she had inadvertently uncovered a surveillance team that was tracking him.
Harrington’s past is catching up with him and he must confront it. The disappearance of young Portman soon leads Harrington into a life and death struggle with old foes.
I spent 10+ hours reading this 384 page Spy Thriller novel. It was an enjoyable read, with the Harrington character ‘stepping up’ to fill a more heroic roll. Not all of the characters you come to like in the story survive. The story is a combination of flashbacks to events of six years prior and contemporary action. Not only must Harrington deal with the missing girl and lethal adversaries, but he must also confront some of his own demons. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I received a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I categorize this novel as ‘PG’ because it contains scenes of Violence. The novel is set mostly in Switzerland though some scenes take place in other European locations.
The main character is Finn Harrington, currently a popular author of historical fiction novels, but formerly a British spy. When 15 year old Hailey Portman, a neighbor disappears, her mother comes to seek Harrington’s help. While he barely knows Portman and her family, he agrees to look into the disappearance.
At first there seems to be foul play involved, but the more Harrington looks at Portman, he comes to think that she has disappeared on her own. He follows her trail to find her and bring her home. Along the way he discovers that she had inadvertently uncovered a surveillance team that was tracking him.
Harrington’s past is catching up with him and he must confront it. The disappearance of young Portman soon leads Harrington into a life and death struggle with old foes.
I spent 10+ hours reading this 384 page Spy Thriller novel. It was an enjoyable read, with the Harrington character ‘stepping up’ to fill a more heroic roll. Not all of the characters you come to like in the story survive. The story is a combination of flashbacks to events of six years prior and contemporary action. Not only must Harrington deal with the missing girl and lethal adversaries, but he must also confront some of his own demons. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
December 25, 2018
One of the things that amazes me (rather simplistically) about the thriller books I read is how much subterfuge and intelligence can hide in plain sight. (That's the point of espionage though, isn't it?)
Wignall's The Traitor's Story is a great example of how seemingly innocuous events and choices can spiral into deadliness. I never provide a storyline in my reviews—other readers do that beautifully, and everyone can read summaries on Amazon—so I'll focus on the writing itself.
I'm once again impressed with Wignall's ability. He masterfully depicts a wide range of characters in ways that—other than committing murder and creating mayhem—make them relatable. His descriptions of places enable me to imagine the story in my mind's eye as I read. His pacing is very good, without any soft spots or "the sagging middle" that authors (and readers) so dread.
While this isn't the most believable thriller I've ever enjoyed, it's a quick read thanks to the author's style. And even though (trying to be discreet here) I don't approve of a traitor getting away with murder (both literally and figuratively), Wignall's protagonist has enough redeeming qualities to prevent me from resenting his escape from culpability.
Wignall's The Traitor's Story is a great example of how seemingly innocuous events and choices can spiral into deadliness. I never provide a storyline in my reviews—other readers do that beautifully, and everyone can read summaries on Amazon—so I'll focus on the writing itself.
I'm once again impressed with Wignall's ability. He masterfully depicts a wide range of characters in ways that—other than committing murder and creating mayhem—make them relatable. His descriptions of places enable me to imagine the story in my mind's eye as I read. His pacing is very good, without any soft spots or "the sagging middle" that authors (and readers) so dread.
While this isn't the most believable thriller I've ever enjoyed, it's a quick read thanks to the author's style. And even though (trying to be discreet here) I don't approve of a traitor getting away with murder (both literally and figuratively), Wignall's protagonist has enough redeeming qualities to prevent me from resenting his escape from culpability.
June 20, 2017
This was a very entertaining read. The start was a bit slow and I was beginning to wonder if it was going to liven up a bit..... thankfully it did and I wasn't disappointed! It is a well written book,consisting of two interwoven stories and I really appreciated that the author chose to separate them into "history" and regular chapters. This format really worked for me and enhanced the pleasure of reading this modern day spy thriller.
April 17, 2018
4.25 out 5 - Quite engrossing spy novel
I have to admit that when I saw the protagonist's name, Finn Harrington, I feared that this would not be a great book. Can't explain my reasoning, but I was wrong.
Kevin Wignall has crafted a complex, morally ambiguous story that feels real and features a great central character with a very unusual backstory. The pacing was great and Simon Vance's narration splendid. I savored it like a good John le Carré novel.
I have to admit that when I saw the protagonist's name, Finn Harrington, I feared that this would not be a great book. Can't explain my reasoning, but I was wrong.
Kevin Wignall has crafted a complex, morally ambiguous story that feels real and features a great central character with a very unusual backstory. The pacing was great and Simon Vance's narration splendid. I savored it like a good John le Carré novel.
September 19, 2016
5 stars for the Audio
4 stars for the story
I really enjoyed this. I think Finn was pretty much a bad ass and I love how straightforward it was. I'll definitely try another from this author.
4 stars for the story
I really enjoyed this. I think Finn was pretty much a bad ass and I love how straightforward it was. I'll definitely try another from this author.
July 3, 2022
4.4/5 stars. Well done. I will definitely seek out more from Wignall.
April 13, 2021
Really enjoyed reading this mystery. I have a bit of difficulty with the use of "History." I find it easier when the chapter title is "two days ago" or "six years ago." I know that there are different opinions--it is just less challenging for me. (I am of advanced years and will be 90 next month--time is fleeting for me.)
I like your stories Mr. Wignall. Just give us a bit more character description--I had trouble remembering who was who amongst the villains. Finn, despite his penchant for eliminating the bad guys, is an extremely likable man. Will we learn more about him in the next book? I've saved some of your quotes because you have such a grasp of the English language. Then I found some listed here on Goodreads. Here is one of my favorites: “Life is like comedy—it’s all in the timing.”
I often highlight grammatical errors I find in the Kindle books. You get very few of my corrections!
Thank you for a Goodread! I enjoy your plots, your characters, and the questions that need answers and make me think.
I like your stories Mr. Wignall. Just give us a bit more character description--I had trouble remembering who was who amongst the villains. Finn, despite his penchant for eliminating the bad guys, is an extremely likable man. Will we learn more about him in the next book? I've saved some of your quotes because you have such a grasp of the English language. Then I found some listed here on Goodreads. Here is one of my favorites: “Life is like comedy—it’s all in the timing.”
I often highlight grammatical errors I find in the Kindle books. You get very few of my corrections!
Thank you for a Goodread! I enjoy your plots, your characters, and the questions that need answers and make me think.
June 28, 2016
INTENSE NON-STOP INTRIGUE
It's always wonderful to discover a jewel amongst the offal which proliferates the world of mystery and intrigue This author can write and plot and move seamlessly between past and present Some may see the minimal use of descriptive prose a weakness. I love it.
I couldn't put it down. It's now 3 a.m. In Siena and I read it on my iPhone because cab driver stole my Kindle and I probably couldn't sleep anyway. Italy beat Spain and they are still singing in the streets
It's always wonderful to discover a jewel amongst the offal which proliferates the world of mystery and intrigue This author can write and plot and move seamlessly between past and present Some may see the minimal use of descriptive prose a weakness. I love it.
I couldn't put it down. It's now 3 a.m. In Siena and I read it on my iPhone because cab driver stole my Kindle and I probably couldn't sleep anyway. Italy beat Spain and they are still singing in the streets
June 2, 2019
I enjoyed this book very much. There are tons of spy books out there but this one is different. I found it one of the most engrossing books I have read so far this year. It drew me in right away and kept my attention to the last page. Very impressive work by Kevin Wignall in creating such complex and memorable characters and a very thick plot loaded with suspense. There are some quite unexpected twists and turns of events in the story that will grip your attention and make you forget to breathe. A fantastic read indeed and a very enjoyable experience. I highly recommend reading it.
April 13, 2017
Not Quite Five Stars
I enjoyed this story. Unfortunately, it fell short of five stars because things just went a little too smoothly for Finn. He never quite seems to be at risk. There is a lack of tension.
The Story Itself is a good one. One worth unraveling. I was disappointed. With a little more intrigue and a touch more suspense, would have made all the difference.
I enjoyed this story. Unfortunately, it fell short of five stars because things just went a little too smoothly for Finn. He never quite seems to be at risk. There is a lack of tension.
The Story Itself is a good one. One worth unraveling. I was disappointed. With a little more intrigue and a touch more suspense, would have made all the difference.
September 17, 2016
A Good Read
Spy stuff usually isn't my thing, but I enjoyed this book, finding it well-paced, with good characters. The author needs to use a dictionary, however: "bemused" is not the same as "amused."
Spy stuff usually isn't my thing, but I enjoyed this book, finding it well-paced, with good characters. The author needs to use a dictionary, however: "bemused" is not the same as "amused."
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