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Kyle Achilles #2
The Lies of Spies
THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT SENT HIM...
The Russian president caught him...
The free world is counting on him...
But he doesn't remember.
Imagine Robert Ludlum’s THE BOURNE IDENTITY meets Lee Child’s PERSONAL.
______________________________________
Journey beneath the diplomatic veneer of international politics and beyond the reach of conventional military operations into the epicenter of clandestine affairs — where diplomats dance and spies collide in wars that never make the news.
For the next step in its expansionist agenda, the Kremlin devises a covert coup far more devastating than Bin Laden’s most dangerous dream. With the American economy in his crosshairs, Russian President Vladimir Korovin picks suitable pawns and pulls sizable levers, initiating the boldest gambit the world has ever seen.
Halfway around the world, the White House develops a plan for derailing Russian aggression. A way-off-the-books, high-risk, high-reward plan. American President William Silver identifies the perfect person for his impossible mission: former CIA operative Kyle Achilles.
With their plans in place and their spies undercover, each president is confident that he has outplayed the other — until everything goes wrong.
The Lies Of Spies will keep you guessing from first page to last with the suspenseful twists and unpredictable turns readers expect from Tim Tigner. Don’t pick it up at night if you plan to work in the morning.
The Russian president caught him...
The free world is counting on him...
But he doesn't remember.
Imagine Robert Ludlum’s THE BOURNE IDENTITY meets Lee Child’s PERSONAL.
______________________________________
Journey beneath the diplomatic veneer of international politics and beyond the reach of conventional military operations into the epicenter of clandestine affairs — where diplomats dance and spies collide in wars that never make the news.
For the next step in its expansionist agenda, the Kremlin devises a covert coup far more devastating than Bin Laden’s most dangerous dream. With the American economy in his crosshairs, Russian President Vladimir Korovin picks suitable pawns and pulls sizable levers, initiating the boldest gambit the world has ever seen.
Halfway around the world, the White House develops a plan for derailing Russian aggression. A way-off-the-books, high-risk, high-reward plan. American President William Silver identifies the perfect person for his impossible mission: former CIA operative Kyle Achilles.
With their plans in place and their spies undercover, each president is confident that he has outplayed the other — until everything goes wrong.
The Lies Of Spies will keep you guessing from first page to last with the suspenseful twists and unpredictable turns readers expect from Tim Tigner. Don’t pick it up at night if you plan to work in the morning.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2016
7513 people are currently reading
2025 people want to read
About the author
Tim Tigner
23 books1,049 followersTim began his career in Soviet Counterintelligence with the US Army Special Forces, the Green Berets. That was back in the Cold War days when, “We learned Russian so you didn't have to,” something he did at the Presidio of Monterey alongside Recon Marines and Navy SEALs.
With the fall of the Berlin Wall, Tim switched from espionage to arbitrage. Armed with a Wharton MBA rather than a Colt M16, he moved to Moscow in the midst of Perestroika. There, he led prominent multinational medical companies, worked with cosmonauts on the MIR Space Station (from Earth, alas), chaired the Association of International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, and helped write Russia’s first law on healthcare.
Moving to Brussels during the formation of the EU, Tim ran Europe, Middle East, and Africa for a Johnson & Johnson company and traveled like a character in a Robert Ludlum novel. He eventually landed in Silicon Valley, where he launched new medical technologies as a startup CEO.
In his free time, Tim has climbed the peaks of Mount Olympus, went hang gliding from the cliffs of Rio de Janeiro, and ballooned over Belgium. He earned scuba certification in Turkey, learned to ski in Slovenia, and ran the Serengeti with a Maasai warrior. He acted on stage in Portugal, taught negotiations in Germany, and chaired a healthcare conference in Holland. Tim studied psychology in France, radiology in England, and philosophy in Greece. He has enjoyed ballet at the Bolshoi, the opera on Lake Como, and the symphony in Vienna. He’s been a marathoner, paratrooper, triathlete, and yogi.
Intent on combining his creativity with his experience, Tim began writing thrillers in 1996 from an apartment overlooking Moscow’s Gorky Park. Twenty years later, his passion for creative writing continues to grow every day. His home office now overlooks a vineyard in Northern California.
Tim grew up in the Midwest, and graduated from Hanover College with a BA in Philosophy and Mathematics. After military service and work as a financial analyst and foreign-exchange trader, he earned an MBA in Finance and an MA in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.
Thank you for taking the time to read about the author. Tim loves to correspond with readers like you. You are welcome to reach him through Goodreads or directly at timtigner.com/contact
With the fall of the Berlin Wall, Tim switched from espionage to arbitrage. Armed with a Wharton MBA rather than a Colt M16, he moved to Moscow in the midst of Perestroika. There, he led prominent multinational medical companies, worked with cosmonauts on the MIR Space Station (from Earth, alas), chaired the Association of International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, and helped write Russia’s first law on healthcare.
Moving to Brussels during the formation of the EU, Tim ran Europe, Middle East, and Africa for a Johnson & Johnson company and traveled like a character in a Robert Ludlum novel. He eventually landed in Silicon Valley, where he launched new medical technologies as a startup CEO.
In his free time, Tim has climbed the peaks of Mount Olympus, went hang gliding from the cliffs of Rio de Janeiro, and ballooned over Belgium. He earned scuba certification in Turkey, learned to ski in Slovenia, and ran the Serengeti with a Maasai warrior. He acted on stage in Portugal, taught negotiations in Germany, and chaired a healthcare conference in Holland. Tim studied psychology in France, radiology in England, and philosophy in Greece. He has enjoyed ballet at the Bolshoi, the opera on Lake Como, and the symphony in Vienna. He’s been a marathoner, paratrooper, triathlete, and yogi.
Intent on combining his creativity with his experience, Tim began writing thrillers in 1996 from an apartment overlooking Moscow’s Gorky Park. Twenty years later, his passion for creative writing continues to grow every day. His home office now overlooks a vineyard in Northern California.
Tim grew up in the Midwest, and graduated from Hanover College with a BA in Philosophy and Mathematics. After military service and work as a financial analyst and foreign-exchange trader, he earned an MBA in Finance and an MA in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.
Thank you for taking the time to read about the author. Tim loves to correspond with readers like you. You are welcome to reach him through Goodreads or directly at timtigner.com/contact
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 262 reviews
October 24, 2016
Simply Brilliant. This is my sixth Tim Tigner book, and I have loved every one of them. This is a very well written and clever book. I like a story that can keep me guessing, and there are plenty of twist and turns to make this a very enjoyable read. The Manhattan Project, code named by the Russians as “Sunrise”, would give the Americans total control of space and everything up there for only 70 Billion dollars. The most important thing they would control is the Satellites, which scares the hell out of the Russians. So in return the Russians have come up with Operation Sunset which will neutralize Sunrise, and cripple America. Both Presidents seem to think the other wants them dead, and this could certainly become a reality with tensions increasing. Senator Collins tasks Achilles and Foxley with killing the Russian President, and she would rather it looked like an accident. Foxley is to do everything he can to assist Achilles in this assignment, which he’s not thrilled about it, as he’s the older and much more experienced one in his opinion. He just doesn’t know how good Achilles is. If project Sunset is successful, then it would unleash devastation on America. From start to finish this is a great book. It’s certainly captivating and full of intrigue. If you enjoy Action Thrillers then you will love this book.
November 29, 2018
Always good to get to my favourite type of book, action thriller.
My loyalties are with a group of authors which I always know I will get an action packed book and of course Tim Tigner is one of these, an action man and former Special Forces man and now an established action author joining my favourites, Ben Coes, Tom Wood, Simon Kernick, Mark Dawson, David Baldacci, Lee Child, Nelson DeMille, Vince Flynn, Mark Greaney, Daniel Silva, Brad Taylor, Emlyn Rees and Brad Thor.
THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT SENT HIM...
The Russian president caught him...
The free world is counting on him...
But he doesn't remember.
Former CIA agent Kyle Achilles is still coming to grips with the deaths of his parents and beloved older brother by the Russians, who framed him for their murders (read Pushing Brilliance for this story). He's also struggling with his deepening feelings for Katya, his dead brother's fiancée. They both feel the attraction, but know they each need to deal with their grief before deciding whether they belong together.
He is an accomplished operative who was recruited by the CIA after excelling in the Olympics for his exceptional skills. Now working for himself he specialises in clandestine missions; and in this case, he is called for such a mission for the President of the U.S.
International destinations from Hawaii, Seattle, Russia, Switzerland, Florida, full of enormous twists and turns, filled with some great characters, and a very full plot which is thrilling, action packed
Now on to next book, which I believe reads best if you have read Chasing Ivan, Tim Tigner first book, a novella that introduces the reader to Achilles.
Four stars. Enjoy
My loyalties are with a group of authors which I always know I will get an action packed book and of course Tim Tigner is one of these, an action man and former Special Forces man and now an established action author joining my favourites, Ben Coes, Tom Wood, Simon Kernick, Mark Dawson, David Baldacci, Lee Child, Nelson DeMille, Vince Flynn, Mark Greaney, Daniel Silva, Brad Taylor, Emlyn Rees and Brad Thor.
THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT SENT HIM...
The Russian president caught him...
The free world is counting on him...
But he doesn't remember.
Former CIA agent Kyle Achilles is still coming to grips with the deaths of his parents and beloved older brother by the Russians, who framed him for their murders (read Pushing Brilliance for this story). He's also struggling with his deepening feelings for Katya, his dead brother's fiancée. They both feel the attraction, but know they each need to deal with their grief before deciding whether they belong together.
He is an accomplished operative who was recruited by the CIA after excelling in the Olympics for his exceptional skills. Now working for himself he specialises in clandestine missions; and in this case, he is called for such a mission for the President of the U.S.
International destinations from Hawaii, Seattle, Russia, Switzerland, Florida, full of enormous twists and turns, filled with some great characters, and a very full plot which is thrilling, action packed
Now on to next book, which I believe reads best if you have read Chasing Ivan, Tim Tigner first book, a novella that introduces the reader to Achilles.
Four stars. Enjoy
January 27, 2019
I'm really enjoying this series, the characters are developing nicely, I would like to see Max & Zoya return in another story.
June 8, 2018
A clever action novel concerning the new generation of the SDI program, as well as a little competition between the presidents of Russia and the USA over who can assassinate whom.
Kyle Achilles finds himself involved in both plots, and finds himself and his woman in all kinds of danger.
Kyle Achilles finds himself involved in both plots, and finds himself and his woman in all kinds of danger.
March 16, 2022
This was an action packed, holding my breath, sitting on the edge of my seat thriller. The new friends, who started as enemies, added a lot to my enjoyment. Once again, Achilles is left dangling in the wind, left to his own devices, while his own government thinks he is a traitor. He has a lightning quick mind and amazing physical prowess. His new friend is equally impressive. I compared the previous book in the series to James Bond in the sense that you have to suspend your disbelief and just enjoy this roller coaster of a novel. The final conclusion was quite satisfying to me, as I love a happy ending.
November 16, 2016
Spy games.
Read all the books Tim Tigner wrote, they all excellent. Highly recommend to everyone to read them. But I had a hard time with this book, definitely it's not for the long ago retired female readers. Also what's going on between the Russians and our government over Syria, and hacking. Keep asking myself could this kind of conspiracy be happening or happen one day?
Read all the books Tim Tigner wrote, they all excellent. Highly recommend to everyone to read them. But I had a hard time with this book, definitely it's not for the long ago retired female readers. Also what's going on between the Russians and our government over Syria, and hacking. Keep asking myself could this kind of conspiracy be happening or happen one day?
November 27, 2018
The plots were all to far fetching. I don't mind that necessarily, but the author couldn't pull it off.Also, every character spoke exactly the same way. It didn't matter if they were Russian or American, male or female, they all spoke the exact same way. Plus they were experts in all fields, which was useful.
Overall, the plots were predicable, the characters were boring and there really wasn't a point to the story. Not one of Mr. Tigers best
Overall, the plots were predicable, the characters were boring and there really wasn't a point to the story. Not one of Mr. Tigers best
November 26, 2016
Overall was a decent book. I am looking for something enthralling and makes me forget where I am and this book just got me there but barely.
Warning!!! Plot spoilers ahead....
A lot of the story line was not very believable especially when the two top secret agents got together with each other. Also, Achilles being a super spy, in the beginning that he succumbed so easily to the opposing force and then was put on an island and brainwashed into believing he was married seemed so way out there. The whole plot of getting them together and then trying to assassinate the Russian president just because he was a "bad" man again seemed too simplistic to me. I only give it 3 stars as nothing really sticks out with me as outstanding in the book.
Warning!!! Plot spoilers ahead....
A lot of the story line was not very believable especially when the two top secret agents got together with each other. Also, Achilles being a super spy, in the beginning that he succumbed so easily to the opposing force and then was put on an island and brainwashed into believing he was married seemed so way out there. The whole plot of getting them together and then trying to assassinate the Russian president just because he was a "bad" man again seemed too simplistic to me. I only give it 3 stars as nothing really sticks out with me as outstanding in the book.
February 17, 2017
Tim Tigner a star in the spy thriller category. The Lies of Spies was exceptional. Highly recommended.
December 15, 2017
Not bad, but not great. There are some clever bits, but then soap-opera cliches crash into the techno-thriller. I thought maybe it would become Get Smart but it never got funny. There are better spy novels, or even funny spy novels. I liked it enough to finish it, but I would not read any more in the series.
May 8, 2023
Tim has weaved yet another suspenseful tale. He spins a very believable story complete with political agendas, corruption, and suspense. This book stands alone, (having not read any of previous books before - now I will be reading ALL of his books). The twists, turns, and nuances keep you frantically turning the pages- hard to put down. (I mean you can catch up on sleep, right?) It was the specifics that really sold a certain event during the story regarding a major twist (no spoiler) Collins' comment at end of story addresses this trauma wonderfully.
I found it interesting that an Olympian free solo climber made almost every one in this story climb, ascend some crazy height - scaling fences, rooftops, trees, etc. forgetting seemingly that not everyone has the same skill sets...I think they're all going to climb Mount Everest now!
Certain turns of phrases made me laugh out loud - and my husband shushing me (since he WAS sleeping). This is a must read - you will enjoy every moment and wish there was another page when you reach the last.
I found it interesting that an Olympian free solo climber made almost every one in this story climb, ascend some crazy height - scaling fences, rooftops, trees, etc. forgetting seemingly that not everyone has the same skill sets...I think they're all going to climb Mount Everest now!
Certain turns of phrases made me laugh out loud - and my husband shushing me (since he WAS sleeping). This is a must read - you will enjoy every moment and wish there was another page when you reach the last.
June 25, 2018
The second book in this fantastic spy thriller quirky series.
February 21, 2017
I was a Beta reader for this book, just getting back to reading the officially released version. Like the subtle changes that were made and still loved the story. Spies for both Russia and the USA find themselves working together, figuring if they don't, they'll both be wanted dead by both countries. Fast paced action, likeable characters, suspense and a twist of romance make this a fun read.
March 6, 2017
This was great...the twists and turns made it so I was skipping my chores to keep track of the spies' progress. I hate to give any spoilers away, so I won't, but just know that Achilles lives up to his name and read this book!
November 9, 2018
The Achilles series has become a fav read of mine during this past year. It has all action, intrigue, and great locations that make a great read. It's probably my childhood love of a James Bond type hero that has mixed with a more modern character persona, and my love of action and mystery. The Lies of Spies is book 2 in the series and has delivered another great instalment that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Kyle Achilles is the main character, but is part of a duo that includes, Katya, from book 1. The pair are caught up in another international mission. They have a common bond (Kyle's deceased brother) and work well together, both bringing their own strengths to this well-plotted thriller.
Picture the leaders of the two most powerful countries on Earth secretly working to destroy the other. This is the overarching story. Two sides with two agendas, in which Achilles and Katya become pawns in the plans of the super-powerful leaders. When things don't go as planned, Achilles is left in a situation that needs all his resilience and quick thinking. He needs to reconnect with Katya to find a way forward.
It's a nail-biting mission fraught with danger and intrigue. Who can they trust? Who can they work with? The pace of this is as good as Tigner's other books, it's a skill that he has honed and uses so well. I didn't find it predictable at all.
Tigner is a master at revealing unexpected plot twists that you don't see coming. Enemies become friends. Friends become enemies. Who will betray who? As I write this review, I have already read the next book in the series, Falling Stars. My review of book 3 will be online soon. Bring on book 4 Mr. Tigner.
IN A NUTSHELL
This is another great book from an author who has quickly become a favorite, whose books I now buy based on his name alone. Recommended for fans of thrilling intrigue, plot twists, and fabulous settings.
Kyle Achilles is the main character, but is part of a duo that includes, Katya, from book 1. The pair are caught up in another international mission. They have a common bond (Kyle's deceased brother) and work well together, both bringing their own strengths to this well-plotted thriller.
Picture the leaders of the two most powerful countries on Earth secretly working to destroy the other. This is the overarching story. Two sides with two agendas, in which Achilles and Katya become pawns in the plans of the super-powerful leaders. When things don't go as planned, Achilles is left in a situation that needs all his resilience and quick thinking. He needs to reconnect with Katya to find a way forward.
It's a nail-biting mission fraught with danger and intrigue. Who can they trust? Who can they work with? The pace of this is as good as Tigner's other books, it's a skill that he has honed and uses so well. I didn't find it predictable at all.
Tigner is a master at revealing unexpected plot twists that you don't see coming. Enemies become friends. Friends become enemies. Who will betray who? As I write this review, I have already read the next book in the series, Falling Stars. My review of book 3 will be online soon. Bring on book 4 Mr. Tigner.
IN A NUTSHELL
This is another great book from an author who has quickly become a favorite, whose books I now buy based on his name alone. Recommended for fans of thrilling intrigue, plot twists, and fabulous settings.
November 3, 2016
A Tangled Web of Spies
If you're looking for an intricately plotted thriller with dueling conspiracies at the highest levels of the US and Russian governments, here's your book. A plan is hatched in the Kremlin that will fulfill Russian President Vladimir Korovin's dream of expanding the Russian Empire while bringing the US to its knees and eliminating it as a superpower. US President William Silver, who recently survived a plot against him by Korovin, is determined to take him down once and for all. Both sides have tasked their best covert operatives to take on these special missions.
Former CIA agent Kyle Achilles is still coming to grips with the deaths of his parents and beloved older brother by the Russians, who framed him for their murders (read Pushing Brilliance for this story). He's also struggling with his deepening feelings for Katya, his dead brother's fiancée. They both feel the attraction, but know they each need to deal with their grief before deciding whether they belong together.
This story has more twists than a box of worms and action that jumps from Washington, D.C. to Russia and from Hawaii and Seattle to Switzerland. As the spies cross paths, there are betrayals, changing alliances and ever more danger from all sides. You won't want to get off this rollercoaster of a book until the very last page. Tim Tigner is absolutely brilliant!
If you're looking for an intricately plotted thriller with dueling conspiracies at the highest levels of the US and Russian governments, here's your book. A plan is hatched in the Kremlin that will fulfill Russian President Vladimir Korovin's dream of expanding the Russian Empire while bringing the US to its knees and eliminating it as a superpower. US President William Silver, who recently survived a plot against him by Korovin, is determined to take him down once and for all. Both sides have tasked their best covert operatives to take on these special missions.
Former CIA agent Kyle Achilles is still coming to grips with the deaths of his parents and beloved older brother by the Russians, who framed him for their murders (read Pushing Brilliance for this story). He's also struggling with his deepening feelings for Katya, his dead brother's fiancée. They both feel the attraction, but know they each need to deal with their grief before deciding whether they belong together.
This story has more twists than a box of worms and action that jumps from Washington, D.C. to Russia and from Hawaii and Seattle to Switzerland. As the spies cross paths, there are betrayals, changing alliances and ever more danger from all sides. You won't want to get off this rollercoaster of a book until the very last page. Tim Tigner is absolutely brilliant!
January 8, 2017
Excellent second story in the Kyle Achilles story line. The characters are believable; the action is ongoing and left me wanting to see what would happen next. I will definitely read more of Mr. Tigner's book and can't wait for the next Kyle Achilles book. (Will Max and Zoya be in the next one???)
March 4, 2019
Now that I have completed the Kyle Achilles four-book series and the prologue novella Kyle Achilles, all I want to know is, when will we see the next Achilles adventure from Tim Tigner?
Please, do yourself a favor and take my advice, Tigner is a must-read adventure writer! What are you waiting on?
Please, do yourself a favor and take my advice, Tigner is a must-read adventure writer! What are you waiting on?
September 29, 2019
Wow, I really loved this book. I read the book a couple of hears ago and at the time I assess it to my audio book wish list and forgot about. Then I wanted a fun book to listen to and downloaded this as I remembered I enjoyed it . Boy was I right and why oh why did it take me so long to get? I really like the characters and the situations they find themselves in. This is book two and carries on from Book one, you don't need to have read or listened to book one as the author does touch on what happened but I would highly recommend you do, as that is a great book too.There is so much action that it keeps you hooked from the start. The story is told from multiple characters but it is easy to follow along.
What happens when the presidents of two super power countries decided the other has to go? They send there best agents the ones that they can deny sending. But what happens when those presidents know they are coming? A cat and mouse game where nothing is really but all could be your last step. Retired CIA agent Kyle Achiles is one of the agents sent because after the Russian President had his family killed he has a big score to settle. This time going it alone with just help from Katya (his dead brothers finance) is not going to be enough and the pair join up with an unlikely pair to stop a diabolical plan that could change the world as we know it.
I like the narrator and he is up there in my top ten of favourite narrators because he makes all his stories interesting with the voices he uses for the characters.
What happens when the presidents of two super power countries decided the other has to go? They send there best agents the ones that they can deny sending. But what happens when those presidents know they are coming? A cat and mouse game where nothing is really but all could be your last step. Retired CIA agent Kyle Achiles is one of the agents sent because after the Russian President had his family killed he has a big score to settle. This time going it alone with just help from Katya (his dead brothers finance) is not going to be enough and the pair join up with an unlikely pair to stop a diabolical plan that could change the world as we know it.
I like the narrator and he is up there in my top ten of favourite narrators because he makes all his stories interesting with the voices he uses for the characters.
August 14, 2018
Good little spy story if you just want to have fun. Well written with plenty of plot twists
December 9, 2016
“Everyone in Washington’s a lawyer, dear.”
The movie star handsome, ‘man’s man’ Tim Tigner comes to his role as a novelist specializing in political intrigue with a rich background. His academic preparation is a combination of mathematics and philosophy with psychology and radiology, but after academia his instinct for investigation and thrill seeking led him to serve in the Green Berets, specializing in Russian and Soviet counterintelligence. When Perestroika/Glasnost ‘opened’ Russia (or at least by their definition made it more transparent) led to the fall of the Berlin wall, Tigner’s direction shifted from espionage to arbitrage and he moved form Russia to Brussels where he witnessed the formation of the European Union: his change in focus shifted back to the US and further degrees in business and International Studies and settled in the Silicon Valley as a corporate type in the medical device industry. And as if that background weren’t sufficient he continued his travels around the world expending energy as scuba diver, skier, actor, mountain climber, a hand glider, a parachuter, and in every sense of the word an adventurer. Now he follows his obsession with reading thrillers by writing them.
Having read several of Tim’s novels it always comes a surprise that he doesn’t repeat himself. There are ‘recipe format espionage books’ – keep one central character everyone recognizes then populate the story with the expected clones of ‘good’ vs. ‘bad’ people. That is where Tim steps aside like a matador and creates each novel with a fresh outlook and cast.
Tim’s short form of Book 1 of this series reads as follows: ‘Framed for murder and on the run, former Olympic biathlete Kyle Achilles is also in the crosshairs of assassins' guns. Why? He has no idea. He's fighting blind against two master strategists and one extraordinary invention--known as Brillyanc. Achilles' only ally is the other prime suspect, a beautiful Russian mathematician who is either the best or worst person to ever enter his life. Katya was engaged to Achilles' brother -- before he died. Chasing clues while dodging bullets, Achilles and Katya race around the globe, uncovering a conspiracy conceived in Moscow, born in Silicon Valley, and destined to demolish both the White House and the Kremlin. Along the way a lost soul finds purpose, a broken heart confronts forbidden love, and America gains a new hero.’ And now we continue with Book 2 –‘ The American President sent him, the Russian President caught him, the Free World is counting on him…but he doesn’t remember…Journey beneath the diplomatic veneer of international politics and beyond the reach of conventional military operations into the epicenter of clandestine affairs -- where diplomats dance and spies collide in wars that never make the news. For the next step in its expansionist agenda, the Kremlin devises a covert coup far more devastating than Bin Laden's most dangerous dream. With the American economy in his crosshairs, Russian President Vladimir Korovin picks suitable pawns and pulls sizable levers, initiating the boldest gambit the world has ever seen. Halfway around the world, the White House develops a plan for derailing Russian aggression. A way-off-the-books, high-risk, high-reward plan. American President William Silver identifies the perfect person for his impossible mission: former CIA operative Kyle Achilles. With their plans in place and their spies undercover, each president is confident that he has outplayed the other -- until everything goes wrong.’
Couple these harrowing facts with Tigner’s gift for transplanting his characters into situations that seem destined to destruction and yet manipulating them out with keen pacing and skill and there you have yet another thriller by the gifted Tim Tigner. He writes so well that one could quite easily become addicted. Smart, sophisticated and always with a surprise at the turn of every page, Tigner simply has it
The movie star handsome, ‘man’s man’ Tim Tigner comes to his role as a novelist specializing in political intrigue with a rich background. His academic preparation is a combination of mathematics and philosophy with psychology and radiology, but after academia his instinct for investigation and thrill seeking led him to serve in the Green Berets, specializing in Russian and Soviet counterintelligence. When Perestroika/Glasnost ‘opened’ Russia (or at least by their definition made it more transparent) led to the fall of the Berlin wall, Tigner’s direction shifted from espionage to arbitrage and he moved form Russia to Brussels where he witnessed the formation of the European Union: his change in focus shifted back to the US and further degrees in business and International Studies and settled in the Silicon Valley as a corporate type in the medical device industry. And as if that background weren’t sufficient he continued his travels around the world expending energy as scuba diver, skier, actor, mountain climber, a hand glider, a parachuter, and in every sense of the word an adventurer. Now he follows his obsession with reading thrillers by writing them.
Having read several of Tim’s novels it always comes a surprise that he doesn’t repeat himself. There are ‘recipe format espionage books’ – keep one central character everyone recognizes then populate the story with the expected clones of ‘good’ vs. ‘bad’ people. That is where Tim steps aside like a matador and creates each novel with a fresh outlook and cast.
Tim’s short form of Book 1 of this series reads as follows: ‘Framed for murder and on the run, former Olympic biathlete Kyle Achilles is also in the crosshairs of assassins' guns. Why? He has no idea. He's fighting blind against two master strategists and one extraordinary invention--known as Brillyanc. Achilles' only ally is the other prime suspect, a beautiful Russian mathematician who is either the best or worst person to ever enter his life. Katya was engaged to Achilles' brother -- before he died. Chasing clues while dodging bullets, Achilles and Katya race around the globe, uncovering a conspiracy conceived in Moscow, born in Silicon Valley, and destined to demolish both the White House and the Kremlin. Along the way a lost soul finds purpose, a broken heart confronts forbidden love, and America gains a new hero.’ And now we continue with Book 2 –‘ The American President sent him, the Russian President caught him, the Free World is counting on him…but he doesn’t remember…Journey beneath the diplomatic veneer of international politics and beyond the reach of conventional military operations into the epicenter of clandestine affairs -- where diplomats dance and spies collide in wars that never make the news. For the next step in its expansionist agenda, the Kremlin devises a covert coup far more devastating than Bin Laden's most dangerous dream. With the American economy in his crosshairs, Russian President Vladimir Korovin picks suitable pawns and pulls sizable levers, initiating the boldest gambit the world has ever seen. Halfway around the world, the White House develops a plan for derailing Russian aggression. A way-off-the-books, high-risk, high-reward plan. American President William Silver identifies the perfect person for his impossible mission: former CIA operative Kyle Achilles. With their plans in place and their spies undercover, each president is confident that he has outplayed the other -- until everything goes wrong.’
Couple these harrowing facts with Tigner’s gift for transplanting his characters into situations that seem destined to destruction and yet manipulating them out with keen pacing and skill and there you have yet another thriller by the gifted Tim Tigner. He writes so well that one could quite easily become addicted. Smart, sophisticated and always with a surprise at the turn of every page, Tigner simply has it
January 1, 2017
WOW! Tim Tigner just keeps getting better and better. And the fact that the author is a Special Forcesw trained Soviet Counterintellengence "expert" make the current geopolitical situation appropriate foundation for an white-knuckle military techno-thriller whose plot COULD be taken from current headlines. Tigner certainly does know how to pace his plot and develop his characters. This book is very hard to put down. Indeed I was fortunate to be "on vacation" in the Rocky Mountains and had the luxury of finishing this book in just two days. This book has it ALL! Spies, counter-spies, espionage, moles, non-stop action, etc etc etc. The protagonist is appropriate named Kyle ACHILLES, a mildly flawed great hero with military training and experience as a biathlete, all BEFORE he became a free climber. I agree with other readers who feel that KYLE ACHILLES needs to be a movie star. The opnly question is who to play Kyle Achilles. This book and this auithor is recommended HIGHLY to all those readers who devour Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, and Brian Haig.
February 20, 2017
Espionage par excellence!
Author Tim Tigner does it, again, bringing us an especially exciting sequel to his first Kyle Achilles book, "Pushing Brilliance." The characters are vividly portrayed, the writing is clear and precise, and the action is superb! ... And that the author draws upon his own experience, both from the world of business and from his time spent in military "special operations" is quite apparent, and only serves to add authenticity to the book. Tigner can definitely count me among his fans, and I am sure I speak for others in his fan-base when I say that I can hardly wait for Book 3 and a Book 4 in this exciting series to come out! An awesome book, and one that will keep you in suspense as you fly through it's pages!
Author Tim Tigner does it, again, bringing us an especially exciting sequel to his first Kyle Achilles book, "Pushing Brilliance." The characters are vividly portrayed, the writing is clear and precise, and the action is superb! ... And that the author draws upon his own experience, both from the world of business and from his time spent in military "special operations" is quite apparent, and only serves to add authenticity to the book. Tigner can definitely count me among his fans, and I am sure I speak for others in his fan-base when I say that I can hardly wait for Book 3 and a Book 4 in this exciting series to come out! An awesome book, and one that will keep you in suspense as you fly through it's pages!
October 30, 2016
Tim Tiger's Achilles series keeps me awake at night. The stories he spins are frightening - all the more so because they are so damn plausible.
In Lies of Spies Achilles is captured while planning a high - stakes secret mission for the President. He escapes, taking a famous Russian actress as hostage (she was involved with the kidnappers) and makes his way back to the USA to discover he is wanted for treason. While trying to figure out how to clear his name he stumbles onto a plot to destroy the American economy through the death ten times more people than died on 9/11.
That's a purposely sketchy description because I don't want to spoil even one page of this amazing thriller! I'll be surprised if this doesn't become a movie at some point. But don't wait.
You don't need to have read Achilles #1 to fully appreciate Lies of Spies. But if you read either of them I guarantee you will read both.
Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys Fleming (James Bond,) LeCarre, Clancy etc.
In Lies of Spies Achilles is captured while planning a high - stakes secret mission for the President. He escapes, taking a famous Russian actress as hostage (she was involved with the kidnappers) and makes his way back to the USA to discover he is wanted for treason. While trying to figure out how to clear his name he stumbles onto a plot to destroy the American economy through the death ten times more people than died on 9/11.
That's a purposely sketchy description because I don't want to spoil even one page of this amazing thriller! I'll be surprised if this doesn't become a movie at some point. But don't wait.
You don't need to have read Achilles #1 to fully appreciate Lies of Spies. But if you read either of them I guarantee you will read both.
Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys Fleming (James Bond,) LeCarre, Clancy etc.
November 3, 2016
GREAT SERIES CONTINUES. The Lies of Spies is the second book in the Achilles series. This book can be read as a standalone. Though I highly suggest you read the first book (Pushing Brilliance) to have some of the backstory on Achilles. There is a lot of violence.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. The author did a good job of summarizing what happened in Pushing Brilliance for new readers to give them a better understanding of Kyle Achilles. It has well developed characters. There is a lot of history between characters that keeps you guessing what twists and turns will be revealed next. There is a lot of fast paced action along with some unexpected surprises as well. This book definitely kept me riveted and I had a hard time putting it down. This series is definitely worth reading.
I received a copy of this book and chose to write a review for other readers.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. The author did a good job of summarizing what happened in Pushing Brilliance for new readers to give them a better understanding of Kyle Achilles. It has well developed characters. There is a lot of history between characters that keeps you guessing what twists and turns will be revealed next. There is a lot of fast paced action along with some unexpected surprises as well. This book definitely kept me riveted and I had a hard time putting it down. This series is definitely worth reading.
I received a copy of this book and chose to write a review for other readers.
November 4, 2016
Tim Tigner's background in counter-intelligence shines through in this, second of a series, thriller. His hero, an ex-Olympic athlete and US Agent is once again set to foil the enemies of the State whilst off the books because of what has gone before.
Nominally I suspect marketed as an airport page turner, which it achieves admirably, what sets it apart is the characterisations and believable motivation - particularly of the bad guys. No black hat "because they're bad" here, instead everyone takes their own internally justified position driven by the logic flowing from that position.
Tigner's writing reminds me of modernised Ian Fleming (albeit American). There is the same undercurrent of realism with just enough fantasy for the action afficionado.
Genuinely a fast, fun read with bona fide meat on the bones for those with an appetite for realism and thought.
Nominally I suspect marketed as an airport page turner, which it achieves admirably, what sets it apart is the characterisations and believable motivation - particularly of the bad guys. No black hat "because they're bad" here, instead everyone takes their own internally justified position driven by the logic flowing from that position.
Tigner's writing reminds me of modernised Ian Fleming (albeit American). There is the same undercurrent of realism with just enough fantasy for the action afficionado.
Genuinely a fast, fun read with bona fide meat on the bones for those with an appetite for realism and thought.
October 25, 2016
I was given a beta version of this book by the author for feedback. It is the second in the Achilles Healy series. After the first book, Pushing Brilliance, set the bar high, this thriller had a lot of work to do. But it did it! A fast-paced thriller, it kept me turning pages as quickly as I could manage.
In this story, Achilles takes on a top secret mission only to be betrayed and deemed a traitor. Chased by agents from both super-powers, he finds himself forming an unlikely alliance. Working with some high tech toys, he finds himself once more on a racing around the globe to beat the enemy. It even went through Portland to Seattle!
Tim Tigner has once again created a palpable sense of tension with strong writing and intriguing characters. Here's to more Achilles.
In this story, Achilles takes on a top secret mission only to be betrayed and deemed a traitor. Chased by agents from both super-powers, he finds himself forming an unlikely alliance. Working with some high tech toys, he finds himself once more on a racing around the globe to beat the enemy. It even went through Portland to Seattle!
Tim Tigner has once again created a palpable sense of tension with strong writing and intriguing characters. Here's to more Achilles.
October 24, 2016
This is an action thriller of epic proportions!! Achilles, the primary character, has no prior military or covert experience. He's just a natural.an athlete, an adventurer, a risk taker. He works for POTUS. He always gets the job done.Russia has a mole in the White House. They know everything, all of the secrets.There plotting an attack on America that will devastate America. Politically, economically, the military...everything...for years to come. Russia will return to its former glory. China will get blamed. This is a masterfully written spy thriller with twists and turns to the very last page. My highest recommendation. Enjoyed tremendously!!!
November 29, 2016
Fabulous Storytelling
Tim Tigner hasn't disappointed me yet. I've read all his stories and they are all brilliant. This book is no exception. I love the unexpected friendship that blossomed between Achilles and Max, the Russian spy. They made a great team that put their mission on track. A mission that was fantastically thought out and twisted in unusual ways. I can't wait to see what Tigner comes up with next.
Tim Tigner hasn't disappointed me yet. I've read all his stories and they are all brilliant. This book is no exception. I love the unexpected friendship that blossomed between Achilles and Max, the Russian spy. They made a great team that put their mission on track. A mission that was fantastically thought out and twisted in unusual ways. I can't wait to see what Tigner comes up with next.
November 11, 2016
Great thrill-ride!
I enjoyed this story on several different levels. While I have never considered climbing Lover's Leap, I have taken many photos of it, since it's only minutes away. It was fun to read about an area I'm familiar with. This book will keep the reader fully engrossed to the end. I look forward to more!
I enjoyed this story on several different levels. While I have never considered climbing Lover's Leap, I have taken many photos of it, since it's only minutes away. It was fun to read about an area I'm familiar with. This book will keep the reader fully engrossed to the end. I look forward to more!
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