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Heads You Win
Leningrad, Russia, 1968: From an early age it is clear that Alexander Karpenko is destined to lead his countrymen. But when his father is assassinated by the KGB for defying the state, Alexander and his mother will have to escape Russia if they hope to survive. At the docks, they have an irreversible choice: board a container ship bound for America or one bound for Great Britain. Alexander leaves the choice to a toss of a coin…
In a single moment, a double twist decides Alexander’s future. During an epic tale, spanning two continents and thirty years, we follow Alexander through triumph and defeat as he sets out on parallel lives as Alex in New York and Sasha in London. As this unique story unfolds, both come to realize that to find their destiny they must face the past they left behind as Alexander in Russia.
In a single moment, a double twist decides Alexander’s future. During an epic tale, spanning two continents and thirty years, we follow Alexander through triumph and defeat as he sets out on parallel lives as Alex in New York and Sasha in London. As this unique story unfolds, both come to realize that to find their destiny they must face the past they left behind as Alexander in Russia.
448 pages, Hardcover
First published November 6, 2018
6534 people are currently reading
10201 people want to read
About the author
Jeffrey Archer
659 books12.4k followersJeffrey is published in 114 countries and more than 47 languages, with more than 750,000 5* reviews with international sales passing 275 million copies.
He is the only author ever to have been a number one bestseller in fiction (nineteen times), short stories (four times) and non-fiction (The Prison Diaries).
Jeffrey has been married for 53 years to Dame Mary Archer DBE. They have two sons, William and James, three grandsons and two granddaughters, and divide their time between homes in London, Cambridge and Mallorca.
He is the only author ever to have been a number one bestseller in fiction (nineteen times), short stories (four times) and non-fiction (The Prison Diaries).
Jeffrey has been married for 53 years to Dame Mary Archer DBE. They have two sons, William and James, three grandsons and two granddaughters, and divide their time between homes in London, Cambridge and Mallorca.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,532 reviews
October 14, 2018
** 4.5 Stars *
Wow! The last sentence in ‘Heads You Win’ was akin to a slap across the face - a kind of “that’s what you get for not being perceptive enough to recognise what was right in front of you the whole time”!
1968 Leningrad, Russia, and teenager Alexander Karpenko and his mother Elena are about to flee their homeland with the help of his uncle, who has bribed the Captain of a cargo ship. Alexander’s father has been assassinated whilst carrying out his duties at the docks where he was a well liked and respected foreman - his crime? attempting to start a trade union in order that the dock workers would enjoy the same rights as those we take for granted here in the west. The Karpenko’s have a choice, there are two cargo ships in dock, do they head for England or America? Their decision is made with the toss of a coin.
It’s at this point where parallel lives come into play, (think ‘sliding doors’) and we’re given a version of how their new lives would develop both in England and in America
Have you ever given a thought to how your life would have turned out if, (at an important crossroads on that journey) you had taken the opposite decision to the one you did? Or has destiny chosen for us - are we where we were always supposed to be? Makes you wonder!
Jeffrey Archer is renowned as a master storyteller, and he certainly lives up to that reputation with Heads You Win. The narrative spans three decades and two continents, and is rich in both historical, and political detail. This was such an intense but immensely satisfying read, with characters that leapt from the page, and an extremely clever and well executed storyline. It was wonderfully engaging, with the mother of all twists at the end, but Mr Archer, if you’re listening, my advice is this - don’t visit Russia anytime soon, that’s all I’m going to say!
*My thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan for my ARC, for which I have given an honest unbiased review*
Wow! The last sentence in ‘Heads You Win’ was akin to a slap across the face - a kind of “that’s what you get for not being perceptive enough to recognise what was right in front of you the whole time”!
1968 Leningrad, Russia, and teenager Alexander Karpenko and his mother Elena are about to flee their homeland with the help of his uncle, who has bribed the Captain of a cargo ship. Alexander’s father has been assassinated whilst carrying out his duties at the docks where he was a well liked and respected foreman - his crime? attempting to start a trade union in order that the dock workers would enjoy the same rights as those we take for granted here in the west. The Karpenko’s have a choice, there are two cargo ships in dock, do they head for England or America? Their decision is made with the toss of a coin.
It’s at this point where parallel lives come into play, (think ‘sliding doors’) and we’re given a version of how their new lives would develop both in England and in America
Have you ever given a thought to how your life would have turned out if, (at an important crossroads on that journey) you had taken the opposite decision to the one you did? Or has destiny chosen for us - are we where we were always supposed to be? Makes you wonder!
Jeffrey Archer is renowned as a master storyteller, and he certainly lives up to that reputation with Heads You Win. The narrative spans three decades and two continents, and is rich in both historical, and political detail. This was such an intense but immensely satisfying read, with characters that leapt from the page, and an extremely clever and well executed storyline. It was wonderfully engaging, with the mother of all twists at the end, but Mr Archer, if you’re listening, my advice is this - don’t visit Russia anytime soon, that’s all I’m going to say!
*My thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan for my ARC, for which I have given an honest unbiased review*
December 7, 2018
Lord Jeffrey Archer remains one of the eminent writers of my time, able to craft brilliant novels that can be enjoyed years after the ink dries on their publication. Archer develops his books with pages of captivating text and believable dialogue. On the docks of Leningrad in 1968, Alexander Karpenko lives under the iron fist of the Soviet regime. No choice or decision goes unwatched by the KGB and punishment is usually brutal. When Alexander’s father is involved in a workplace ‘accident’, young Alexander and his mother, Elena, know that it is time to make a break for it. At the docks, they must rush to choose a means of getting out of Russia, with two shipping crates before them; one bound for England, the other for America. They make a hasty choice and hide away, before the crate can be loaded for departure to another land. It is here that Archer takes the story and turns it on its head. Following two threads, the narrative takes the reader along with Alex and Elena to America or with Sasha and Elena to England. Alex experiences many stumbling blocks when he makes it to the shores of New York, trying to find a place for both he and Elena to situate themselves and rise from the ashes of Soviet oppression. While he scrabbles to get enough money to feed them, Alex discovers that his hard work can pay off, beginning by selling produce at a local stand and amassing wealth through grit and determination. On the other hand, Sasha and Elena land in England and use his sharp wit to earn a place in a prestigious school before attending Cambridge, where the political bug bites him and he is able to explore a work of power and intrigue. Both men discover love, family, and a rise to the top, but neither can help but wonder what might have happened if they’d chosen ‘the other crate’. Lord Archer is here to tell the reader exactly what might have happened, offering sensational parallels in the lives of these two, as well as contrasting their great differences. An ingenious approach to storytelling that Archer perfected, with a sensational twist at the end. Highly recommended to those who love Archer’s work, as well as the reader who enjoys historical fiction with a few twists along the way!
Those familiar with Jeffrey Archer’s work will know that his work is both highly entertaining and filled with layers of rich narrative. The stories are neither superficial, nor are they weighed down with minutiae. However, there is something intensely captivating about them that makes them as unique as anything I have ever read. The Alex/Sasha character is one that fans of the author will have seen many times before, but is more of an amalgamation of many, rather than a copy of one in particular. Rising from the depths of poverty and communist oppression, Alex/Sasha finds himself grasping onto the chance of a new life and makes the most of it. What makes this character even more interesting, is the contrast that comes from his alter ego—for lack of a better word—and how the contrasting decisions lead both men in completely different directions, though their paths seem destined to lead to the same ultimate goal. The story is full of character development and weaves a powerful backstory for both Alex/Sasha, though the reader must pay close attention to notice the parallels and divergences throughout the narratives. There are obviously a number of supporting characters throughout the piece, most especially Elena Karpenko, who is able to see her son rise to greatness as she does so herself. Elena bides her time but does not sit idly by, as she creates an empire all her own and proves to be almost a second protagonist in the larger story. The others offer the needed narrative mortar to keep the story moving and standing strong, though Archer has rarely had trouble making someone who graced the pages of his books appear full of life and active in pushing the story towards its needed conclusion. The concept for this piece is brilliant, pulling on many of Archer’s past successful novels. Be it Kane and Abel, The Clifton Chronicles, or many of the other pieces he has penned over the decades, Archer’s flavourful storytelling comes alive yet again, in what may be his best single novel work in years. Telling a political, social, and emotional story of one boy’s ultimate choice to flee oppression, Archer offers two distinct paths that could have been taken. The greatest trouble for the reader as they progress through this epic piece is to decide which one is the better life. I am not sure I could choose quite yet, but that might be the ultimate Archer gift, as it keeps the story lingering well after it’s been completed.
Kudos, Lord Archer, for a spellbinding novel. I could not expect anything less from such a master storyteller!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Those familiar with Jeffrey Archer’s work will know that his work is both highly entertaining and filled with layers of rich narrative. The stories are neither superficial, nor are they weighed down with minutiae. However, there is something intensely captivating about them that makes them as unique as anything I have ever read. The Alex/Sasha character is one that fans of the author will have seen many times before, but is more of an amalgamation of many, rather than a copy of one in particular. Rising from the depths of poverty and communist oppression, Alex/Sasha finds himself grasping onto the chance of a new life and makes the most of it. What makes this character even more interesting, is the contrast that comes from his alter ego—for lack of a better word—and how the contrasting decisions lead both men in completely different directions, though their paths seem destined to lead to the same ultimate goal. The story is full of character development and weaves a powerful backstory for both Alex/Sasha, though the reader must pay close attention to notice the parallels and divergences throughout the narratives. There are obviously a number of supporting characters throughout the piece, most especially Elena Karpenko, who is able to see her son rise to greatness as she does so herself. Elena bides her time but does not sit idly by, as she creates an empire all her own and proves to be almost a second protagonist in the larger story. The others offer the needed narrative mortar to keep the story moving and standing strong, though Archer has rarely had trouble making someone who graced the pages of his books appear full of life and active in pushing the story towards its needed conclusion. The concept for this piece is brilliant, pulling on many of Archer’s past successful novels. Be it Kane and Abel, The Clifton Chronicles, or many of the other pieces he has penned over the decades, Archer’s flavourful storytelling comes alive yet again, in what may be his best single novel work in years. Telling a political, social, and emotional story of one boy’s ultimate choice to flee oppression, Archer offers two distinct paths that could have been taken. The greatest trouble for the reader as they progress through this epic piece is to decide which one is the better life. I am not sure I could choose quite yet, but that might be the ultimate Archer gift, as it keeps the story lingering well after it’s been completed.
Kudos, Lord Archer, for a spellbinding novel. I could not expect anything less from such a master storyteller!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
December 5, 2018
I read very few political thrillers, but for Archer I make an exception. From the beginning one is aware that they are in the hands of a author who has perfected his craft, has a firm grasp of his characters and the plot. His prose is written with clarity, his storyline flows seamlessly. What an unusual but perceptive, history in the making, storyline this turned out to be.
Russia, Alexander's father, a dockworker, secret orginizer of those in opposition to communism, is murdered by the KGB, an act that alters changes their future. His uncle, also s worker on the dock, helps he and his mother escape, they have no other option. Their are two vessels leaving, one for New York and one for England, a flip of the coin determines where they will be heading.
So begins a twin storyline, a storyline that follows them to both locations, or what would have been their lives after chosing which destination. That I found this not at all confusing, so interesting in fact, is the genius, in my opinion, of this author. Where their lives take them will eventually intersect but with very different endings. The last line is a zinger, dare I say brilliant, and I did not see it coming.
ARC from Netgalley.
Russia, Alexander's father, a dockworker, secret orginizer of those in opposition to communism, is murdered by the KGB, an act that alters changes their future. His uncle, also s worker on the dock, helps he and his mother escape, they have no other option. Their are two vessels leaving, one for New York and one for England, a flip of the coin determines where they will be heading.
So begins a twin storyline, a storyline that follows them to both locations, or what would have been their lives after chosing which destination. That I found this not at all confusing, so interesting in fact, is the genius, in my opinion, of this author. Where their lives take them will eventually intersect but with very different endings. The last line is a zinger, dare I say brilliant, and I did not see it coming.
ARC from Netgalley.
November 14, 2018
*some edits*
Loved it but umm... The ending and the last few pages, anyone else confused?
What I thought was gonna be mind blowing wasn't explored to completion and what I guess was the big surprise seemed like a non-ending (to me).
Maybe because I was expecting something else but I was left with "Umm, that's all?"
Doesn't dampen my enjoyment of the rest of the story but it did cause me to knock off that one star.
My one friend suggested maybe its a series or duology (as of right now we haven't found news of that) so we shall see.
Loved it but umm... The ending and the last few pages, anyone else confused?
What I thought was gonna be mind blowing wasn't explored to completion and what I guess was the big surprise seemed like a non-ending (to me).
Maybe because I was expecting something else but I was left with "Umm, that's all?"
Doesn't dampen my enjoyment of the rest of the story but it did cause me to knock off that one star.
My one friend suggested maybe its a series or duology (as of right now we haven't found news of that) so we shall see.
November 23, 2018
I enjoy Archers books and have read them all.
However, if you don't read this book, you are doing yourself a favor.
Yes Clifton and Barrington were mentioned, which was nice.
The usual suicide of disgrace showed up... Not incest for a change. In fact, no incest in this book.
The two versions of the main character were great, until they started crossing paths in various manners. This created some confusion.
Were the mom's twins? Nope.
The final ending when it is hinted that both versions were in route at the same time was a let down. It was all down hill from there.
The "Twist" ending was not really a twist. It was disappointing.
I re read the last 2 chapters to make sure that I didn't miss anything. Nope.
It was a bit confusing and left too many questions.
The attempted cleverness failed.
As a fan of Mr. Archer, I am dissatisfied with this book.
However, if you don't read this book, you are doing yourself a favor.
Yes Clifton and Barrington were mentioned, which was nice.
The usual suicide of disgrace showed up... Not incest for a change. In fact, no incest in this book.
The two versions of the main character were great, until they started crossing paths in various manners. This created some confusion.
Were the mom's twins? Nope.
The final ending when it is hinted that both versions were in route at the same time was a let down. It was all down hill from there.
The "Twist" ending was not really a twist. It was disappointing.
I re read the last 2 chapters to make sure that I didn't miss anything. Nope.
It was a bit confusing and left too many questions.
The attempted cleverness failed.
As a fan of Mr. Archer, I am dissatisfied with this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2019
Perhaps if one doesn't usually read great writing, poor writing doesn't scream out. Archer's writing just screamed at me -bad, bad, bad. Sometimes I find it easier to describe what good writing is than what is lacking in poor writing. Poor character development, predictability, cliches - just a few things that drove me crazy in this book.
I would have given the book 1 star, but since I kept turning the pages and wanted to know how it ended, I figured 2 stars was more accurate. Since I think one always learns something from even a disliked book, I now appreciate my preferred authors more and will not make the mistake of reading another Archer book.
I would have given the book 1 star, but since I kept turning the pages and wanted to know how it ended, I figured 2 stars was more accurate. Since I think one always learns something from even a disliked book, I now appreciate my preferred authors more and will not make the mistake of reading another Archer book.
October 30, 2018
In the interest of full disclosure, I have been a fan of Jeffrey Archer's since I found Kane and Abel in the clearance bin at my local used book store. I was urged by my insanely smart brother to pick a book by its cover and so... that's what I chose. Suffice it to say, I was hooked to Archer's uncomplicated style of writing. His delivery can be described as hearing a story from that human fixture in your local bar or fellow commuter. He writes as if he's telling a story that might be a tad predictable at times, but is entertaining all the time.
Heads You Win is no exception. We have the story of a Russian family that needs to escape from the communist regime in the late sixties after the death of their patriarch who stood in opposition to the KGB. Early on, we're introduced to Alexander Karpenko who's brilliant. After his father's assassination, his hopes of excelling in Russia come to an abrupt halt. He and his mother are forced to flee Russia. But to where? The flip of a coin determines whether they will journey to England or New York.
And that's all I have to say about that (insert Forrest Gump voice here- fittingly he was the type of storyteller I profess Archer of being).
Now, let's be clear, Jeffrey Archer, and his sagas, are pure fun. When I requested this book from Netgalley it was because I knew that I was in for a good time. I'm closing in on my final months in school and the last thing I wanted was to be weighed down with some heavy, philosophical read. I wanted what Archer delivers. He delivers a good, exceptional guy, up against a seemingly endless supply of people trying to take him down. Although he triumphs (usually), it doesn't make the ride any less interesting. Archer proves time and time again with his works that good will always win.
Sure his villains are a little one-dimensional, mainly motivated by greed, but I don't care. Show me a villain who isn't. And greed comes in many forms. There are people in here that would go penniless just to see someone else's demise. And yes! There are a lot of moments in this story where the mystery could have been savored just a tad bit longer, but hey... Archer understands we have things to do and lives to get on with.
I can go on about the gripes book snobs might find but what's the point? Heads You Win is a great addition to the Archer profile and his loyal fans will enjoy it all the same. If you feel that I've been a little too vague with this review, it's for good reason. There is a dual story that's happening here that deserves to be unfolded by each reader as I had the privilege of doing.
So... in conclusion... Jeffrey Archer's Heads You Win is definitely a worthwhile read... and possibly the beginning of something else... Anyway... I enjoyed reading Heads You Win and look forward to whats next from this author (or this series).
Copy provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley
Heads You Win is no exception. We have the story of a Russian family that needs to escape from the communist regime in the late sixties after the death of their patriarch who stood in opposition to the KGB. Early on, we're introduced to Alexander Karpenko who's brilliant. After his father's assassination, his hopes of excelling in Russia come to an abrupt halt. He and his mother are forced to flee Russia. But to where? The flip of a coin determines whether they will journey to England or New York.
And that's all I have to say about that (insert Forrest Gump voice here- fittingly he was the type of storyteller I profess Archer of being).
Now, let's be clear, Jeffrey Archer, and his sagas, are pure fun. When I requested this book from Netgalley it was because I knew that I was in for a good time. I'm closing in on my final months in school and the last thing I wanted was to be weighed down with some heavy, philosophical read. I wanted what Archer delivers. He delivers a good, exceptional guy, up against a seemingly endless supply of people trying to take him down. Although he triumphs (usually), it doesn't make the ride any less interesting. Archer proves time and time again with his works that good will always win.
Sure his villains are a little one-dimensional, mainly motivated by greed, but I don't care. Show me a villain who isn't. And greed comes in many forms. There are people in here that would go penniless just to see someone else's demise. And yes! There are a lot of moments in this story where the mystery could have been savored just a tad bit longer, but hey... Archer understands we have things to do and lives to get on with.
I can go on about the gripes book snobs might find but what's the point? Heads You Win is a great addition to the Archer profile and his loyal fans will enjoy it all the same. If you feel that I've been a little too vague with this review, it's for good reason. There is a dual story that's happening here that deserves to be unfolded by each reader as I had the privilege of doing.
So... in conclusion... Jeffrey Archer's Heads You Win is definitely a worthwhile read... and possibly the beginning of something else... Anyway... I enjoyed reading Heads You Win and look forward to whats next from this author (or this series).
Copy provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley
October 31, 2018
Heads You Win is one of critically-acclaimed, bestselling author Jeffrey Archer's most imaginative novel to date and takes advantage of the sliding doors theme whereby the outcomes of two separate paths that a character could take are shown. Here, it manifests itself as a life-changing moment in which young Alexander Karpenko and his mother flip a coin on the docks to decide whether they board a boat and emigrate to Great Britain or the United States after his father was murdered by the KGB. There are also plenty of ruminations on the social and political climate in Russia, America and The United Kingdom in 1968.
This is a novel that is full of shocks and unexpected surprises that, at times, had my jaw on the floor! At a wonderfully frenetic pace, we galloped along through this intriguing tale. The characterisation was superb, as it always is in Archer's work, three dimensional and complex, you get none of those flat characters that are flooding the publishing market. The different settings are vivid and exquisitely described, this novel has so much going for it besides the parallel stories working side by side. The ending was also very enjoyable and a fitting way to conclude, I certainly did not expect to be that gobsmacked!
Many thanks to Macmillan for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This is a novel that is full of shocks and unexpected surprises that, at times, had my jaw on the floor! At a wonderfully frenetic pace, we galloped along through this intriguing tale. The characterisation was superb, as it always is in Archer's work, three dimensional and complex, you get none of those flat characters that are flooding the publishing market. The different settings are vivid and exquisitely described, this novel has so much going for it besides the parallel stories working side by side. The ending was also very enjoyable and a fitting way to conclude, I certainly did not expect to be that gobsmacked!
Many thanks to Macmillan for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2018
Another great piece of storytelling by top author Jeffrey Archer. Rarely disappointed by his books and this latest novel is another excellent story. The more I read of this novel the bigger my appetite to find out more. Well written, good characters and a plot expertly crafted for maximum enjoyment.
Alexander Karpenko is a child in Leningrad, Russia, 1968 and he is easily identifiable as a leader in the making. But his future plans take a sudden turn when his father is assassinated by the KGB for defying the state. There is little alternative other than for Alexander and his mother to escape from Russia if they hope to survive. When they reach the docks, they are forced to choose between boarding a container ship bound for America, or Great Britain. Alexander decides to toss a coin to decide and his future begins.
The book then takes a twist when the story is told in alternate chapters following the journey for each of Alexanders choices. This is not as confusing as it may seem with one version of Alexander adopting the name Sasha. Typically written in the Jeffrey Archer style with twists and suspense that made me read and read till the very end as soon as possible.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Macmillan for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Alexander Karpenko is a child in Leningrad, Russia, 1968 and he is easily identifiable as a leader in the making. But his future plans take a sudden turn when his father is assassinated by the KGB for defying the state. There is little alternative other than for Alexander and his mother to escape from Russia if they hope to survive. When they reach the docks, they are forced to choose between boarding a container ship bound for America, or Great Britain. Alexander decides to toss a coin to decide and his future begins.
The book then takes a twist when the story is told in alternate chapters following the journey for each of Alexanders choices. This is not as confusing as it may seem with one version of Alexander adopting the name Sasha. Typically written in the Jeffrey Archer style with twists and suspense that made me read and read till the very end as soon as possible.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Macmillan for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2018
Worst book by this author.
I am a big Jeffrey archer fan, however this was the worst book he’s ever written! The book never explains how a Russian mother and her 16-year-old son are given the choice between stowing away in a packing crate heading for either England or America. They choose one of the crates and after climbing in the crate is Nailed shut. Some how or another, which is never explained, two crates on two different ships are opened and mother and son step out. They go on to lead separate lives in two different countries, but both lives are similar. When the uncle dies in Russia both sets of mother and son are asked by the family to read eulogies at the uncles funeral. Later, both sons when grown decide to go back to Russia to run for President of Russia and the reader is thinking “finally we will get to find out how this situation happened- one mother and son suddenly without explanation becomes two different sets of mother and son” but no one mother and son set gets killed in a plane accident. So the mystery is never solved. But of course, Jeffrey Archer always has a twist at the end of his books. Typically, the twist is awesome right? Well not this time. This time it’s pathetic. Don’t waste your time or money on this book. Jeffrey Archer, shame on you this book isn’t worth the paper and ink.
I am a big Jeffrey archer fan, however this was the worst book he’s ever written! The book never explains how a Russian mother and her 16-year-old son are given the choice between stowing away in a packing crate heading for either England or America. They choose one of the crates and after climbing in the crate is Nailed shut. Some how or another, which is never explained, two crates on two different ships are opened and mother and son step out. They go on to lead separate lives in two different countries, but both lives are similar. When the uncle dies in Russia both sets of mother and son are asked by the family to read eulogies at the uncles funeral. Later, both sons when grown decide to go back to Russia to run for President of Russia and the reader is thinking “finally we will get to find out how this situation happened- one mother and son suddenly without explanation becomes two different sets of mother and son” but no one mother and son set gets killed in a plane accident. So the mystery is never solved. But of course, Jeffrey Archer always has a twist at the end of his books. Typically, the twist is awesome right? Well not this time. This time it’s pathetic. Don’t waste your time or money on this book. Jeffrey Archer, shame on you this book isn’t worth the paper and ink.
October 1, 2018
HEADS YOU WIN is Jeffrey Archer’s attempt to write a novel about a single character and the two paths that bifurcated his life.
Alexander and his morher must leave Russia, after their lives are endangered by the perfidy of friend, Vladimir. There are 2 ships they can take, one going to England and the other to the USA. Here Archer follows the life that Alex/Sasha would have followed on each of the different paths.
The unbelievable success that the characters find actually fly against realities and make this book little more than a complicated fairy tale. Unlike, Kate Atkinson who uses the results of differing paths in LIFE AFTER LIFE with great skill, I found this book to be more of a muddle, using lots of confusing Russian names and fantasies, which constantly strained my credulity.
Ultimately, Alexander, no longer divided returns to Russia to fulfill his destiny, with a totally absurd ending.
Sorry, to be negative but as a fan of Jeffrey Archer, I was really disappointed in this book.
Alexander and his morher must leave Russia, after their lives are endangered by the perfidy of friend, Vladimir. There are 2 ships they can take, one going to England and the other to the USA. Here Archer follows the life that Alex/Sasha would have followed on each of the different paths.
The unbelievable success that the characters find actually fly against realities and make this book little more than a complicated fairy tale. Unlike, Kate Atkinson who uses the results of differing paths in LIFE AFTER LIFE with great skill, I found this book to be more of a muddle, using lots of confusing Russian names and fantasies, which constantly strained my credulity.
Ultimately, Alexander, no longer divided returns to Russia to fulfill his destiny, with a totally absurd ending.
Sorry, to be negative but as a fan of Jeffrey Archer, I was really disappointed in this book.
September 17, 2018
I really wanted to love this book because I loved The Clifton Chronicles Series, but unfortunately, I didn't enjoy as much as I hoped.
To me, it felt as if the structure of The Clifton Chronicles had been copied and paste into Russian settings. I don't want to give away any spoilers, especially for readers who have not read Archer before but I found the whole thing a little too predictable following a formula that I've seen before.
I think I would only feel comfortable recommending this book to readers that have not read The Clifton Chronicles before.
Thank you, NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
To me, it felt as if the structure of The Clifton Chronicles had been copied and paste into Russian settings. I don't want to give away any spoilers, especially for readers who have not read Archer before but I found the whole thing a little too predictable following a formula that I've seen before.
I think I would only feel comfortable recommending this book to readers that have not read The Clifton Chronicles before.
Thank you, NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
November 9, 2018
I am utterly confused. Throughout the book, and in the premise, the impression is that it is the same person whose story is written from 2 different perspective. How then do people who know one come across the other? They are supposed to be same person Life1 and Life2...then how can they also exist simultaneously....? I am only left with this one headbanging confusion in the end ....
October 10, 2018
Archer has other works that are definitely worth a read if you enjoy this genre, but Heads You Win is not one I would recommend.
For my full review: https://paulspicks.blog/2018/10/10/he...
For all my reviews: https://paulspicks.blog
For my full review: https://paulspicks.blog/2018/10/10/he...
For all my reviews: https://paulspicks.blog
January 25, 2019
Abgebrochen auf Seite 365. Schade, aber das Buch ist so unglaublich langweilig, dass ich einfach keine Lust mehr darauf hatte. :(
December 15, 2018
An interesting story. Have you ever wondered what would have happened if you had made a different choice at some point in your life? This novel explores that idea.
The story opens in 1968 in Leningrad, Russia. Alexander Karpenko is a very intelligent youth. He dreams of becoming the first democratically elected president of Russia. Alexander's father is a foreman on the docks who is attempting to unionize his co-workers on the docks. That effort targets him for assassination by the KGB. Alexander's uncle, who also works on the docks, persuades his sister that she and Alexander have to flee Leningrad. There are two ships that will be leaving Leningrad when an important football match is taking place. He has bribed the captain to allow Alexander and his mother to stowaway. When they get to the docks Alexander flips a coin to decide which ship to get on. The destination of one ship is London. The other ship is bound for New York City.
From this point on the novel diverges into two different stories. One follows young Alexander and his mother as they embark on a new life in New York City. The other follows their new life in London ... where Alexander has changed his name to Sasha. Initially I found this a little confusing but soon settled in and followed the two different story lines. It was a little amusing when Sasha traveled to New York and encountered people who knew Alex and when Alex traveled to London and encountered people who knew Sasha. Would Alex and Sasha meet? It was at these moments when I started to wonder if I was reading a science fiction novel instead of a historical fiction novel.
Of course you can never fully escape your past and Alex / Sasha learn this as their new lives unfold over a thirty year period and the story ends where it began in Leningrad with a shocking twist that had me telling myself I should have seen this.
Overall an entertaining story. At times while reading this novel it had me thinking what if I had made different choices during my life. What would have happened and where would I be?
The story opens in 1968 in Leningrad, Russia. Alexander Karpenko is a very intelligent youth. He dreams of becoming the first democratically elected president of Russia. Alexander's father is a foreman on the docks who is attempting to unionize his co-workers on the docks. That effort targets him for assassination by the KGB. Alexander's uncle, who also works on the docks, persuades his sister that she and Alexander have to flee Leningrad. There are two ships that will be leaving Leningrad when an important football match is taking place. He has bribed the captain to allow Alexander and his mother to stowaway. When they get to the docks Alexander flips a coin to decide which ship to get on. The destination of one ship is London. The other ship is bound for New York City.
From this point on the novel diverges into two different stories. One follows young Alexander and his mother as they embark on a new life in New York City. The other follows their new life in London ... where Alexander has changed his name to Sasha. Initially I found this a little confusing but soon settled in and followed the two different story lines. It was a little amusing when Sasha traveled to New York and encountered people who knew Alex and when Alex traveled to London and encountered people who knew Sasha. Would Alex and Sasha meet? It was at these moments when I started to wonder if I was reading a science fiction novel instead of a historical fiction novel.
Of course you can never fully escape your past and Alex / Sasha learn this as their new lives unfold over a thirty year period and the story ends where it began in Leningrad with a shocking twist that had me telling myself I should have seen this.
Overall an entertaining story. At times while reading this novel it had me thinking what if I had made different choices during my life. What would have happened and where would I be?
January 7, 2024
I still don't understand that ending, and I don't think I ever will. And as for the oh so shocking big twist the blurb promises? I laughed so hard. Honestly…
Other than that, this book mostly bored me to tears. Excellent narration aside (it IS read by the wonderful Richard Armitage, after all - the only reason I picked this up), I just couldn't possibly care less.
Also, if you're going to explore two lives, is it too much to ask to NOT hear basically the same story twice? I mean. Whenever one thing happened to Alex, it would happen to Sasha a chapter or two later. Whether it was getting arrested, or getting married, or going into politics. One political campaign is boring enough for me, but two? Ugh… It was also just all going way too smoothly for these two (until the end), and I never felt invested in their lives. Two stories about a young boy who escaped from Russia could've been so interesting, exploring life in a new country as a refugee, but these two were basically handed everything on a silver platter if you ask me.
1 star for the plot
5 stars for the narration
I guess that makes it 2 stars
Other than that, this book mostly bored me to tears. Excellent narration aside (it IS read by the wonderful Richard Armitage, after all - the only reason I picked this up), I just couldn't possibly care less.
Also, if you're going to explore two lives, is it too much to ask to NOT hear basically the same story twice? I mean. Whenever one thing happened to Alex, it would happen to Sasha a chapter or two later. Whether it was getting arrested, or getting married, or going into politics. One political campaign is boring enough for me, but two? Ugh… It was also just all going way too smoothly for these two (until the end), and I never felt invested in their lives. Two stories about a young boy who escaped from Russia could've been so interesting, exploring life in a new country as a refugee, but these two were basically handed everything on a silver platter if you ask me.
1 star for the plot
5 stars for the narration
I guess that makes it 2 stars
September 11, 2018
Ok, WOWWWWW.
Let me say first and foremost that I won an ARC of this book for my review from St. Martin’s Press~ THANK YOU!!!!
Second, this is ONE of my favorite authors as he never disappoints in writing about good and evil in politics as in life in general.
This book however, HEADS YOU WIN, is as it says on the cover...one man, two lives. And how is that? That is the question. Amazingly, Mr. Archer writes a little bit different from his past novels (that I have read).
Alexander Karpenko HAS TO escape Russia...and he does, with help of a cargo boat and his uncle. Interestingly enough, he and his mother decide where to go and which boat to take...with a flip of the coin! How often have we decided things in this manner? Heads, New York. Tails, London.
And thus the adventure begins.....
Jeffrey Archer knows his history of politics in Britain and business in America. Which gives this story an appeal like no other. Trials and tribulations, love with wrong then right, unsavory characters and men of honor.
You learn a lot through each of these situations and always ROOT for your protagonist!
If you are a fan of Jeffrey Archer, this is another hit!!!! The story is exciting throughout....and I’m not sure we won’t hear more about Alexander Karpenko in the future~
Let me say first and foremost that I won an ARC of this book for my review from St. Martin’s Press~ THANK YOU!!!!
Second, this is ONE of my favorite authors as he never disappoints in writing about good and evil in politics as in life in general.
This book however, HEADS YOU WIN, is as it says on the cover...one man, two lives. And how is that? That is the question. Amazingly, Mr. Archer writes a little bit different from his past novels (that I have read).
Alexander Karpenko HAS TO escape Russia...and he does, with help of a cargo boat and his uncle. Interestingly enough, he and his mother decide where to go and which boat to take...with a flip of the coin! How often have we decided things in this manner? Heads, New York. Tails, London.
And thus the adventure begins.....
Jeffrey Archer knows his history of politics in Britain and business in America. Which gives this story an appeal like no other. Trials and tribulations, love with wrong then right, unsavory characters and men of honor.
You learn a lot through each of these situations and always ROOT for your protagonist!
If you are a fan of Jeffrey Archer, this is another hit!!!! The story is exciting throughout....and I’m not sure we won’t hear more about Alexander Karpenko in the future~
November 1, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this book which shows the author’s skill for great story telling. I found the structure of the book a little confusing at first. I have never been able to fathom the British Parliamentary system and I tried not to zone out during those sections. I really enjoyed the descriptions of the changes in Russia (and lack of them) over the years and the excursions into the art world. There were times while I was reading that I was contemplating a 3 star review but upped it to 4 stars for the clever,surprising ending which I should have anticipated. All the clues were there and the author played fair but it still came as a shock to me.
The plot centres around a young boy barely in his teens, Alexander Kapenko, and his mother. As a boy Alexander shows high intelligence, good scholarship and leadership abilities. He has a boyhood acquaintance who has no ambition for higher education, but has a goal to become a member of the KGB through duplicity or any means necessary.
Alexander’s father works at the docks in Leningrad and is assassinated by the KGB for starting a trade union amongst the dockworkers.Alexander’s father had always encouraged him to put his skills to the benefit of the fatherland when he grows up. After the death of the father Alexander and his mother must flee Russia in fear of their lives. They are helped by an uncle who works at the shipyard.
Two shipping containers rest on the dock, one bound for England and one bound for America. They must choose their destination and do so by the toss of a coin. When two paths in life diverge one wonders what would happen if one chose differently. They hide inside one of the containers.
The story now splits into two separate parts. Some chapters show what life would be like for Alexander growing up and as a man in New York. We also follow him, called Sasha in London. In both settings the stories show burning ambition and paths to success in adulthood, but with roadblocks, obstructions, treachery and jealousy from others along the way. Luckily in both stories there are strong friendships formed. There was a lot of suspense in the story wondering how the many setbacks could be overcome and what the outcome would be for the adult. There was little humor in the book except during Alexander’s first trip back to Russia which I found very funny, but doubt Alexander did.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good story which mixes history, business and politics and a surprising conclusion.
The plot centres around a young boy barely in his teens, Alexander Kapenko, and his mother. As a boy Alexander shows high intelligence, good scholarship and leadership abilities. He has a boyhood acquaintance who has no ambition for higher education, but has a goal to become a member of the KGB through duplicity or any means necessary.
Alexander’s father works at the docks in Leningrad and is assassinated by the KGB for starting a trade union amongst the dockworkers.Alexander’s father had always encouraged him to put his skills to the benefit of the fatherland when he grows up. After the death of the father Alexander and his mother must flee Russia in fear of their lives. They are helped by an uncle who works at the shipyard.
Two shipping containers rest on the dock, one bound for England and one bound for America. They must choose their destination and do so by the toss of a coin. When two paths in life diverge one wonders what would happen if one chose differently. They hide inside one of the containers.
The story now splits into two separate parts. Some chapters show what life would be like for Alexander growing up and as a man in New York. We also follow him, called Sasha in London. In both settings the stories show burning ambition and paths to success in adulthood, but with roadblocks, obstructions, treachery and jealousy from others along the way. Luckily in both stories there are strong friendships formed. There was a lot of suspense in the story wondering how the many setbacks could be overcome and what the outcome would be for the adult. There was little humor in the book except during Alexander’s first trip back to Russia which I found very funny, but doubt Alexander did.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good story which mixes history, business and politics and a surprising conclusion.
December 3, 2018
What a garbage book this is. It seems you lose whether you are heads or tails.
January 21, 2019
Δεν με απογοήτευσε ποτέ ο Jeffrey Archer! Από το πρώτο βιβλίο που διάβασα μέχρι και το τελευταίο. Το Κορόνα Κερδίζεις είναι ευφυές, ευρηματικό, συγκλονιστικό!
Περισσότερα σε λίγες ημέρες!
Περισσότερα σε λίγες ημέρες!
February 23, 2021
How could the twist in this book shock anyone? As soon as I read his friend’s name I knew what was coming.
January 5, 2023
Week 47 Book 88
Heads You Win by Jeffrey Archer
Rating 2/5
Heads You Win is a typical story by Jeffrey Archer, a journey of a man who rises from nothing. He goes to war, studies hard, builds a business, even enters politics. This time it's a Russian immigrant who escaped to the West.
There is a plot twist right in the beginning which keeps the reader guessing while they go through two parallel lives, one in the USA, one in the UK.
The ending has a twist too, but to me, it still didn't clearly explain the logic behind the first twist.
Overall the story is a rehash of his previous books, and since the only reason I was hooked on to reading it was the expectation of getting clarity in the climax, which didn't happen, and thus... I feel the book was a waste of my time and super disappointing. I'd suggest skipping this one, and if you still want to read, please tell me if you understood the whole point of the book.
Heads You Win by Jeffrey Archer
Rating 2/5
Heads You Win is a typical story by Jeffrey Archer, a journey of a man who rises from nothing. He goes to war, studies hard, builds a business, even enters politics. This time it's a Russian immigrant who escaped to the West.
There is a plot twist right in the beginning which keeps the reader guessing while they go through two parallel lives, one in the USA, one in the UK.
The ending has a twist too, but to me, it still didn't clearly explain the logic behind the first twist.
Overall the story is a rehash of his previous books, and since the only reason I was hooked on to reading it was the expectation of getting clarity in the climax, which didn't happen, and thus... I feel the book was a waste of my time and super disappointing. I'd suggest skipping this one, and if you still want to read, please tell me if you understood the whole point of the book.
November 8, 2018
Jeffrey Archer is my 9th most read author....well actually he is tied with Brandon Sanderson. This is the 16th book by him that I've read. He is a master story teller. He does place, plot, and especially characters well. I loved the relationships. He adds rich detail to his characters....even when it comes to the mean ones because I feel like I understand them.
I loved the fork in the road with this one regarding the crates. That was a nice little surprise and he made it work. I loved the ending. He doesn't give you red bows, but somehow they feel satisfying. I also enjoy the twists. Most are so unexpected and that keeps me in the story 100%. So 4 stars.
I loved the fork in the road with this one regarding the crates. That was a nice little surprise and he made it work. I loved the ending. He doesn't give you red bows, but somehow they feel satisfying. I also enjoy the twists. Most are so unexpected and that keeps me in the story 100%. So 4 stars.
November 10, 2018
Having read many of Archer's earlier offerings, the characters, plot, and events were recycled, especially from the Clifton Chronicles. Luckily it was a quick read.
February 26, 2021
Epic Mystery with a clever unexpected twist I didn't see coming. I always enjoy reading Archer.
March 30, 2023
Wow, this was bad. Like, really bad.
I had dnf'd this once before but picked it up again because the premise had so much potential. A young man escaping from communist Russia has to decide whether to flee to the US or to Britain. He bases his decision on the toss of a coin - and from that point on, the story bifurcates and we get to see how his future would have played out in both scenarios.
At least that was the idea. But instead of two wildly different lives, what we get is the same boring story (twice!) about setting up a business and dabbling in politics, with the exact same outcome no less. The lives of both Alexanders align so much that they even end up in the same place in the end. Which just made it feel like this book was twice as long as it needed to be,
There is no sense of suspense in this novel as a) Archer can't write and b) nothing ever really goes wrong for the hero. The writing just made everything so much worse as the book is full of cringy dialogue and 'As you know, Bob'-exposition. Archer also reuses the same phrases over and over and I'm only happy I never have to hear about somebody 'bursting out laughing' after one of Alexander's lame jokes again.
Only a particularly interesting main character could have saved this book. Unfortunately, our hero is a Gary Stu with all the interior complexity of a wet piece of wallpaper. He has so few flaws and/or emotions that he comes across as barely human, apart from the alarming moments when he shifts into full psychopath mode. There is one incident where he follows a young woman he doesn't know onto a train, then, when she fails to give him her number, he stalks her while she's out with another man and even follows her to work. And Archer actually seems to think that a woman would find that kind of behaviour 'romantic'.
Overall, the main emotion this book evokes is boredom as it's full of endless political campaigning, running restaurant chains (and at one point a bank) and ridiculous Forrest Gump moments (my personal favourite was Ted Kennedy opening Alex's pizza parlour). Archer really wants you to believe that this guy is a shining beacon of political potential when he never really does anything worth mentioning and his speeches are even cringier than the rest of Archer's writing.
The other characters aren't much better and most of them never progress past mere stereotypes. One particularly obnoxious example is the scheming femme fatale who uses sex to trick poor innocent men into falling for her wicked schemes (there are two of them actually, one in each timeline). Archer is really terrible at writing women - and not only them. There are hardly any POC characters in the book and also one pretty horrible example of Bury Your Gays which I was unprepared for and some readers will find triggering.
One more word about the plot:
I have to say that when I started reading this book, I knew nothing about Archer's past career in the Conservative Party or the scandals he was involved in. I can only say that, given his past record, I find his attempt - and failure - at writing a decent, principled politician who fights against the corruption of the communists hilarious. Having said that, I should probably add that Archer's portrayal of the Soviet Union and its inhabitants isn't particularly nuanced and I wouldn't be surprised if any Russian readers felt offended by it.
I will finish this rant by saying that this book was absolutely not worth my time and I will certainly never pick up another Archer book in my life. Not even Richard Armitage's narration could save it, and that is perhaps the greatest tragedy of all.
I had dnf'd this once before but picked it up again because the premise had so much potential. A young man escaping from communist Russia has to decide whether to flee to the US or to Britain. He bases his decision on the toss of a coin - and from that point on, the story bifurcates and we get to see how his future would have played out in both scenarios.
At least that was the idea. But instead of two wildly different lives, what we get is the same boring story (twice!) about setting up a business and dabbling in politics, with the exact same outcome no less. The lives of both Alexanders align so much that they even end up in the same place in the end. Which just made it feel like this book was twice as long as it needed to be,
There is no sense of suspense in this novel as a) Archer can't write and b) nothing ever really goes wrong for the hero. The writing just made everything so much worse as the book is full of cringy dialogue and 'As you know, Bob'-exposition. Archer also reuses the same phrases over and over and I'm only happy I never have to hear about somebody 'bursting out laughing' after one of Alexander's lame jokes again.
Only a particularly interesting main character could have saved this book. Unfortunately, our hero is a Gary Stu with all the interior complexity of a wet piece of wallpaper. He has so few flaws and/or emotions that he comes across as barely human, apart from the alarming moments when he shifts into full psychopath mode. There is one incident where he follows a young woman he doesn't know onto a train, then, when she fails to give him her number, he stalks her while she's out with another man and even follows her to work. And Archer actually seems to think that a woman would find that kind of behaviour 'romantic'.
Overall, the main emotion this book evokes is boredom as it's full of endless political campaigning, running restaurant chains (and at one point a bank) and ridiculous Forrest Gump moments (my personal favourite was Ted Kennedy opening Alex's pizza parlour). Archer really wants you to believe that this guy is a shining beacon of political potential when he never really does anything worth mentioning and his speeches are even cringier than the rest of Archer's writing.
The other characters aren't much better and most of them never progress past mere stereotypes. One particularly obnoxious example is the scheming femme fatale who uses sex to trick poor innocent men into falling for her wicked schemes (there are two of them actually, one in each timeline). Archer is really terrible at writing women - and not only them. There are hardly any POC characters in the book and also one pretty horrible example of Bury Your Gays which I was unprepared for and some readers will find triggering.
One more word about the plot:
I have to say that when I started reading this book, I knew nothing about Archer's past career in the Conservative Party or the scandals he was involved in. I can only say that, given his past record, I find his attempt - and failure - at writing a decent, principled politician who fights against the corruption of the communists hilarious. Having said that, I should probably add that Archer's portrayal of the Soviet Union and its inhabitants isn't particularly nuanced and I wouldn't be surprised if any Russian readers felt offended by it.
I will finish this rant by saying that this book was absolutely not worth my time and I will certainly never pick up another Archer book in my life. Not even Richard Armitage's narration could save it, and that is perhaps the greatest tragedy of all.
November 16, 2020
Jeffrey Archer is called a master story teller for a reason. His books are captivating and spellbinding. This one is no exception. I enjoy thrillers and I usually don’t like to read historical books or overly political books, but when it comes to Archer, the genre becomes irrelevant and the story is all that matters. I have devoured every novel and short story he’s ever published and never have I been disappointed.
This book held my attention from the first word and it was a very easy and enjoyable read.
Often in life we are faced with choices, we take our pick and live our life. Sometimes we do look back and wonder what if we picked differently. What would happen then, where would you be today? This book gives you a taste of that. The story of Alexander Karpenko starts in Russia, circumstances require him to escape from Russia and a coin toss is to decide his future for him. At this point the story splits in to two, Alexander becomes Sasha-headed to London and Alex- headed to New York. The chapters alternate and depict Alexander’s life story resulting from both outcomes of the coin toss. It’s almost like reading 2 books at once! I love that both the stories move towards one goal and almost converge so to say, it reinforces my belief that no matter what path you take in life you will eventually reach your destined destination. The twist at the end of the book is a master stroke. I’m not going to say much since I do not want to give the plot twist away but I will say that this may not be the last we hear of Alexander Karpenko.
Archer has merged real life incidents and politics so well with this fictional character that you begin to wonder if this is fiction at all or a true story! His knowledge and grasp on politics and his master story telling make an immensely satisfying read. The narration makes you want to keep reading and get lost in the plot. This one is another winner by Archer. Highly recommended!
Thank you St Martin’s Press and Jeffrey Archer for giving me an Advanced Reader edition of this book.
This book held my attention from the first word and it was a very easy and enjoyable read.
Often in life we are faced with choices, we take our pick and live our life. Sometimes we do look back and wonder what if we picked differently. What would happen then, where would you be today? This book gives you a taste of that. The story of Alexander Karpenko starts in Russia, circumstances require him to escape from Russia and a coin toss is to decide his future for him. At this point the story splits in to two, Alexander becomes Sasha-headed to London and Alex- headed to New York. The chapters alternate and depict Alexander’s life story resulting from both outcomes of the coin toss. It’s almost like reading 2 books at once! I love that both the stories move towards one goal and almost converge so to say, it reinforces my belief that no matter what path you take in life you will eventually reach your destined destination. The twist at the end of the book is a master stroke. I’m not going to say much since I do not want to give the plot twist away but I will say that this may not be the last we hear of Alexander Karpenko.
Archer has merged real life incidents and politics so well with this fictional character that you begin to wonder if this is fiction at all or a true story! His knowledge and grasp on politics and his master story telling make an immensely satisfying read. The narration makes you want to keep reading and get lost in the plot. This one is another winner by Archer. Highly recommended!
Thank you St Martin’s Press and Jeffrey Archer for giving me an Advanced Reader edition of this book.
December 9, 2020
Let's start with the end. The last two words - well played. Other that that, this was always the only way to end the parallel lives.
Heads you Win is a typical Jeffrey Archer book with a small twist. Instead of two super achieving protagonists whose paths cross (ala Kane and Abel, Sons of Fortune, Clifton Chronicles etc) - we have one character Alexander whose life path, decided by a toss of coin, diverges. Alexander escapes from the clutches of KGB and he gets to choose between America and Britain.
And he chooses both. We see the same episodes happening in both the lives with a slightly different setting. All the regular archer plot points are covered - Chess, Auction, Close elections, board meeting, art heists you name it. In that sense it was a nice revisiting of the world where good things happen to good people.
Part 5 where the characters get confused for each other when they visit each other's country was a nice touch. Gorbachev's USSR is painted pretty badly.
A fun engaging read with a familiar plot line.
Heads you Win is a typical Jeffrey Archer book with a small twist. Instead of two super achieving protagonists whose paths cross (ala Kane and Abel, Sons of Fortune, Clifton Chronicles etc) - we have one character Alexander whose life path, decided by a toss of coin, diverges. Alexander escapes from the clutches of KGB and he gets to choose between America and Britain.
And he chooses both. We see the same episodes happening in both the lives with a slightly different setting. All the regular archer plot points are covered - Chess, Auction, Close elections, board meeting, art heists you name it. In that sense it was a nice revisiting of the world where good things happen to good people.
Part 5 where the characters get confused for each other when they visit each other's country was a nice touch. Gorbachev's USSR is painted pretty badly.
A fun engaging read with a familiar plot line.
December 14, 2018
I found this book was a tad confusing at times. I got the premise of a 'sliding doors' scenario and that could have been good if the two characters split had a little explanation. I actually went back and double checked the beginning chapter when the character split as Alexander had never been called Sasha in the first part so had to double check it was the same character. I was starting to think 'were the mum's twins?' or 'had someone saved a twin son by being a mother to one of them?' due to their paths crossing at a couple of points in the book. I think these crossed paths did add to the confusion. The ending was not clear at all and a complete let down.
I love Jeffrey Archer books but as I read this one I felt that I had read this book before in lots of places. It was almost a retelling of a number of his books but all in the one story. Very disappointed given the last series he wrote. I am huge of Kane and Abel which this book has been likened to but it doesn't even come close.
I love Jeffrey Archer books but as I read this one I felt that I had read this book before in lots of places. It was almost a retelling of a number of his books but all in the one story. Very disappointed given the last series he wrote. I am huge of Kane and Abel which this book has been likened to but it doesn't even come close.
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