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In The Shadow Of The Kingmakers
The shadows were closer than he thought ...
Tehran in 1924 is the stage for a daring international showdown over the control of Persian oil fields. James Malcolm, a British operative stationed in Tehran weaves an intricate plot in hopes of installing a new loyal Persian king. A teenage boy's accidental involvement becomes a distraction. When his plot is sabotaged, the fragile peace in Persia is threatened along with the boy's life. Malcolm's clandestine investigation entangles him with unwitting American diplomats, treacherous double agents, and murderous Soviet spies, all seeking to foil the oil grab of the British.
Tehran in 1924 is the stage for a daring international showdown over the control of Persian oil fields. James Malcolm, a British operative stationed in Tehran weaves an intricate plot in hopes of installing a new loyal Persian king. A teenage boy's accidental involvement becomes a distraction. When his plot is sabotaged, the fragile peace in Persia is threatened along with the boy's life. Malcolm's clandestine investigation entangles him with unwitting American diplomats, treacherous double agents, and murderous Soviet spies, all seeking to foil the oil grab of the British.
329 pages, ebook
First published February 6, 2019
16 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Vahid Imani
28 books9 followersVahid Imani was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, and made the United States his home in 1979. Coming from an old civilization, he is fascinated by ancient cultures and archeology. He earned a master’s degree from Gonzaga University’s School of Business, Spokane Washington, in 1980.
An enthusiast of fine art, he has been creating music, poetry and stories since he was seven years old. He is father of three children and grandfather of two (so far). Currently, when he is not working on his next book, he is teaching music and classical guitar to children of all ages.
An enthusiast of fine art, he has been creating music, poetry and stories since he was seven years old. He is father of three children and grandfather of two (so far). Currently, when he is not working on his next book, he is teaching music and classical guitar to children of all ages.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 30, 2019
In The Shadow Of The Kingmakers by Vahid Imani is an immersive historical suspense thriller that pulled me in right from the start to the very end. I really liked it because of the complexity of the plot and the ease with which it was laid by the author for the reader to read.
The writing is really good and the book is easy to follow, making it a relatively quick read. The characterization was also good and I was able to feel a connection to the protagonist, James, and was rooting for him throughout the book. The plot was the hero for me and the story felt very well fleshed out, especially the cultural details and the rich exposition.
The ending was apt and it made a lot of sense. I enjoyed this book through and through and would recommend it to all historical fiction fans and readers of mystery and thriller genre.
You can also read this review on www.thereadingbud.com
The writing is really good and the book is easy to follow, making it a relatively quick read. The characterization was also good and I was able to feel a connection to the protagonist, James, and was rooting for him throughout the book. The plot was the hero for me and the story felt very well fleshed out, especially the cultural details and the rich exposition.
The ending was apt and it made a lot of sense. I enjoyed this book through and through and would recommend it to all historical fiction fans and readers of mystery and thriller genre.
You can also read this review on www.thereadingbud.com
February 4, 2024
As is well understood by anyone who has read 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom', by T.E. Lawrenc, whom most know as Lawrence of Arabia, the current situation in the Middle East is the result of the manoeuvres, double-dealing and interference of the British (the Kingmakers of the title) in this area. The novel is set in Tehran at precisely that time, with Reza Shah, the father of the future Shah later deposed by Khomeini, having gone through a coup d'état from Cossack commander to war minister and on his way to becoming king with the help of the British. The city is also swarming with spies because the Russians and Americans have their eyes on the oil-rich northern region of Persia in addition to the British. Against this backdrop moves a British spy, Malcolm, who dreams of retracing Lawrence's steps and becoming Malcolm of Persia: the man who single-handedly, with his capacity for intrigue, led the Russians and Americans out of the country, thus putting all power in the hands of Great Britain. Pebbles in the perfect cog of the intrigue become Ali, a local 14-year-old who works multiple jobs to support his family, and Rose, the nurse who has taken the boy's fate to heart and taught him English. In a game of multiple betrayals and early Jihādist calls, Malcolm's plan will have devastating consequences, for him and for the nation he serves.
An excellent historical novel, well-written and well-documented, which highlights to the reader the turmoil of the era and presents a detailed description of the peoples and settings. Only the character of Rose leaves some doubts, because her behaviour leads the reader to get the wrong idea of her, even making them think at some points that instead of a normal nurse she might herself be a spy. In the light of the facts, this confusion makes the novel somewhat less enjoyable.
An excellent historical novel, well-written and well-documented, which highlights to the reader the turmoil of the era and presents a detailed description of the peoples and settings. Only the character of Rose leaves some doubts, because her behaviour leads the reader to get the wrong idea of her, even making them think at some points that instead of a normal nurse she might herself be a spy. In the light of the facts, this confusion makes the novel somewhat less enjoyable.
August 31, 2020
This book contains a beautiful, old-time story. The heart touching part is in the last chapter, so to experience this statement, you must read it to the end!
Set in Tehran, Iran, in 1924, about 4-5 years after World War I (WWI), this story revolves around the early development of Iran's vast petroleum industry. The biggest world nations of that time viz; Britain, the USA, and Russia are attracted to it. To carve-out their share of Iran's petroleum wealth, they woo the Iranian Gov. with lucrative joint offers. Diplomats and intelligence agents/spies from all three countries operate simultaneously in Iran and vie with each other for the coveted place of Iran's suitor. Their covert activities cause dark events to occur, clouding Iran's atmosphere and cast a spell of gloom on it.
This book puts into sharp contrast the different players in the game of life. Those that live by praiseworthy values vs. the vast majority of souls that don't even stop to think why they live or whether greater meanings worth pursuing exist in life. It's another story of the eternal battle between Good and Evil told in its own, unique way.
In the Shadow of The Kingmakers is a book for fiction lovers all over the world. If you have/had connections with Iran so much the better as familiarity with that country will surely make the story more enjoyable! It is also recommended to those (like students of history) who may want to glimpse the key events and people that shaped Iran's future after WWI, particularly, the petroleum industry. Another category of readers I recommend it to are movie-makers and writers of movie/documentary scripts, particularly those belonging to/based in Iran.
Set in Tehran, Iran, in 1924, about 4-5 years after World War I (WWI), this story revolves around the early development of Iran's vast petroleum industry. The biggest world nations of that time viz; Britain, the USA, and Russia are attracted to it. To carve-out their share of Iran's petroleum wealth, they woo the Iranian Gov. with lucrative joint offers. Diplomats and intelligence agents/spies from all three countries operate simultaneously in Iran and vie with each other for the coveted place of Iran's suitor. Their covert activities cause dark events to occur, clouding Iran's atmosphere and cast a spell of gloom on it.
This book puts into sharp contrast the different players in the game of life. Those that live by praiseworthy values vs. the vast majority of souls that don't even stop to think why they live or whether greater meanings worth pursuing exist in life. It's another story of the eternal battle between Good and Evil told in its own, unique way.
In the Shadow of The Kingmakers is a book for fiction lovers all over the world. If you have/had connections with Iran so much the better as familiarity with that country will surely make the story more enjoyable! It is also recommended to those (like students of history) who may want to glimpse the key events and people that shaped Iran's future after WWI, particularly, the petroleum industry. Another category of readers I recommend it to are movie-makers and writers of movie/documentary scripts, particularly those belonging to/based in Iran.
January 27, 2022
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: In The Shadow Of The Kingmakers
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Vahid Imani
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
"In The Shadow Of The Kingmakers'' is a historical thriller penned by the author Vahid Imani. The story takes place after World War 1. Story features a fourteen years old kid Ali. After his father's sudden death, Ali was the only breadwinner for his family. He works at a teahouse ghahve-khaneh. His boss there is Hassan agha. Ali also works a second job as an assistant gardener at the British embassy. There, Ali learns English from Rose.
Another character of importance is James Malcolm. He works at the British embassy in Tehran to protect the precious petroleum interests of the United Kingdom. Ali overheard a conversation when he was serving his customers at the teahouse. He clarified a few English words from Rose. Rose advised Ali not to pay attention to that because he is too young to be involved in something serious like this. But Ali felt it as his responsibility to be involved in it. Read this story to find out how Ali will set Rose, Malcolm and himself onto a journey where survival is not a guarantee.
The characters are written nicely by the author. The story kept me on edge and I was curious the whole time to know what will happen next. Language used in the book is medium and you may have to refer to the dictionary a couple of times. Cover photo of the book suits its genre.
If you are a fan of historical thrillers inspired by true events, then don't miss to add this book to your tbr. I am sure you are going to love it.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Vahid Imani
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
"In The Shadow Of The Kingmakers'' is a historical thriller penned by the author Vahid Imani. The story takes place after World War 1. Story features a fourteen years old kid Ali. After his father's sudden death, Ali was the only breadwinner for his family. He works at a teahouse ghahve-khaneh. His boss there is Hassan agha. Ali also works a second job as an assistant gardener at the British embassy. There, Ali learns English from Rose.
Another character of importance is James Malcolm. He works at the British embassy in Tehran to protect the precious petroleum interests of the United Kingdom. Ali overheard a conversation when he was serving his customers at the teahouse. He clarified a few English words from Rose. Rose advised Ali not to pay attention to that because he is too young to be involved in something serious like this. But Ali felt it as his responsibility to be involved in it. Read this story to find out how Ali will set Rose, Malcolm and himself onto a journey where survival is not a guarantee.
The characters are written nicely by the author. The story kept me on edge and I was curious the whole time to know what will happen next. Language used in the book is medium and you may have to refer to the dictionary a couple of times. Cover photo of the book suits its genre.
If you are a fan of historical thrillers inspired by true events, then don't miss to add this book to your tbr. I am sure you are going to love it.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.5/5
July 24, 2023
In the shadow of the kingmakers by Vihad Imani tells some of the story of the post-WW1 countries’ geo-political maneuvering for control of Persia’s/Iran’s oil resources. Set in 1924 Tehran, the story revolves around the relationships between local Iranians such as young Ali who works at a restaurant and overhears spies manipulating each other, the British Embassy nurse who teaches him English in between his stints as a gardener and occasional waiter. A British spy/military officer is overheard manipulating an American into photographing a sensitive religious site in order to generate unrest with the locals. Locals also manipulate locals under the guise of being suitably religious or loyal to the government or the Cossacks who played a role in the newly-appointed prime minister…
At its core, this is the story of Ali, a young lad who had to leave school early
At its core, this is the story of Ali, a young lad who had to leave school early
June 19, 2023
A gripping historical thriller that transports readers to the aftermath of World War I and the political turmoil of Tehran. Inspired by true events, the story follows James Malcolm, a ruthless British spy caught in a dangerous game of espionage. When an act of sabotage goes awry, James finds himself at the mercy of international forces, and the consequences are devastating.
Through vivid storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail, the author paints a vivid picture of a tumultuous era.
Through vivid storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail, the author paints a vivid picture of a tumultuous era.
June 20, 2023
Inspired by true events, this historical thriller will grab you from the first page and never let go. As British spy James Malcolm, American Rose Pearce, and young Ali navigate the treacherous landscape of post-World War I Tehran, their lives become intertwined in a web of espionage, international power struggles, and personal sacrifice. A gripping tale that will leave you breathless and hungry for more.
December 19, 2024
A good read, inspired by true events in Persia/Iran 1924. The political turmoil over gas rights and who controls the government and Britain, Russia, and the Americans are looking to do that. Ali(young Iranian boy), Rose(Embassy nurse), and James Malcolm(British spy) become intertwined in espionage, government power struggles, and personal sacrifice.
Thanks to NetGalley and Stormtop Publishing for the ARC of this gripping novel and recommend reading if you like historical thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley and Stormtop Publishing for the ARC of this gripping novel and recommend reading if you like historical thrillers.
May 20, 2020
Have been reading a lot about our (American) gov't involvement in the Middle Eastern and Asian counties from WW|-WW|| and it's pretty infuriating. I like how this book took a personal look at some people that were real-life figures, giving us a more personal view of what it would be like to be involved with the changes happening.
July 18, 2023
Intrigue and espionage in 1920’s Persia (Iran)......the characters highlight the drama of the international countries jockeying for control of this oil rich nation on the brink of historic change. This book is an enjoyable read and reminds us that the power of change can land in the hands of ordinary citizens.
February 17, 2019
This indie historical thriller is a 5/5 for me. Author, Vahid Imani, was born in Tehran, Iran, and moved to the United States in the late '70s, so he has a unique and well-informed understanding of Persia that really shines through in this story.
Imani's descriptions draw on colorful sights, strong smells, and memorable sounds. It is easy to close your eyes as you read and imagine yourself in 1920s Persia. The descriptions definitely ignited my wanderlust for this far away place and time.
The diverse cast of characters kept the story relatable; rather than rely on tired cliches, the characters are complex and engaging. James Malcolm, arguably the protagonist, is an undercover British intelligence officer with an unwitting ability to get what he wants with brutality and lies, even as his own brain distracts him with the memory of past traumas. Ali, a local Persian boy, is merely fourteen years old and has already become the "man of the house" since his father's sudden death. Rose is Ali's English tutor and also a British nurse, working in Tehran; she is determined and resourceful and harbors a special fondness for Ali.
Though fiction, this tale holds a microscope up to a real moment in time when America, Britain, and Russia were playing tug'o'war for oil and power in Persia. It combines politics, international affairs, and religion with everyday moments of joy and sorrow for everyday Persian people and families. This was a book in which I learned a great deal but didn't realize it until I reached the final page--which truly is the mark of an excellent historical thriller!
Imani's descriptions draw on colorful sights, strong smells, and memorable sounds. It is easy to close your eyes as you read and imagine yourself in 1920s Persia. The descriptions definitely ignited my wanderlust for this far away place and time.
The diverse cast of characters kept the story relatable; rather than rely on tired cliches, the characters are complex and engaging. James Malcolm, arguably the protagonist, is an undercover British intelligence officer with an unwitting ability to get what he wants with brutality and lies, even as his own brain distracts him with the memory of past traumas. Ali, a local Persian boy, is merely fourteen years old and has already become the "man of the house" since his father's sudden death. Rose is Ali's English tutor and also a British nurse, working in Tehran; she is determined and resourceful and harbors a special fondness for Ali.
Though fiction, this tale holds a microscope up to a real moment in time when America, Britain, and Russia were playing tug'o'war for oil and power in Persia. It combines politics, international affairs, and religion with everyday moments of joy and sorrow for everyday Persian people and families. This was a book in which I learned a great deal but didn't realize it until I reached the final page--which truly is the mark of an excellent historical thriller!
February 24, 2019
The historical novel, In the Shadow of the Kingmakers, is one of those books you can imagine being made into a great film. I’ve found myself thinking about it long after I finished reading it, and still find myself in tears when I remember certain passages. It is a forceful, informative, and gripping work that left me impatient to finish it, interrupted as I was by daily life. The author takes the reader back in time, to the early decades of the 20th century, and the nascent beginnings of the greed, power, and economic need that would drive the intrigue, espionage, and covert actions taken by various governments to be the first, or at least most powerful, in obtaining the oil fields of Persia (Iran) for the fuel of a new century; and the lives, political machinations, and collateral damage left behind in the wreckage of such policies. – C M Powers
February 18, 2019
I had the pleasure of reading an advance copy of In the Shadow of the Kingmakers several months ago. It is a compelling novel of politics, espionage, friendship and betrayal. Woven throughout are the sounds, scents, and flavors of 1924 Iran.
April 14, 2019
It's my first time reading a book that Is based in a historical event that actually happen In this world. I was Impressed by the decision's that each character's make and what It will lead down the line. This Is one of the best book that I read that I recommend anyone to read It.
May 11, 2019
The book takes us on an intriguing journey into the covert war between spies for the manipulation of politics and the market for oil in Persia 1924. It touches on contrasting cultures of west and east and the human side of it. A good rea.
February 17, 2019
For those of us who LOVE international espionage, the global picture, and the historical background on current events….this is a MUST READ! All embedded in a “gotta get to the next page” story.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews