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An Improbable Spy
Tehran was well known to American businessman Jack Devlin until the day everything changed. When radical Islamic students stormed the US embassy on November 4, 1979, Jack narrowly escaped the revolutionary chaos, leaving behind 80 percent of his business and 100 percent of his heart.
To get his beautiful girlfriend, Farideh, out of Iran, Jack accepts a devil’s bargain with the CIA and MI6. He must slip back into Tehran, where the militant students are holding dozens of Americans hostage in their own embassy. His part of the bargain is to steal the coveted client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, Farideh’s father. Surprised by an additional assignment, Jack is also ordered to strip a KGB defector of details on Russian collusion with Iran and their plan to eliminate the American hostages while infiltrating the highest levels of Ayatollah Khomeini’s government.
From the damp cellars of KGB headquarters to the cold chill of British espionage to the blistering heat of the Kuwaiti desert, readers will learn, in an erroneous twist, that not all the turncoats are Russians.
To get his beautiful girlfriend, Farideh, out of Iran, Jack accepts a devil’s bargain with the CIA and MI6. He must slip back into Tehran, where the militant students are holding dozens of Americans hostage in their own embassy. His part of the bargain is to steal the coveted client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, Farideh’s father. Surprised by an additional assignment, Jack is also ordered to strip a KGB defector of details on Russian collusion with Iran and their plan to eliminate the American hostages while infiltrating the highest levels of Ayatollah Khomeini’s government.
From the damp cellars of KGB headquarters to the cold chill of British espionage to the blistering heat of the Kuwaiti desert, readers will learn, in an erroneous twist, that not all the turncoats are Russians.
- GenresAudiobook
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 6, 2020
Great international spy thrillers do not have to be lengthy. "An Improbable Spy" is only 262 pages. And it is great, from start to finish. It is clear from this flawless novel that David Paul Collins knows his stuff. Each scene is so descriptive it is easy to visualise what is going on, indeed where it is going on. Historical, political, geopolitical and geographical locations are, or at least appear to be accurate, perhaps because of the author’s own experiences in the Middle East during the Iranian Islamic Revolution. The plot twists and turns as pages are quickly fumbled to see where it is heading next. Through excellent characterisation the characters come alive – heroes to be cheered on, villains to be despised. As astonishing as the dénouement is, the author has saved the biggest surprise for his Author’s Note which follows. This taut, tense, page-turning thriller is highly recommended.
March 19, 2020
Its not often that I get to read historical fiction that takes place in my own lifetime. As a young girl, I was aware of the hostage crisis, but not all the particulars of it. And while part of the plot takes place in Iran, the hostage crisis is not central to the plot, but rests in the background as a quiet motivating force, allowing the focus stay on Jack Devlin and his mission. I liked Jack Devlin; as a businessman turned spy, he wasn't motivated by politics or patriotism, but more so by his love for Farideh. All his risks were taken with the desperate goal of rescuing her and her critically ill sister, Leah. Invoking the antics of Cold War espionage, with a light touch of wry humor, the author creates the feel of a vintage spy novel. As the action increased and new characters would be introduced, I felt myself questioning their loyalties and motives right along with Jack to the surprising end game. The author's note reveals threads of the novel are based on autobiographical events!
July 9, 2020
His improbable new life had changed everything he ever knew.
🦄🦄🦄
When Jack left Tehran, he left his business and his girlfriend behind and although he escaped the initial turmoil, now he must go back to save her as well as all the American hostages.
Sent in a dangerous mission by the CIA and MI6, this businessman turned spy must completing his mission in playing a part to bring down the biggest arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, his girlfriend's father.
🦄🦄🦄
An Improbable Spy is a spy thriller novel by David Paul Collins.
Spy novels are not something I normally go for, but the author has created a heart pulsing page turner so I could not put it down.
Jack's situation is unique because he's basically put between a rock and a hard place and now he needs to get out of it and although I was skeptical at first, his abilities prove otherwise. But Jack's personality is a little bit iffy to me so as much as I like the way he goes about with his mission, I don't necessarily like him.
Not only were the characters on point, but the author's writing skills keep you engrossed with ever action scene that follows one after another.
He has also described places like Kuwait with such ease, it's like I've travelled back in time and back home.
Overall, a very enjoyable read if you're into spy novels.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 9.5/10
Melina L.
🦄🦄🦄
When Jack left Tehran, he left his business and his girlfriend behind and although he escaped the initial turmoil, now he must go back to save her as well as all the American hostages.
Sent in a dangerous mission by the CIA and MI6, this businessman turned spy must completing his mission in playing a part to bring down the biggest arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, his girlfriend's father.
🦄🦄🦄
An Improbable Spy is a spy thriller novel by David Paul Collins.
Spy novels are not something I normally go for, but the author has created a heart pulsing page turner so I could not put it down.
Jack's situation is unique because he's basically put between a rock and a hard place and now he needs to get out of it and although I was skeptical at first, his abilities prove otherwise. But Jack's personality is a little bit iffy to me so as much as I like the way he goes about with his mission, I don't necessarily like him.
Not only were the characters on point, but the author's writing skills keep you engrossed with ever action scene that follows one after another.
He has also described places like Kuwait with such ease, it's like I've travelled back in time and back home.
Overall, a very enjoyable read if you're into spy novels.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 9.5/10
Melina L.
April 21, 2020
It's not often that a Historical/Spy novel comes my way. So when I was contacted by the author for a copy to read and review, I jumped at the offer! And boy, was I glad that I did.
For fans of I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes and The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum like myself, then this book is surely for you!
What I liked…
The author is incredibly talented and had me hooked with every single word that he wrote. Having been to these locations in his book, it made the story feel authentic and true, making the story believable and not just any other "Spy Story". This is what stood out the most and made it an exceptional read.
An Improbable Spy was in no way overwhelming with information about the Iran Hostage Crisis of 1979. It was pleasantly woven into the narrative creating a thrilling tension.
The story flowed wonderfully and it almost felt that I was on the journey with Jack Delvin. It is important for me, like so many other readers, to be able to visualize the story in their head. It was almost like a film; I could totally see this being made into a cinematic masterpiece!
Jack Delvin was an interesting character and I enjoyed reading how passionate and dedicated he was to save his girlfriend. I would have perhaps wanted to learn a tad more about him. Have more of an insight to his background, his childhood and just generally more of him. Maybe in the next book David!?
I would have liked read more Jack's transition from American Businessman to MI6 Agent, to get a real understanding of what it was like for him. The pressures building up to his dangerous yet thrilling mission.
Overall, An Improbable Spy was rich and beautifully written story, which left me hanging onto the edge of my seat. I am really hoping that this is going to become a series, as I would love to see more of Jack Delvin and what adventures he gets up too next! I give this wonderful book 4 stars out of 5.
For fans of I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes and The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum like myself, then this book is surely for you!
What I liked…
The author is incredibly talented and had me hooked with every single word that he wrote. Having been to these locations in his book, it made the story feel authentic and true, making the story believable and not just any other "Spy Story". This is what stood out the most and made it an exceptional read.
An Improbable Spy was in no way overwhelming with information about the Iran Hostage Crisis of 1979. It was pleasantly woven into the narrative creating a thrilling tension.
The story flowed wonderfully and it almost felt that I was on the journey with Jack Delvin. It is important for me, like so many other readers, to be able to visualize the story in their head. It was almost like a film; I could totally see this being made into a cinematic masterpiece!
Jack Delvin was an interesting character and I enjoyed reading how passionate and dedicated he was to save his girlfriend. I would have perhaps wanted to learn a tad more about him. Have more of an insight to his background, his childhood and just generally more of him. Maybe in the next book David!?
I would have liked read more Jack's transition from American Businessman to MI6 Agent, to get a real understanding of what it was like for him. The pressures building up to his dangerous yet thrilling mission.
Overall, An Improbable Spy was rich and beautifully written story, which left me hanging onto the edge of my seat. I am really hoping that this is going to become a series, as I would love to see more of Jack Delvin and what adventures he gets up too next! I give this wonderful book 4 stars out of 5.
October 25, 2020
Book Name: An Improbable Spy
Genre: Thriller
Summary: Tehran was well known to American businessman Jack Devlin until the day everything changed. When radical Islamic students stormed the US embassy on November 4, 1979, Jack narrowly escaped the revolutionary chaos, leaving behind 80 percent of his business and 100 percent of his heart.
To get his beautiful girlfriend, Farideh, out of Iran, Jack accepts a devil’s bargain with the CIA and MI6. He must slip back into Tehran, where the militant students are holding dozens of Americans hostage in their own embassy. His part of the bargain is to steal the coveted client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, Farideh’s father. Surprised by an additional assignment, Jack is also ordered to strip a KGB defector of details on Russian collusion with Iran and their plan to eliminate the American hostages while infiltrating the highest levels of Ayatollah Khomeini’s government.
My Opinion: This is exactly the kind of book that will definitely attract the readers by its cover itself and then once you get into it, you will feel attached and extremely hooked from the premise and intresting storyline, this is a fast paced thriller with many other themes like politics and kidnapping which makes it more swift and engaging. An Improbable Spy is my kind of book, it's for everyone who love books that are filled with drama and twists, it has an emotional touch because of characters who feel quite close to your heart and that's the best part of reading it. I binge read it straight and can't keep it down. It's a must read especially for fall, it got those dark vibes too.
Good and Bad: I loved the storyline and unique elements, it felt like a movie which I wished never ended.
My favorites from the book:
Jack is my most favorite character and I assume he is the most intense and challenging character I ever got to know, a lot of things come in his way.
Target Audience: Thriller lovers and readers who enjoy a fast paced wholesome story will love it for sure.
What to expect: Drama, thrill, secrets and twists.
Final verdict: An Improbable Spy proved an extremely worthy read to me especially the last part of the story. I will surely suggest it.
Rating: 4.5 /5
Genre: Thriller
Summary: Tehran was well known to American businessman Jack Devlin until the day everything changed. When radical Islamic students stormed the US embassy on November 4, 1979, Jack narrowly escaped the revolutionary chaos, leaving behind 80 percent of his business and 100 percent of his heart.
To get his beautiful girlfriend, Farideh, out of Iran, Jack accepts a devil’s bargain with the CIA and MI6. He must slip back into Tehran, where the militant students are holding dozens of Americans hostage in their own embassy. His part of the bargain is to steal the coveted client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, Farideh’s father. Surprised by an additional assignment, Jack is also ordered to strip a KGB defector of details on Russian collusion with Iran and their plan to eliminate the American hostages while infiltrating the highest levels of Ayatollah Khomeini’s government.
My Opinion: This is exactly the kind of book that will definitely attract the readers by its cover itself and then once you get into it, you will feel attached and extremely hooked from the premise and intresting storyline, this is a fast paced thriller with many other themes like politics and kidnapping which makes it more swift and engaging. An Improbable Spy is my kind of book, it's for everyone who love books that are filled with drama and twists, it has an emotional touch because of characters who feel quite close to your heart and that's the best part of reading it. I binge read it straight and can't keep it down. It's a must read especially for fall, it got those dark vibes too.
Good and Bad: I loved the storyline and unique elements, it felt like a movie which I wished never ended.
My favorites from the book:
Jack is my most favorite character and I assume he is the most intense and challenging character I ever got to know, a lot of things come in his way.
Target Audience: Thriller lovers and readers who enjoy a fast paced wholesome story will love it for sure.
What to expect: Drama, thrill, secrets and twists.
Final verdict: An Improbable Spy proved an extremely worthy read to me especially the last part of the story. I will surely suggest it.
Rating: 4.5 /5
October 26, 2020
An improbable spy is a fast-paced spy thriller with elements of suspense, history. It is related to author’s own experience when he was in the Middle East during the Iranian Islamic Revolution. The story is full of great twists and turns, which makes it a very intriguing read.
Synopsis:
It is story about American businessman Jack Devlin who was in Tehran. One day his life in Tehran changed totally when radical Islamic students stormed the US embassy on November 4, 1979. Jack narrowly escaped the revolutionary chaos, leaving behind 80 percent of his business and 100 percent of his heart.
To get his beautiful girlfriend, Farideh, out of Iran, Jack accepts a devil’s bargain with the CIA and MI6. He must slip back into Tehran, where the militant students are holding dozens of Americans hostage in their own embassy. His part of the bargain is to steal the coveted client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, Farideh’s father. Surprised by an additional assignment, Jack is also ordered to strip a KGB defector of details on Russian collusion with Iran and their plan to eliminate the American hostages while infiltrating the highest levels of Ayatollah Khomeini’s government.
From the damp cellars of KGB headquarters to the cold chill of British espionage to the blistering heat of the Kuwaiti desert, readers will learn, in an erroneous twist, that not all the turncoats are Russians.
The story is so beautiful written, narrations are very crisp and engaging. At times you will feel like part of that world and you are totally engrossed in it, The detailing of the scenes and characters adds beauty to the story. I m now a big fan of Author David, this is my second read from him. It is a hard to put down one !!!!
I highly recommend it to people who enjoy well fast paced thrillers.
Synopsis:
It is story about American businessman Jack Devlin who was in Tehran. One day his life in Tehran changed totally when radical Islamic students stormed the US embassy on November 4, 1979. Jack narrowly escaped the revolutionary chaos, leaving behind 80 percent of his business and 100 percent of his heart.
To get his beautiful girlfriend, Farideh, out of Iran, Jack accepts a devil’s bargain with the CIA and MI6. He must slip back into Tehran, where the militant students are holding dozens of Americans hostage in their own embassy. His part of the bargain is to steal the coveted client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki, Farideh’s father. Surprised by an additional assignment, Jack is also ordered to strip a KGB defector of details on Russian collusion with Iran and their plan to eliminate the American hostages while infiltrating the highest levels of Ayatollah Khomeini’s government.
From the damp cellars of KGB headquarters to the cold chill of British espionage to the blistering heat of the Kuwaiti desert, readers will learn, in an erroneous twist, that not all the turncoats are Russians.
The story is so beautiful written, narrations are very crisp and engaging. At times you will feel like part of that world and you are totally engrossed in it, The detailing of the scenes and characters adds beauty to the story. I m now a big fan of Author David, this is my second read from him. It is a hard to put down one !!!!
I highly recommend it to people who enjoy well fast paced thrillers.
June 19, 2020
An Improbable Spy by David Collins' is a spy thriller. I have only known Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan as spy thrillers and they're like giant reads.
David Collins book breaks that relation for me.
--
The best part about this book is author's personal experience of Iranian Islamic Revolution.
Jack Devlin, an American businessman, knows Tehran's vicinity quite well, and thus went on a mission to escape her girlfriend and American hostages.
We see quite a background of what hostages go through. How brutally they're ill treated by terrorists. No matter the book is around only 250 pages no aspect of a perfect spy thriller has been left untouched.
The tension and conflict building is great. Change in settings and their description is realistic enough to make your imaginative juices churn inside your mind.
As Jack is our hero and stays under the spotlight. He proves as a suitable spy. Who is fierce, intelligent and a guy you want to read about.
--
Writing and narration are very fast paced. In a few initial chapters you get a gist of what's happening and what will happen next. Set in 1980s this book is a gem. The only small criticism I have is on the plot line. I wanted something more unique, more exciting which I haven't seen in Spy thrillers.
Overall, the book is a great read.
David Collins book breaks that relation for me.
--
The best part about this book is author's personal experience of Iranian Islamic Revolution.
Jack Devlin, an American businessman, knows Tehran's vicinity quite well, and thus went on a mission to escape her girlfriend and American hostages.
We see quite a background of what hostages go through. How brutally they're ill treated by terrorists. No matter the book is around only 250 pages no aspect of a perfect spy thriller has been left untouched.
The tension and conflict building is great. Change in settings and their description is realistic enough to make your imaginative juices churn inside your mind.
As Jack is our hero and stays under the spotlight. He proves as a suitable spy. Who is fierce, intelligent and a guy you want to read about.
--
Writing and narration are very fast paced. In a few initial chapters you get a gist of what's happening and what will happen next. Set in 1980s this book is a gem. The only small criticism I have is on the plot line. I wanted something more unique, more exciting which I haven't seen in Spy thrillers.
Overall, the book is a great read.
December 7, 2020
An Improbable Spy is a spy thriller written by the author David Paul Collins. An American merchant banker Jack Devlin escaped Iran in 1979 when Islamic students stormed the US embassy. But Jack's 80% of the business was in Iran and the love of his life Farideh was also there. He received an offer from Hugh Ebanks to be a spy for CIA and MI6.
Jack has to receive the client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki who is Farideh's father. In return, Hugh will help Jack to get his beautiful girlfriend Farideh and her sick sister Leah out of Iran. Too much risk is there for Jack in this deal. Also, he has to betray his girlfriend as he has to destroy her father in this deal. Will Jack accept this deal or he will find another way to get his girlfriend out of Iran? Are CIA, MI6 trustworthy?
The world building is mind blowing. Cover photo of the book looks nice. Title is according to the storyline. Language of the book is simple and easy to understand. Narration is clear and smooth. Characters are well described. Author has written this fiction with his experience of being in Tehran during the longest hostage crisis. I must say that he has done impressive work in this novel.
Jack has to receive the client ledger of the world’s most powerful arms dealer, Mustafa Khaki who is Farideh's father. In return, Hugh will help Jack to get his beautiful girlfriend Farideh and her sick sister Leah out of Iran. Too much risk is there for Jack in this deal. Also, he has to betray his girlfriend as he has to destroy her father in this deal. Will Jack accept this deal or he will find another way to get his girlfriend out of Iran? Are CIA, MI6 trustworthy?
The world building is mind blowing. Cover photo of the book looks nice. Title is according to the storyline. Language of the book is simple and easy to understand. Narration is clear and smooth. Characters are well described. Author has written this fiction with his experience of being in Tehran during the longest hostage crisis. I must say that he has done impressive work in this novel.
December 10, 2020
🔷 BOOK: An Improbable Spy
🔷 AUTHOR: David Paul Collins
Review:
An Improbable Spy would be a perfect pick by those who love reading spy thrillers. Jack Devlin is an American Businessman who escaped Tehran when Islamic students stormed US Embassy in 1979. Jack has left behind his business and love Farideh. Jack received an offer to be a spy for CIA and MI6 and they will help his girlfriend and her sister to be out from Iran. But things are not as easy as they look. There are various complexities involved in this offer. First, Jack has to retrieve the ledger of world's most powerful arms dealer who is none other than Farideh's father. Secondly, he wouldn't receive US support in this plan. Being an undercover agent is not too simple. Will Jack get his girlfriend out of Iran?
Review:
1) Cover photo even though is simple yet decent.
2) Title of the story is perfect.
3) Language of the book is lucid.
4) Narration is clear and smooth. I enjoyed each and every action that author has penned down in this book..
5) Author takes us to various places across globe through this book especially Middle East countries. Kuwait is one of my favorite among them.
If spy thriller fits your taste, grab this book and find out what will happen next.
Rating: 5/5
🔷 AUTHOR: David Paul Collins
Review:
An Improbable Spy would be a perfect pick by those who love reading spy thrillers. Jack Devlin is an American Businessman who escaped Tehran when Islamic students stormed US Embassy in 1979. Jack has left behind his business and love Farideh. Jack received an offer to be a spy for CIA and MI6 and they will help his girlfriend and her sister to be out from Iran. But things are not as easy as they look. There are various complexities involved in this offer. First, Jack has to retrieve the ledger of world's most powerful arms dealer who is none other than Farideh's father. Secondly, he wouldn't receive US support in this plan. Being an undercover agent is not too simple. Will Jack get his girlfriend out of Iran?
Review:
1) Cover photo even though is simple yet decent.
2) Title of the story is perfect.
3) Language of the book is lucid.
4) Narration is clear and smooth. I enjoyed each and every action that author has penned down in this book..
5) Author takes us to various places across globe through this book especially Middle East countries. Kuwait is one of my favorite among them.
If spy thriller fits your taste, grab this book and find out what will happen next.
Rating: 5/5
December 15, 2020
An Improbable Spy is a great thriller story penned down by David Paul Collins. David was in Tehran in 1979 when the longest hostage crisis in the history began in the American embassy in Tehran. Although the story is fiction but it is inspired from the situation David is aware of. Jack Devlin one of the main character of the story enjoyed the perks of his merchant banking business.
He met Hugh Ebanks who was his old friend. Hugh is now working with the government. Hugh offered him that he need his help and only few people have the capability to do what he is gonna ask for. Hugh is already aware about Jack's girlfriend, his clients and friends in the Middle East. Farideh, Jack's girlfriend and her sister Leah can make out of Iran safely but in return Jack has to do something for the CIA. He has to get the ledger of famous arms dealer Mustafa Khaki.
This story has great connection to the history. Even though the story involves diverse cast but David has handled everything very well. I didn't felt like it's his debut novel. Writing style is so professional. Cover is nice. Story is unique and focuses on Middle East. Chapter names are relevant. CIA, KGB, MI6 and Mossad kept on bringing some twist in the story. It's a riveting tale that I highly recommend.
He met Hugh Ebanks who was his old friend. Hugh is now working with the government. Hugh offered him that he need his help and only few people have the capability to do what he is gonna ask for. Hugh is already aware about Jack's girlfriend, his clients and friends in the Middle East. Farideh, Jack's girlfriend and her sister Leah can make out of Iran safely but in return Jack has to do something for the CIA. He has to get the ledger of famous arms dealer Mustafa Khaki.
This story has great connection to the history. Even though the story involves diverse cast but David has handled everything very well. I didn't felt like it's his debut novel. Writing style is so professional. Cover is nice. Story is unique and focuses on Middle East. Chapter names are relevant. CIA, KGB, MI6 and Mossad kept on bringing some twist in the story. It's a riveting tale that I highly recommend.
June 30, 2021
What did I just read? Believe me, I needed a day to cope up, to collect my thoughts, to come to a conclusion after finishing the book to write the review.
Fore mostly, I really appreciate author to write something like this.
'An Imporbable Spy' is the delicious, twisted, witty book. Author of this book while writing the book manages to be both meta and self aware but also satisfyingly old school and one will feel it while reading the book. The characterization and theme setting by the author is so ornate that you want to read the book again to take it all in.
The incredibly well written characters and well developed crime scenes justifying the thrill of the book. Every side characters are also well developed, the big reason why you couldn't able to put the book down. All the Characters and crime scenes are portrayed in realistic way, nothing seems out of the place. I especially love characters dynamic.
Thrilling and adventurous ride the book has it low as well. There will be moments when I had questioned the storyline and found it predictable but I still couldn't begrudge the book that's been this engaging, entertaining and enjoyable. And, in the end the book ends with a great satisfaction.
Fore mostly, I really appreciate author to write something like this.
'An Imporbable Spy' is the delicious, twisted, witty book. Author of this book while writing the book manages to be both meta and self aware but also satisfyingly old school and one will feel it while reading the book. The characterization and theme setting by the author is so ornate that you want to read the book again to take it all in.
The incredibly well written characters and well developed crime scenes justifying the thrill of the book. Every side characters are also well developed, the big reason why you couldn't able to put the book down. All the Characters and crime scenes are portrayed in realistic way, nothing seems out of the place. I especially love characters dynamic.
Thrilling and adventurous ride the book has it low as well. There will be moments when I had questioned the storyline and found it predictable but I still couldn't begrudge the book that's been this engaging, entertaining and enjoyable. And, in the end the book ends with a great satisfaction.
December 13, 2020
An Improbable Spy by David Paul Collins is a story set in different places across globe like Tehran, Kuwait, Egypt, London, etc. Hero of the story is Jack Devlin. He escaped from Tehran in 1979 but his heart and business was left behind. Jack couldn't take his love Farideh with him when he escaped. Farideh's sister Leah has a kidney disease. They are the daughter of Mustafa Khaki who is a renowned arms dealer.
As the story unfolds, CIA, MI6 and Mossad gets involved and all of them wants the ledger of Mustafa Khaki that holds his client information. The way author has depicted Middle East countries so well indicates his experience of living there. It is an amazing spy thriller that I like to suggest to avid thriller readers.
Will Farideh agree to do all this? Jack has signed the deal that can condemn them to death. An Improbable Spy story setting is nice. It's a page turner story that one couldn't miss to read. I enjoyed this well crafted tale. It's a fast paced book and I loved the way how smoothly the story has ended. Read the story to know how well the title is connected with the story.
As the story unfolds, CIA, MI6 and Mossad gets involved and all of them wants the ledger of Mustafa Khaki that holds his client information. The way author has depicted Middle East countries so well indicates his experience of living there. It is an amazing spy thriller that I like to suggest to avid thriller readers.
Will Farideh agree to do all this? Jack has signed the deal that can condemn them to death. An Improbable Spy story setting is nice. It's a page turner story that one couldn't miss to read. I enjoyed this well crafted tale. It's a fast paced book and I loved the way how smoothly the story has ended. Read the story to know how well the title is connected with the story.
December 15, 2020
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: An Improbable Spy
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: David Paul Collins
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
An Improbable Spy is a thriller. Before reading this story, I wasn't aware about the hostage situation in an American embassy in Tehran. Story features Jack Devlin who is in merchant banking business but later he turned into a spy. He could go any farther to protect his love Farideh. Jack has taken deathly risks so he could get his girlfriend out of Tehran.
As story moves forward, loyalties are questioned and we meet new characters. Author has written this novel from his personal experience of being in Tehran in 1979. So, this novel has a historical significance too. Story is full of action and twists as CIA, MI6 all play a major role in the story and they are the one who has turned Jack into a spy.
The flow of the story is nice. Jack's character is written very well by David and he is my favourite character. Every girl would love a boyfriend who can go to any extent for her. This is a good thriller. Even if you are a reader of non-thriller genre, I would suggest to pick this book once. The story won't disappoint you.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: David Paul Collins
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
An Improbable Spy is a thriller. Before reading this story, I wasn't aware about the hostage situation in an American embassy in Tehran. Story features Jack Devlin who is in merchant banking business but later he turned into a spy. He could go any farther to protect his love Farideh. Jack has taken deathly risks so he could get his girlfriend out of Tehran.
As story moves forward, loyalties are questioned and we meet new characters. Author has written this novel from his personal experience of being in Tehran in 1979. So, this novel has a historical significance too. Story is full of action and twists as CIA, MI6 all play a major role in the story and they are the one who has turned Jack into a spy.
The flow of the story is nice. Jack's character is written very well by David and he is my favourite character. Every girl would love a boyfriend who can go to any extent for her. This is a good thriller. Even if you are a reader of non-thriller genre, I would suggest to pick this book once. The story won't disappoint you.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.5/5
December 8, 2020
An Improbable Spy is a historical spy thriller written by David Paul Collins. An American Merchant Banker Jack Devlin was approached by his old friend Hugh Ebanks. He offered Jack to help his girlfriend Farideh and her sick sister in escaping from Tehran. For this, Jack has to work as a spy for CIA and MI6. He has to provide the client ledger of world's most powerful arms dealer Mustafa Khaki. The twists and turns in the story made this an interesting thriller. The way Jack risked everything to save his love and her sister is really appreciated. Not many people has the guts to do that. Take a ride to the Middle East countries via this novel. David has done great work in describing everything. I was able to imagine the pictures in my head. I love the ending of the story. Love is so powerful and can make us take any risk in the world. This is a well written thriller. Language used is simple and easy to understand. If you are looking for a page turner thriller then don't miss to check out An Improbable Spy.
Rating 4.5/5
Rating 4.5/5
June 12, 2020
MY TAKE🌼:
The book "An Improbable Spy" is about and uncomparable spy who's Ironic and ceremonious with superior mind and eccentric habits. The book is quite dramatically written which is why I found it super admirable. I felt an urge to read as fast as i can because of it being super interesting. You cannot just casually read such a book, you run through it to see is the main character was caught or did he succeeded in his mission; the book totally controls your mind and make it think differently. This book is one such book that you should definitely try once. Also, It is available on Amazon so you can easily purchase it.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ IT🌼:
-Abundant and detailed content and Plot line, it was written in such a way I almost felt all of it was the real.
- The character themselves are so strongly built that take and Blow Your Mind all alone.
- the whole spine mystery will take you places while being on your cosy bed.
The book "An Improbable Spy" is about and uncomparable spy who's Ironic and ceremonious with superior mind and eccentric habits. The book is quite dramatically written which is why I found it super admirable. I felt an urge to read as fast as i can because of it being super interesting. You cannot just casually read such a book, you run through it to see is the main character was caught or did he succeeded in his mission; the book totally controls your mind and make it think differently. This book is one such book that you should definitely try once. Also, It is available on Amazon so you can easily purchase it.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ IT🌼:
-Abundant and detailed content and Plot line, it was written in such a way I almost felt all of it was the real.
- The character themselves are so strongly built that take and Blow Your Mind all alone.
- the whole spine mystery will take you places while being on your cosy bed.
June 21, 2020
🌻An Improbable Spy🌻
We all love spy novels, honestly am bad at discovering some good spy books but am so glad I read this amazing fast paced thrilling spy novel and I couldn't stop thinking about it. The author's writing is so thrilling that I could actually plot the scenes in my mind and I do think this book has potential to be converted into a movie, it mainly revoles around Jack, a very strong and unique character and on the other hand the author grabbed my attention with other bold characters like Khaki!
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I am in love with the story because I feel even after being a thriller it doesn't have exaggerating scenes and dialogues. It's raw with a bit of drama, which I enjoyed for sure. I am looking forward to read more such books from the author which are fillled with twists and turns. Yes, I will definitely recommend it if you enjoy well written and fast paced thrillers.
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Rating: 4🌟
November 8, 2020
When David Paul Collins asked if I wanted a copy of AN IMPROBABLE SPY to read and review, I gladly accepted. However, I wasn’t sure how much I’d enjoy it because it is a spy thriller, and I had never read that genre before. I am so happy I stepped out of my usual domestic, psychological, stalker type of thriller and tried this one because I absolutely loved it—so much, in fact, that I read it in less than a day!
This book is very fast-paced with only 246 pages and such short chapters, which definitely played into why I was able to finish it in less than a day. It also helps with the fact that it was very well written with such vivid descriptions that I felt like I was there every step of the way with Jack Devlin, the main character. Upon finishing the book, I read the Author’s Note and realized that author David Paul Collins was actually in Tehran when the hostages took place! It was really cool to know that he drew on his amazing experiences to write this phenomenal espionage thriller. He notes, “An Improbable Spy is a work of fiction with significant basis in historical fact.” If you get the chance to read this incredible story, be sure to take the few extra seconds and read his Author’s Note.
This dramatic, suspenseful, page-turning, tension-filled read will captivate you and won’t let you go until you’ve finished every last word.
Thank you to David for this amazing read! I can’t wait to see what he comes out with next!
This book is very fast-paced with only 246 pages and such short chapters, which definitely played into why I was able to finish it in less than a day. It also helps with the fact that it was very well written with such vivid descriptions that I felt like I was there every step of the way with Jack Devlin, the main character. Upon finishing the book, I read the Author’s Note and realized that author David Paul Collins was actually in Tehran when the hostages took place! It was really cool to know that he drew on his amazing experiences to write this phenomenal espionage thriller. He notes, “An Improbable Spy is a work of fiction with significant basis in historical fact.” If you get the chance to read this incredible story, be sure to take the few extra seconds and read his Author’s Note.
This dramatic, suspenseful, page-turning, tension-filled read will captivate you and won’t let you go until you’ve finished every last word.
Thank you to David for this amazing read! I can’t wait to see what he comes out with next!
March 5, 2021
LOVED it totally! It’s fast-paced spy thriller with historical significance. It is well written by author and amazingly narrated by narrator. This suspenseful spy adventure tale is really Wow and you won't be able to take a break with this audio book.
The passion, betrayal, the American’s hostages drama in Iran, the different spies agencies fighting with each other, and much more fantastic parts are there in the book which keeps you engaged with the story. The author have great imagination skills that will blow your mind. The best thing about David Sir books - they include the content in the book from his real life experience and that's why the characters stay with the readers for a long time.
If you love spy thriller with an element of suspense, this book is for you.
Highly recommended, its available in audiobook too.
The passion, betrayal, the American’s hostages drama in Iran, the different spies agencies fighting with each other, and much more fantastic parts are there in the book which keeps you engaged with the story. The author have great imagination skills that will blow your mind. The best thing about David Sir books - they include the content in the book from his real life experience and that's why the characters stay with the readers for a long time.
If you love spy thriller with an element of suspense, this book is for you.
Highly recommended, its available in audiobook too.
April 13, 2020
ⒷⓄⓄⓀ ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌ
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: ᴀɴ ɪᴍᴘʀᴏʙᴀʙʟᴇ sᴘʏ
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: ᴅᴀᴠɪᴅ ᴘᴀᴜʟ ᴄᴏʟʟɪɴs
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ
𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 246
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 📕📕📕📕 (4 stars)
*ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴅᴀᴠɪᴅ ғᴏʀ sᴇɴᴅɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ɪɴ ʀᴇᴛᴜʀɴ ғᴏʀ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇsᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ*
•
ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴛʜᴇ ғɪʀsᴛ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜɪs ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ. ɪ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. ɪᴛ ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅs ᴍᴇ ᴏғ ᴀɴ ᴏʟᴅ ᴊᴀᴍᴇs ʙᴏɴᴅ ᴍᴏᴠɪᴇ.
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ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʜᴀᴅ ᴀ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ ᴘʀᴇᴍɪsᴇ. ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡᴇʀᴇ sᴏᴍᴇ ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄᴀʟ ᴀsᴘᴇᴄᴛs ɪɴᴠᴏʟᴠᴇᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪᴛ ᴡᴀsɴ'ᴛ ᴏᴠᴇʀᴘᴏᴡᴇʀɪɴɢ. ɪ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏᴇᴅ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜɪs, ᴀɴᴅ ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡɪɴɢ ᴀʟᴏɴɢ ᴀs ᴛʜɪɴɢs ᴜɴғᴏʟᴅᴇᴅ. ɪ ᴀᴘᴘʀᴇᴄɪᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ ᴀsᴘᴇᴄᴛs ɪɴᴠᴏʟᴠᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴛʜɪs sᴛᴏʀʏ.
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ᴛʜᴇ ᴡʀɪᴛɪɴɢ sᴛʏʟᴇ ᴏғ ᴅᴀᴠɪᴅ ᴡᴀs ᴜɴɪǫᴜᴇ. ʜᴇ ᴡᴀs ᴀʙʟᴇ ᴛᴏ ɪɴᴄʟᴜᴅᴇ ᴀ ғᴇᴡ ᴛʜɪʜɢs ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇɴ'ᴛ sᴇᴇɴ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ. ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴅ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ ᴛᴏ ᴀɴʏᴏɴᴇ ᴡᴀɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴀ sᴏʟɪᴅ ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴜɴɪǫᴜᴇ ᴀsᴘᴇᴄᴛs ᴛᴏ ɪᴛ.
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: ᴀɴ ɪᴍᴘʀᴏʙᴀʙʟᴇ sᴘʏ
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: ᴅᴀᴠɪᴅ ᴘᴀᴜʟ ᴄᴏʟʟɪɴs
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ
𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 246
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 📕📕📕📕 (4 stars)
*ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴅᴀᴠɪᴅ ғᴏʀ sᴇɴᴅɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ɪɴ ʀᴇᴛᴜʀɴ ғᴏʀ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇsᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ*
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ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴛʜᴇ ғɪʀsᴛ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜɪs ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ. ɪ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. ɪᴛ ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅs ᴍᴇ ᴏғ ᴀɴ ᴏʟᴅ ᴊᴀᴍᴇs ʙᴏɴᴅ ᴍᴏᴠɪᴇ.
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ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʜᴀᴅ ᴀ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ ᴘʀᴇᴍɪsᴇ. ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡᴇʀᴇ sᴏᴍᴇ ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄᴀʟ ᴀsᴘᴇᴄᴛs ɪɴᴠᴏʟᴠᴇᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪᴛ ᴡᴀsɴ'ᴛ ᴏᴠᴇʀᴘᴏᴡᴇʀɪɴɢ. ɪ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏᴇᴅ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜɪs, ᴀɴᴅ ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡɪɴɢ ᴀʟᴏɴɢ ᴀs ᴛʜɪɴɢs ᴜɴғᴏʟᴅᴇᴅ. ɪ ᴀᴘᴘʀᴇᴄɪᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ ᴀsᴘᴇᴄᴛs ɪɴᴠᴏʟᴠᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴛʜɪs sᴛᴏʀʏ.
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ᴛʜᴇ ᴡʀɪᴛɪɴɢ sᴛʏʟᴇ ᴏғ ᴅᴀᴠɪᴅ ᴡᴀs ᴜɴɪǫᴜᴇ. ʜᴇ ᴡᴀs ᴀʙʟᴇ ᴛᴏ ɪɴᴄʟᴜᴅᴇ ᴀ ғᴇᴡ ᴛʜɪʜɢs ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇɴ'ᴛ sᴇᴇɴ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ. ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴅ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ ᴛᴏ ᴀɴʏᴏɴᴇ ᴡᴀɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴀ sᴏʟɪᴅ ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴜɴɪǫᴜᴇ ᴀsᴘᴇᴄᴛs ᴛᴏ ɪᴛ.
September 14, 2021
I'd like to start by saying "woah" and various other exclamations of surprise and wonder. This was a book that completely changed the way I view spy novels. This tightly woven, brilliantly executed plot moves at an incredibly fast pace and is filled with superb twists, amazing dialogue and great characters, all of which blur the lines between good and bad.
This book works because you care about Jack and what happens to him. David captures perfectly a time, and a place, and inhabits that world with confidence. I look forward to continuing with more from David Paul Collins.
Bottom-line, this was a great read that packed a very enjoyable, detailed story in its slim, svelte 165 pages. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
This book works because you care about Jack and what happens to him. David captures perfectly a time, and a place, and inhabits that world with confidence. I look forward to continuing with more from David Paul Collins.
Bottom-line, this was a great read that packed a very enjoyable, detailed story in its slim, svelte 165 pages. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
May 17, 2020
What an incredible historical thrill ride of a read! I've always been intrigued about the Iran Hostage Crisis and was fascinated by how the author weaved his story around it!
And, the fact that the author himself escaped after the start of the hostage crisis and may or may not have had an association with MI6 or the CIA during this time definitely adds a extra heart stopping element to it all!
And, the fact that the author himself escaped after the start of the hostage crisis and may or may not have had an association with MI6 or the CIA during this time definitely adds a extra heart stopping element to it all!
February 9, 2021
Amazingly woven like an interesting spell. I didn't think this book was going to be this good. It was , as you might expect , engaging , a total different piece of art from every aspect.
It sets a very high bar for whatever he does that comes next.
Must Read
It sets a very high bar for whatever he does that comes next.
Must Read
May 21, 2021
This is a great read. This is a perfect storyline that won’t let you pur down this book for a moment. This is the second book I have read written by David and he has done an amazing work. The title is attractive with a simple cover. The language is simple and easy to understand. Recommended !
March 4, 2020
I recevied a complimentary copy.
The older setting of time and the way the story flows is a good combination. I like how the author made things seamless and inviting to my mind. You can easily lose the day getting into chapters.
The older setting of time and the way the story flows is a good combination. I like how the author made things seamless and inviting to my mind. You can easily lose the day getting into chapters.
April 15, 2020
I’ve been wanting to read more thrillers, so I was excited to read this one. It was short, but it packed a punch! I could see this being a movie. Like an action spy-espionage movie. It even had a car chase! (Well, a motorcycle chase, which is still really cool).
The story follows Jack who, in order to get his girlfriend out of Iraq, becomes entangled with the CIA, and finds himself becoming a spy. The author has been to Iraq, so the story felt very authentic and real.
The descriptions of the settings and characters was done really well. I loved the fast paced writing and plot that gave the story a sense of urgency as Jack tried to save his girlfriend from her father.
One thing I didn’t like was how much Jack ogled other women. He’s so in love with his girlfriend, but he’s often noticing the seductive forms of other women. People can still appreciate beauty, but he just seemed to appreciate the women too much.
I’d recommend this to people who love thriller/action type novels!
The story follows Jack who, in order to get his girlfriend out of Iraq, becomes entangled with the CIA, and finds himself becoming a spy. The author has been to Iraq, so the story felt very authentic and real.
The descriptions of the settings and characters was done really well. I loved the fast paced writing and plot that gave the story a sense of urgency as Jack tried to save his girlfriend from her father.
One thing I didn’t like was how much Jack ogled other women. He’s so in love with his girlfriend, but he’s often noticing the seductive forms of other women. People can still appreciate beauty, but he just seemed to appreciate the women too much.
I’d recommend this to people who love thriller/action type novels!
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