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The Zima Confession
Can one man bring down the world's financial systems?
Glasgow 1977 - a young Trotskyite, Richard Slater, comes up with the idea that if he hid in deep cover until he was in a position of responsibility, he could unleash a devastating act of sabotage capable of starting a revolution. Party activists develop the plan - code name Zima and lie in wait...
London 2013 - Richard is in London, working for a financial software company. He has held onto the Zima plan all this time and has been signalling he can activate it. Is anyone listening? Have others stayed
true to the ideology?
The "suicide" of Richard's work colleague shows British and Russian Intelligence have been listening and waiting too. Tension mounts as more players reveal themselves and the battle for power and control moves to Moscow. As the coil of agents, misinformation and mind control experiments connected to Zima unravel - where do allegiances lie? Can Richard trust anyone - even himself?
Can MI9 stop a catastrophic act of sabotage on the banking system? Will the revolution succeed? Can Richard uncover the TRUTH and save himself?
Glasgow 1977 - a young Trotskyite, Richard Slater, comes up with the idea that if he hid in deep cover until he was in a position of responsibility, he could unleash a devastating act of sabotage capable of starting a revolution. Party activists develop the plan - code name Zima and lie in wait...
London 2013 - Richard is in London, working for a financial software company. He has held onto the Zima plan all this time and has been signalling he can activate it. Is anyone listening? Have others stayed
true to the ideology?
The "suicide" of Richard's work colleague shows British and Russian Intelligence have been listening and waiting too. Tension mounts as more players reveal themselves and the battle for power and control moves to Moscow. As the coil of agents, misinformation and mind control experiments connected to Zima unravel - where do allegiances lie? Can Richard trust anyone - even himself?
Can MI9 stop a catastrophic act of sabotage on the banking system? Will the revolution succeed? Can Richard uncover the TRUTH and save himself?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2019
1 person is currently reading
6685 people want to read
About the author
Iain M. Rodgers
1 book35 followersI was born in Glasgow but have travelled around a lot. When it comes to reading, I believe variety is the spice of life. I like to read lots of genres and different styles of writing. I'm also bisexual in my reading - I enjoy books written by both men and women.
At the moment I only have one book to my name. It's a political thriller (an astute reader may discern some elements of SciFi or speculative technology). I hope to write one or two more books, but I'm not going to put myself under any pressure to do so. There are enough writers who should have stopped at one.
I worked in I.T. for many years in a variety of industries and organisations - The Civil Service, Brewing and Distilling, Waste Disposal, Manufacturing (ERP software). I ended up in The City, working for a financial software company before deciding I'd had enough of I.T.
I changed to Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Moscow while writing my first book - The Zima Confession.
At the moment I only have one book to my name. It's a political thriller (an astute reader may discern some elements of SciFi or speculative technology). I hope to write one or two more books, but I'm not going to put myself under any pressure to do so. There are enough writers who should have stopped at one.
I worked in I.T. for many years in a variety of industries and organisations - The Civil Service, Brewing and Distilling, Waste Disposal, Manufacturing (ERP software). I ended up in The City, working for a financial software company before deciding I'd had enough of I.T.
I changed to Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Moscow while writing my first book - The Zima Confession.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 4, 2020
Rarely is it that any book gets me thinking as much as this book did for me. This wonderful political thriller puts you in the mind of Richard, a socialist with dreams of revolution. The ensuing plots mount to a potentially global scale. All of the events in the story are suspenseful and mysterious, the characters are layered and intriguing, and the twists are numerous and shocking.
I also particularly loved the vivid descriptions of places, and the thoughtful dissection of political ideology and the ethics associated with governmental organisations.
This isn’t my usual type of read but that takes nothing away from what was quite easily one of my favourite reads of this year so far. Read it!
I also particularly loved the vivid descriptions of places, and the thoughtful dissection of political ideology and the ethics associated with governmental organisations.
This isn’t my usual type of read but that takes nothing away from what was quite easily one of my favourite reads of this year so far. Read it!
November 13, 2019
Such a wonderful book with unexpected flow of events with a very interesting and creative style, the author should think in completing it as a full series ,it has a wonderful track of actions, you will feel like you are walking on Moscow then you will be taken by a flow of actions, unexpected series of actions to be accurate, I will recommend to my reading club
February 15, 2020
This book is page-turner that shifts between time period and locations. It's a combination of a spy novel and commentary, in my opinion, on all the ways that idealistic intentions can go wrong. For me, it was like seeing the TV show "The Americans" in book form. The book does have some common tropes that we see in Cold War-themed spy books, which is appropriate because there are still tensions between Russia and the rest of the world. Fun read!
February 10, 2020
when I started the book, I wasn't that exciting to complete it but once I reached a couple of dozen pages I can't stop, this book shows you the dangerous side of both technology and since and how it could affect the whole world how only one man ould freeze everything in a very wonderful pattern of thriller, thanks for Reader's house for this great reading
March 28, 2022
This review has been removed due to having too many negative comments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2019
This was a good read. The story takes place over several decades, with a plan so intricate that the only way forward is through solid character development and experienced writing. There are twists and turns around every corner and the end of the book was really satisfying.
I would love to speak more in detail about this book but I cannot do so without giving away parts of the plot. Each part of the book namely has its own role and is of importance; the red line can be felt on every page.
An enjoyable book, especially for those who enjoy conspiracy-based fiction!
I would love to speak more in detail about this book but I cannot do so without giving away parts of the plot. Each part of the book namely has its own role and is of importance; the red line can be felt on every page.
An enjoyable book, especially for those who enjoy conspiracy-based fiction!
June 22, 2020
This is a terrific political thriller set in Glasgow and Moscow. It tells a complex yet scarily believable story of finance, IT and espionage. I lived in Glasgow in the 1970s and the description of the city at that time is so vivid, I felt I was back there. I learnt a lot about modern-day Russia and the shrouded world of global finance. A well-written page-turner with characters that seem real. Highly recommended.
June 23, 2020
The story follows Richard Slater, a somewhat inept, neurotic type who second guesses himself at every turn, yet fancies himself to be a cyber terrorist. Richard believes that he is part of an elaborate conspiracy that seeks to unleash an act of sabotage, on the capitalist banking system, that could spark a revolution.
Richard denounces western culture as 'soft' and 'decadent' yet simultaneously clings to the living standard that he is accustomed to. As I followed Richard's story, I started to wonder if he was either delusional or in way over his head. I also felt a little sorry for him, at times, especially since his 'relationship' with call girl, Melanie, seemed quite sad and pathetic.
In any case, the act of sabotage is derailed, flinging Richard into a frenzy of unraveling truths that are far more sinister than previously imagined.
The Zima Confession is a story told with subtle humor and some cynicism (which was appreciated) and it is clear that a great deal of research went into this book. There are many delightful phrases throughout, including my favorite : 'The whole pseudo-intellectual babble that they came out with...'. Thumbs up to this political thriller.
Richard denounces western culture as 'soft' and 'decadent' yet simultaneously clings to the living standard that he is accustomed to. As I followed Richard's story, I started to wonder if he was either delusional or in way over his head. I also felt a little sorry for him, at times, especially since his 'relationship' with call girl, Melanie, seemed quite sad and pathetic.
In any case, the act of sabotage is derailed, flinging Richard into a frenzy of unraveling truths that are far more sinister than previously imagined.
The Zima Confession is a story told with subtle humor and some cynicism (which was appreciated) and it is clear that a great deal of research went into this book. There are many delightful phrases throughout, including my favorite : 'The whole pseudo-intellectual babble that they came out with...'. Thumbs up to this political thriller.
July 24, 2020
I really enjoyed this amazing book. So full of suspense and tension I couldn't wait to get to the next page. The plot is incredibly strong and a great concept. The writing style is brilliant and the author clearly has a lot of talent for writing clever books. A really interesting read that will have you gripped and asking questions thought out the book. Great for fans of conspiracy and psychological suspense.
August 9, 2020
‘I’m not n anyone’s radar’ – a strange (in a good way) and twisted plan for revolution
UK author Iain M. Rodgers has worked in Information Technology for The Civil Service, for Brewing and Distilling, Waste Disposal, Manufacturing (ERP software) businesses, and a financial software company. He has also taught English as a foreign language in Russia and now makes his literary debut with THE ZIMA CONFESSION – a financial thriller whose plot is interlaced with speculative and imaginative technology.
Opening his book in 1977 in his place of birth, Glasgow, somehow adds to the immediate relating credence of the novel, as Iain writes, ‘A dark orange paper lantern, hanging from an elaborately decorative centre rose of the high Victorian ceiling, provided barely enough light to illuminate the languidly twisting coils of silver smoke that filled the room. The air was thick with the smell of cannabis. Young men and women, a mixture of longhaired hippies and shorthaired puns, were sprawled over the floor smoking joints and drinking from cans. In one corner of the large room, looking either like a witch or a puritan, an earnest young woman in a high-necked maxi-dress was kneeling to roll a joint on a low, half-broken side table. She did it carefully and ritualistically. Several people nearby watched with interest, as though her performance formed part of an important ceremony.’ That skill at painting the stage scenery that will populate a bizarre cast of characters adds to the pleasure of absorbing this story.
The plot synopsis offers the bare outline of the tale: ‘Glasgow 1977 - a young Trotskyite, Richard Slater, comes up with the idea that if he hid in deep cover until he was in a position of responsibility, he could unleash a devastating act of sabotage capable of starting a revolution. Party activists develop the plan - code name Zima and lie in wait…London 2013 - Richard is in London, working for a financial software company. He has held onto the Zima plan all this time and has been signaling he can activate it. Is anyone listening? Have others stayed true to the ideology? The “suicide” of Richard’s work colleague shows British and Russian Intelligence have been listening and waiting, too. Tension mounts as more players reveal themselves and the battle for power and control moves to Moscow. As the coil of agents, misinformation and mind control experiments connected to Zima unravel - where do allegiances lie? Can Richard trust anyone - even himself? Can MI9 stop a catastrophic act of sabotage on the banking system? Will the revolution succeed? Can Richard uncover the TRUTH and save himself?’
The canvas of Ian’s colorful career adds to the veracity of the bizarre plot: few authors have this degree of ‘on site’ experience for a fictional terrorist novel. The story works, keeping the readers in suspense while thoroughly entertaining!
UK author Iain M. Rodgers has worked in Information Technology for The Civil Service, for Brewing and Distilling, Waste Disposal, Manufacturing (ERP software) businesses, and a financial software company. He has also taught English as a foreign language in Russia and now makes his literary debut with THE ZIMA CONFESSION – a financial thriller whose plot is interlaced with speculative and imaginative technology.
Opening his book in 1977 in his place of birth, Glasgow, somehow adds to the immediate relating credence of the novel, as Iain writes, ‘A dark orange paper lantern, hanging from an elaborately decorative centre rose of the high Victorian ceiling, provided barely enough light to illuminate the languidly twisting coils of silver smoke that filled the room. The air was thick with the smell of cannabis. Young men and women, a mixture of longhaired hippies and shorthaired puns, were sprawled over the floor smoking joints and drinking from cans. In one corner of the large room, looking either like a witch or a puritan, an earnest young woman in a high-necked maxi-dress was kneeling to roll a joint on a low, half-broken side table. She did it carefully and ritualistically. Several people nearby watched with interest, as though her performance formed part of an important ceremony.’ That skill at painting the stage scenery that will populate a bizarre cast of characters adds to the pleasure of absorbing this story.
The plot synopsis offers the bare outline of the tale: ‘Glasgow 1977 - a young Trotskyite, Richard Slater, comes up with the idea that if he hid in deep cover until he was in a position of responsibility, he could unleash a devastating act of sabotage capable of starting a revolution. Party activists develop the plan - code name Zima and lie in wait…London 2013 - Richard is in London, working for a financial software company. He has held onto the Zima plan all this time and has been signaling he can activate it. Is anyone listening? Have others stayed true to the ideology? The “suicide” of Richard’s work colleague shows British and Russian Intelligence have been listening and waiting, too. Tension mounts as more players reveal themselves and the battle for power and control moves to Moscow. As the coil of agents, misinformation and mind control experiments connected to Zima unravel - where do allegiances lie? Can Richard trust anyone - even himself? Can MI9 stop a catastrophic act of sabotage on the banking system? Will the revolution succeed? Can Richard uncover the TRUTH and save himself?’
The canvas of Ian’s colorful career adds to the veracity of the bizarre plot: few authors have this degree of ‘on site’ experience for a fictional terrorist novel. The story works, keeping the readers in suspense while thoroughly entertaining!
November 6, 2019
The Zima Confession was an incredible novel, keeping my fingertips on the corners of each page, ready to turn and find out more. The protagonist, Richard, is strong-willed and an incredibly independent thinker. His extreme and revolutionary ideas make the reader feel inspired to take an active stance on their own beliefs. When reading a book we don’t always think about the fact that someone wrote it, but when a story is as full of twists and unpredictable as this one, I think it is unavoidable to recognize the author’s mind and creativity. The plan to take and knock down power, the structure and secrets between people and the eggshells that people have to walk on have all been created by someone who truly understands words. The story is strong, keeping the reader on their toes to learn more about what’s really going on behind the government’s closed walls.
June 16, 2021
This novel has some good parts, but it reads rather unevenly. It is a melange of standard spy thriller, The Bourne Identity (no jumping through windows or kung fu), and some interesting observations of what happens to young idealistic socialistas as they grow up and get repeat doses of reality.
October 22, 2023
The author says of book writing, that most writers should have stopped at one. He should have stopped at none.
Unfortunately, he didn't, and this novel is the result.
Even though I shoplifted my copy, it's so bad, I still want a refund!
Unfortunately, he didn't, and this novel is the result.
Even though I shoplifted my copy, it's so bad, I still want a refund!
Read
November 9, 2021A web of intrigue and danger becomes a wild journey of self-awareness in THE ZIMA CONFESSION.
The Russian settings are particularly effective, as is Rodgers’ skill at creating an aura of mystery. He keeps you wondering until the end about truth versus deception and how high a price Richard Slater will pay for letting his youthful fervor become a lifelong obsession.
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2021/11/03/radic...
The Russian settings are particularly effective, as is Rodgers’ skill at creating an aura of mystery. He keeps you wondering until the end about truth versus deception and how high a price Richard Slater will pay for letting his youthful fervor become a lifelong obsession.
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2021/11/03/radic...
May 23, 2021
"The Zima Confession" is a political thriller written by the author Iain M. Rodgers. The story is set in different time at different places. Main character of the story is Richard. Richard had a nightmare about a snake and he was awake now. When he opened his inbox, he saw an email mentioning that his colleague Andy Mitchell was dead.
Richard remembered Andy mentioning about the debt he was in and how bitch his wife was. In Helsinki, Mitchell told some secret to Richard but Richard is unable to recollect the details. It might be something related to Zima. He thought has Mitchell really told him something or is it just his imagination. Grab a copy of this book and find out yourself what will happen when different agents and experiments get associated with the Zima unravel.
Plot of the story is amazing and hooked me to the story. Language of the book is lucid and easy to follow. Cover photo is nice. I loved author's imagination in creating a great storyline. Characters are well written and the way suspense is maintained in the story made me enjoy this book more.
Richard remembered Andy mentioning about the debt he was in and how bitch his wife was. In Helsinki, Mitchell told some secret to Richard but Richard is unable to recollect the details. It might be something related to Zima. He thought has Mitchell really told him something or is it just his imagination. Grab a copy of this book and find out yourself what will happen when different agents and experiments get associated with the Zima unravel.
Plot of the story is amazing and hooked me to the story. Language of the book is lucid and easy to follow. Cover photo is nice. I loved author's imagination in creating a great storyline. Characters are well written and the way suspense is maintained in the story made me enjoy this book more.
November 2, 2023
Though the author struggles bravely along with his limited understanding of English prose and a still poorer comprehension of narrative structure, there is no escaping the fundamental weaknesses of the Zima Confession in style and substance.
I wish him luck in some other avenue for his talents. Whatever they are.
I wish him luck in some other avenue for his talents. Whatever they are.
December 22, 2021
🎭The book "The zima confession" is an outstanding book written down by the author Iain M Rodgers. The front page of the book is just so beautiful that made me excited to pick up this one. The story is of Richard Slater, a relatively incompetent, neurotic type who second-guesses himself at every turn, yet dreams of himself to be a cyber-terrorist.
🎭The Zima Confession is a story told with modest satire and some cynicism and it is evident that a huge arrangement of research went into this book. I admire the author for jotting down this book so flawlessly. As I came next in Richard's story, I began to wonder if he was either delusional or in way over his self. I also felt a little sorry for him, at moments, mostly since his 'relationship' with a call girl, Melanie, appeared very tragic and miserable.
🎭It's very exquisite to know what took place next and to know you just have to buy a copy of this book from Amazon so now go and grab a copy of this book. I'm sure you will feel satisfied after reading this. The book is jotted down in very straightforward language which I believe is the crucial key to ensuring that the readers grasp as much information as possible rather than getting confused in the terminologies and vocabulary.
🎭An outstanding read which doesn't let you keep the book down for a minute. Right from the beginning, I was fascinated by the story and the scene that the author created was mesmerizing. Clear presentation of the numerous plots and an enigmatic picturesque that was perfectly created.
🎭I was honestly delighted with the finale of the book, which had many twists and turns. A luminous and wonderfully narrated story with so much depth and dilemmas wrapped in sheets will indeed gonna keep the bookworms hooked till the end. I don't want to release spoilers since this is an extraordinary book and I would let people buy their copy and analyze.
🎭The Zima Confession is a story told with modest satire and some cynicism and it is evident that a huge arrangement of research went into this book. I admire the author for jotting down this book so flawlessly. As I came next in Richard's story, I began to wonder if he was either delusional or in way over his self. I also felt a little sorry for him, at moments, mostly since his 'relationship' with a call girl, Melanie, appeared very tragic and miserable.
🎭It's very exquisite to know what took place next and to know you just have to buy a copy of this book from Amazon so now go and grab a copy of this book. I'm sure you will feel satisfied after reading this. The book is jotted down in very straightforward language which I believe is the crucial key to ensuring that the readers grasp as much information as possible rather than getting confused in the terminologies and vocabulary.
🎭An outstanding read which doesn't let you keep the book down for a minute. Right from the beginning, I was fascinated by the story and the scene that the author created was mesmerizing. Clear presentation of the numerous plots and an enigmatic picturesque that was perfectly created.
🎭I was honestly delighted with the finale of the book, which had many twists and turns. A luminous and wonderfully narrated story with so much depth and dilemmas wrapped in sheets will indeed gonna keep the bookworms hooked till the end. I don't want to release spoilers since this is an extraordinary book and I would let people buy their copy and analyze.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews