The Agony of France

Alex Kovacs #6

by Richard Wake

Alex Kovacs has fought for the French Resistance in Lyon, and Limoges, and Paris. He has assumed false identities, worn disguises, destroyed property and killed Germans — and wrestled not only with his conscience but with the rivalries within the Resistance movement itself. Now he has joined with one of those factions — the Jews of Paris — to do their dangerous, brutal work.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, World War II, Espionage

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 10, 2020

About the author

Richard Wake's first career was as a newspaper reporter, columnist, and editor. Writing fiction was always an aspiration, especially historical fiction set in Europe during the inter-war period, and now it has become a reality.

Reviews

[Richard Peacock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find the genre of Resistance noir celebrating the ordinary decent people who resisted the Nazi's evil life affirming . Contrary to "The Great Man" theory of self aggrandizing history in league with a biographers marketing plan the average person saying NO More and I will RESIST in this moment is how justice and help are created in reality.Alex Kovacs is not a Super Ninja but a Czech lawyer who's country no longer exists fighting the Nazi's where and when ever he can with the like minded from many faiths, political views and social status. His tolerant ambivalence of betrayal from human weakness present in all of this series is so achingly endearing. The Occupation of Europe with all " the odious apparatus of Nazism"creates a hellish world devoid of trust, and endless physical tiring and hunger. The bravery in facing each day for the characters makes you want to weep. Love the series and pray Alec and Leon live to see victory with wishes for a Manon whose home has both a good cellar and adequate library of books and music would be nice to.

[Pamela Shropshire · Rating 4 out of 5]

If, during my reading of this series, I have occasionally complained that a particular book was rather boring, I certainly cannot make that complaint about this installment. It’s early 1943, still more than a year until the Normandy invasion by the Allies. Food is scarce, good wine is even harder to come by, and real coffee is almost nonexistent— well, everything is scarce. The Nazis are firmly entrenched, irrevocably so, it feels. The Parisian Jews have become fatalistically accustomed to 3AM knocks on the door, followed by a bus or lorry ride to Drancy, the former housing project that has developed into a holding center in preparation for the long train ride to the East.

Leon and Alex are still working with the Resistance, those of the Communist persuasion. This isn’t necessarily a philosophical association; they have just become impatient with the “official” de Gaulle followers, whom they perceive as overly cautious and bureaucratic. They stay busy with small, targeted bombing attacks and warning Jews whose names have appeared on a Nazi list.

Of course it is inevitable that their own names will appear on such a list, and they do. Although Leon’s identity papers and his demeanor are impeccably Christian, his body bears the unmistakable identifier of circumcision, and Alex will never willingly abandon Leon to save his own skin.

Although I have read lots of Holocaust literature, both fiction and nonfiction, I had never heard of the Vel’ d’hiver. (You can Google it.) One result of reading this series is that I have added a number of Mémorial sites to visit in France when we travel there someday.

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an entertaining read/ Unfortunatly it just ENDED.......the ending was a surprise as it just ended with the next page a preview of his next book. Very disappointed. The storyline was at a point where it was reaching a high point and it just ENDED with a thought.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my opinion, another great addition to a really good series! Alex and Leon are in Paris working with the communist resistance and trying to stay one step ahead of the occupying army. New characters, new storyline, new location but still told from the perspective of a sarcastic Alex. He's still trying to deal with the death of Manon. He's still trying to make sense out of a world that makes no sense. He's still trying to do the right thing and questioning whether it's right when reprisals take place. The story is fast moving, suspenseful and well developed. I am looking forward to the next installment in the series. As a side note, the author has included the first three chapters of a book in a new series about an East Berlin detective in 1961. I am looking forward to that one too.

[P.S. Seaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a writer who gets better and better. Although it is the story and the character development that keep me reading, I find myself immersed in the details of how people manage to survive the Nazi war machine in occupied countries with constant hunger, betrayal, and danger always dominating their lives. My father was a gunner inWW2 and was shot down on his 44th mission. He then spent some months as a “guest” in Stalag Luft IV before escaping on the death march out. Finding the Resistance helped him get to safety in England and eventually home again.
Having read the entire series so far, I find myself eager to see what Alex will escape next! He has been through so many perilous situations on the way to becoming a kind and brave human being. Kudos to the author for making this series believable and real to a woman in her 70s who always wanted to know more.

[dennis barron · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Agony of France. Richard Wake

Alex Kovacs is a French resistance fighter in France. He's a really a Czech but his best friend is Jewish. They are actually more like brothers. They both are willing to die for each other. Their cell is mostly made up of French Communists who feel that the supporters of Charles Dr Gaulle are weak, actually cowardly who are waiting for the American and British forces to help France liberate itself from the Germans. This is a fast paced read and describes the hardships endured by the Jewish population of France as well as the French citizens. Another excellent read in this series!

[R.W. Simmermon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several months ago, looking for my next read, I just tried the first of the Alex Kovacs series. Lucky for me. Each can stand alone. However, to get acquainted with Alex and crew read them in order. Must learn about Alex and how he got into this

spy mess. No boredom in these stories. Serious stuff about serious times with even a bit of humor. Well paced. Read them all. I'm on this bus as long as Richard Wake will steer. Good stuff.
Bill
Winter Park, FL

[Richard Boddington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex and Leon live charmed lives and few of their historical resistance had such luck. The feelings epitomised by Alex and his narrative of his environment make compelling reading of a novel set in terrible times. I look forward to reading the next book in his journey on the edge of my seat! Great works. I have an intell background and always interested in gaining an insight into the minds of these folks, good, bad and usually heroic individuals.
Richard

[Debbie Trammell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book

I think I have read all the books in this series and I have truly enjoyed them. Richard Wake is a suberb author you do not want to miss any of his books. Alex the main character in this series is great. If you love WW 2 and a mystery to boot these books are for you!

[David Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Agony Indeed

This volume covers the strategies, tactics, and infighting among the resistance factions during WWII in France. The author cleverly used the personalities of the series' characters to illustrate differences. Similarly, his use of small successes keeps the book readable.

[Ervin B. Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving story.

No matter what one thinks they know about the occupation of France 1940-1944, and about the deportation of the Jewish population, this book brings it into clear focus. From the warring factions of the Resistance, to the collaboration of some Frenchmen, Jew and Gentile, the author paints an historically accurate picture of a horrible time period.

[Richard Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoying this series. I'd definitely recommend starting at book 1 but each in the series ,so far ,could stand on its on. Presents what is probably a little more truthful look at the war in Europe and the resistance . It's not glamorous. It's frightening and ugly. If you enjoy historical fiction then I believe you'll enjoy this book

[Ronaele Whittington, D.S.W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time I read this author; blood curdling history comes to life

Factions within groups of like minded patriots interfere with mission, focus, and life saving cohesion. Alex Kovacs lives true Resistance in all he says and does. He boldly and resiliently supports the strengths of survivors. Duplicity abounds.

[Linda Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best one so far

Wake’s understanding and description of the situation in France under German rule is phenomenal….it’s as if he were there at the time.

Alex, Leon and company take some incredible risks, as the situation grows more perilous.

I cannot stop reading this series. On to book 7

[Jim Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series— all 6

Excellent— captivating from the opening pages. Have read all 6 books and found each one entertaining and quick to get through. Highly recommend if you like WW2 historical fiction.

[Kate Tompkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engrossing and realistically detailed

A very good book about the resistance era in France during World War II. I really liked the tone and the pace of the book, and am looking forward to the others in the series. I heartily recommend!

[Irene Statile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series

I've read all six books. Can't wait for #7. Alex's first person narration really drew me in as did his relationship with Leon.
Their escapades while seemingly unworkable, always made sense. Anxious to get into the new series by this great author.

[philip pettener · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping story and so impressive

For those of us who never saw or lived through the war this was sn eye opener. So many accounts of how mankind can sink to new height of mental crualty.

[Bev Bone · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting spy series during WW11.

I have read all the books in this series. It is possible to read them singly but I would recommend reading them in order. I like reading about the dramatic events of this time period.

[Peter Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A continuing story of our hero

Full of ups and downs with lots of near misses. Captures the problems and in fighting of the French resistance and the issue of action leading to reprisals.

[Ray · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't like long series! I don't like long series! I don't like long series! So why am I on book 6 you might ask? BECAUSE I GOT HOOKED!!! I hate it when that happens. But, enough's enough. I'm tired of nothing happening. No more Alex for me. 2.5















i hate long series

[Michael OCallaghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series

Loved all the Alex Kovacs books with fascinating characters. How he and Leon escape time after time is amazing! But the plots work. If you like historical spy fiction you really should read this series. Looking forward to the next one....please!!!

[jana chenier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very believable fiction comparable to the work of Alan furst and Philip kerr.

I would recommend this series to readers attracted to the works of the above authors.

Pace is excellent and characters believable , a very good read.

[Janet Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kept me awake at night reading

It was a point of view I had not read before. I like to think I would have their courage and resourcefulness given the same circumstance. It is inspiring to read of people putting themselves in harm's way to help people they have never met.

[Roger Franks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nother good read from Richard

As usual the story romps along with now familiar characters I enjoy the mix of historical and modern vernacular even though some of the plot can be a little improbable all in all a great "boysown " adventure

[Maureen BOOTH · Rating 4 out of 5]

6th book in the Alex Kovacs series. Alex has joined the Jews of Paris resistance faction, carrying out an attack on German soldiers which leads to reprisals. Jews rounded up and sent to Drancy prison before being transported East.

[Lutfi Zakhour · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun series

Another fun and historically based WWII novel. Really enjoy the light read between bigger and heavier reads.

Definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys history-based novels - read the full series!

[peter walton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable novel in this series & am pleased that evil is again overcome by goodness. Also happy that innocent youngsters are saved by these 2 heroes again , who constantly put their own lives at risk

[Edgar Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable reading

I am finding difficulty expressing my dislike anywhere in this book. The Kovac character is believable as a man with human weakness. His male associates and his women keep him hopping to stay alive. The stories keep me coming back. I look for more.

[Laura Soper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I have read every book and I really have enjoyed them. It moves at a great pace. You won't regret reading them.