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MacKenzie and Khan #1
Death in Kabul
A murdered man. A stolen artefact. A search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule…
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
When the body of a British serviceman is discovered in the city’s infamous tank graveyard, the Kabul Police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team.
Baz Khan, an Afghan-American investigative journalist, is in Kabul researching a story. Precious antiquities, priceless artefacts of the country’s rich history, are disappearing amid the chaos, never to be seen again. Baz is determined to uncover whoever is spiriting them away, to prevent her war-torn country being further denuded for profit. And she has a lead…
The soldier’s death was no accident. Why was he so far from the British base in the middle of the night? And alone? As Baz and Mac investigate, they quickly realise they have each stumbled on something far bigger than they reckoned with, and are tossed into the Kabul underworld, where violence and corruption rule.
A fast-paced, compelling adventure through the streets of Kabul, perfect for Jack Reacher fans.
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
When the body of a British serviceman is discovered in the city’s infamous tank graveyard, the Kabul Police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team.
Baz Khan, an Afghan-American investigative journalist, is in Kabul researching a story. Precious antiquities, priceless artefacts of the country’s rich history, are disappearing amid the chaos, never to be seen again. Baz is determined to uncover whoever is spiriting them away, to prevent her war-torn country being further denuded for profit. And she has a lead…
The soldier’s death was no accident. Why was he so far from the British base in the middle of the night? And alone? As Baz and Mac investigate, they quickly realise they have each stumbled on something far bigger than they reckoned with, and are tossed into the Kabul underworld, where violence and corruption rule.
A fast-paced, compelling adventure through the streets of Kabul, perfect for Jack Reacher fans.
- GenresMystery
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2022
6 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 24, 2022
Book 1 of a new series finds us meeting ‘Mac’, ex Met Police, and Baz Khan, journo, both in Kabul and both on the trail of the killers of a British serviceman recently found murdered..their task is to find out who, why, when and how…but this is Kabul and nothing is easy
You can tell one of the authors ( bro and sis combo ) worked in Afghanistan and it is so authentic and so full of detail ( cultural, religious ) and history it couldn’t have been written by someone who had no experience of that life, and its fascinating, honestly I couldn’t read enough about Kabul and take in the sights, sounds and smells ( although some to be avoided ) quick enough, uncanny how a book can transport you to somewhere you have never been and you feel you are there
The story itself is good, well structured and easy to follow ( and it could have been over complex ) and brimming with real life characters, we had time to meet them all properly and get to know their quirks and ways
I guess I felt sad knowing this was written in the time the Taliban were defeated and life was resuming as normal (well as normal as it does there) but now of course the Taliban are back in charge and so that was poignant throughout
Roll on Book 2
10/10
5 Stars
You can tell one of the authors ( bro and sis combo ) worked in Afghanistan and it is so authentic and so full of detail ( cultural, religious ) and history it couldn’t have been written by someone who had no experience of that life, and its fascinating, honestly I couldn’t read enough about Kabul and take in the sights, sounds and smells ( although some to be avoided ) quick enough, uncanny how a book can transport you to somewhere you have never been and you feel you are there
The story itself is good, well structured and easy to follow ( and it could have been over complex ) and brimming with real life characters, we had time to meet them all properly and get to know their quirks and ways
I guess I felt sad knowing this was written in the time the Taliban were defeated and life was resuming as normal (well as normal as it does there) but now of course the Taliban are back in charge and so that was poignant throughout
Roll on Book 2
10/10
5 Stars
April 3, 2022
I was given a copy of this book for an honest and fair review. Death in Kabul is a fast-paced crime thriller that leads readers through an action-packed tour of Kabul.
‘A murdered man. A stolen artefact. A search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule…
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
When the body of a British serviceman is discovered in the city’s infamous tank graveyard, the Kabul Police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team.
Baz Khan, an Afghan-American investigative journalist, is in Kabul researching a story. Precious antiquities, priceless artefacts of the country’s rich history, are disappearing amid the chaos, never to be seen again. Baz is determined to uncover whoever is spiriting them away, to prevent her war-torn country being further denuded for profit. And she has a lead…
The soldier’s death was no accident. Why was he so far from the British base in the middle of the night? And alone? As Baz and Mac investigate, they quickly realise they have each stumbled on something far bigger than they reckoned, and are tossed into the Kabul underworld, where violence and corruption rule.’
Death In Kabul is a great read for those who enjoy fast paced action-adventure and high stakes crime. With an array of memorable and interesting characters it does keep you hooked from the first few pages. I will admit I did find ‘Mac’ somewhat unlikable himself but the general storytelling and plot kept me going. It is clear that the authors know what they are writing about, unsurprising since Higgins worked in Afghanistan. You really do end up feeling like you are there with the characters in the streets and landmarks. The only reason I lowered this to four stars, and it may seem petty, is in short the characters. Understandably so they all hold certain views of the place and people of Afghanistan and the situation around them. While I have no doubt these perfectly reflect real life I felt there wasn’t much growth in a lot of the characters perceptions and actions personally. Again this didn’t detract from the wonderful crime thriller plot but it was just something I would have liked to see a bit more.
All In all it was an enjoyable read, a bit different from crime thrillers I have read in the past. It did keep me guessing right until the end and I enjoyed seeing the tensions between the Afghan and the British characters. I may consider the others in these series for future reads as well.
As always thank you for The Booknetwork for the opportunity to review this.
‘A murdered man. A stolen artefact. A search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule…
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
When the body of a British serviceman is discovered in the city’s infamous tank graveyard, the Kabul Police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team.
Baz Khan, an Afghan-American investigative journalist, is in Kabul researching a story. Precious antiquities, priceless artefacts of the country’s rich history, are disappearing amid the chaos, never to be seen again. Baz is determined to uncover whoever is spiriting them away, to prevent her war-torn country being further denuded for profit. And she has a lead…
The soldier’s death was no accident. Why was he so far from the British base in the middle of the night? And alone? As Baz and Mac investigate, they quickly realise they have each stumbled on something far bigger than they reckoned, and are tossed into the Kabul underworld, where violence and corruption rule.’
Death In Kabul is a great read for those who enjoy fast paced action-adventure and high stakes crime. With an array of memorable and interesting characters it does keep you hooked from the first few pages. I will admit I did find ‘Mac’ somewhat unlikable himself but the general storytelling and plot kept me going. It is clear that the authors know what they are writing about, unsurprising since Higgins worked in Afghanistan. You really do end up feeling like you are there with the characters in the streets and landmarks. The only reason I lowered this to four stars, and it may seem petty, is in short the characters. Understandably so they all hold certain views of the place and people of Afghanistan and the situation around them. While I have no doubt these perfectly reflect real life I felt there wasn’t much growth in a lot of the characters perceptions and actions personally. Again this didn’t detract from the wonderful crime thriller plot but it was just something I would have liked to see a bit more.
All In all it was an enjoyable read, a bit different from crime thrillers I have read in the past. It did keep me guessing right until the end and I enjoyed seeing the tensions between the Afghan and the British characters. I may consider the others in these series for future reads as well.
As always thank you for The Booknetwork for the opportunity to review this.
March 28, 2022
#Booktour day with @thebooknetwork.co.uk for Death in Kabul by A.Belsham & N.Higgins
REVIEW BELOW
Synopsis
A murdered man. A stolen artefact. A search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule…
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
When the body of a British serviceman is discovered in the city’s infamous tank graveyard, the Kabul Police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team.
Baz Khan, an Afghan-American investigative journalist, is in Kabul researching a story. Precious antiquities, priceless artefacts of the country’s rich history, are disappearing amid the chaos, never to be seen again. Baz is determined to uncover whoever is spiriting them away, to prevent her war-torn country being further denuded for profit. And she has a lead…
The soldier’s death was no accident. Why was he so far from the British base in the middle of the night? And alone? As Baz and Mac investigate, they quickly realise they have each stumbled on something far bigger than they reckoned with, and are tossed into the Kabul underworld, where violence and corruption rule.
MY REVIEW 5 STARS
What an absolutely brilliant read this was. It certainly has a high level of authenticity about it. I felt transported to Kabul. Having never been anywhere even close to this environment I was utterly drawn in. The writing and story flows well and you can tell this particular collaboration works exceptionally well. This a superbly fast paced thriller that will keep you turning the pages until there are non left. I thought the characters were wonderfully realistic and believable. They carry the story well. I loved it and can't wait for the next one.
#deathinkabul #bbookreview #bookstagram #book
REVIEW BELOW
Synopsis
A murdered man. A stolen artefact. A search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule…
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
When the body of a British serviceman is discovered in the city’s infamous tank graveyard, the Kabul Police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team.
Baz Khan, an Afghan-American investigative journalist, is in Kabul researching a story. Precious antiquities, priceless artefacts of the country’s rich history, are disappearing amid the chaos, never to be seen again. Baz is determined to uncover whoever is spiriting them away, to prevent her war-torn country being further denuded for profit. And she has a lead…
The soldier’s death was no accident. Why was he so far from the British base in the middle of the night? And alone? As Baz and Mac investigate, they quickly realise they have each stumbled on something far bigger than they reckoned with, and are tossed into the Kabul underworld, where violence and corruption rule.
MY REVIEW 5 STARS
What an absolutely brilliant read this was. It certainly has a high level of authenticity about it. I felt transported to Kabul. Having never been anywhere even close to this environment I was utterly drawn in. The writing and story flows well and you can tell this particular collaboration works exceptionally well. This a superbly fast paced thriller that will keep you turning the pages until there are non left. I thought the characters were wonderfully realistic and believable. They carry the story well. I loved it and can't wait for the next one.
#deathinkabul #bbookreview #bookstagram #book
April 22, 2022
I was hooked straight away by this compelling story. I have many friends who served in Afghanistan in 2003, some of whom never made it home. ‘The Wild West’ was a term I heard used often. The locals picking up the pieces after the fall of the Taliban to coalition forces. The illegal trade in antiquities looted from homes and museums. The organised crime gangs. And exploitation of the population on fear of death. It did make me sad that so many of our troops died, while eventually the Taliban just walked back in and dragged the country back 20 years into a country ruled by sharia law, inequality, and fear.
What I found here was a very well researched and written book. The descriptive way the author could make you envision the locations and people was breathtaking. There would have been senior Special Investigation Branch members of the Royal Military Police there, but trust would have been a real issue at that time and involving them too much would have negated the need for Mac to be seconded to the investigation team.
I instantly liked Mac, with his mannerisms and Western influence on the case, while being tempered by the local police, and journalist Baz, who was equally likeable. The supporting cast of characters were nicely fleshed out, all felt necessary and only helped carry the plot. I could feel the tension rising as the story progressed, towards the inevitable confrontation.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book, and look forward to seeing Mac and Baz again in a future story. The synopsis says its perfect for Jack Reacher fans, and Lee I agree, I would also recommend this book to any crime or mystery thriller reader, and anyone who served over there. I gave Death In Kabul, by Alison Belsham, and Nick Higgins, five stars.
What I found here was a very well researched and written book. The descriptive way the author could make you envision the locations and people was breathtaking. There would have been senior Special Investigation Branch members of the Royal Military Police there, but trust would have been a real issue at that time and involving them too much would have negated the need for Mac to be seconded to the investigation team.
I instantly liked Mac, with his mannerisms and Western influence on the case, while being tempered by the local police, and journalist Baz, who was equally likeable. The supporting cast of characters were nicely fleshed out, all felt necessary and only helped carry the plot. I could feel the tension rising as the story progressed, towards the inevitable confrontation.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book, and look forward to seeing Mac and Baz again in a future story. The synopsis says its perfect for Jack Reacher fans, and Lee I agree, I would also recommend this book to any crime or mystery thriller reader, and anyone who served over there. I gave Death In Kabul, by Alison Belsham, and Nick Higgins, five stars.
August 7, 2022
As usual in my reviews I will not rehash the plot (there are reviews like that out there already if that's what you're looking for!).
I enjoyed this novel (there are a few grim scenes), and was quite surprised at how well it worked, given that there are two authors (brother and sister). The writing is good, and descriptions of the settings are very vivid, so that you can clearly picture the scene, hear the noise, feel the heat, the dust etc. I have since learned that one of the authors served in the military and was actually based in Afghanistan several times in different roles, which explains the authenticity.
The plot is fast-paced and action-packed - having read some of the real events that took place in Kabul during that period, I felt it was very believable.
I liked the main characters of Mac and Baz - Baz's dual nationality added an interesting dimension (though also brought her some problems as she fell foul of not fitting in with local expectations of how a woman should behave). They are very different personalities, but their partnership worked, and I'd be happy to read more novels featuring this duo.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
I enjoyed this novel (there are a few grim scenes), and was quite surprised at how well it worked, given that there are two authors (brother and sister). The writing is good, and descriptions of the settings are very vivid, so that you can clearly picture the scene, hear the noise, feel the heat, the dust etc. I have since learned that one of the authors served in the military and was actually based in Afghanistan several times in different roles, which explains the authenticity.
The plot is fast-paced and action-packed - having read some of the real events that took place in Kabul during that period, I felt it was very believable.
I liked the main characters of Mac and Baz - Baz's dual nationality added an interesting dimension (though also brought her some problems as she fell foul of not fitting in with local expectations of how a woman should behave). They are very different personalities, but their partnership worked, and I'd be happy to read more novels featuring this duo.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
March 25, 2022
Former Met homicide cop in London Mac is now working with a mercenary company in Afghanistan when he gets tagged to work with Kabul police to investigate the murder of a British man in uniform. Things in Kabul are worlds different from the tidy compartmentalized workings of Scotland Yard and it gets positively insane when the British army gets involved and tries to take over. But it's not their jurisdiction. And Mac is only there to assist.
Baz Khan is an investigative journalist whose father had been curator of the Kabul Museum which has been bleeding artifacts in recent times. Her work is more than difficult because she was born in the US but has to conform to Afghani norms in public.
Mac and friends cross paths with Baz when it turns out that the murder victim was in the antiquities trade! Great realistic characters and likely events.
Fast paced thriller set in a world apart. Loved it!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Canelo via NetGalley. Thank you!
Baz Khan is an investigative journalist whose father had been curator of the Kabul Museum which has been bleeding artifacts in recent times. Her work is more than difficult because she was born in the US but has to conform to Afghani norms in public.
Mac and friends cross paths with Baz when it turns out that the murder victim was in the antiquities trade! Great realistic characters and likely events.
Fast paced thriller set in a world apart. Loved it!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Canelo via NetGalley. Thank you!
April 4, 2022
The first in a new series in which we meet Ex-Met police man,Mac and Baz Khan a journalist. Set in Kabul with both attempting to find out why British servicemen have been murdered. They have no easy task to get to the bottom of their deaths, not in Kabul anyway.
This is a thriller that truly immerses you in the setting that's Kabul. Such authentic descriptions, full of details of every aspect of the place. It gave the story more depth and the characters are all so well drawn, with their own unique ways. I was transported there as I read.
A great well written book that is an enjoyable read. I am looking forward to the second book.
This is a thriller that truly immerses you in the setting that's Kabul. Such authentic descriptions, full of details of every aspect of the place. It gave the story more depth and the characters are all so well drawn, with their own unique ways. I was transported there as I read.
A great well written book that is an enjoyable read. I am looking forward to the second book.
April 4, 2022
Having enjoyed the Tattoo thief and its two sequels by Alison Belsham, I was compelled to give this one a go. This time, she pairs up with her brother (which I think is super) to write about a place he has first hand experience with : Afghanistan.
It's a muscular thriller as well as an intriguing mystery. Fast-paced, showing us facets of life in Kabul and in the (cold!) mountains, and sporting a lot of guns, it certainly kept me entertained.
It's a muscular thriller as well as an intriguing mystery. Fast-paced, showing us facets of life in Kabul and in the (cold!) mountains, and sporting a lot of guns, it certainly kept me entertained.
April 3, 2022
Death in Kabul by A. Balsham and N. Higgns.
The MacKenzie and Khan series Book 1.
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
Good read with good characters. 4*.
The MacKenzie and Khan series Book 1.
2003. Kabul has become a frontier city, Afghanistan’s fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun.
Good read with good characters. 4*.
March 12, 2024
This was a fantastic book. I felt immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of Kabul while the plot moved along at a good pace. I did correctly guess whodunnit at an early stage, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book or the numerous action-packed scenes.
Look forward to picking up book 2!
Look forward to picking up book 2!
September 26, 2025
A complete stab in the dark - the title just caught my eye and aroused my curiosity. Apart from the appearance of the helicopter at the end which I felt was unlikely the story and descriptions of Kabul were first rate. Looking forward to reading M & K #2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2023
Good, but a sad reminder of when Afghanistan almost escaped from the Taliban
March 27, 2022
Death in Kabul
5/5
REVIEW
This book is a Book 1 of a new series. It is fast paced and compelling adventure throughout the streeets of Kabul and beyond. What struck me throughout is the authors (a brother and sister duo) have such a love of Afgahnistan. This book is part crime thriller and part love letter to Afghanistan and its varied history and impact on human history over the millenia.
The prologue gripped me from the off and made me want to keep reading. Always a great sing. The twists and turns throughout alongside the Afghan history had me hooked. The characters are ones you root for even if they are not always on the right side of the law. Just when you think this book is slowing down you realise it was merely pausing to catch its breath.
I can't wait to see where these characters go next.
The added touch at the end regarding the authors pledging to donate 10% of their author royalties to AfghanAid due to the ongoing ongoing humanitarian crisis is a really nice touch as well and further reiterates how much they genuineluy love Afghanistan.
SYNOPSIS
A murdered man, a stolen artefact, a search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule. 2003, Kabul has become a frontier city, Afganistan's fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun. When the body of a British Serviceman is discovered int he city's infamous tank graveyard the Kabul police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team
5/5
REVIEW
This book is a Book 1 of a new series. It is fast paced and compelling adventure throughout the streeets of Kabul and beyond. What struck me throughout is the authors (a brother and sister duo) have such a love of Afgahnistan. This book is part crime thriller and part love letter to Afghanistan and its varied history and impact on human history over the millenia.
The prologue gripped me from the off and made me want to keep reading. Always a great sing. The twists and turns throughout alongside the Afghan history had me hooked. The characters are ones you root for even if they are not always on the right side of the law. Just when you think this book is slowing down you realise it was merely pausing to catch its breath.
I can't wait to see where these characters go next.
The added touch at the end regarding the authors pledging to donate 10% of their author royalties to AfghanAid due to the ongoing ongoing humanitarian crisis is a really nice touch as well and further reiterates how much they genuineluy love Afghanistan.
SYNOPSIS
A murdered man, a stolen artefact, a search for justice in a city where violence and corruption rule. 2003, Kabul has become a frontier city, Afganistan's fledgling democracy struggling with crime and corruption as NATO coalition troops, gangs and warlords jostle for control. A city where justice is an ideal and security means carrying a gun. When the body of a British Serviceman is discovered int he city's infamous tank graveyard the Kabul police reach out for support in their investigation. Alasdair ‘Mac’ MacKenzie, formerly of the Metropolitan Police, is seconded to the team
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews