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Alex Kovacs #10
Budapest in Pieces
THE COMMUNISTS RULE HUNGARY, BUT WHO RULES THE COMMUNISTS?
Alex Kovacs, an ordinary man and an extraordinary spy, has been dispatched to Budapest with a task that is both simple and complicated. In the years after World War II, it went without saying that the Communists were in charge in Hungary. There was no disputing that reality. But in a nation that ping-ponged between the Communists and the Nazis over the previous decades -- and in a city divided not only by the Danube River but by the brutal memories of the war -- Alex was given the job of finding a way to give the West a peek into the hierarchy that ran what had become a major Cold War foe.
His post-war employer, the Gehlen Organization, was a German-run intelligence group that was funded partly by the United States because of its contacts in the East, contacts that the Americans could not match. But penetrating the hierarchy of the Hungarian Communist Party? There was nothing simple about that -- nothing simple or safe. And along the way, Alex found himself tangled up in the lives of several other Hungarians, including a monsignor with a secret that would compromise him with both the Catholic Church and the Communists, and a Budapest woman who held a grudge dating back to the war years, a grudge she could not relinquish.
This is the 10th book in the Alex Kovacs thriller series. Through the years -- and the transformation from traveling salesman, to courier, to espionage agent, to French Resistance fighter, to Cold War spy -- he has wrestled with his past and with his conscience, and that continues in Budapest in Pieces. That combination of action and humanity has resulted in sales for the series that can now be measured in the hundreds of thousands. Pick up a copy of Budapest in Pieces today and see what Alex Kovacs is all about.
Alex Kovacs, an ordinary man and an extraordinary spy, has been dispatched to Budapest with a task that is both simple and complicated. In the years after World War II, it went without saying that the Communists were in charge in Hungary. There was no disputing that reality. But in a nation that ping-ponged between the Communists and the Nazis over the previous decades -- and in a city divided not only by the Danube River but by the brutal memories of the war -- Alex was given the job of finding a way to give the West a peek into the hierarchy that ran what had become a major Cold War foe.
His post-war employer, the Gehlen Organization, was a German-run intelligence group that was funded partly by the United States because of its contacts in the East, contacts that the Americans could not match. But penetrating the hierarchy of the Hungarian Communist Party? There was nothing simple about that -- nothing simple or safe. And along the way, Alex found himself tangled up in the lives of several other Hungarians, including a monsignor with a secret that would compromise him with both the Catholic Church and the Communists, and a Budapest woman who held a grudge dating back to the war years, a grudge she could not relinquish.
This is the 10th book in the Alex Kovacs thriller series. Through the years -- and the transformation from traveling salesman, to courier, to espionage agent, to French Resistance fighter, to Cold War spy -- he has wrestled with his past and with his conscience, and that continues in Budapest in Pieces. That combination of action and humanity has resulted in sales for the series that can now be measured in the hundreds of thousands. Pick up a copy of Budapest in Pieces today and see what Alex Kovacs is all about.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2022
339 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Richard Wake
33 books102 followersRichard 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 23, 2022
10 Great Reads
I suppose this tenth in the Alex Kovacs series could stand alone. I read the first and am waiting hopefully for 11th. Kovacs is in post WWII Hungary as an agent/spy for the West. I stumbled into this series just looking for a next book. If you are new to Richard Wake, just go ahead spring for the entire series. Maybe it's just how Wake delivers the story. I am hooked.
RWS
I suppose this tenth in the Alex Kovacs series could stand alone. I read the first and am waiting hopefully for 11th. Kovacs is in post WWII Hungary as an agent/spy for the West. I stumbled into this series just looking for a next book. If you are new to Richard Wake, just go ahead spring for the entire series. Maybe it's just how Wake delivers the story. I am hooked.
RWS
December 5, 2024
Alex’s bosses at the Gehlen Organization have placed him in Budapest to monitor activities and gather intel on the Communists that have taken control of Hungary, and also to spy on the other spies.
As usual the Bohemia Suisse bank is his cover. Years ago, the bank had purchased a small metal factory In Budapest that manufactures bobby pins and paper clips. Also, he is to deliver some money to the daughter of a deceased depositor.
The daughter turns out to be one of the main secondary characters. She and Alex become lovers (of course 🙄). Her fiancé was murdered by a member of a Nazi-like organization called the Arrow Cross and she is obsessed with getting revenge.
Another interesting character is Monsignor Grewel, an assistant and sort of liaison to Cardinal Mindszenty. Cardinal Mindszenty was a real person, BTW, who was imprisoned first by the Arrow Cross and then the Communists. The author includes his very real arrest in this book.
Anyway, Grewel has recently discovered he has a daughter from a long-ago affair. The daughter is an anti-Communist activist and is in danger. Grewel enlists Alex to help get the 2 women out of Hungary. Grewel insists he has no inclination to become a martyr like his boss, but in the end, *mild spoiler alert* he sacrifices himself so Alex and the 2 women can escape over the border into Austria.
As usual the Bohemia Suisse bank is his cover. Years ago, the bank had purchased a small metal factory In Budapest that manufactures bobby pins and paper clips. Also, he is to deliver some money to the daughter of a deceased depositor.
The daughter turns out to be one of the main secondary characters. She and Alex become lovers (of course 🙄). Her fiancé was murdered by a member of a Nazi-like organization called the Arrow Cross and she is obsessed with getting revenge.
Another interesting character is Monsignor Grewel, an assistant and sort of liaison to Cardinal Mindszenty. Cardinal Mindszenty was a real person, BTW, who was imprisoned first by the Arrow Cross and then the Communists. The author includes his very real arrest in this book.
Anyway, Grewel has recently discovered he has a daughter from a long-ago affair. The daughter is an anti-Communist activist and is in danger. Grewel enlists Alex to help get the 2 women out of Hungary. Grewel insists he has no inclination to become a martyr like his boss, but in the end, *mild spoiler alert* he sacrifices himself so Alex and the 2 women can escape over the border into Austria.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2022
I have read the entire Alex Kovacs series but this one kind of missed the mark for me. The story was good although as in previous kindle editions there are editing errors. I can over look that for a good story.
In this book Alex has been sent to Budapest to get a sense of how the post war government is setting up. He does go under the guise of a banker sent there to give an inheritance to a woman. She, in my opinion, is not likeable and therefore I didn't get Alex being roped into her with a sexual relationship and revenge on the man who killed her fiance during the war. I still can't figure out why Alex went along and planned the murder, trailed the victim and then went to the actual murder. Alex became a murderer even though he didn't actually kill the man himself.
A secondary story is Alex befriends a priest who prior to entering the church has an affair with a woman which produced a daughter. Mother and daughter are now in danger since the daughter has denounced the government and Alex helps them to escape Hungary. There was a definite twist at the end which helped in my 3 star rating rather than a 2 star rating.
In a third line, Alex is roped into shady business dealings with a crook which causes Alex to have to flee before the secret police arrest him.
All in all, not my favorite Alex Kovacs book.
In this book Alex has been sent to Budapest to get a sense of how the post war government is setting up. He does go under the guise of a banker sent there to give an inheritance to a woman. She, in my opinion, is not likeable and therefore I didn't get Alex being roped into her with a sexual relationship and revenge on the man who killed her fiance during the war. I still can't figure out why Alex went along and planned the murder, trailed the victim and then went to the actual murder. Alex became a murderer even though he didn't actually kill the man himself.
A secondary story is Alex befriends a priest who prior to entering the church has an affair with a woman which produced a daughter. Mother and daughter are now in danger since the daughter has denounced the government and Alex helps them to escape Hungary. There was a definite twist at the end which helped in my 3 star rating rather than a 2 star rating.
In a third line, Alex is roped into shady business dealings with a crook which causes Alex to have to flee before the secret police arrest him.
All in all, not my favorite Alex Kovacs book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2023
now what
I devoured all 10 Alex Kovacs between Christmas and today. I’m sad that there isn’t another.
While I’m having trouble with the transition to cold war spy and Alex being so alone these last two novels I feel it’s a set up for the next adventure.
I’ll read the prequel then hope for number 11
I devoured all 10 Alex Kovacs between Christmas and today. I’m sad that there isn’t another.
While I’m having trouble with the transition to cold war spy and Alex being so alone these last two novels I feel it’s a set up for the next adventure.
I’ll read the prequel then hope for number 11
November 25, 2022
Good book
This whole series is suberb and this book does not disappoint. Richard is a wonderful well researched author. And the Alex character is amazing. If you enjoy W W 2 books and it aftermath these books/series is a must read. Simply wonderful!
This whole series is suberb and this book does not disappoint. Richard is a wonderful well researched author. And the Alex character is amazing. If you enjoy W W 2 books and it aftermath these books/series is a must read. Simply wonderful!
December 15, 2024
DNF. I had enjoyed the Alex Kovaks books when the stories were set against the background of World War two in Europe. However with the war over it seems the author has rather run out of steam and part way into this one I realised it wasn't going to be that different from the one before, set in Istanbul - hero is a spy under business cover, meets scary secret policemen, etc. So I'm afraid it's goodbye mister Kovaks.
I mentioned in a previous review of this series that both the first person narration and the dialogue of all the characters uses a glib, slick, clever twenty-first century American idiom ("so, here's the thing..." etc). I allowed that it was excusable in that the actual dialogue would not have been in English, but by the time, in this book, it appeared in the words of a mid-twentieth century Hungarian Catholic prelate I must admit I had begun to find it unbearably grating.
I mentioned in a previous review of this series that both the first person narration and the dialogue of all the characters uses a glib, slick, clever twenty-first century American idiom ("so, here's the thing..." etc). I allowed that it was excusable in that the actual dialogue would not have been in English, but by the time, in this book, it appeared in the words of a mid-twentieth century Hungarian Catholic prelate I must admit I had begun to find it unbearably grating.
February 8, 2023
OK for another read, but gets a bit tiring
Interesting. Different setting (Budapest) but similar theme to the previous post-WW2 chaos stories that Alex is dropped into. In this one the Nazi’s are mostly replaced with Russians and local Communists. Recriminations and new danger. Alex K is floating along, like a cork bobbing along in the water - a bit directionless and just trying to get by. Drinking and sex with the odd good deed. An interesting few sentences on the futility of revenge, for the living.
Interesting. Different setting (Budapest) but similar theme to the previous post-WW2 chaos stories that Alex is dropped into. In this one the Nazi’s are mostly replaced with Russians and local Communists. Recriminations and new danger. Alex K is floating along, like a cork bobbing along in the water - a bit directionless and just trying to get by. Drinking and sex with the odd good deed. An interesting few sentences on the futility of revenge, for the living.
January 14, 2023
Great Spy N9vel
Terrorr, death and the need to accomplish something for one's friends or family or bosses. It was war time in Hungary as the soviet power was taking over. It reminded me of my time in the Balkiins in the 90s. Nothing different, the same fears the same drive for survival that gives people hope that the next war will not be so brutal. It never really ends. But it will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Terrorr, death and the need to accomplish something for one's friends or family or bosses. It was war time in Hungary as the soviet power was taking over. It reminded me of my time in the Balkiins in the 90s. Nothing different, the same fears the same drive for survival that gives people hope that the next war will not be so brutal. It never really ends. But it will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
August 1, 2023
Another entertaining and interesting read.
I have read all 10 books in the series. Each represents an era or part of one before, during or after WW2, from the point of view of a flawed but good person, struggling to survive, while generally trying to do the right thing, against facist nazis or subsequent communist regimes. Interesting history, realistic and compelling characters, warts and all, spiced with narrow escapes, tragedy, and humanity. Ranks with a few other series dealing with this time in Europe.
I have read all 10 books in the series. Each represents an era or part of one before, during or after WW2, from the point of view of a flawed but good person, struggling to survive, while generally trying to do the right thing, against facist nazis or subsequent communist regimes. Interesting history, realistic and compelling characters, warts and all, spiced with narrow escapes, tragedy, and humanity. Ranks with a few other series dealing with this time in Europe.
July 29, 2023
An interesting post WWII tale of intrigue.
I am fortunate to have visited Budapest several years ago and fell in love with the city. So I was able to identify with the description of Buda and Pest and this enhanced my enjoyment of the novel. An interesting story in a beautiful city.
I am fortunate to have visited Budapest several years ago and fell in love with the city. So I was able to identify with the description of Buda and Pest and this enhanced my enjoyment of the novel. An interesting story in a beautiful city.
January 5, 2023
Budapest in post WWII is anything but stable...!
When the Banc Suisse representative, com President, first comes to Budapest, Hungary, he's not at all sure what his role will be. Neutral Swiss national? Spy???
When the Banc Suisse representative, com President, first comes to Budapest, Hungary, he's not at all sure what his role will be. Neutral Swiss national? Spy???
April 7, 2023
Another great book in this series
Another great book in this series that will leave you wanting more. Great story with great characters. By the end of the book Hou will feel like jt was you in Budapest
Another great book in this series that will leave you wanting more. Great story with great characters. By the end of the book Hou will feel like jt was you in Budapest
April 28, 2023
As usual, a real page turner!
I have read the entire Kovacs series and they keep getting better and better Richard makes you genuinely care about Alex and those around him - both good and evil. You won't be disappointed. Keep up the good work, Mr. Wake!
I have read the entire Kovacs series and they keep getting better and better Richard makes you genuinely care about Alex and those around him - both good and evil. You won't be disappointed. Keep up the good work, Mr. Wake!
June 2, 2023
Another in the same situation
In war time there are people trying to get out one country and situation and into another country and a different situation, this is about more of the same.
In war time there are people trying to get out one country and situation and into another country and a different situation, this is about more of the same.
June 29, 2024
Just Another Successful Operation
As a spy Alex is about as unlikely a hero that you would expect to find. But somehow he once again manages to help some people who would have been dead without him.
As a spy Alex is about as unlikely a hero that you would expect to find. But somehow he once again manages to help some people who would have been dead without him.
March 28, 2025
A bit raunchy at times; too much information
What's interesting is an insider/ outsider view of Hungary as it changed post Nazi, post Soviet . What would become a strictly Hungarian government? Fascinating. Sad.
What's interesting is an insider/ outsider view of Hungary as it changed post Nazi, post Soviet . What would become a strictly Hungarian government? Fascinating. Sad.
October 10, 2025
easy to read , gripping spy yarn
I have read all of the Alex Kovaks series until now and find the stories and characters engrossing and an enjoyable read. Similar in style and tone to the Alan Furst series of books
I have read all of the Alex Kovaks series until now and find the stories and characters engrossing and an enjoyable read. Similar in style and tone to the Alan Furst series of books
November 11, 2025
good plots juvenile character
The sex and vulgar vernacular which is sort of the mainstay of kovacs narrative is really tiresome. Lots of vulgate which probably isn’t realistic for a Czech or any European back in The 40s. Really detracts from the books.
The sex and vulgar vernacular which is sort of the mainstay of kovacs narrative is really tiresome. Lots of vulgate which probably isn’t realistic for a Czech or any European back in The 40s. Really detracts from the books.
November 28, 2022
Author writes a great story with delightful and witty dialogue. This guy knows how to tell a great and believable story.
November 28, 2022
Love the intrigue
Mr. Wake knows how to build his characters and he definitely knows how to write! Can't wait until his next!
Mr. Wake knows how to build his characters and he definitely knows how to write! Can't wait until his next!
December 9, 2022
I love this author unfortunately I have read them all will have to patiently wait for the next one. He is as good as it gets
December 11, 2022
Highly Recommend Series.
I enjoyed reading the Alex Kovacs ad ventures. Just finished Budapest in Pieces. Interesting plot and characters. I really like Alex Kovacs. Good read.
I enjoyed reading the Alex Kovacs ad ventures. Just finished Budapest in Pieces. Interesting plot and characters. I really like Alex Kovacs. Good read.
December 18, 2022
another good Alex kovacs novel
While still a good read, was shorter then previous ones and lacked the same plot development. Still enjoyed it though and look forward to next one
While still a good read, was shorter then previous ones and lacked the same plot development. Still enjoyed it though and look forward to next one
December 22, 2022
A good read but lacked the punch of its predecessors.
December 28, 2022
Quick Moving Thriller
Alex is a believable character wanting to do the right thing when the right thing isn't apparent. He has his flaws, but manages to be selfless when in crises.
Alex is a believable character wanting to do the right thing when the right thing isn't apparent. He has his flaws, but manages to be selfless when in crises.
December 31, 2022
An excellent read!
January 3, 2023
enjoyable light read
Enjoyed the protagonists, action moved quickly. Sometimes too quickly. I’ve read all the books in the series and am looking forward to the next one.
Enjoyed the protagonists, action moved quickly. Sometimes too quickly. I’ve read all the books in the series and am looking forward to the next one.
January 30, 2023
A great Cold War thriller!
Enjoyed the early books but the last not so much.
This one is right back on form.
More of the same please, Richard.
Enjoyed the early books but the last not so much.
This one is right back on form.
More of the same please, Richard.
February 26, 2023
The afterwards books are not as riviting.
Books 9 & 10 were not nearly as interesting as 1 - 8...the war years books. These were just a lot of angst & exciting last 2-3 chapters.
Books 9 & 10 were not nearly as interesting as 1 - 8...the war years books. These were just a lot of angst & exciting last 2-3 chapters.
March 5, 2023
Excellent
I hope that this is not the last in the series because it’s just now beginning to feel old hat. All thumbs up. Bravo!
I hope that this is not the last in the series because it’s just now beginning to feel old hat. All thumbs up. Bravo!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews