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Jayne Robinson #5
The Dam Keeper
Water torture . . . A US army dam engineer is targeted in a Kremlin honeytrap and a Russian mole killed in Ukraine after passing on key information to the CIA. The question is why? Operative Jayne Robinson is asked to find out. As Moscow prepares to invade Ukraine, Robinson uncovers evidence of a Russian plot, masterminded by a mystery Kremlin puppet, to destroy a critical hydroelectric dam. But which one? As the young dam engineer disappears after hearing too much, apparently kidnapped by a dangerous Russian seductress, Robinson finds herself in a desperate race against time down the River Danube to locate him. Nothing is what it Robinson is forced to take on spiraling risks—urged on by a US President who is preparing for a visit to Kyiv to support his Ukrainian counterpart. To make progress, Robinson gets involved in a high-stakes game of international poker with a top-level asset inside the Russian president’s inner circle—who was recruited under coercion. But with the threat of a biblical-scale flood looming, can the asset now be trusted? Can Robinson find out which dam is at risk? Which shadowy figure is behind the plot to destroy it? And can her knife-edge operation to rescue the missing engineer succeed? The DAM KEEPER , book number five in the internationally top-selling Jayne Robinson series, is another gripping spy thriller with dramatic twists that will keep readers up deep into the night.
439 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2023
253 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Turpin
13 books131 followersAndrew is a former journalist who has always had a love of writing and a passion for reading good thrillers. Now he has finally put the two interests together.
His first book in the Joe Johnson thriller series, The Last Nazi, was published in August 2017, and the second, The Old Bridge, in January 2018. The third, Bandit Country, followed in February 2018. In January 2019 the fourth, Stalin's Final Sting, was published along with a prequel to the series, entitled The Afghan. Book #5 in the series, The Nazi's Son, appeared in November 2019, followed by book 6, The Black Sea, published in May 2020.
The themes behind these thrillers also pull together some of Andrew’s other interests, particularly history, world news, and travel. They explore the ways in which events and human behaviors deep into the past continue to impact on modern society, politics and business.
All of Andrew's books draw strongly on these themes. They feature Joe Johnson, an ex-CIA officer and former U.S. Nazi hunter with the Office of Special Investigations, part of the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
Johnson has a passion for justice and a drive to investigate unsolved war crimes in different parts of the world.
Andrew studied history at Loughborough University and worked for many years as a business and financial journalist before becoming a corporate and financial communications adviser with several large energy companies.
He originally came from Grantham, Lincolnshire, and lives with his family in St. Albans in Hertfordshire, U.K.
His first book in the Joe Johnson thriller series, The Last Nazi, was published in August 2017, and the second, The Old Bridge, in January 2018. The third, Bandit Country, followed in February 2018. In January 2019 the fourth, Stalin's Final Sting, was published along with a prequel to the series, entitled The Afghan. Book #5 in the series, The Nazi's Son, appeared in November 2019, followed by book 6, The Black Sea, published in May 2020.
The themes behind these thrillers also pull together some of Andrew’s other interests, particularly history, world news, and travel. They explore the ways in which events and human behaviors deep into the past continue to impact on modern society, politics and business.
All of Andrew's books draw strongly on these themes. They feature Joe Johnson, an ex-CIA officer and former U.S. Nazi hunter with the Office of Special Investigations, part of the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
Johnson has a passion for justice and a drive to investigate unsolved war crimes in different parts of the world.
Andrew studied history at Loughborough University and worked for many years as a business and financial journalist before becoming a corporate and financial communications adviser with several large energy companies.
He originally came from Grantham, Lincolnshire, and lives with his family in St. Albans in Hertfordshire, U.K.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 16, 2026
Always eager to find new authors whose writing checks multiple boxes related to my reading likes, I turned to the fifth (and final?) novel in this series by Andrew Turpin. A story founded on significant spy-based banter, with a terror plot angle, Turpin pulls the reader into the middle of a story with ease. While it took him a few novels to get this series flowing well, he appears to have mastered this. An impressive book fans who are patient with their series reading will likely.
After news that an American engineer has been caught in a Russian honeytrap, the CIA is baffled about why this might have gone down. Once the dam engineer is identified, things get a little clearer, but there remain many questions. CIA Operative Jayne Robinson is called upon to make some sense of it, especially as news of Russia’s plan to invade Ukraine is all over the wire. Russia seeks to destroy a key hydroelectric dam in Ukraine, which could explain the American’s capture. As the US President prepares to head to a summit where he will support his Ukrainian ally, news of Project Noi falls into place. An America dam is also on the Russians’ list, though no one is sure which one. Any strike could cause massive damage and create havoc such that the Americans have not seen in decades. As Jayne uncovers truths and enters into a dangerous game with her Russian counterparts, she seeks to make sense of the threats and determine what’s real and where the bluster ends. An intense thriller sure to keep readers on edge and leave series fans pleased with how things appear to have ended for Jayne Robinson.
I love a good thriller with themes that keep me flipping pages. Andrew Turpin has this series gaining momentum and making an impact at the best moments. Though he needed a few books to get a comfortable sense of things, Turpin has found his stride. Tension and political intrigue provide the backdrop in this thriller, working on more events that have since come to pass, namely Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. As Jayne Robinson seeks to find answers, her gritty determination helps propel things forward. Turpin sets the tone with a strong narrative and short chapters that add to the tense journey. I quite enjoyed this series to date and if that is all Andrew Turpin has to say, I am pleased things found their groove. I may want to check out his other series that runs somewhat parallel to this one, dealing with the adventures of Joe Johnson, Jayne’s current love interest.
Characters serve a focussed purpose in this story. Jayne Robison is to be enjoyed by the attentive reader, especially by those who have followed her through the five books. She is eager to play a leading role in this series and while she was introduced stumbling a bit, she begins proving to be more enjoyable. Secondary characters emerge repeatedly, though there are also some new faces added to the mix. Many of them prove impactful throughout the story and flavour events in important ways. The Ukraine subplot is poignant in the news today, which allows some backdoor actual political figures to play a role as well. I enjoyed the discussion of events related to Russia’s invasion years before it actually took place once again and can see parallels between what Turpin predicted and what came to pass. I will have to see if he does the same with his other series, when I tackle it.
Turpin offers up some well-placed surprises that he wraps in a twist or two. All of this provides a stage for the reader to stay on edge. The unpredictable aspects seek to solidify the foundation while linking portions of the story together in ways that impress series fans. Turpin entertains the reader and has found a means of breathing excitement into the series. I will keep my eyes open for future Jayne Robinson novels, but am also eager to see if Turpin’s other series packs as much of a punch.
Kudos, Mr. Turpin, for a story that flooded me with excitement.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
After news that an American engineer has been caught in a Russian honeytrap, the CIA is baffled about why this might have gone down. Once the dam engineer is identified, things get a little clearer, but there remain many questions. CIA Operative Jayne Robinson is called upon to make some sense of it, especially as news of Russia’s plan to invade Ukraine is all over the wire. Russia seeks to destroy a key hydroelectric dam in Ukraine, which could explain the American’s capture. As the US President prepares to head to a summit where he will support his Ukrainian ally, news of Project Noi falls into place. An America dam is also on the Russians’ list, though no one is sure which one. Any strike could cause massive damage and create havoc such that the Americans have not seen in decades. As Jayne uncovers truths and enters into a dangerous game with her Russian counterparts, she seeks to make sense of the threats and determine what’s real and where the bluster ends. An intense thriller sure to keep readers on edge and leave series fans pleased with how things appear to have ended for Jayne Robinson.
I love a good thriller with themes that keep me flipping pages. Andrew Turpin has this series gaining momentum and making an impact at the best moments. Though he needed a few books to get a comfortable sense of things, Turpin has found his stride. Tension and political intrigue provide the backdrop in this thriller, working on more events that have since come to pass, namely Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. As Jayne Robinson seeks to find answers, her gritty determination helps propel things forward. Turpin sets the tone with a strong narrative and short chapters that add to the tense journey. I quite enjoyed this series to date and if that is all Andrew Turpin has to say, I am pleased things found their groove. I may want to check out his other series that runs somewhat parallel to this one, dealing with the adventures of Joe Johnson, Jayne’s current love interest.
Characters serve a focussed purpose in this story. Jayne Robison is to be enjoyed by the attentive reader, especially by those who have followed her through the five books. She is eager to play a leading role in this series and while she was introduced stumbling a bit, she begins proving to be more enjoyable. Secondary characters emerge repeatedly, though there are also some new faces added to the mix. Many of them prove impactful throughout the story and flavour events in important ways. The Ukraine subplot is poignant in the news today, which allows some backdoor actual political figures to play a role as well. I enjoyed the discussion of events related to Russia’s invasion years before it actually took place once again and can see parallels between what Turpin predicted and what came to pass. I will have to see if he does the same with his other series, when I tackle it.
Turpin offers up some well-placed surprises that he wraps in a twist or two. All of this provides a stage for the reader to stay on edge. The unpredictable aspects seek to solidify the foundation while linking portions of the story together in ways that impress series fans. Turpin entertains the reader and has found a means of breathing excitement into the series. I will keep my eyes open for future Jayne Robinson novels, but am also eager to see if Turpin’s other series packs as much of a punch.
Kudos, Mr. Turpin, for a story that flooded me with excitement.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
March 5, 2024
What a great find. I have now read several of this author's books and this one is even more thrilling.
The passenger drones were a wonderful surprise and critical for the escape scene! So much of the action is happening in today's world which makes each read so riveting.
Although the books are numbered, they each can be read as standalone stories but it's compelling to revisit many of those characters in subsequent books - even out of sync.
I'm looking forward to reading many more of Mr Turpin's exciting stories.
The passenger drones were a wonderful surprise and critical for the escape scene! So much of the action is happening in today's world which makes each read so riveting.
Although the books are numbered, they each can be read as standalone stories but it's compelling to revisit many of those characters in subsequent books - even out of sync.
I'm looking forward to reading many more of Mr Turpin's exciting stories.
December 13, 2023
Jayne Robinson is back with a triple challenge; locating and releasing a US hostage in Russian hands, discovering the detail of a plot being hatched against America and ensuring the planned act of terrorism fails.
The thrilling narrative never lets up as Jayne and her CIA colleagues race through Central and Eastern Europe chasing the Kremlin criminals to Putin’s heavily guarded holiday palace.
Jayne attacks her challenges with fire and determination much in the way as Boudicca, the East Anglian Queen who who very nearly defeated the much vaunted Roman legions in the first century AD.
There’s some pretty awful bad guys on the other side and Jayne needs to use all of her intellect to get on terms with them. Thrilling action, superb characterisation and fascinating locations combine to make The Dam Keeper a winner.
David Lowther. Author of The Blue Pencil, Liberating Belsen, Two Families at War, The Summer of ‘39 (all published by Sacristy Press) and Ordinary Heroes (published by I M Books)
The thrilling narrative never lets up as Jayne and her CIA colleagues race through Central and Eastern Europe chasing the Kremlin criminals to Putin’s heavily guarded holiday palace.
Jayne attacks her challenges with fire and determination much in the way as Boudicca, the East Anglian Queen who who very nearly defeated the much vaunted Roman legions in the first century AD.
There’s some pretty awful bad guys on the other side and Jayne needs to use all of her intellect to get on terms with them. Thrilling action, superb characterisation and fascinating locations combine to make The Dam Keeper a winner.
David Lowther. Author of The Blue Pencil, Liberating Belsen, Two Families at War, The Summer of ‘39 (all published by Sacristy Press) and Ordinary Heroes (published by I M Books)
November 6, 2023
I am part of advance team for this author and this is an honest opinion.
This is the fifth book in this series and I was not disappointed. It is a nail biter. The story is very fast paced and action packed. The author used current events as the basis for this story and it works perfectly. Fact and fiction were woven together flawlessly. Jayne Robinson does what she does best. She is one very tough lady. I am glad that Joe comes into the story as I always enjoy him. The cast of characters are interesting. Some are new some you will know from past books in this series. It will keep you up at night. I so enjoyed it. This author can do no wrong in my opinion. I look forward to the next in this series.
This is the fifth book in this series and I was not disappointed. It is a nail biter. The story is very fast paced and action packed. The author used current events as the basis for this story and it works perfectly. Fact and fiction were woven together flawlessly. Jayne Robinson does what she does best. She is one very tough lady. I am glad that Joe comes into the story as I always enjoy him. The cast of characters are interesting. Some are new some you will know from past books in this series. It will keep you up at night. I so enjoyed it. This author can do no wrong in my opinion. I look forward to the next in this series.
January 27, 2024
Slow going, it took me an eternity to get to the end. One major gripe I have is that, although the book is time stamped at 2017, i.e. it's in the past, the U.S. president is some guy called Ferguson. Last time I checked it was Trump. I wouldn't mind so much, but the author uses the real Russian president's name. What's going on there? The second gripe I have is that the Russian word "dermo", which the author uses a lot, is never used as an expletive as the equivalent word in English (and other European languages) is. Those technical issues aside, I also find it hard to relate to any of the characters in even a semi-meaningful way. I had enjoyed a previous outing with MC Jayne Robinson, but this one is stuck in 2nd gear.
December 16, 2023
A fast paced thriller!
I've read all Andrews books and I find his story telling riveting, The Dam Keeper is no exception. The books go at a fast pace and are difficult to put down, just one more chapter I keep saying! This book is very relevant to the current situation in Ukraine and there is a fine line between fact and fiction. So glad to hear there will be a Jayne Robinson,book six but sorry to hear about his personal loss. Keep up the good work Andrew, the more books the better!
I've read all Andrews books and I find his story telling riveting, The Dam Keeper is no exception. The books go at a fast pace and are difficult to put down, just one more chapter I keep saying! This book is very relevant to the current situation in Ukraine and there is a fine line between fact and fiction. So glad to hear there will be a Jayne Robinson,book six but sorry to hear about his personal loss. Keep up the good work Andrew, the more books the better!
November 21, 2023
A sadly believable story linked to Russia and Ukraine. The 5th book in the series about ex-MI6 agent, freelance investigator, Jayne Robinson, begins with an unsuspecting flirtation in Frankfurt that has far-flung repercussions, with a potentially devastating twist.
I have read all the published books in this series and also the Joe Johnson books, in which his partner, Jayne, also features. I highly recommend Andrew Turpin as an author to put on your reading list.
I have read all the published books in this series and also the Joe Johnson books, in which his partner, Jayne, also features. I highly recommend Andrew Turpin as an author to put on your reading list.
December 9, 2023
I am a huge fan of this series by Turpin. This is the 5th in the Jayne Robinson thrillers and it had me on the edge of my seat from the start to the exciting conclusion. Quick paced action takes us from Frankfurt, Germany to the Ukraine, Putin’s palace on the Black Sea and ultimately to the American southwest. Jayne is hot on the trail of a Russian plot to keep America from intervening in the upcoming Ukraine war. I will
Be waiting anxiously for the next book to be written!
Be waiting anxiously for the next book to be written!
December 5, 2023
Exciting espionage and technology
Many segments of this story offer international intrigue and surprising traitors. Each chapter seems like a separate scene. I wonder if President Putin learns how fiction writers portray Russian government. Could Jayne Robinson utter alternate expletives besides the stereotypical British one?
Many segments of this story offer international intrigue and surprising traitors. Each chapter seems like a separate scene. I wonder if President Putin learns how fiction writers portray Russian government. Could Jayne Robinson utter alternate expletives besides the stereotypical British one?
December 15, 2023
This book is the 5th in the "Jayne Robinson" series by Andrew Turpin. I've enjoyed all of the Robinson series books and this one was no exception. The series has some interesting links with the author's "Joe Johnson" series. While I've appreciated reading the two series in order, it's certainly not necessary, as the novels do well as standalones as well.
January 11, 2025
Great book series
I have enjoyed every book in this series with nonstop excitement. But I believe this is my favorite. "Dam those Russians" they are such a burr in the west saddle. I thought back in the 1990's they were getting on right path but now no not with men like Putin and men like him pure evil monsters. Get reading on this series you will not be disappointed.
I have enjoyed every book in this series with nonstop excitement. But I believe this is my favorite. "Dam those Russians" they are such a burr in the west saddle. I thought back in the 1990's they were getting on right path but now no not with men like Putin and men like him pure evil monsters. Get reading on this series you will not be disappointed.
November 19, 2023
once again andrew has done a fantastic job of research and story telling.
jayne and the cast of characters come through again.
i suggest reading the series in order, however andrew does a good job of reviewing past books , that you could read it before the others
jayne and the cast of characters come through again.
i suggest reading the series in order, however andrew does a good job of reviewing past books , that you could read it before the others
December 3, 2023
Dam good read
The older Jayne gets, the better she gets, and this is one of her best adventures yet. As much as she depends on the help of her cohorts she is capable of handling herself when the situation demands action. One tough old broad.
The older Jayne gets, the better she gets, and this is one of her best adventures yet. As much as she depends on the help of her cohorts she is capable of handling herself when the situation demands action. One tough old broad.
December 26, 2023
Damn good
Jayne Robinson continues her good work and Andrew Turpin continues to excel. Great story, twists and turns galore. Undoubtedly Americans at work wanting to show Russiai in bad light. No needless gore but sharp and crisp story telling. Waiting for the next one.
Jayne Robinson continues her good work and Andrew Turpin continues to excel. Great story, twists and turns galore. Undoubtedly Americans at work wanting to show Russiai in bad light. No needless gore but sharp and crisp story telling. Waiting for the next one.
December 30, 2023
Andrew Turpin tells an exciting tale from 2017 about the intrepid British MI6 agent Jayne Robinson who skillfully works to protect Ukraine from Russian attack, manipulates highly placed Russian agents, and operates with CIA and FBI agents to protect the USA. While The Dam Keeper is fiction, it relies on current events which causes readers to think about them.
June 24, 2024
Another exciting thriller from Andrew Turpin, this book builds on the last few Jayne Robinson stories. Filled with its usual mysteries, twists and danger, this is a really great addition to the series.
October 31, 2023
As always with Andrew's books, this is both very well researched and topical. The action never lets up and it is good to rediscover Jayne, the heroine who is as alert and fit as ever.
November 8, 2023
An edge of the seat page turner. Action from start to finish, with a great cast of characters. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
December 2, 2023
Another excellent book by Andrew Turpin! I’ve come to expect nothing less from this incredible author!! Jayne comes face to face with Putin! This drama had nonstop action and keeps u on the edge of your seat! The storyline was so excellently and intricately woven together seamlessly like only Andrew Turpin can do! This is a high octane thriller, mystery and scarily close to current affairs! It deals with Ukraine, Russia and the US and what a balancing act it truly was and is before Russia attacked Ukraine. The author is very knowledgeable and does extensive research and it shows! I highly recommend this book, series and author! All r excellent!
December 1, 2023
Another thriller from Andrew Turpin with twists and turns from start to finish. With all that is currently happening in Ukraine this is uncannily prescient with black ops and blackmail thrown in.
December 22, 2023
A Page turner
A fast moving intricate plot, which keeps the reader guessing.
Well written and gripping, I could not put it down.
A fast moving intricate plot, which keeps the reader guessing.
Well written and gripping, I could not put it down.
December 30, 2023
Another great Andrew Turpin book
I’ve read every Andrew Turpin book; ‘The Dam Keeper’ was excellent as expected! I look forward to the next one!
I’ve read every Andrew Turpin book; ‘The Dam Keeper’ was excellent as expected! I look forward to the next one!
February 1, 2024
This is a good book that also provides historical context to “water wars” which have been going on throughout millennia. Good historical fiction in my view.
July 12, 2024
Close call
Another great story of intrigue and action ,what more can the various Russian security organisations do to catch Jayne Robinson out.
Another great story of intrigue and action ,what more can the various Russian security organisations do to catch Jayne Robinson out.
June 12, 2025
Goodness!
Quite a story. Jayne certainly knows how to get into scrapes. This book left me breathless! I was both glad and sad when it ended. I need book six!
Quite a story. Jayne certainly knows how to get into scrapes. This book left me breathless! I was both glad and sad when it ended. I need book six!
November 21, 2023
Another fantastic edge of your seat spy thriller from the pen of Andrew.
There were two climaxes in this tale, both had the adrenaline flowing at full speed.
A most excellent read.
I apologize for not being a long review but this is a book of the highest quality. You’ll be sorry if you miss it.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book for your reading pleasure.
There were two climaxes in this tale, both had the adrenaline flowing at full speed.
A most excellent read.
I apologize for not being a long review but this is a book of the highest quality. You’ll be sorry if you miss it.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book for your reading pleasure.
January 12, 2024
certainly a triller
Hard to put down. Recommend it highly, my only objection was the use of the Mansion on the Black Sea, home of Putin. Could it ever have been compromised?
Hard to put down. Recommend it highly, my only objection was the use of the Mansion on the Black Sea, home of Putin. Could it ever have been compromised?
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews