Books Like...

In "The Key to Rebecca" by Ken Follett, the story is set in Cairo during World War II, where a German spy named Alex Wolff is on a mission to steal British military plans to aid Field Marshall Rommel's invasion of Egypt. The protagonist, Major William Vandam, is a British intelligence officer dedicated to catching Wolff. The cat-and-mouse game between the spy and the intelligence officer unfolds against the backdrop of the war in Africa, with themes of espionage, romance, and betrayal intertwining in the plot. The writing style is described as tightly written with good characterization, capturing the essence of big cities in the Near East, and keeping the reader riveted till the end.

Donald Harstad's 'Eleven Days' is a police procedural set in small town Iowa, starting with a Satanic multiple murder and getting more complicated from there. The first-person narrator, Carl Houseman, deputy sheriff in Nation County, tells the story in a deadpan, occasionally stream of consciousness voice that is original, authentic and engaging. The twists and turns in the plot are satisfying, with just enough action and not an excessive amount of blood in the climax. The writing style is tight overall, with short sentences and fragments appropriate to the situations, although some readers find the inner thoughts of Carl Houseman a bit excessive.

Set during World War II, 'Eye of the Needle' by Ken Follett is a thrilling spy novel that follows the story of a German spy known as 'The Needle' who holds crucial information that could change the course of the war. As British Military Intelligence races to stop him from reaching Hitler with the information, the suspense builds up relentlessly to a thrilling climax. The novel expertly blends historical events surrounding the lead-up to D-Day with a gripping spy narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Follett's writing style in 'Eye of the Needle' is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and full of action and adventure. The characters are starkly drawn, the intensity is palpable, and the plot keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns. The author successfully creates a sense of realism and intrigue, providing insight into the life and times during World War II while delivering a compelling spy mystery that captures the imagination of readers.

"Death in Bloodhound Red" by Virginia Lanier is the first book in the series featuring Jo Beth Sidden, a tough and ardent feminist who raises and trains bloodhounds for tracking in Georgia. The book is described as a great mystery that is different from most, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the Deep South, especially during perilous treks through the Okefenokee Swamp. The bloodhounds in the story are not just background props but are central characters, showcasing their lore, history, training, and affectionate disposition.

Jo Beth Sidden is portrayed as a strong, intelligent, and flawed woman who is deeply connected to her dogs. The book also delves into the complexities of her life, including her mysterious childhood spent in dire poverty and her deceased father who was a famous artist. Readers are drawn into the suspenseful and atmospheric mystery that is intricately plotted, making it a captivating read for fans of authors like Sue Grafton, Margaret Maron, and Nevada Barr.

'The Osterman Weekend' by Robert Ludlum is a cold war spy thriller set in the early 1970s, involving a complex plot against American interests. The story revolves around a group of four couples who are friends but are caught up in suspicion, manipulation, and betrayal as they are unknowingly involved in a Soviet plot orchestrated by the CIA. The plot builds tension as the protagonist, John Tanner, is enlisted by the CIA to uncover the secret agents among his friends during a weekend gathering, leading to a climax of action and suspense.

The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, with crazy plot twists that keep the readers guessing. The story is filled with espionage, manipulation, friendship, fear, and murder, creating a thrilling narrative that unfolds quickly, engaging the readers till the end.

Lie Down with Lions by Ken Follett is a gripping espionage thriller set during the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The story follows a complex love triangle involving Jane, an English nurse, Ellis, a CIA agent, and Jean Pierre, a French physician, as they navigate treacherous political landscapes and personal betrayals in the midst of war. With detailed descriptions of the Afghan culture and the harsh realities of the conflict, the book weaves together elements of romance, espionage, and suspense to create a captivating narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The plot of Lie Down with Lions unfolds through multiple perspectives, offering insights into the characters' motivations and the intricacies of their relationships. As the story delves into themes of deception, loyalty, and survival, it builds tension through unexpected plot twists and high-stakes confrontations. Ken Follett's writing style is characterized by its evocative descriptions, well-developed characters, and intricate storytelling, making it a compelling read for fans of espionage thrillers and historical fiction.

The Armor of Light is a historical fiction novel set in late 17th and 18th Century England, focusing on the French Revolution, Napoleon's rise and fall, the industrial revolution, and class struggles of the era. The book weaves together the lives of memorable characters, both fictional and historical, against the backdrop of the changing times. The narrative delves into the everyday lives of mill workers, soldiers, industrialists, and politicians, showcasing the tough working conditions and societal changes of the time period.

The story spans approximately 30 years, offering a perspective on how England nearly became French and how history can turn on the events of a single day, such as the Battle of Waterloo. Ken Follett skillfully blends fiction and history, providing insights into the evolution of the textile industry, the Napoleonic Wars, and the societal unrest caused by industrial advancements. Despite the complex historical background and numerous characters, the narrative flows smoothly, engaging readers with its original plot and well-developed characters.

The Camel Club by David Baldacci is a conspiracy thriller that follows a group of Washington, D.C. misfits known as The Camel Club. When they witness a murder of a Secret Service employee, they are thrust into a larger conspiracy involving a plot to kidnap the President and start a world war. The book is filled with political intrigue, espionage, and suspense, with a writing style that keeps readers guessing and engaged throughout the story.

The novel delves into themes of political conspiracies, national security issues, and the blurred lines between truth and fiction. As the Camel Club members navigate through a web of deceit and danger, they uncover shocking revelations that challenge their beliefs and push them to take action to save their country from a looming nuclear disaster. Baldacci's writing style weaves together complex characters, fast-paced plot twists, and subtle commentary on current events, creating a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

"A Dangerous Fortune" by Ken Follett follows the lives of the Pilaster Family, particularly focusing on Hugh, over a span of 30 plus years. The story revolves around family conflict, tensions, and manipulation set against the backdrop of the late 1800s English banking scene. The plot includes elements of mystery, intrigue, treachery, and character development, with a narrative that spans generations and intertwines various relationships and events.

delves into themes of deception, family dynamics, financial chicanery, loveless marriages, murder, and the impact of individual decisions on the future. It is described as a page-turner with a fast-paced plot, rich and believable characters, and a blend of suspense, greed, retribution, and complex relationships. The writing style is praised for its detail, historical accuracy, and the ability to engage readers with a well-crafted storyline that balances darkness with humor.

'Edge of Eternity' by Ken Follett is the final installment in 'The Century Trilogy' covering major historical events from the 1960s to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Through the intertwined lives of multiple families, the novel delves into the political climate of superpowers like America and Russia, exploring personal perspectives on significant events like the Berlin Wall crisis, civil rights movements, and the end of the Cold War. While some readers appreciated the detailed portrayal of the 1960s, others felt that the book focused more on political history than character development, with occasional criticisms of biased writing and excessive emphasis on certain historical figures.