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The Names of the Dead
They locked him up. Now he's out - for revenge.
Former CIA officer James 'Wes' Wesley paid the ultimate price for his patriotism when he was locked up in a French jail for an anti-terror operation gone wrong - abandoned by the Agency he served, shunned by his colleagues and friends, cut off from his family.
Now he is shattered by the news that his ex-wife, Rachel, a State Department analyst, has been killed in a terrorist attack in Spain. He also discovers that his young son, Ethan, is missing. But Wes didn't know he had a son - until now.
Why was Rachel in Spain? And why did she keep his son secret from him?
Granted early release, Wes takes flight across Europe to search for the truth and exact his revenge. But can he catch the spies who betrayed him before they track him down? In order to find the answers and save his son, Wes realises he must confront the dark secrets in his own past - before it's too late.
Former CIA officer James 'Wes' Wesley paid the ultimate price for his patriotism when he was locked up in a French jail for an anti-terror operation gone wrong - abandoned by the Agency he served, shunned by his colleagues and friends, cut off from his family.
Now he is shattered by the news that his ex-wife, Rachel, a State Department analyst, has been killed in a terrorist attack in Spain. He also discovers that his young son, Ethan, is missing. But Wes didn't know he had a son - until now.
Why was Rachel in Spain? And why did she keep his son secret from him?
Granted early release, Wes takes flight across Europe to search for the truth and exact his revenge. But can he catch the spies who betrayed him before they track him down? In order to find the answers and save his son, Wes realises he must confront the dark secrets in his own past - before it's too late.
252 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2020
5691 people are currently reading
4274 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Wignall
41 books560 followersArmy Child till age nine.
Settled back in a small town in the west of England.
Lancaster University - degree in Politics &
International Relations.
Writer.
Also writes as K.J. Wignall
Email: kevin@kevinwignall.com
Settled back in a small town in the west of England.
Lancaster University - degree in Politics &
International Relations.
Writer.
Also writes as K.J. Wignall
Email: kevin@kevinwignall.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 640 reviews
February 1, 2020
A bomb goes off in a small courtyard in Granada killing several people, including Rachel Richards. James Wesley - Wes, ex-CIA is in prison in France for shooting down ‘the wrong helicopter’ but he’s been set up by fellow CIA agent and former friend Sam Garvey. Rachel is Wes’s ex wife. Their son Ethan, whose existence Wes was unaware of until the bomb, is missing. Where is he? Why is Rachel dead? What corruption lies at the heart of CIA operations in the Middle East that led to Wes’s incarceration? Wes is released from prison early to search for his son. This is the premise of this fast paced and easy to read conspiracy/espionage thriller which I really enjoyed.
I like the characters in this book and you feel invested in Wes being successful. Although he is dispassionate about what he has to do to get to the truth and he has gained a reputation for being a determined officer, he has a kind of honour to him too. He is dogged in his pursuit of his son and to get to those who set him up and try to kill him. He meets Croatian Mia Pavic who I think is a fantastic character. She is undoubtedly autistic but I love her way of looking at situations and her straight forward approach to life. She is very religious and likes to visit cathedrals and churches during the search and I love the way she uses biblical quotes to convey messages to Wes. The setting is good too - they travel across France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and to Croatia where there is a dramatic conclusion and Wes gets what he hopes for.
Overall, a good thriller which kept my attention and interest throughout.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the ARC
Expected publication in the UK 1/2/20.
I like the characters in this book and you feel invested in Wes being successful. Although he is dispassionate about what he has to do to get to the truth and he has gained a reputation for being a determined officer, he has a kind of honour to him too. He is dogged in his pursuit of his son and to get to those who set him up and try to kill him. He meets Croatian Mia Pavic who I think is a fantastic character. She is undoubtedly autistic but I love her way of looking at situations and her straight forward approach to life. She is very religious and likes to visit cathedrals and churches during the search and I love the way she uses biblical quotes to convey messages to Wes. The setting is good too - they travel across France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and to Croatia where there is a dramatic conclusion and Wes gets what he hopes for.
Overall, a good thriller which kept my attention and interest throughout.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the ARC
Expected publication in the UK 1/2/20.
April 26, 2020
Q:
... I’m just a normal person.”
“I’m not sure I believe that.”
“Well, Dr. Leclerc, your beliefs are among the many things over which I currently have absolutely no control.” (c)
Q:
“A history of the Qing Dynasty?”
“Yeah. I’m not sure why it interests me—maybe it’s all the plotting and intrigue, betrayal, revenge. The Chinese knew a thing or two about exacting revenge.”
Leclerc looked in danger of jumping out of his chair in excitement.
“I see, and does that appeal to your—”
“Relax, Dr. Leclerc, I’m messing with you. I’m not planning on revenge—I just like history.” (c)
Q:
“You see the fence, I see a Garden of Eden.” (c)
Q:
... she seemed to view life through a filter, with reality always at a step’s remove from her idiosyncratic internal universe. (c)
Q:
How things had changed, how easily cooperation had become collusion, how quickly a diplomatic and strategic success had become something that needed to be buried. (с)
Q:
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (c)
... I’m just a normal person.”
“I’m not sure I believe that.”
“Well, Dr. Leclerc, your beliefs are among the many things over which I currently have absolutely no control.” (c)
Q:
“A history of the Qing Dynasty?”
“Yeah. I’m not sure why it interests me—maybe it’s all the plotting and intrigue, betrayal, revenge. The Chinese knew a thing or two about exacting revenge.”
Leclerc looked in danger of jumping out of his chair in excitement.
“I see, and does that appeal to your—”
“Relax, Dr. Leclerc, I’m messing with you. I’m not planning on revenge—I just like history.” (c)
Q:
“You see the fence, I see a Garden of Eden.” (c)
Q:
... she seemed to view life through a filter, with reality always at a step’s remove from her idiosyncratic internal universe. (c)
Q:
How things had changed, how easily cooperation had become collusion, how quickly a diplomatic and strategic success had become something that needed to be buried. (с)
Q:
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (c)
December 12, 2019
The Name of the Dead is the third book I have read by Kevin Wignall
I had also enjoyed The Traitor's Story, and To Die in Vienna. However I must admit that this espionage/thriller was my favourite so far. I am rating it a 4 star, but if I could - I would give it a half star more
It starts off in Granada Spain where Former CIA officer James ‘Wes’ Wesley's wife is killed in a terrorist attack, and the pace does not let up throughout the book.
The spot where the opening scene takes place sounds very similar to a spot where I had visited only two years ago, so this caught my immediate attention!
Kevin Wignall does a great job not only with the pace and storyline, but also has a way of bringing the reader along in relating to the characters.
Really good book, that I would highly recommend to all those fans of his books, and also those who have not read any of his at all.
Thanks you to Author Kevin Wignall, NetGalley, and Amazon Publishing UK. for my early release copy, to review
#TheNamesoftheDead #NetGalley
I had also enjoyed The Traitor's Story, and To Die in Vienna. However I must admit that this espionage/thriller was my favourite so far. I am rating it a 4 star, but if I could - I would give it a half star more
It starts off in Granada Spain where Former CIA officer James ‘Wes’ Wesley's wife is killed in a terrorist attack, and the pace does not let up throughout the book.
The spot where the opening scene takes place sounds very similar to a spot where I had visited only two years ago, so this caught my immediate attention!
Kevin Wignall does a great job not only with the pace and storyline, but also has a way of bringing the reader along in relating to the characters.
Really good book, that I would highly recommend to all those fans of his books, and also those who have not read any of his at all.
Thanks you to Author Kevin Wignall, NetGalley, and Amazon Publishing UK. for my early release copy, to review
#TheNamesoftheDead #NetGalley
June 27, 2022
Former CIA Agent Wesley is in a very nice little prison which holds only the best criminals, whether or not they have committed a crime. The residents are primarily those who have been convicted of war crimes - some of whom have actually committed the crimes for which they were imprisoned. Wesley spends a fair amount of his time painting landscapes with the one-time leader of God´s Own Army in Africa, an affable man named Pierre, with whom Wesley has developed quite a nice relationship.
One day, Wesley is summoned to the director´s office to be informed that his ex-wife has been killed by a terrorist bombing. He still loved her and was significantly taken aback at the news. Then, a short time later, for some unfathomable reason, Wesley is set free. This is a gift horse into whose mouth Wesley must peer. His wife, also a CIA agent, is now dead and it turns out that she had a son, who is almost certainly Wes´.
His ex-wife had divorced him just after he was sentenced to prison but, it seems, she may have done so for optics and then proceeded to find evidence of his innocence. Which may have led to her death. Three of Wesley´s ex-CIA colleagues are there to pick him up to take him.....where? Wesley figures that they are there to kill him so he and his only possession, a Bible given to him by Pierre, fly into action. Three dead agents later, Wesley now has nowhere to go and no way to get there. A car drives slowly up to him. Could it contain another threat? Actually, the woman driving the car, who seems a bit off to Wesley, offers him a ride. He eventually accepts and later finds out that she is the daughter of a fellow prisoner, General Pavic, who had recently died and is possibly autistic. Together they throw themselves into quite an adventure and, in the process become quite close.
Kevin Wignall, in my egotistical opinion simply can´t write a bad or even a mediocre book. Each of his books that I have read has had a very unique, extremely well-crafted plot. They have all had exceptional characters that were beautifully developed. Like Wignall´s previous books, I found The Names of the Dead to be incredibly engaging and enormously enjoyable to read. I only wish that he could write them as fast as I can read them. His understated writing style is fluid and elegant but is never intended to impress the reader with its elegance or the breadth of his vocabulary. Each book is a standalone so the order in which one reads them, matters little.
This one contains a little more action than most of his books but not nearly enough for an action junkie. I unreservedly recommend The Names of the Dead to those who enjoy a stylishly conceived and well-written thriller.
Fini
One day, Wesley is summoned to the director´s office to be informed that his ex-wife has been killed by a terrorist bombing. He still loved her and was significantly taken aback at the news. Then, a short time later, for some unfathomable reason, Wesley is set free. This is a gift horse into whose mouth Wesley must peer. His wife, also a CIA agent, is now dead and it turns out that she had a son, who is almost certainly Wes´.
His ex-wife had divorced him just after he was sentenced to prison but, it seems, she may have done so for optics and then proceeded to find evidence of his innocence. Which may have led to her death. Three of Wesley´s ex-CIA colleagues are there to pick him up to take him.....where? Wesley figures that they are there to kill him so he and his only possession, a Bible given to him by Pierre, fly into action. Three dead agents later, Wesley now has nowhere to go and no way to get there. A car drives slowly up to him. Could it contain another threat? Actually, the woman driving the car, who seems a bit off to Wesley, offers him a ride. He eventually accepts and later finds out that she is the daughter of a fellow prisoner, General Pavic, who had recently died and is possibly autistic. Together they throw themselves into quite an adventure and, in the process become quite close.
Kevin Wignall, in my egotistical opinion simply can´t write a bad or even a mediocre book. Each of his books that I have read has had a very unique, extremely well-crafted plot. They have all had exceptional characters that were beautifully developed. Like Wignall´s previous books, I found The Names of the Dead to be incredibly engaging and enormously enjoyable to read. I only wish that he could write them as fast as I can read them. His understated writing style is fluid and elegant but is never intended to impress the reader with its elegance or the breadth of his vocabulary. Each book is a standalone so the order in which one reads them, matters little.
This one contains a little more action than most of his books but not nearly enough for an action junkie. I unreservedly recommend The Names of the Dead to those who enjoy a stylishly conceived and well-written thriller.
Fini
January 2, 2020
An espionage revenge story spanning from prison in France to several European countries. The book starts with an explosion in Granada that kills several people, including Wes’s ex-wife Rachel. Wes is in a French prison that holds war criminals when he learns of her death, but also that the son he didn’t know he had hasn’t been found yet. He has known for a while he was setup for what he is in prison for and who exactly had set him up, but now he has reason to believe that those responsible are trying to tie up loose ends. Soon the French prison lets Wes out due to these special circumstances, but it’s literally minutes into his release when things start escalating.
One of the best things going for this story is a very interesting supporting character in Mia. Most of the time in espionage stories you might see another character who is very skilled in something spy-related, perhaps they have a network of contacts, or know how to handle explosives. However, Mia is not like this in any way, shape, or form and I doubt you will find another espionage story with a supporting character like her. I loved how she was presented within the book, from the questions she asks to her outlook on life, not to mention all the conversations between Wes and Mia as he tries to explain things to her, or their discussions regarding deep matters of conscience or morality. Any scene with her in it and her interactions with others was my absolute favorite part of the story.
Another positive is how the various famous sites and locations in Spain and Portugal are used or referenced. There are no dead-drops in the tourist sections that you might see in other spy books, but instead we follow Wes and Mia as they navigate through the various locations Rachel went to prior to the explosion at the cafe giving us a book-tourist view of the countries.
In comparing this story to other espionage stories it should be pointed out that this is not a high-tech type book and isn’t one that constantly uses all the latest gadgets and whistles. Instead, it is just a lot of retracing Rachel’s steps and trying to find out what they can from the little bits of conversations they have with various individuals they meet. And although there is action in the story it is not constant action, which I appreciated since it allowed me to enjoy all the conversations and moments with Mia in it.
Rating: 4 stars
One of the best things going for this story is a very interesting supporting character in Mia. Most of the time in espionage stories you might see another character who is very skilled in something spy-related, perhaps they have a network of contacts, or know how to handle explosives. However, Mia is not like this in any way, shape, or form and I doubt you will find another espionage story with a supporting character like her. I loved how she was presented within the book, from the questions she asks to her outlook on life, not to mention all the conversations between Wes and Mia as he tries to explain things to her, or their discussions regarding deep matters of conscience or morality. Any scene with her in it and her interactions with others was my absolute favorite part of the story.
Another positive is how the various famous sites and locations in Spain and Portugal are used or referenced. There are no dead-drops in the tourist sections that you might see in other spy books, but instead we follow Wes and Mia as they navigate through the various locations Rachel went to prior to the explosion at the cafe giving us a book-tourist view of the countries.
In comparing this story to other espionage stories it should be pointed out that this is not a high-tech type book and isn’t one that constantly uses all the latest gadgets and whistles. Instead, it is just a lot of retracing Rachel’s steps and trying to find out what they can from the little bits of conversations they have with various individuals they meet. And although there is action in the story it is not constant action, which I appreciated since it allowed me to enjoy all the conversations and moments with Mia in it.
Rating: 4 stars
November 19, 2019
The Names of the Dead is a thrilling espionage story set in Europe though the backstory to it is set in the Turkish border areas to Syria and Iraq. It is the story of an agent betrayed by his team, abandoned by them, set up, sent to prison for three years and left to wonder what happened. Upon his early release for his ex wife’s death in a terror bombing, his worst fears are realized when the agency has turned against him. And he has to make his way to Spain to unravel the mystery and pick up the pieces of his former live. As a now rogue agent with only one ally in the world, Mia, an unusual woman who came upon Wes by happenstance and stuck with him, perhaps recognizing in him a warrior such as her late father, a beloved figure in Croatia.
The Names of the Dead stands out from the usual espionage fare because of how quickly and personally the reader is drawn to Wes’ story. You can immediately feel how alive he is and how determined to find the truth. The pacing of the story works perfectly and it is believable. This could really work well as a movie with the right cast.
The Names of the Dead stands out from the usual espionage fare because of how quickly and personally the reader is drawn to Wes’ story. You can immediately feel how alive he is and how determined to find the truth. The pacing of the story works perfectly and it is believable. This could really work well as a movie with the right cast.
March 4, 2020
Here is an author everyone should read, especially if they like the modern spy genre.
I was therefore delighted when I got the chance to read this Advanced Reader’s Copy, ARC and of course, naturally pumped, to share my review.
I never start a book assuming it will be a page turner; a can’t put down enchanting escape or a must read, based purely on the writer.
However, with authors you have previously enjoyed, you pick up the book with anticipation and a knowing sense of reader’s joy. That is, the sense that the book is going to be a treat and a pleasure to read.
I was not disappointed. I never got lost along the way and with each passing page it was like spending time with a special friend.
Wignall applies great insight into the grey areas of agents, spies we used to call them, but those operatives that carry out dark policies in foreign lands which a state can distance themselves from and deny involvement in.
Wes is languishing in prison as a result of a friendly fire incident, consequently he has been disavowed by his government and deemed a rogue operative who exceeded his mandate and deserves his punishment.
Meanwhile in Spain a terrorist attack has left a number of tourists and local people dead.
Wes has no idea that this event, seemingly unconnected to him will change his life and offer a chance to redeem himself, even clear his name.
The author layers his novels so well; little is wasted in the telling of the story, all actions and motives are usually clear and understandable.
I like this trust in his readers and it makes a more simple but richer story. It is a novel about finding yourself; listening and accepting what others think about you.
A clear action thriller that takes Wes across Europe in his search for the truth and justice.
The idiosyncrasies of one of the characters is so wonderfully written, the book is worth reading for all of their interactions alone.
However, it is a must read simply because is is that good.
Buyer beware for new readers to this author you have just discovered a gem there are so many other stories in print to source and purchase. All of which I equally recommend. I almost envy the journey of discovery that awaits you.
I was therefore delighted when I got the chance to read this Advanced Reader’s Copy, ARC and of course, naturally pumped, to share my review.
I never start a book assuming it will be a page turner; a can’t put down enchanting escape or a must read, based purely on the writer.
However, with authors you have previously enjoyed, you pick up the book with anticipation and a knowing sense of reader’s joy. That is, the sense that the book is going to be a treat and a pleasure to read.
I was not disappointed. I never got lost along the way and with each passing page it was like spending time with a special friend.
Wignall applies great insight into the grey areas of agents, spies we used to call them, but those operatives that carry out dark policies in foreign lands which a state can distance themselves from and deny involvement in.
Wes is languishing in prison as a result of a friendly fire incident, consequently he has been disavowed by his government and deemed a rogue operative who exceeded his mandate and deserves his punishment.
Meanwhile in Spain a terrorist attack has left a number of tourists and local people dead.
Wes has no idea that this event, seemingly unconnected to him will change his life and offer a chance to redeem himself, even clear his name.
The author layers his novels so well; little is wasted in the telling of the story, all actions and motives are usually clear and understandable.
I like this trust in his readers and it makes a more simple but richer story. It is a novel about finding yourself; listening and accepting what others think about you.
A clear action thriller that takes Wes across Europe in his search for the truth and justice.
The idiosyncrasies of one of the characters is so wonderfully written, the book is worth reading for all of their interactions alone.
However, it is a must read simply because is is that good.
Buyer beware for new readers to this author you have just discovered a gem there are so many other stories in print to source and purchase. All of which I equally recommend. I almost envy the journey of discovery that awaits you.
April 2, 2020
Avery good former ex CIA book . This is the third book by this author I have read and by far the best. I liked the main character and his co-hort they clicked very well together. The story moved at a good pace it was not an over the top action thriller but it did have some good realistic scenes. The dialogue was good and the overall story was good if you believe in bad agents. It had some introspective scenes where the main character reflected on his past and who he was and why he did what he did for his Country. The ending may have been a little to tidy but the very end made good sense was bitter sweet and went in the right direction without giving too much away. I would give this book around 4.2 stars. I say go out and give this book a big spin.
February 2, 2020
An 'OK' book in every aspect; the characters are OK, the plot devices are OK, the story is OK, but I wouldn't call it good. There are just far too many fortunate events and coincidences that push the story along.
The tone is set with the initial encounter with Mia, where for reasons still unexplained at the end of the story, she conveniently decides to accompany him as they pootle about various European tourist destinations seeking one loose thread or the other. It appears her purpose is to serve as nothing but a convenience function, who also happens to be, and I quote "I'm rich" - yeah, nobody says that unless they've just won a lottery.
The story, well, is just too convenient. Absolutely every hotel they visit on their hunt for information has the right people giving the right information at the right time remembering the right things or saying the right things. So that actually is a comment on the pacing; the pacing appears as though it's asking to be made into a TV series or movie, which takes away some of the enjoyment for me.
The tone is set with the initial encounter with Mia, where for reasons still unexplained at the end of the story, she conveniently decides to accompany him as they pootle about various European tourist destinations seeking one loose thread or the other. It appears her purpose is to serve as nothing but a convenience function, who also happens to be, and I quote "I'm rich" - yeah, nobody says that unless they've just won a lottery.
The story, well, is just too convenient. Absolutely every hotel they visit on their hunt for information has the right people giving the right information at the right time remembering the right things or saying the right things. So that actually is a comment on the pacing; the pacing appears as though it's asking to be made into a TV series or movie, which takes away some of the enjoyment for me.
May 5, 2021
An entertaining and well written Kindle First book; what a rare treat!
Memorable, unique characters help the story move along at a good pace. The main character, released from prison early due to the death of his wife, manages to outwit the team of killers set to pick him up. He is “rescued“ by the strange daughter of one of his former prisoners. Together they travel Europe hunting for a lost child and ultimately finding something else.
The writer does an excellent job of creating a sense of place from France across the Iberian Peninsula into Croatia and ultimately to Italy. The hotels come to life as do the small quiet places. The supporting characters all add to the story and each have logical connections to the main characters. The quest itself makes a few leaps that don’t always add up but all in all, the story holds together well.
Memorable, unique characters help the story move along at a good pace. The main character, released from prison early due to the death of his wife, manages to outwit the team of killers set to pick him up. He is “rescued“ by the strange daughter of one of his former prisoners. Together they travel Europe hunting for a lost child and ultimately finding something else.
The writer does an excellent job of creating a sense of place from France across the Iberian Peninsula into Croatia and ultimately to Italy. The hotels come to life as do the small quiet places. The supporting characters all add to the story and each have logical connections to the main characters. The quest itself makes a few leaps that don’t always add up but all in all, the story holds together well.
August 12, 2020
I first started to be concerned when there was nothing in the first 50 pages to make me like this guy. On the contrary: he has a cavalier attitude about the deaths that led to him being in prison (and why is this such a cushy country club prison?); he's friends with a fellow inmate who’s a warlord & speaks highly of another who’s a war criminal (but he doesn’t like his ex-wife’s friend??); although her death propels the plot, he doesn’t speak of his ex (who was quick to divorce him) as any kind of great love; and his parents & sisters have cut off all contact with him.
Unfortunately I never did warm up to Wes, who is emotionless throughout the book. His oddly passion-free demeanor prevents this from being the thriller the blurb suggests. And this is never about outsmarting his foes to prove his innocence. It’s just about killing them.
The problem with no character development to make you like him or root for him - and coupled with his flat aspect - is that you can easily believe that Wes might be the crazy, ruthless guy his former team says he is. He might just be the bad guy.
But what could’ve been an interesting look at a “good guy” who's as bad as the bad guys, never really takes much shape. If that was the intent, I think it misses the mark. He’s just an odd character and he’s traveling with an odd woman who is "somewhere on the spectrum”. And I’m not sure what her purpose was other than logistically to provide him with a driver & her credit card for expenses.
This was short (242 pages) and flowed smoothly enough for a quick read, but I should’ve followed my instincts and DNF.
Unfortunately I never did warm up to Wes, who is emotionless throughout the book. His oddly passion-free demeanor prevents this from being the thriller the blurb suggests. And this is never about outsmarting his foes to prove his innocence. It’s just about killing them.
The problem with no character development to make you like him or root for him - and coupled with his flat aspect - is that you can easily believe that Wes might be the crazy, ruthless guy his former team says he is. He might just be the bad guy.
But what could’ve been an interesting look at a “good guy” who's as bad as the bad guys, never really takes much shape. If that was the intent, I think it misses the mark. He’s just an odd character and he’s traveling with an odd woman who is "somewhere on the spectrum”. And I’m not sure what her purpose was other than logistically to provide him with a driver & her credit card for expenses.
This was short (242 pages) and flowed smoothly enough for a quick read, but I should’ve followed my instincts and DNF.
April 4, 2020
**Spoiler alert!!**
It was okay.
It was just very linear, and the entire plot completely hinged upon the shaky notion that Mia, the daughter of the VIP that Wes knew in his 3-year stint in prison, just HAPPENED to drive up on him as he was hobbling out of the woods after having sustained injury while killing the three men who were tasked with killing him. I had to suspend disbelief quite a bit to make this one work out.
The entire book I was hoping for some kind of plot twist with Mia. I was hoping that she was sent to collect Was after his run-in, that she was working for someone else who was out to get him and would later expose herself as a double agent. Then I was hoping somehow, some way she WAS that 12-year-old girl that Wes thought he killed, out to exact revenge. Something, some kind of plot twist.
Instead, it was just "here's what Wes needs to do, and here are all the steps that Wes took to achieve that end." Nothing shocked me. I kept waiting for that thing that would happen that would have me go "didn't see that one coming," and it just never came.
It was okay.
It was just very linear, and the entire plot completely hinged upon the shaky notion that Mia, the daughter of the VIP that Wes knew in his 3-year stint in prison, just HAPPENED to drive up on him as he was hobbling out of the woods after having sustained injury while killing the three men who were tasked with killing him. I had to suspend disbelief quite a bit to make this one work out.
The entire book I was hoping for some kind of plot twist with Mia. I was hoping that she was sent to collect Was after his run-in, that she was working for someone else who was out to get him and would later expose herself as a double agent. Then I was hoping somehow, some way she WAS that 12-year-old girl that Wes thought he killed, out to exact revenge. Something, some kind of plot twist.
Instead, it was just "here's what Wes needs to do, and here are all the steps that Wes took to achieve that end." Nothing shocked me. I kept waiting for that thing that would happen that would have me go "didn't see that one coming," and it just never came.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 29, 2020
Another great novel from the pen of the indomitable Mr Wignall - a spy thriller that is both addictive and quietly absorbing with an excellent main protagonist in Wes, who I totally engaged with.
When a terrorist attack kills his loved one and he discovers he has a son who is now missing, Wes sets off on a journey to the truth and takes the reader right along with him.
The writing is ever involving and I love how he manages the character dynamics- add to that a genuinely compelling plot and you have a winner.
Recommended.
When a terrorist attack kills his loved one and he discovers he has a son who is now missing, Wes sets off on a journey to the truth and takes the reader right along with him.
The writing is ever involving and I love how he manages the character dynamics- add to that a genuinely compelling plot and you have a winner.
Recommended.
January 2, 2021
Second novel by this author for me. Excellently written. Wignall writes a tight novel with very little wasted prose. Interesting primary character and good interaction with the secondary characters. Some leaps of faith but not enough to distract from the quality of the story.
Story moves from France to Spain, then on to Portugal, with the end game taking place in Croatia.
Kindle Unlimited.
Story moves from France to Spain, then on to Portugal, with the end game taking place in Croatia.
Kindle Unlimited.
January 6, 2020
Okay, so it is the Epiphany, but I actually had one - or maybe serencipity - when a few days ago I picked up his novel. I had just finished work on a 2017 trip I took to Southern Spain, and lo and behold! I was suddenly plunged into Granada, Seville and Madrid - three of the important scenes of action in the book, along with quite a leap, to Croatia, and finally to Milan.
The book itself? I like espionage fiction, and though the lead character is no longer an agent (having been wrongly accused of an "atrocity" and in jail for three years as it begins, he uses much of what he learned as he deals with members of his former team. He is aided in this by a seemingly fragile and frail, pale young woman who has an inner strength and faith. I don't want to go into more detail on the plot except to say that It is often violent, so if that's not your idea of a good read, you may want to pass.
It is not great espionage fiction, but except for having to summon a not always willing suspension of disbelief, the abilities of the hero straining my credulity, it is rather well written. It is also a very short and easy read - about 40 compact chapters (6-8 pages in length give or take a few of even less or a bit more in terms of page turning. As I write the last word I should note that I am an old guy with failing vision and read Kindles only these days, so I suppose I swipe rather than turn.
Have a look if you like - it's short and diverting and features a few very cool locations (not described in detail, but a nice reminder for the reader if s/he has been or goad to those who want to travel) in Europe.
The book itself? I like espionage fiction, and though the lead character is no longer an agent (having been wrongly accused of an "atrocity" and in jail for three years as it begins, he uses much of what he learned as he deals with members of his former team. He is aided in this by a seemingly fragile and frail, pale young woman who has an inner strength and faith. I don't want to go into more detail on the plot except to say that It is often violent, so if that's not your idea of a good read, you may want to pass.
It is not great espionage fiction, but except for having to summon a not always willing suspension of disbelief, the abilities of the hero straining my credulity, it is rather well written. It is also a very short and easy read - about 40 compact chapters (6-8 pages in length give or take a few of even less or a bit more in terms of page turning. As I write the last word I should note that I am an old guy with failing vision and read Kindles only these days, so I suppose I swipe rather than turn.
Have a look if you like - it's short and diverting and features a few very cool locations (not described in detail, but a nice reminder for the reader if s/he has been or goad to those who want to travel) in Europe.
January 17, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up. I enjoy this author but I don’t think that this is his best work. It isn’t bad, but he had other novels that are better. One of the things that I like is that while his books are spy/action thrillers, they also have a human interest element to make the story more interesting than just a bunch of men sneaking around and shooting each other in the name of justice. The element in this book was Wes’ search for his young son who is discovered to be missing after his mother (Wes’ ex-wife) was killed in a suicide bombing. Wes also befriends Mia, the autistic (?) daughter of one of his fellow inmates. Together they search for Wes’ son and the men who killed his ex-wife and framed Wes for crimes that he served time for. The best part of the book for me was Wes’ interactions with Mia, who I thought was the best character in the book. The reason for the 3.5 star ranking and not higher is that the action elements of the book were lacking. Wes makes some boneheaded moves that defy belief that he was a member of an elite special forces “grey team.” For instance, after he kills a former colleague, he sits around and ponders life for a while instead of getting the hell out of there. He uses his real name and passport to travel around, knowing that the CIA and other US government agencies consider him a highly dangerous criminal. And he does these boneheaded things all the while telling his adversaries that they aren’t as smart as him. Sigh. Wes gets lucky a lot but you do have to suspend some belief when you read these types of novels so don’t think too much and enjoy the read.
January 8, 2020
Rockingly good ride.
June 25, 2021
"[She] looked at the café, glanced at [her husband], he nodded, and they took a table. There was an elderly English couple next to them, chatting quietly; a woman with a small boy sitting in comfortable silence; a young man with a bomb in the backpack that lay at his feet; a woman writing a postcard."
Three years ago, Wes was sent to prison for a CIA operation that went wrong. Now he's being released following the death of his ex-wife in an apparent terrorist attack. But he's figured out that the people who betrayed him are probably also responsible for her death. And he'll stop at nothing to see them dead.
This is a pretty good spy-thriller, although a few things bothered me. First however, I liked that it was a pretty clean book. It doesn't dwell on violence and it doesn't try to shock the reader with disturbing imagery. (I'm not even sure if I remember reading any profanity.) The story isn't overly fast-paced and doesn't try to cover up a weak plot or story with a breathless whirlwind of events. That being said, it's a pretty straight-forward story, for better or worse. However, I'm not sure how I feel about the main character. He's not exactly a good guy, but he isn't one-dimensional either. The story unfortunately relies upon a lot of coincidences - kind of Deus ex machina - in order to move it along. The other character - Mia, a woman who helps Wes - is very odd. She has charm, but in an awkward "Rainman"-esque kind of way. Nonetheless, I like the ending, so while I'd probably say 3.5 stars, I'm comfortable rounding up to 4.
Three years ago, Wes was sent to prison for a CIA operation that went wrong. Now he's being released following the death of his ex-wife in an apparent terrorist attack. But he's figured out that the people who betrayed him are probably also responsible for her death. And he'll stop at nothing to see them dead.
This is a pretty good spy-thriller, although a few things bothered me. First however, I liked that it was a pretty clean book. It doesn't dwell on violence and it doesn't try to shock the reader with disturbing imagery. (I'm not even sure if I remember reading any profanity.) The story isn't overly fast-paced and doesn't try to cover up a weak plot or story with a breathless whirlwind of events. That being said, it's a pretty straight-forward story, for better or worse. However, I'm not sure how I feel about the main character. He's not exactly a good guy, but he isn't one-dimensional either. The story unfortunately relies upon a lot of coincidences - kind of Deus ex machina - in order to move it along. The other character - Mia, a woman who helps Wes - is very odd. She has charm, but in an awkward "Rainman"-esque kind of way. Nonetheless, I like the ending, so while I'd probably say 3.5 stars, I'm comfortable rounding up to 4.
February 3, 2020
‘They didn’t even need to discuss it.’
James ‘Wes’ Wesley is a former CIA agent. He was part of an anti-terrorism operation that went awry: the wrong helicopter was shot down. Abandoned by the CIA, Wes has been locked up in a French prison for three years. Isolated from friends and family, Wes is devastated to learn that his ex-wife Rachel was killed in a terrorist attack in Spain. Wes also learns that he and Rachel had a son, Ethan, who is also missing. What he doesn’t know is why Rachel was in Spain, and why she’d not told him about their son.
Wes is released from prison on compassionate grounds and sets out to try to find out who killed Rachel and why. But nothing is straightforward: some of his former colleagues would rather see him dead.
Wes joins forces with Mia, the daughter of a fellow inmate who’d recently died. Together they try to stay ahead of those pursuing Wes while trying to find Ethan and to uncover the truth about why Rachel was killed.
Wes’s search for answers takes him into the past. Dangerous territory where he can’t be sure who he can trust.
This is the first of Mr Wignall’s novels I’ve read, and I’m keen to read more. The story moves at a rapid pace, travelling through several different European locations. Mia is an enigmatic character who complements Wes well on his quest. And the ending? I really wanted to know what would happen next.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
James ‘Wes’ Wesley is a former CIA agent. He was part of an anti-terrorism operation that went awry: the wrong helicopter was shot down. Abandoned by the CIA, Wes has been locked up in a French prison for three years. Isolated from friends and family, Wes is devastated to learn that his ex-wife Rachel was killed in a terrorist attack in Spain. Wes also learns that he and Rachel had a son, Ethan, who is also missing. What he doesn’t know is why Rachel was in Spain, and why she’d not told him about their son.
Wes is released from prison on compassionate grounds and sets out to try to find out who killed Rachel and why. But nothing is straightforward: some of his former colleagues would rather see him dead.
Wes joins forces with Mia, the daughter of a fellow inmate who’d recently died. Together they try to stay ahead of those pursuing Wes while trying to find Ethan and to uncover the truth about why Rachel was killed.
Wes’s search for answers takes him into the past. Dangerous territory where he can’t be sure who he can trust.
This is the first of Mr Wignall’s novels I’ve read, and I’m keen to read more. The story moves at a rapid pace, travelling through several different European locations. Mia is an enigmatic character who complements Wes well on his quest. And the ending? I really wanted to know what would happen next.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 3, 2019
I am perhaps a bit biased when reading this authors books because before I start any of them I just know they are going to be excellent, and i have never been disappointed. From the Childrens books to the action packed thrillers, this author, for me, always delivers.
Wes is a former CIA agent, serving time in jail for an operation that went wrong, an operation that in his eyes was intended to fail so he would end up where he is now.
Wes learns that his ex wife has been killed in a terrorist bombing in Spain and a son he never knew about is missing. Granted an early release from prison, Wes sets out to find those responsible and to look for his son. Set across Europe this is a fantastic read, with great characters and settings.
#netgalley #thenamesofthedead
Wes is a former CIA agent, serving time in jail for an operation that went wrong, an operation that in his eyes was intended to fail so he would end up where he is now.
Wes learns that his ex wife has been killed in a terrorist bombing in Spain and a son he never knew about is missing. Granted an early release from prison, Wes sets out to find those responsible and to look for his son. Set across Europe this is a fantastic read, with great characters and settings.
#netgalley #thenamesofthedead
November 20, 2019
While the plot of the story is very good, where this book excels is in the the research done to create an amazing worldwide setting and a protagonist who feels real with hurts, successes, doubts, joys, and growth. If you’re looking for an action thriller with a strong storyline and believable characters, look no farther. I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2020
I enjoy Wignall’s books, and this one is everything I’ve come to expect from him: a unique voice, quirky characters, and engaging locations. It’s a quick read too, which is perfect for those times when I want to relax my brain, but not make a long commitment to a literary marathon.
The Names of the Dead is very competent international suspense.
Recommended.
The Names of the Dead is very competent international suspense.
Recommended.
April 25, 2020
CIA or terrorist
This was a quick read. Held my interest from the start. If I ever end up in a French prison I know which one I'd choose, given the choice.
This was a quick read. Held my interest from the start. If I ever end up in a French prison I know which one I'd choose, given the choice.
September 10, 2022
Kevin Wignall wove an awesome story - really enjoyed this one. Only complaint was that I wanted more - story was short, however, I am now a fan! Michael Braun - did an excellent narration. Would be a great series! Main character is very likeable, along with all the others.
November 3, 2020
A decent enough story. Some structural issues up front regarding character introductions that lead me astray and the sidekick introduction is also a bit far fetched.
June 4, 2021
Good story. Jailed CIA agent released early due to death (murder) of his ex-wife. She was also CIA. She was looking into why he was jailed, was he really a bad guy or was he setup? Yes some other people die along the way, but only in the cause of justice ⚖.! I recommend this audio recording.
February 16, 2020
Good Read
Good ending. Learned more geography about Spain than I ever thought I would. The story might of had more interest if the chase for Wes was seen from the other side.
Good ending. Learned more geography about Spain than I ever thought I would. The story might of had more interest if the chase for Wes was seen from the other side.
January 20, 2020
Kevin Wignall is an under-rated American author of spy novels.
I have been a fan of his books for a long time now, although they can be hard to find in Australia, and have always felt that he does not receive the attention that other lesser authors do. This may be due to the cynical tone of his books, which eschews the patriotic fervour often associated with American spy novels and anti-terrorist thrillers. In style and content, he seems to be more of a British or European spy novelist, than American.
The Names Of The Dead is a fast moving and gripping novel that smoothly moves through its paces to a bloody climax. The characters of Wes and Mia, a wealthy young woman on the behavioural spectrum who accompanies Wes on his quest, are well developed and interesting and the secondary characters are also nicely done. The locations are across Europe are quickly sketched, but evocative
Although The Names Of The Dead is primarily an action based spy novel, Wignall smoothly weaves in religious and moral discussions and reflections, especially through the presence of Mia, whose father was a notorious Croatian general imprisoned with Wes.
In all, The Names Of The Dead is an enjoyable thriller with some good action sequences and a nice sense of menace throughout. The ending is perhaps a little too simplistic, but this does not stop it from being a very entertaining read.
See my full review at https://murdermayhemandlongdogs.com/t...
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book for review
I have been a fan of his books for a long time now, although they can be hard to find in Australia, and have always felt that he does not receive the attention that other lesser authors do. This may be due to the cynical tone of his books, which eschews the patriotic fervour often associated with American spy novels and anti-terrorist thrillers. In style and content, he seems to be more of a British or European spy novelist, than American.
The Names Of The Dead is a fast moving and gripping novel that smoothly moves through its paces to a bloody climax. The characters of Wes and Mia, a wealthy young woman on the behavioural spectrum who accompanies Wes on his quest, are well developed and interesting and the secondary characters are also nicely done. The locations are across Europe are quickly sketched, but evocative
Although The Names Of The Dead is primarily an action based spy novel, Wignall smoothly weaves in religious and moral discussions and reflections, especially through the presence of Mia, whose father was a notorious Croatian general imprisoned with Wes.
In all, The Names Of The Dead is an enjoyable thriller with some good action sequences and a nice sense of menace throughout. The ending is perhaps a little too simplistic, but this does not stop it from being a very entertaining read.
See my full review at https://murdermayhemandlongdogs.com/t...
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book for review
January 15, 2020
We’re counting our lucky stars thus far in 2020, having kicked off the year with some smashing reads. The Names of the Dead, appealed to us from the get-go, as at BestBooksy we’re always on the lookout for a great thriller, particularly one that has espionage and a ton of mystery to boot. We came in with high expectations and oh-boy, we weren’t disappointed, this is one an expertly crafted mystery.
We immediately fell in love with our hero CIA Agent, James ‘Wes” Wesley, and we were intrigued from the beginning of how this intricate mystery was going to play out. The novel takes you on a wild international journey from France to the Iberian Peninsula, Croatia, and eventually to Italy. Being seasoned travels, a lot of these regions were familiar to us, which added to the way we experienced this book…yes, it triggered a lot of memories. If you’ve never been, get ready for a hell of a journey.
The author, Kevin Wignall, writes in a clean and gripping style that is addictively immersive. We’re honored to crown The Names of the Dead as our pick of the week, and it rightly gets five stars from us.
We immediately fell in love with our hero CIA Agent, James ‘Wes” Wesley, and we were intrigued from the beginning of how this intricate mystery was going to play out. The novel takes you on a wild international journey from France to the Iberian Peninsula, Croatia, and eventually to Italy. Being seasoned travels, a lot of these regions were familiar to us, which added to the way we experienced this book…yes, it triggered a lot of memories. If you’ve never been, get ready for a hell of a journey.
The author, Kevin Wignall, writes in a clean and gripping style that is addictively immersive. We’re honored to crown The Names of the Dead as our pick of the week, and it rightly gets five stars from us.
January 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this fast-paced, well-written thriller. Wes learns his ex-wife Rachel has died in a terrorist bomb blast, and that the son he never knew he had, Ethan, is missing. He sets out to find the boy, helped by the otherworldly Mia, whom he meets by chance. She couldn’t be more different from him. She is “like someone stranded in a world for which she wasn’t properly equipped.”
Wes and Mia make an odd couple as they drive through Europe on their search for Ethan. They are the perfect foil for each other. He, popular and competent; She, otherworldly with useless interpersonal skills. This is a story full of similar contradictions– the bible, given to him by another camp inmate, full of words of inspiration and wisdom, but also concealing a weapon; men in prison for crimes against humanity, but good in their ways.
We’re taken on a fascinating journey through Europe, and finally to Mia’s country of birth, Croatia, as Wes tries to retrace Rachel’s footsteps and uncover just exactly what happened to her, and their son. Recommended!
Wes and Mia make an odd couple as they drive through Europe on their search for Ethan. They are the perfect foil for each other. He, popular and competent; She, otherworldly with useless interpersonal skills. This is a story full of similar contradictions– the bible, given to him by another camp inmate, full of words of inspiration and wisdom, but also concealing a weapon; men in prison for crimes against humanity, but good in their ways.
We’re taken on a fascinating journey through Europe, and finally to Mia’s country of birth, Croatia, as Wes tries to retrace Rachel’s footsteps and uncover just exactly what happened to her, and their son. Recommended!
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