Books Like...

"Trigger Mortis" by Anthony Horowitz is a thrilling addition to the James Bond series, set in the 1950s and featuring original material from Ian Fleming. The story follows Bond as he races at the Nürburgring, gets involved in a rocket launch at Wallops Island, and unravels a diabolical plot in the labyrinthine railway network beneath New York City, all while facing off against the dastardly organization SMERSH.

Horowitz expertly captures the essence of Fleming's writing style, detailing everything from food and wine to motoring and weaponry with exquisite detail. The book seamlessly blends action-packed sequences with changes of scenery, creating a compelling and authentic Bond novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' by Ian Fleming follows the adventures of the Pott family after Commander Pott restores an old car with seemingly magical powers. The story revolves around the quirky family, the magical car named Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and their accidental adventure tracking down the bad guys. The plot is described as fun, light-hearted, and perfect for children, with the car playing a central role in taking the family on extraordinary escapades. The writing style is noted to be delightful, with humorous elements and asides to the reader, reminiscent of Roald Dahl's style.

Dr. No by Percival Everett is a witty and satirical novel that cleverly spoofs the James Bond genre while incorporating elements of farce, absurdism, and mathematical concepts. The narrative follows the adventures of Wala Kitu, a mathematician whose expertise lies in the study of nothing, as he gets entangled in the heist plans of John Sill, a billionaire aspiring to be a Bond villain. The novel weaves together wordplay, humor, and social commentary to create a unique and entertaining story that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. Through its playful exploration of the theme of nothing, Dr. No offers a fresh take on the traditional spy thriller genre, keeping readers engaged with its quirky characters and unexpected plot twists.

Percival Everett's writing style in Dr. No is lauded for its intelligence, humor, and originality. Drawing inspiration from sources as diverse as Lewis Carroll, Bertrand Russell, and Woody Allen, the novel presents a thought-provoking blend of slapstick comedy, philosophical musings, and literary allusions. With a narrative that is both fast-paced and intellectually stimulating, Dr. No offers a refreshing and unconventional take on the spy genre, appealing to readers who appreciate clever wordplay, satirical wit, and out-of-the-box storytelling.

'The Old Patagonian Express: By Train Through the Americas' is a travelogue that chronicles Paul Theroux's journey from Boston to Patagonia, primarily by train. The narrative captures the essence of travel, emphasizing the experiences and encounters along the way rather than focusing solely on the destinations. Theroux's writing is characterized by his sharp observations and sardonic wit, providing a candid perspective on the various cultures and landscapes he traverses. He delves into the complexities of human nature and the nuances of travel, painting a vivid picture of the contrasts he encounters, from bustling cities to remote landscapes.

The book also serves as a reflection on the nature of travel itself, as Theroux contemplates the significance of the journey over the destination. His encounters with diverse individuals, from fellow travelers to locals, enrich the narrative and offer insights into the places he visits. While some readers find his perspective to be somewhat cynical or condescending, others appreciate his ability to find fascination in the mundane and his skillful storytelling. Overall, the writing style is engaging, combining humor with poignant observations that invite readers to reflect on their own travel experiences.

'The Christmas Train' by David Baldacci is a heartwarming holiday tale that follows the journey of disillusioned journalist Tom Langdon as he travels from Washington to Los Angeles during Christmas time. Forced to take the train due to a travel ban, Tom encounters a diverse cast of characters on board, including his ex-girlfriend Ellie. As the train journey unfolds, Tom experiences self-discovery, rude awakenings, thrilling adventures, and holiday magic. The story is filled with mystery, romance, and unexpected twists, all set against the backdrop of a transcontinental train trip that leads Tom to rediscover the goodness in people and find someone special he thought he had lost.

The narrative of 'The Christmas Train' is characterized by intricate character development, realistic interactions, and a mix of genres including romance, mystery, and adventure. The author, David Baldacci, weaves a tale that delves into themes of love, unity, and personal growth, all while capturing the essence of the holiday season. The book offers a light-hearted and engaging read that combines elements of humor, romance, and heartwarming moments, making it a delightful choice for Christmas reading.

The Railway Detective by Edward Marston is a historical fiction novel set in 1851 England, revolving around the character of Inspector Robert Colbeck and his assistant Sergeant Leeming from Scotland Yard. The plot follows the investigation of a train robbery involving a mail train being derailed, resulting in a significant loss of gold and mail. The book delves into the early Victorian era, showcasing the advancements in railway systems, the challenges faced by the police agency in solving crimes related to trains, and the intricate details of the industrial society of the time. The writing style incorporates historical details, steam locomotive knowledge, and a focus on the protagonist's detective work, although some readers find the plot to be weak in terms of the actual investigative process.

Inspector Colbeck is portrayed as a knowledgeable and well-dressed detective who stands out in the landscape of Victorian crime-solving. The book presents a mix of historical facts about the British railways, insights into the early Metropolitan police detective division, and a well-constructed plot that engages readers with the challenges faced by the characters. Despite some cliches in character portrayal, such as the officious superior and the plucky love interest, the novel effectively captures the essence of the era and provides an entertaining read for those interested in period fiction and railway history.

Anthony Horowitz's 'Forever and a Day' is a thrilling prequel to Ian Fleming's Casino Royale, following the newly promoted agent James Bond as he unravels the mysterious death of a British Secret Service Agent in Marseille. Bond's investigation leads him into the criminal network of the French Riviera, where he encounters a Corsican drug lord, an American millionaire, and a seductive ex-spy. The novel captures the essence of the 1950s era with intricate details on Bond's choices in food, drink, and weaponry, showcasing Horowitz's ability to mimic Fleming's writing style and create a riveting plot filled with heart-stopping action and intriguing characters.

Horowitz masterfully weaves a tale that keeps the readers on edge, with a plot that never lets go from the opening chapters to the heart-pounding conclusion. The author's attention to detail, especially in creating a sense of danger and suspense, makes 'Forever and a Day' a captivating read that brings the iconic character of James Bond to life in a new and exciting way, while staying true to the essence of the original novels.

'Quiller' in the series 'Quiller' by author Adam Hall is a spy thriller set in Berlin during the Cold War, following the protagonist Quiller, a British secret agent, as he navigates a world of double-crosses, Nazi hunting, and espionage. The narrative delves deep into Quiller's inner thoughts and thought processes, providing a unique perspective on the events unfolding in the story. The plot is described as standard for spy novels, with a focus on the mental state of the super agent, rather than physical attributes or appearance.

In "Love and Let Die" by Lexi Blake, readers are taken on a journey filled with second chances, betrayal, devotion, and intrigue. The book follows the story of Ian Taggart and Charlotte Denisovitch, who have a tumultuous past that resurfaces when Charlotte shows up at Ian's door after faking her own death. The plot thickens as secrets are revealed, emotions run high, and the characters navigate through a roller coaster of a relationship filled with love, trust, and submission. Lexi Blake's writing style expertly weaves together suspense, action, romance, and humor, creating a page-turner that leaves readers rooting for the characters and eagerly anticipating what comes next for the series.

The Western Star by Craig Johnson is a cleverly plotted mystery that intertwines two storylines - one from the past in 1972 and one in the present day. The book follows Sheriff Walt Longmire as he navigates a train ride with other Wyoming sheriffs, a parole hearing for a dangerous convict, and a mystery that ties his past and present together. The writing style seamlessly shifts between timelines, offering a compelling and complex mystery that keeps readers engaged until the cliffhanger ending.