I love reading spy novels. This time, I got my hands on Ian Griffin's "The Birth of a Spy Couple". Rick and Katja are on a military assignment. One moment they were in America and the other moment, they were in Germany. They were approached by one stranger who gave them a proposal to be on active duty and secretly do the spy work.
Rick and Katja thought that we only live once and this is their chance to have financial freedom as well. They agreed for the spy work. This assignment involves so many risks including Rick and Katja's loyalty towards each other. Read the story to find out what all adventures they will experience.
The story is well paced and the writing style of the author is amazing. The cover photo is eye-catching. Rick and Katja would become your favorite characters immediately. Looking forward to reading the second book in the series.
The protagonists of the story are Rick and Katja. They are on a military assignment from a stranger. It is an invitation into the dark world of espionage and assassinations while still on active duty. But they didn't realize that they would step into a world that would test their lives, their commitments to each other, and their family.
It would also take their tour of duty in Germany deeper and darker than either would expect.
To know the whole story, you must read this fabulous book.
I loved each and everything about the book. Where do I even start?? I honestly can't even believe how much I enjoyed this book.
The plot is super engaging with lots of unexpected twists and turns. The writing style of the author is lucid. Language used is clear and concise. The title is perfect.
One of the strengths of the book is the way it gradually builds tension and suspense throughout the course of the narrative. Just when you think that you have it all pinned down and all figured out, the characters once again outsmart you and leave you in a sense of awe and admiration for it's creator.
Overall, it was a fantastic read and one must not miss this book. I highly recommend this book to everyone. The book is true to it's genre and will leave you asking for more.
"The Birth of a Spy Couple" written by the author Ian Griffin is the first installment in the Rick and Katja book series. The main characters of the story are Rick and Katja. They are husband and wife who are on military duties. When they were in Germany, they were contacted by a man named Franz. He works for an agency from America.
Franz explained to Rick and Katja that they will have to spy, listen, acquire information, kill, maybe sleep with someone else but they have to fulfill the mission at any cost. In return they will get financial freedom, a babysitter for their kids and are supporting their country.
Read this story to know what lies ahead for Rick and Katja. The storyline is interesting and it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time as I read this book. The title of the book couldn't have been better than this. The author has created a perfect backdrop of the story. Go ahead with this book.
I picked the book up since it mentioned a small town in Germany I had visited many years ago. I was pleasantly surprised to not only have places I been to vividly described but the story accompanying it be so exciting. A dual military couple, being stationed in Kiplinger's and now being proposition to be spy. Oh, just another day in the office. The main characters are actually relatable and you root for them in their mission. The only issue I had was with the book was I was so invested in it that the last page seemed to come too soon. Author, please keep the story going!
A must read for any thriller fiction book fan. The subtleness of integrating familiar landscapes in Germany, mixed with spy couple action leaves you on the edge of your seat. The development of the characters takes you along on the journey to understand the struggles with every day relationships. How would we react if our love ones were in certain situation? This book is well written, and the maturity of the author comes through in exhilarating ways throughout the entire book. I have my copy of the second book ,33 or 9, and ready to continue this journey and experience.
This book was fun to read and provide adventures at every turn. If you had some military background, many things the author mentioned clearly showed the author talked from experience. The strong bond of the main characters kept you rooting for them in their adventures. Open-ended at the end allows imaginations to ride wild on the next chapter of the Spy Couple. No matter a reader's preferred reading genre, this book is guaranteed to entertain and a must read. I would recommend The Birth of a Spy Couple to absolutely everyone! I enjoyed my time with it and look forward to more in the future. Outstanding job author, Ian Griffin!
I love books where the author clearly knows what he is talking about. The knowledge of Germany and the military made me feel like I could sit back and enjoy the story. Vivid descriptions of Germany made me feel like I was there. I agree with previous reviewers that if you like Mr. and Mrs. Smith type movies/books then this will be right up your alley.
Fast-paced thriller with fun twists and turns featuring a couple who are also spies!
Great concept and wonderful execution. I cant wait to read book 2.
This author truly cares about his writing. The pictures of Germany are immaculate. Great detail! You will be transported there! Between this and the drastic adventure you won't put this book down.
It is an intriguing blend of espionage and romance, exploring the complexities of a relationship between two spies. This premise is a narrative filled with intrigue, loyalty tests, and the balance between professional duty and personal affection, appealing to fans of spy thrillers and romantic suspense genres.
My new favorite spy couple.
I really enjoyed reading this book! The author's knowledge of Germany and military life really shines through, it made the story feel authentic and captivating. The vivid descriptions of Germany transported me right into the heart of the setting. If you're a fan of action-packed spy thrillers like 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith,' then this book is definitely worth a read. Hope there is another book!
A book for mature audiences who want to imagine an adventure with their best friend...their spouse
How does a couple with a family while serving in the military in Europe become spies? It’s more than just getting hired on. You make mistakes, just like Bond did in Casino Royale. Not every mission is smooth, but you learn. That is what makes this book so fun.
The husband, Rick, reminds me of Mickey Spillane’s character, Mike Hammer, which brings back a classic feel, but in modern world.
The ease at which Ian writes the various settings comes from his 31 years of military service, including duties overseas. One moment, you are on a military base preparing for an extensive field exercise, training for combat readiness, the next, out in the streets of Europe, or home with the kids and nanny. And then there are the missions. They are written with such details, bringing to life a world most of us will never experience, and that can only be told by someone with this author’s background.
This book was a page turner for me, keeping my interest, and more importantly, keeping me entertained.
Kenneth W. Letcher on Amazon June 3, 2023
A very well written book that i've read in one sitting. Would read again!
I enjoyed the book's settings as they are obviously well-known to the author, and as he is also able to immerse his characters in German culture, I liked thinking about my own time spent in Europe as I was reading. A great action-packed story with fun detective work. Recommend!
This book is wonderful I want to know what they do best!
Definitely one of those books that you don’t want to put down. Loved it! I wonder how much of this book was really fictional?? 😳
Fun Story of a Spy Couple that has elements that reminded me of Mr. and Mr. Smith. Great cover as well.
From the start this book brings you in. You grow to feel a part of this dynamic family. Kudos to the author!!!
Spy stories are always a page turner and this book is so engaging and imaginative with unexpected experience. Vey well written and a great story.
The novel's painstaking attention to detail is one of its strongest points. Ian Griffin meticulous research is clear, lending an air of authenticity to the story. The espionage setting is extensively detailed, with sophisticated tradecraft and geopolitical intricacies that add to the entire reading experience.
This was a read that kept me entertained from the beginning (thanks for the recommendation to my reading group). The intriguing plot and well-built characters made me want to read on to find out what the world of espionage had in store for Rick and Katja. However, there were times when the pacing of the story became a little uneven, causing the read to lose some fluidity.
Despite this small drawback, the story as a whole was exciting and worth it. My congratulations to the author.
If you loved Mr. and Mrs. Smith you will love this. although not the same premise, its always fun to have spys that are a couple!
The Birth of a Spy Couple is a well-written page turner and has a strong female protagonist.
I was hooked from the beginning to the very end! Highly recommended!
A really good story. Looked forward to coming to read afterwork. Detailed with interesting characters. Definitely give this one a read.
This book has a tense and entertaining storyline and I was gripped by it for a couple of hours.
Griffin writes with an authentic charm that is unmatched in the Indy circles. Loved the family of characters.
I didnt know what to expect when this book was recommended to me, but I am very happy I picked it up and read it. I cant wait for the next book!
I love books where the author clearly knows what he is talking about. The knowledge of Germany and the military made me feel like I could sit back and enjoy the story. Vivid descriptions of Germany made me feel like I was there. I agree with previous reviewers that if you like Mr. and Mrs. Smith type movies/books then this will be right up your alley
Ian Griffin's first book, "The Birth of a Spy Couple," is awesome! It's about Germany, full of cool military stuff. Griffin loves the characters and setting, making it super interesting. The story, like "The Americans" TV show, is a perfect mix of action and plot. If you enjoy spy stories, you'll love this book! I would recommend !
The inaugural installment of the Rick and Katja series, "The Birth of a Spy Couple," is a thrilling introduction to the espionage world. The narrative skillfully navigates the couple's initially awkward foray into espionage, creating a compelling blend of suspense and humor. The author's adept storytelling keeps readers hooked, promising an exciting journey ahead for Rick and Katja. A captivating start to a promising series that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this spy duo's adventure.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Very interesting and entertaining, I love crime and mystery books.
An excellent story with intrigue portrayed with a great military mixing. The story itself is well written, with excellent settings that almost take you to the country itself.
Coming from a military background, it immerses you inside the military lifestyle, what it is like to actually be in it yet still find a way to help your county on a different level.
I highly recommend this novel and look forward to reading the second chapter in the series.
Jerry Dahm Amazon July 21, 2023
Sandra H. on Amazon November 10, 2022
Wibke Griffin on Amazon July 17, 2023
Jeffrey A. Webber on Amazon January 26, 2023
This was a fun, easy read! I thoroughly enjoyed it. The plot and story is inventive and imaginative. I loved that it was set in Germany...for me personally, I studied German years ago but never had a chance to actually go. In the middle of all the action and romance, this book gave insight about Germany and German culture which I really loved. Great read! Highly recommend!
---Eliz J. on Amazon on September 9, 2023
Ian Griffin's debut novel is an absolute labor of love. You can tell that the really cares for the setting and Characters he is writing about. His descriptions of Germany have rekindled my interest in visiting there. Having read a fair few novels set in the area, I have to tip my hat to Ian, as I've never heard it described in such detail. It really puts the reader right there on the scene.
Ian also ensures that you know who each of the characters are and gives you a very detailed portrait of them. With regard to the plot, Ian keeps you going with a perfect blend of action and narrative. It never bogs down in a rut, and you never get exhausted by non-stop action. Great Job!
It is in a similar vein as the TV Show "The Americans," with the titular couple having to come to terms with just how far they are willing to go for mission success.
If you like a good spy story, take a run at "The Birth of a Spy Couple" you won't regret it.
---Alex Aaronson, on Amazon on August 28, 2023
Always been a fan of David Baldacchi, and James Patterson. I found this book to fall right in line with the likes of them. Fast Paced, well developed characters and constant action kept the pages turning. Looking forward to the next installment in Rick and Katja’s adventures!
Excellent pacing, well developed characters and a story line that was at first surprising but by the end made complete sense. Will look forward to the next installment.
What a great read. Looking forward to the second chapter of the series. A fast-paced story with fun fun main characters. Great way to lose yourself on a weekend afternoon.
The novel’s painstaking attention to detail is one of its strongest points. Ian Griffin meticulous research is clear, lending an air of authenticity to the story. The espionage setting is extensively detailed, with sophisticated tradecraft and geopolitical intricacies that add to the entire reading experience.
"The Birth of a Spy Couple (Rick and Katja Book 1)" by Ian Griffin is a gripping tale of two military personnel thrust into the treacherous world of espionage. Rick and Katja's seemingly routine assignment takes an unexpected turn when they are offered a proposition that plunges them into a world of espionage and assassination. As they navigate through this dangerous new reality, their relationship and loyalty are put to the ultimate test. With unexpected twists and the resurgence of old enemies, Griffin keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Rick and Katja emerge as a formidable spy couple. This book is a thrilling rollercoaster ride filled with intrigue, suspense, and unexpected turns.
Craving a heart-pounding spy thriller that transports you straight to Germany? This book delivers! The author's expertise in both Germany and military history shines through, making the setting feel authentic and immersive.
If you're a fan of fast-paced action like "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," this book is your adrenaline rush in literary form. Intriguing twists and well-developed characters, like Rick and Katja, kept me guessing and glued to the page. At times, the pacing wasn't always perfect, with a few moments that slowed the flow. But hey, even James Bond needs a breather between explosions, right? Overall, it is an exciting and suspenseful read that will leave you wanting more. Great for a road-trip or reading on a leisurely weekend.
"The Birth of a Spy Couple (Rick and Katja)" reignited my passion for thrilling fiction with its gripping tale of espionage, danger, and the complexities of love in the face of adversity. From the outset, Rick and Katja's military assignment takes an unexpected turn when they're lured into the clandestine world of espionage and assassinations, thrusting them into a web of intrigue and danger they never imagined. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of deception and death, their commitment to each other and their family is put to the ultimate test. What unfolds is a riveting journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, where old enemies resurface and dark secrets threaten to unravel everything they hold dear.
As someone who hasn't delved into fiction for some time, "The Birth of a Spy Couple" was a thrilling reintroduction to the genre. The dynamic characters, pulse-pounding action, and intricate plot kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Author's skillful storytelling transports readers into a world where nothing is as it seems, and danger lurks around every corner. Whether you're a fan of spy thrillers or simply seeking an exhilarating read that will keep you guessing until the very end, "The Birth of a Spy Couple" delivers an electrifying experience that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in Rick and Katja's thrilling journey.
This beautifuly story isn't just about the adrenaline-pumping action typical of spy novels; it's also about the complexities of relationships under the extraordinary stress of espionage. The dialogue is sharp, funny and witty, bringing to life the couple's dynamic and the peculiar challenges they face. It's refreshing to see a story that doesn't shy away from the lighter, more human side of being a spy, including the humorous and sometimes awkward moments of their personal lives.
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