Tsar: An Alex Hawke Thriller

I have listened to all of the Alexander Hawke novels available from Audible. This book, like all in the series, is based upon a James Bond-like character who battles egomaniacal world-conquering bad guys. The books in this series are less believable than some, but if you like to escape through fantasy, the series is great. The futuristic technology is well-thought out, the characters are enjoyable, and the action is non-stop. This book can easily stand alone, but I'd recommend reading/listening to the books in chronological order. Even better than the story line is the narration. The narrator "performs" each book, and is the best I've ever listened to. I listen while taking long walks and in the car. If you can't enjoy far-fetched action-packed stories with macho men and beautiful women, don't bother with this book. If you like to escape into action and fantasy, you can't get a better deal in terms of hours of enjoyment for the dollars spent. I'd recommend this to anyone who enjoys James Bond, James Rollins' books, etc. Lots of fun.

This book would have ranked four stars if the characters had not been so stereotypical. The plot was unique and fast-moving, and tne reader was quite good. But it's not "great literature," but so what? It was a fun read.

Now don't go getting all "high-brow" on us here guys. It is what it is, and what it is, is bloody marvelous! Sure the plot is fantastic and predictable, but so what? This is audio book drama at its finest. If you are looking for terrific entertainment to make that daily commute actually enjoyable, look no further. John Shea's reading is the best I have heard and Ted Bell can spin a yarn! I love this series!

This book is very predictable, repetitive, and filled with cliches. Even if you like this genre of books would steer you away from this one. Overly long, wildly inconsistent, and outlandish plot with predictable villian and hero- it would be better if this was a comic book.

silly beyond belief! It's one thing to stretch reality for the sake of a story, it's another when brain death is a requirement for appreciating the plot. The author's previous books were along these lines so I probably should have known to pass on this one. It's a long book but I quit listening well before the end. Don't waste a precious credit on this loser.

Another good Hawke book. I especially like the way the action and heroism is not relegated to a single person but shared amongst the various characters. The ending of this one was a bit of a surprise, because there was a comment made by a character that left me expecting a surprise action at the end, but nothing more was said of it and the "action" didn't occur. I'm wondering if Ted Bell is saving that for the next book.

A very pleasant surprise from an unfamiliar author. Put together an intelligent, handsome, wealthy, well bred englishman with an irresistible, american, wise cracking sidekick, and you have the makings for a terrific team. These two have all the global connections needed to get the job done-they can save the world while keeping us breathlessly entertained along the way. Beautifully written and narrated.

My only suggestion is that you read Assassin, Pirate then Tsar, in that order. I read Tsar first and although it did not really ruin the fun for me, I did realize I knew what would happen to certain characters ahead of time because these three books do have various threads carrying thru in each book.( I dont want to get anymore specific or I will ruin the stories for you.) This author has a vivid imagination. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Cant wait for the next Alex Hawke adventure. Thanks Mr Bell. Keep them coming!!

We listen to recorded books to survive the drive across Wyoming. This one kept us thoroughly entertained. It is not in the classics, but is totally entertaining. There were a few times when one's credibility factor had to stretch, but that is the nature of good fiction. A couple of factors at the end leave the idea of possible loose ends that make me wonder if the author will build on this novel.

No, it did not take us 18 hours to drive across Wyoming, so we finished this at home, savoring the thrill of the ride provided.

The only cartoonish characters missing in this saga are Boris and Natasha with an aside from Snidley Whiplash. Unfortunately I don't think it is meant to be funny. A British accent is achieved by saying "crikey" and "bloody" a lot. I have to remember to give it a miss on his next go round.

If you like spy works, this book will have its moments. I find the narration gifted, but the beach scene of Dr. No by Ian Flemming is clearly inspiration to at least the opening scene in this book. The similarities were so strong that I purchased the Dr. No audiobook to compare. Homage or plagiarism? I am still undecided on that count, but settling into the work, I let the question fade. No matter the intent, the opening here grabs attention. Some of the premises occaisionally strain credibility, but I was interested throughout until the very end when the work breaks. Several of the last thematic elements seem very forced. Add in free use of rough language and this work is clearly not for everyone.