In the Shadow of the Kingmakers

By: Vahid Imani

Narrated by: John Fleming

Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins

Publisher's summary

In this historical thriller inspired by true events, a British espionage plot spirals out of control - with devastating consequences. It’s the aftermath of WWI and imperialist powers jostle for influence in Tehran, capital of Persia, and heart of the Middle East.

James Malcolm is a ruthless British spy set on undermining his American and Russian rivals, but when an act of sabotage escalates into an international incident, the kingmaker becomes the pawn. Rose Pearce works in the English Consulate with her friend Ali, a sweet boy of 14. Their simple existence is shattered the day Ali shares the details of a troubling conversation he’s overheard. Rose encourages him to stick to what he knows best: Serving tea and trimming roses in the consulate gardens, but Ali is filled with a sense of duty and takes matters into his own hands, changing their lives forever.

Caught in the shifting sands of shadowy espionage, international agendas, and a lust for Western dominance at all costs, James, Rose, and Ali must fight for what they believe in - if they manage to survive at all. In the Shadow of the Kingmakers is a vivid, heart-stopping exploration of a moment in history that shaped the world we know today.

©2019 Vahid Imani (P)2021 Vahid Imani

Amazing Read/Listen

An immersive, historical fiction piece that takes you on an exciting journey through pre-revolution Iran. I found it to be engrossing piece of literature , excellently narrated, hi-lighting and often overlooked part of Persian history. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys spy novels and/or Persian history. Amazing read!

A surprising love story

This is not a topic I would usually pick to listen to.. I was.pleasently surprised how the authur drew me into the plot and described the inner tourrmoil of the characters. As the story progresses the reader is enveloped by theo love and devotion from son to mother and family. It is a story of heroic sacrifice and overwhelming desire for hope and justice. I recommend this book!

Vahid Imani, a skilled storyteller,has written a book set in Tehran in 1924

The settings and characters are so vividly described that I felt I was right there in the story. The book is a reminder of how power and greed can be so devastating to innocent people. It’s a great book for both learning about the history of the world and the human condition in situations of political struggle.
I chose this book because I enjoy reading about different parts of the world and historical fiction.

One of those books you hope becomes a movie

But, do not wait for the movie it is a page turner! The games countries play for power and the struggle for people's individual freedom . It is bloody, scary and intense - it feels like it really happened.

Breath Taking Espionage Thriller

This is a carefully woven story around true events surrounding the time of unrest in Tehran following WWI. James Malcolm, a British mastermind spy, is determined to create havoc on his American and Russian rivals. Protests and other moments of chaos Malcolm creates begin his plan. Discovering startling plans, Ali moves to protect his family and his love by trying to thwart Malcolm’s plans. However, it is true-unconditional love that 14-year-old Ali has for his family and his friend, Rose (an English member of the Consulate) that takes the center stage. Faced with imminent danger, Malcolm forces Rose to leave Tehran, but she won’t go until she sees Ali one final time – that moment is earth-shattering!

Vahid Imani, the author, carefully weaves a story that is captivating and immerses the listener deeply into the story after just a few minutes. Each character is developed with layers until they are fully developed. Each plot twist successfully elicits a response from the listener while also keeping them on the edge of their chair. His descriptions were rich in detail. Imani keeps each character and storyline moving at a steady pace, advancing the story and character development perfectly. While this is not my usual genre choice, I have to say Imani kept my attention and I hope there will be more forthcoming.

The narrator, John Fleming gives a solid strong performance, speaking clearly and with the appropriate accents. He adds to the suspense and draws the listener in with his performance. I think he was the perfect voice actor for this audiobook.
This book was awarded the AudioBookReviewers Choice Award as it is believed to deserve a higher than the standard 5-star rating. This book comes highly recommended.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook. The sound was clear and well done.

Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-bias, honest review.