Member Reviews
This was quite the cold war thriller....a far out alternative historical thriller, with the Socialist Republic of Great Britain, at the forefront.
Does that have your attention...pique your interest? The story is fiction, of course, but some of the important characters in the story are real,
or loosely based on real people. Good character development throughout the book, a twisty plot line to keep you on your toes, and a decent amount of action.
I didn't know what to expect, but it was a really good spy story. Russian, British, and American spies...fun times!!
Thanks to NetGalley, Joffe & Lume Books for the ARC of this entertaining old school spy story.
I totally recommend it.
For those that like alternate history stories, this one may be of interest.
I gave it the following SCORE:
Setting: Late 1950’s in Great Britain, now occupied by the USSR after the allies, without USA’s involvement, have defeated the Germans
Characters: The lead is Thomas Fairburn who was born in Great Britain and has, for his own reasons, willingly become a KGB officer, tasked by Britain’s security leader, Kim Philby (yes, that Kim Philby) to discover who has been assisting a dissident author's defection to the USA. A large supporting cast of British, Russian, and US authorities are involved, including references to historic characters in their new, revised roles.
Overview: Fairburn has his work cut out for him, not only because he has switched allegiances, but also due the shifting and undetermined roles of those he trusts and reports to. He continues throughout the story to question his real assignment, the reliability of his contacts, and whether or not he believes he is doing the right thing.
Recommendation: I rate this book 4 stars
Extras: The tale constantly changes perspectives and, with the complexity of the new political environment, demands attention to who is motivated to do what and why. The eventual role of the US is particularly intriguing.
Thanx to NetGalley and Lume Books for the opportunity to provide this candid review.