" Alec Leamas is a 50 year old professional who has grown weary and stale in espionage. he longs to 'come in from the cold'. One by one his agents in East Germany have been systematically liquidated- with an uncanny deliberation- by Mundt, his opposite number on the other side of the Berlin 'Wall'.....
Recalled to London, Leamas is given a chance of re-in-statement. A subtle and torturous plot has been evolved.
This is a great book, not just a great spy novel. The only reason I rate "Tinker Tailor.." higher is that book has Smiley in a starring role, whereas he is only a bit player in this and I have soft spot for George.
The plotting in this is outstanding, if you are reading it for the first time, you'll be thinking about what is happening right until the end.
The sign this is a classic is even though I know the story the book stands multiple readings.
No comments:
Post a Comment