The last book I read in 100 words: The Spanish Game by Charles Cumming
by Stephen Tall on September 20, 2012
The Spanish Game, Charles Cumming
Perhaps I’m just not a spy novel reader? After all, I tried Le Carré and found it dull. And now I’ve tried the author cited as his latter-day incarnation, and (I’m sorry) but I failed again.
To be fair, The Spanish Game is an entertaining enough read. I read it while in Spain, and Cumming (who has lived there) is spot-on in capturing the Madrilenian essence as well as conjuring an oppressively claustrophobic atmosphere. The plot is detailed and thorough — involving a disappearing Basque politician, ETA and some old foes — with protagonist Alec Milius doing his Bourne/Ripley/Smiley thing.
I found it hard to care for the characters and the-big-reveal-ending just felt too contrived. But (undeniably) there are twists, there are turns, there are thrills, there are spills — all of which may mean, if espionage is your bag, this is the Perfect Spy for you.
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4 comments
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by Stephen Tall on September 20, 2012 at 9:15 am. #
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by Stephen Tall on September 20, 2012 at 12:15 pm. #
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by BexhillBattleLibDems on September 20, 2012 at 12:31 pm. #
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by Stephen Tall on September 20, 2012 at 3:15 pm. #