Crime and Thrillers
Left-of-centre Labour Prime Minister Jack Higson has enjoyed a spectacular rise from backbencher to the highest political office in the land in just a few short years. He is popular, well-liked and supported by a loving wife. But when a prominent Spanish lawyer In Madrid asks to see the British Ambassador, and tells him a story about Higson's grandfather's time in Spain during the Spanish Civil War, Higson's world begins to unravel.
And when that story becomes linked to a skeleton in his personal life of which his wife knows nothing, Higson is suddenly faced with an existential threat to both his political career and his marriage. Over a period of just a few weeks he must make the most momentous decisions of his life. Can he be saved? Or is he the only one who can save himself?
Here's what readers have to say about this book....
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An entertaining and gripping novel, with insights into the world of Government, politics and the security services. As authentic as expected from the author's experience at the highest levels in Government and security plus his deep knowledge of Spain. The story takes ancient grudges from the Spanish Civil War as they interact with modern politics. It explores the ethical and moral dilemmas that democratic governments grapple with when faced with groups who have no qualms about using terror and mayhem to further their aims. I finished it gently educated about the Spanish Civil War and slightly more suspicious than before about the security of my smartphone and other communications. Other readers must decide how far well-meaning governments should go to protect their populations. A really excellent and thought provoking read.
A good read with lots of hooks and diverse plot lines to keep the reader engaged. Intriguing puzzles from the Spanish Civil war affect modern British and Spanish politics with moments of high drama and insights into the personal struggles and lives of the people involved.
If you like well written political thrillers this is one and what’s more, from an author well equipped by a lifetime on the inside to share a glimpse of the workings of government. READ THIS BOOK. You will enjoy it. I do and I did.
A credible plot with credible characters made me keeping turning the pages to find out what happened next: very definitely the proverbial "good read"! Doubtless showing my age, for me there was something Alistair MacLeanish/Hammond Innesish about the book. Star ratings are a blunt instrument, but five seems deserved for such an accomplished debut.
A very enjoyable page-turner. At its centre is human frailty and reconciliation. And the action is driven by international counter-terrorism and by decision-making at the highest levels of UK government, reflecting the career experience of the author.
