Dangers, Toils and Snares

Dangers, Toils and Snares is a novel that follows the life and times of Jaroslav Zellek, a synesthete, gifted musician, and linguist who experiences various locations and relationships, including being involved with a group based on the Cambridge Spies. Jiri is an unpredictable, solipsistic, and not entirely likeable character, but his unusual internal monologues and ability to come out on top keep the reader engaged. The novel has witty dialogue and surreal situations, with a quirky tone that will keep you guessing until the end.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 592 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2023
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

Dangers, Toils and Snares is a captivating novel that delves into the life and times of Jaroslav (Jiri/Jerry) Zellek, an 1895-1963 born synesthete, gifted musician, and linguist. His experiences take him from his provincial roots in Austria to Germany, London, the Isle of Wight, and finally to rural Hampshire. These diverse locations offer him alternative paths, often with alternative partners, as he explores his ambivalent sexuality. While his sexuality was not a problem in 1920s Berlin, it becomes more complex in post-war England.

Although Jiri never officially worked as an intelligence agent, he becomes involved with a group based on the infamous Cambridge Spies. He plays a dual role as both a fall guy and a hitman, navigating the complexities of their operations. As the story unfolds, gradually uncovered family secrets cast doubt on his closest relationships.

Jiri is an enigmatic and complex character, with a penchant for solipsism and a sometimes unlikable nature. However, his unique internal monologues and his unwavering ability to navigate challenging situations keep the reader engaged and rooting for him.

The novel is a delightful read, filled with witty dialogue and surreal situations. The tone is distinctly quirky, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. Dangers, Toils and Snares offers a captivating glimpse into the life of a remarkable individual and provides a thought-provoking exploration of sexuality, relationships, and the consequences of secrets.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 130 x 199 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805140801