Queen & Country

In the peaceful towns and villages of England, Cleaner Bob is washing windows, and people are dying in sudden and unexpected circumstances. When it becomes clear that the victims have a common history as Russian defectors, foul play is suspected, and a hunt begins to locate their assailant, the lethal poison that killed them, and the mole who is leaking their locations. Charles Thoroughgood, former head of MI6, is enjoying retirement in the Oxfordshire hamlet he calls home when the call comes in. A man of duty, he agrees to take part in a mission that will lead him into the heart of enemy territory and threaten to undermine the very values he holds most dear. The latest Charles Thoroughgood novel is a timely and brilliant reminder that Alan Judd is a master of the spy thriller and a writer of the very highest quality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

In a perilous world, nothing is as it seems, including the act of murder. Judd, a seasoned expert in the realm of espionage, possesses a profound understanding of the milieu. The Times has praised his work, describing it as an "elegant and informed British espionage novel." The Financial Times has also lauded it, calling it "authentic, clever, and wonderfully entertaining." Sir Richard Dearlove, a former head of MI6, has expressed his admiration, stating that it is "a better Christmas read than any other."

In the tranquil towns and villages of England, Cleaner Bob goes about his daily task of washing windows, while unsuspecting people meet untimely and unexpected deaths. When it becomes evident that these victims share a common past as Russian defectors, foul play is suspected, and a relentless search ensues to identify their assailant, the lethal poison that caused their demise, and the mole who is leaking their locations. Time is of the essence, as only one man possesses the necessary connections and expertise to unravel the case before more lives are lost.

Charles Thoroughgood, a former head of MI6, is enjoying his retirement in the picturesque Oxfordshire hamlet he calls home when the call comes in. A man of duty, he cannot resist the allure of a mission that will take him deep into enemy territory and pose a threat to the very principles he holds dear. The novel by Charles Thoroughgood is a timely and brilliant reminder of Alan Judd's mastery of the spy thriller genre and his exceptional writing skills.

The story unfolds with a sense of urgency and tension, keeping the reader engrossed from start to finish. Judd's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create vivid characters bring the world of espionage to life. The plot is meticulously crafted, with layers of mystery and intrigue that keep the reader guessing until the very end.

What sets this novel apart is its authenticity. Judd has a deep understanding of the espionage world, and his writing reflects this expertise. The characters are well-developed, with their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations clearly defined. The settings are vivid and evocative, transporting the reader to the heart of enemy territory.

The novel also explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions. The characters face difficult choices and must navigate treacherous waters, testing their resolve and loyalty to one another. The moral dilemmas they face add depth and complexity to the story, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read.

In conclusion, "The Cleaner" is a thrilling and captivating spy thriller that showcases Alan Judd's exceptional writing skills. The novel is a timely reminder of the complexities and dangers of the espionage world, and its characters are well-developed and relatable. Judd's attention to detail and his ability to create a sense of urgency and tension make this a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you are a seasoned spy thriller enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Cleaner" is sure to leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Weight: 178g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471180286