The Devil's Bargain: A pulse-pounding spy thriller from the former head of MI5

David Gilman, Harry Bristow, Peter Robinson, and Manon Tyler are all characters in a novel about espionage and betrayal set in 1988. Harry made a mistake by taking a bribe, and Peter is an illegal who is working undercover. Manon has a report on Russian illegals, and David is a CIA analyst. The novel is praised for its authenticity and insight into the world of intelligence work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

One lie could put the entire nation in danger. Another could potentially save it.

Harry Bristow is a multifaceted individual: a policeman, a father, a chauffeur, and a fraud. In 1988, he made a mistake that he has regretted ever since: he took a bribe and allowed a man he knew as Igor to enter Britain.

Many years later, when Harry encounters Igor again as his newly elected Member of Parliament, he knows he must come clean about his past mistake. However, the MP recognizes him as well, and Harry fears the consequences that may ensue.

Peter Robinson is another character in the story. He is a salesman, a politician, a bachelor, and a spy. In 1988, it was relatively easy to enter Britain illegally, working undercover. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union cut Robinson off from his homeland. He is now inching closer to the levers of power in Britain, but he is concerned about the reappearance of the one man who knows his secret. With no way to contact Moscow, Robinson must act quickly to preserve his position and reap its rewards, even if it means taking drastic measures.

Manon Tyler is a CIA analyst who has just boarded a plane to London. She is carrying a report on Russian illegals, which she intends to read during her journey.

The story is intriguing and well-plotted, with a lot of insider information. It is not one to be missed by fans of contemporary spy fiction.

Alex Gerlis, in his review for The Daily Telegraph, praised the book for its breakneck speed and its packed with insider information. He described it as "not one to miss." M. W. Craven, in his review for Publishers Weekly, praised the book for its authenticity and its adherence to the character and spirit of intelligence work. He called it a "must-read for fans of contemporary spy fiction." The Mail on Sunday also praised the book, stating that it is something rare: a spy novel that prizes authenticity over fabrication and that is true to the character and spirit of intelligence work.

Overall, "The Lie" is a captivating and well-crafted spy novel that will keep readers engaged and entertained from start to finish.

Weight: 194g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526612922