Secrets involving the British Secret Service and the Bosnian War are revealed in John LeCarre's final novel. Julian Lawndsley is a former city trader who, having made his money, has retired to a pleasant little village to open a bookshop. Better Books doesn't do a roaring trade, or even turn a profit, but it keeps Julian contented. One day the affable and charming Edward Avon turns up. A preliminary conversation reveals that Edward was friends with Julian's father. It doesn't take long before Edward's wife, Deborah, invites Julian to dinner. It turns into a rather uncomfortable evening, as the imperious Deborah picks a quarrel with her generally unflappable husband. Things get curiouser and curiouser until a byzantine plot is revealed, at the heart of which is the British Secret Service. Edward Avon has a dark backstory, involving clandestine involvement in the Bosnian war. Has he revealed too many secrets during his patchy career, and how is he to be muzzled? Silverview is acclaimed spy writer John Le Carre's final novel, published posthumously. It's plot is finely tuned and ticks with perfect timing, carefully peeling back the layers until the tragic heart of the story is revealed. With its cast of eccentric old spies and dry British humour, Le Carre fans are sure to be pleased. Silverview, by John LeCarre. Published by Viking. $32.99 Review by Chris Saliba Comments are closed.
|
AuthorNorth Melbourne Books Categories
All
Archives
April 2024
|