It has been a while since I've read a spy thriller. This title by Downing makes me remember why I often enjoy them. While I'd not read any previous books in the series, Jack McColl's background comes out naturally as the action progresses. I didn't feel lost by the background, although sometimes in the present, with changing viewpoints and multiple characters across both the Soviet Union and India, I found myself a bit lost. Very suspenseful but not too intense; I was fascinated to catch a glimpse of the Soviet Union in 1921, as the initial revolutionary Marxist fervor is beginning to lose its shine.

This book was not for me as it kept jumping between character viewpoints without providing any kind of rhyme or reason as to why. Others may enjoy it but it simply was not my cup of tea. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me the chance.