This is one of Le Carrés early books that is most often over looked. I highly recommend listening to it again, there are many subtleties that mirror the world we know live in. While it is truly hard to top Michael Jaystons original version of this audiobook, Ralph Lister does a wonderful job bringing fresh life into this classic about a dark time in a small town in Germany.

I am seriously enjoying a return to John le Carre as an adult who can read his works as amazing, amusing historical fiction. Here we have a 1968 novel that I listened to in just a few bites, running my phone as I cleaned and on a trip. Bonn is the small town in Germany. Of course Bonn is only small compared to other large German Cities. It serves as an unofficial second capital to Berlin now and was in the British zone during the post WWII era. The entire novel is about several well-crafted characters, including the apparently insignificant Leo Harding, who has been a temp in the British Embassy in Bonn for 20 years, something unheard of. Temps move on. Leo is a small man, somewhat prissy, who plays the organ for the church choir and has many hidden sides to him. He is known for getting people deals on various goods and for smoking smelly Dutch cigarettes that he passes around. It is obvious he has a great line on hairdryers at the time this story plays out in the late 1960s.

Rawley Bradfield is the Head of the Chancery at the Embassy, an efficient, often brash, other times reflective guy who has a problem. Some files are missing and while they were soon to be destroyed, it's more than a little concerning. Alan Turner, an investigator with the British Foreign officer arrives on the scene when a number of varied issues come to a head and suspicions fall on a particular character. The investigation is frankly hilarious. He's a bit of a Columbo type (showing my age) and persistent when he gets close to secrets some people want to keep buried, in particular Bradfield.

So far, this may be my favorite le Carre, but I understand he was not initially fond of it. His use of metaphor and his black comedy humor is unmatched. I'm so happy new editions of his novels are coming out in recent audio versions so I can eat them up. Highly recommend.

I feel so bad giving a John le Carré book less than five stars! I feel even worse giving one three. That said, even John le Carré himself had mixed feelings about A Small Town in Germany throughout his life. I wish I had read the Wikipedia article prior to reading the book. You see, I tend to do chores while I listen to my audiobooks. With all of the different characters coming in and out the book was difficult for me to follow at times. It also took me a little bit to figure out exactly what was going on. I knew it wasn't a Smiley novel, but I kept expecting some aspect of Smiley's word to pop in. I finally gave up and just let the story wash over me. Listening was easier after that, and I enjoyed the book more. Come to find out, A Small Town in Germany is totally unrelated to George Smiley's world. My understanding is that John le Carré was trying something new, something that he thought might be his last espionage novel. If I grasp John le Carré's intent correctly, he was going for some kind of very British mash-up between espionage, black comedy, and a comedy of manners. Yes, I see that. That makes sense to me, and I wish I'd known from the outset.

I don't have any complaints about Ralph Lister's narration per se. The funny thing is, even though I had never read this book before and all of these characters were completely new to me, I didn't think that the voices Ralph Lister used for some of the characters were correct. Take Alan Turner, for instance. My head kept telling me that "Alan Turner doesn't sound like that. He's doing Alan Turner's voice all wrong." There is no earthly reason for me to feel that way, but there you go. It was a distraction from beginning to end.

I'm glad I read A Small Town in Germany. It's not Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, but it doesn't have to be. I think it was a fine experiment on John le Carré's part and I'd like to read it again now that I understand it more.

I would like to thank Dreamscape Media for allowing me to experience this NetGalley audiobook.

I'm loving John Le Carré's book. There is something about a good spy thriller that just makes me excited to read it. I need to read them all.

John le Carré's A Small Town in Germany is a gripping, atmospheric novel that showcases the author’s unparalleled ability to weave together complex characters and intricate plots in the shadowy world of Cold War espionage. Set in the tense environment of Bonn, the novel immerses readers in a world where secrets are currency, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
The novel is not just a thriller; it is also a powerful exploration of the political tensions of the time. The backdrop of radical student movements, neo-Nazi riots, and critical European negotiations adds layers of urgency and relevance to the story. Le Carré’s depiction of post-war Germany, teetering on the edge of its past while grappling with its future, is both vivid and haunting.

🎧 *Audiobook review* 🎧

John le Carré's ”A Small Town in Germany” is a masterclass in espionage, blending geopolitical tension with rich character dynamics! Set in the town of Bonn, during the Cold War, the novel captivates with its tale of a missing British Embassy officer, Leo Harting, together with confidential files that vanish with him. In this tensed environment Alan Turner is sent from London to investigate, but soon finds himself unraveling a web of deceit in a politically volatile climate.

Beyond the brilliant storytelling, Ralph Lister’s narration elevates this audiobook to an entire other level! Lister’s performance captures not only the slow-burning intensity of the time-ticking story, but also the atmospheric tension that le Carré is acklaimed for. Also, Lister’s delivery is deliberate and measured, making his approach a perfect match for the intricate plotting and political complexity of the novel. The audio narrator perfectly depicts the sense of urgency and unease, bringing each character to life with distinct voices that reflect their personalities, moods, and roles in the unfolding mystery.

While the novel's pacing is slower, especially in the early chapters, Lister’s voice keeps you hooked, adding subtle nuances to the dialogue and enhancing the overall experience. His portrayal of Alan Turner, the investigator struggling to navigate both bureaucratic roadblocks and hidden agendas, is particularly strong. The range and depth of his voice lend credibility to Turner’s emotional and mental unraveling as the investigation deepens.

One thing that first-time genre audience might occasionally notice is that the complexity of the plot difficult to follow, particularly with the novel’s layered political intrigue and series of twists. Despite this, Lister’s steady and thoughtful narration helps guide you through the labyrinth of espionage, even during the slower moments. His portrayal of the various characters, from Turner to the elusive Harting, is clear enough to keep listeners engaged, even when the narrative shifts between perspectives.

Overall, Lister brings a meticulous attention to detail that complements le Carré’s storytelling perfectly. If you’re a fan of Cold War thrillers or le Carré’s work, this audiobook is just the right one for you to pick up!

Special thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.

If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #ASmallTownInGermany #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning

As someone who lives near the setting of this audiobook, I can confidently say that the author did a fantastic job capturing the essence and atmosphere of the location. The descriptions of the landscape, local culture, and history felt spot-on, adding an authentic layer to the story that I really appreciated.

However, my enjoyment of the audiobook was somewhat dampened by the narrator. While the story itself was engaging, the narrator’s delivery didn't quite resonate with me, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the narrative.

Overall, the story itself is worth a listen, especially if you're familiar with or curious about the area it's set in. But if you're particular about narration, you might find yourself wishing for a different voice to bring these well-crafted scenes to life.

*A big thank-you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for a free audiobook in exchange of my honest review.*
Another offering by John Le Carre that reveals the way agents and spy operate. Le Carre was a master of both plot and characters, and his way of presenting different angles is unique.
Set in the 1960s in 'a small town in Germany', namely Bonn, the novel revolves around a myserious disappearance of Leo Harting, and we learn a lot about him and people around him though stories told by different characters. The novel may be called a slow burner, but with Le Carre you get this feeling of anticipation that not may authors know how to achieve. The finale is surprising, as always, and the Master does not disappoint.
Ralph Lister is a wonderful voice for Le Carre's books.

This is a sloooow burn. John Le Carre os the spymaster of spy books.
I man from the British Embassy in Bonn is missing. Gone with him are forty-three files, all of them Confidential or above. Alan Turner, London's security officer is sent to find him. This was a classic old school cold war thriller.

Narrated by Ralph Lister, and OMG! I can not imagine a more perfect narrator for a coldwar spy novel.

Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for an ARC.

Thank you Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC!

The narrator for this book, Ralph Lister is PHENOMENAL. He does an excellent job with voices and his over all time. He gets 5 stars for his performance easily. I had a bit of a hard time getting into the story, it was slower than books I usually read. I love the premise, Leo Harting goes missing with a bunch of confidential files from the British embassy. The story follows Alan Turner as he investigates the disappearance of Harting from the small town of Bonn as well as all the information he uncovers as he investigates. This was also my first John Le Carre book so I think the fans of his books will love this one!

I have been a long-time fan of movies based on John Le Carre's books but this is the first book I've read. I found the topic to be interesting but had a hard time connecting with writing style. This is in part due to the audiobook because it was sometimes hard to tell which character was speaking which hampered the dialogue and my ability to follow parts of the plot. I did like the voice of the narrator though but maybe more variance or clarity between characters would have been helpful. Thank you to DreamScape and NetGalley for this audiobook. All opinions are my own, shared willingly.

Another great great great audiobook from John Le Carré. I love this story, love the characters, the tension, the case. Spy stories are just my thing and nobody writes them like John Le Carré. And the narrator make it even better with his voice!

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

This is the first Le Carré that I have read and I didn't half expect to enjoy it so much! The intricacies of the plot weren't always the easiest to follow via audio but that may say more about my distractions than anything else. The narrator was very good.

It’s the late 1960’s in Bonn Germany, an officer of the British Embassy has gone missing and Alan Turner is dispatched to investigate, finding himself in a complicated political atmosphere. John Le Carré is a master at weaving such stories and this book is no exception although it lacks the action and excitement of some of his other novels. The narration is a highlight, a true delight to listen to, each voice unique and with good intonation and emotion. Was an excellent long car ride listen.

John LeCarre is a master when it comes to spy novels, and it is impossible to deny his craft both in the genre and as a writer. But this one wasn’t for me, or at least, it wasn’t for me in audio. This novel begins in the 60’s just as the British Embassy in West Germany discovers a low level employee has disappeared, ostensibly with classified files. The plot is primarily moved forward through dialogue, with very little action. As an audiobook, I found it challenging to follow. However, you are a LeCarre fan, or a focused audiobook reader, don’t miss out on Ralph Lister’s narration. He was fantastic, distinguishing each character vocally and I would take a chance on a book if I saw he was the narrator. If you are a first time LeCarre reader, you may want to start elsewhere or at least pick up a hard copy.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

📚🎧 A Small Town in Germany by John le Carré, narrated by Ralph Lister.

In this gripping espionage thriller, Le Carré transports us to Bonn, the capital of West Germany, during a pivotal moment. The story unfolds in a “recent future,” just days before West Germany must take a stand on the Common Market. Amid riots and protests, British Embassy officer Leo Harting mysteriously disappears, along with forty-three confidential files. Enter Alan Turner, dispatched from the British Foreign Office to investigate.

As always, Le Carré masterfully weaves a web of intrigue, political tension, and personal secrets.

Leo Harting, an archivist with an astonishing memory, becomes the enigmatic center of the plot. His fatal curiosity and obsession lead us deeper into the labyrinth of espionage. As Turner traces Harting’s steps, the delicate German-British relationship hangs in the balance, and the question arises: Why did Harting vanish, and what secrets did he carry?

The novel’s atmosphere crackles with suspense, and Le Carré’s prose immerses us in the world of Cold War espionage. The British Embassy, the German student movement, and the shadowy corridors of power all come alive. The Le Carré tradition of surprise endings awaits readers, leaving us pondering the intricate motivations of these characters.

Ralph Lister’s narration enhances the experience. His voice captures the tension, urgency, and complexity of the plot. Lister’s skillful portrayal of each character adds depth, making this audiobook a must-listen for espionage enthusiasts.

“A Small Town in Germany” is an exciting, compulsively readable novel that showcases Le Carré’s unmatched ability to craft espionage tales. He deftly avoids clichés, delivering a fresh and thought-provoking narrative.

Whether you’re a seasoned spy fiction fan or a newcomer, this audiobook promises an enthralling journey through intrigue and betrayal.

🌟John Le Carré has done it again—writing a top-tier espionage thriller that keeps listeners captivated. I highly recommended this audiobook! 🎧

John Le Carre has been a favorite author of mine forever. And it had been forever since I read this book, so long that I forgot the story entirely. While I dearly missed George Smiley, the plot is brilliantly executed and oddly relevant to today’s political climate. As I listened to Ralph Lister’s excellent narration, I couldn’t help but admire Le Carre’s descriptive writing style. Some passages are intensely lyrical, all the more so because of the violent undercurrents he writes about:

“The banners formed a ring, and the gypsy students stood inside it, gathered round their own small fire. ‘Burn Axel Springer,’ one boy shouted, not with much conviction, and another broke a book and threw it on the flames. The book burned badly, choking before it died. I shouldn’t have done that to the books, Turner thought; I’ll be doing it to people next. A group of girls lounged on mattresses and the fire made poems of their faces.”

I hope that’s not a spoiler but I want to quote the passage in full because it captures the incongruous beauty that surrounds the resurgence of fascism that threatens Le Carre’s 1960s Germany. Throughout the novel he keeps circling back to the idea of Bonn–the “small town”–as a kind of dream, a feverish illusion, a fairytale island lost amid the ever-present fog. At the time Le Carre wrote the novel, he was in fact working as a spy for the Brits and he was stationed in Bonn. So, as usual, he nails the place, the moment in time.

The plot is also ingenious, convincing, even diabolical. It’s impossible to read this novel now and not think of the far-right movements that have sprung up around the globe. British Foreign Office emissary Alan Turner must investigate the disappearance of Leo Harting, who has deceived everyone and made off with some critically important files. Harting, a low-level employee at the UK’s embassy in Bonn, is an object of contempt–a perpetual temp whose main talent was that he could obtain cheap hair dryers for the diplomats' wives. And yet he somehow cast a spell over everyone he came into contact with. Was he a spy for the Soviets? A traitor? A fascist sympathizer? An incompetent drunk gone AWOL? The answer is not what you think.

My one complaint about the story is that none of the characters are likeable. Le Carre said he wrote this novel while his marriage was breaking up and it shows. There's no George Smiley, Control, Jim Prideaux, Ricki Tarr–all flawed but endearing characters. These characters are decidedly not endearing, not even Turner. Okay, one more criticism: the action is slow and doesn’t pick up until the end. That said, this audiobook is still well worth a listen and I recommend it.

Much thanks to Dreamscape Media for an audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.