The Secretary

THE SECRETARY by Deborah Lawrenson This is a 5-star read! The novel ( with a poignant back-story) sits comfortably in the spy-thriller genre: a deep-cover Cold War mission to identify a Moscow mole, but Lawrenson transcends the conventional with vital, engaging writing. Pre-eminent here is the creation of Lois Vale ,a remarkable heroine, living in a closed community under threat at all times. From her cool under pressure to the dry but whip-smart humour, and quietly penetrating observations, and in her mental and verbal gymnastics - on a taut tightrope, like the reader- she thrills us. We are treated here to Lawrenson’s enthralling writing in presenting Lois’s act, actions, words, and situational apercus. I loved the depiction of Moscow -its architecture, skies, history, society, artistic events and political activities. The immersion in the environment was totally engaging and the characterisation, through description or dialogue, of a wonderful dramatic cast , was delightful. Begin your journey! John Hargreaves