It has been a while since I last read an espionage thriller even though it used to be one of my favorite genres. Istanbul Passage was an enjoyable return. The spy business was not as convoluted as it often is, allowing the story to focus more on the characters and the setting. As the author says in the interview at the end of the book, Istanbul Passage is "not genre fiction, but character-based literature set in the world of espionage."
I appreciated that the characters' decision-making always seemed reasonable instead of plot-driven. No one said, "I have something vital to tell you, but wait until tomorrow." The only element that felt like a plot contrivance was the medical condition of Leon's wife. I remember Istanbul well enough that I could picture the major locales.
I definitely recommend it.
I appreciated that the characters' decision-making always seemed reasonable instead of plot-driven. No one said, "I have something vital to tell you, but wait until tomorrow." The only element that felt like a plot contrivance was the medical condition of Leon's wife. I remember Istanbul well enough that I could picture the major locales.
I definitely recommend it.
No comments:
Post a Comment