Queen & Country

Queen & Country is a gripping tale set against the backdrop of England's tranquil towns and villages, where Cleaner Bob goes about washing windows while people die suddenly and unexpectedly. When it becomes clear that the victims share a history as Russian defectors, foul play is suspected.

The Plot

A hunt begins for the killer, the lethal poison responsible for the deaths and the mole who is betraying the defectors by revealing their locations. Charles Thoroughgood, former head of MI6, is enjoying retirement in his Oxfordshire hamlet when the call comes. A man of duty, he agrees to join a mission that will take him into the heart of enemy territory and threaten the values he holds most dear, as he races against time to crack the case before more lives are lost.

Themes

• Trust and Betrayal: The story delves into the complexities of loyalty, exploring how deception can lurk even in the most unexpected places.
• Identity and Exile: The plight of the defectors highlights themes of displacement and the search for a sense of belonging.
• Duty and Values: Thoroughgood's sense of duty is tested by a mission that threatens the values he holds most dear.

With a writing style that combines vivid imagery and sharp dialogue, Queen & Country captivates readers and immerses them in a world where every detail holds significance. Fans of espionage thrillers and those who appreciate the intricacies of human relationships will find this Charles Thoroughgood novel from Alan Judd resonates deeply.