‘One of the most original – and entertaining – mysteries I have ever read… A brilliant tour de force that the most jaded fans will relish.’ R. A. J. Walters‘A reminder of the genial heyday of the genre when the KGB other ingredients of the esurient modern thriller were barely a gleam in Stalin’s eye.’ Christopher Wordsworth, The Observer‘A must for all connoisseurs of detective fiction.’ James Harris, Literary Review‘This year’s most welcome reissue.’ Francis Goff, Sunday Telegraph‘A book of irresistible charm for students of the detective story.’ Ruth Dudley Edwards, Times Literary Supplement