A Line in the Sand

Line in the Sand is a great example of why I'm such a fan of Gerald Seymour. He's a talented writer who knows the business of spying, the Middle East, and police procedures, and he knows how to put together a story that truly engages the reader.

In this case, the main character happens to betray the wrong Iranians, he's holed up with an assumed identity in a small English coastal town, an assassin has been dispatched to gain revenge, and rather than running he elects to stay with his family under the 'protection' of the British government. Everyone knows the assassin is on the way, they just don't know who he is or how he plans to attack, and the book covers the preparation, the behind the scenes work to identify the attacker, and the show more eventual resolution.

I really loved this book, but in typical Seymour fashion he introduces viewpoints and characters that, at the time, you have no idea how they fit into the picture. They eventually do become part of the story, but to me it's a bit distracting in that I'm constantly trying to figure out how they'll be introduced into the action. Other than that, it's a great read, well-written with excellent character development and a satisfying conclusion. I recommend it highly! show less

A wholly enthralling thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It follows an Iranian assassin in pursuit of an Englishman who spied and betrayed the location and personnel involved in an attempt to develop a nuclear weapon. The successful attack on them by Israeli forces lead to Gavin being hunted by the Iranians and when his changed identity is discovered, Vahid is despatched to gain vengeance. The skills of Vahid are countered by the determination of the British Secret Service and the CIA to keep Gavin alive, but also to expose the Iranian government’s complicity in killing opponents and traitors. The tension created by the shifting balance of power between the two sides, means that the outcome is always in doubt in a show more wonderfully compelling story. show less