The killing season

by John Redgate

Priceclipped DJ, has some nicks and tears.

Genres: Mystery

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1968

About the author

A pseudonym used by Adam Kennedy.

Reviews

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this in the Dutch anthology 'De spannendste spionage verhalen'. This novella I read decades ago and it always stayed with me. Righty so. Its captivating and brutal. If you can get your hands on this one, do not miss out.

[Peter Coster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twistingly obtuse

As obtuse as Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, sometimes a bit too obtuse, especially during the early chapters, but keep reading and it all becomes clear, or just about. Twists turns and double crosses a plenty.

[Zare · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cold war period, spy operation goes south in Berlin. Two agents are found, one dead and one heavily wounded in the head - rest of network is extracted as soon as possible for fear of capture. After recovering from head injury our protagonist finds out that third agent in the control circle is the one who actually sold the entire operation to opposition. This hits him hard because all three have history together and were very good friends.

But problem is that our hero is alive and traitor moves on to finish his business and ensure all survivors are dead and that his employers are satisfied and don't decide to silence him.

This move escalates into a full tragedy that sees our hero hell-bent on revenge and soon dead bodies start popping all over the place.

Very interesting, fast paced spy/revenge story. Author manages to show how personal feelings and official business (of spy agencies) are almost always in conflict. Considering that book is written in late 60's it aged pretty well.

Highly recommended to all thriller fans.