The Company – A Novel of the CIA – Robert Little – (Harry N. Abrams)
The Company by
Robert Little, re-issued in a new paperback version, this 2002
classic, is a dark, complex espionage thriller that walks the reader through a twisted
maze of intrigue.
Its not surprising that Littell comes from a journalism
background, as he brings an old school journalist’s eye for detail as he let’s
the story of the post-World War II Berlin Station play out. There is a real
sense of reverence for history that comes through in Littell’s words as he
weaves in historic figures like William Casey, William F. Buckley and even G.
Gordon Liddy, in with his fictional creations. This technique lends an
additional level of authenticity to the story.
Not dependent on biff, bam, and pow action like so many
of the books in the spy genre, Littell infuses The Company with
suspense, driven by tension and a high level of tactical acumen that is
reminiscent of John la Carre. As a reader, you will appreciate the detailed
scenes Littell draws, leaving you with a sense you are viewing things through
his eyes. You’ll really feel the cold, dankness of the drafty safe house and
taste the smokey-ness of the whiskey that is being downed.
Doorstop heavy, at nearly 900 pages this is not a lite
read, but it’s more than worth the time to delve into this epic read. It makes
for a great lead into Littell’s forthcoming book Comrade Koba.
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