Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer Book Recommendations & Book Mentions

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

Matthews… writes with verve, whether about deadly Kremlin infighting or ice storms that hurl “freezing shards sharp as ground glass” against bare skin. Vasin is his finest creation — a man thoroughly compromised, yet still yearning for decency and justice.

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

Patience writes with a newsman’s sharp eye — grim Glasgow pubs and their yellow-eyed drinkers are lovingly sketched — and the snappy dialogue is enlivened by an acerbic wit

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

That strange era when the Soviet Union slowly collapsed and nobody knew who was in charge — especially of the nuclear arsenals — is masterfully drawn. Kent’s smattering of nifty nuggets of espionage tradecraft brings added value.

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

This tale fizzes with energy and lively scene-setting, switching between Madrid’s most glamorous enclaves and its seedy backstreets.

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

I’m a big fan of Pavone’s intelligent and fast-paced thrillers. Two Nights in Lisbon once again delivers the goods.

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

Kayode trained as a clinical psychologist and has also written for TV. Gaslight nicely showcases both his understanding of human complexity and his maturing skills as a novelist.

Adam LeBor author, critic, editorial trainer

Hooft worked for the British government as a development official in Sierra Leone and it shows in her fine eye for detail. The story, set in 2000, moves seamlessly between the country’s brutal civil war and Whitehall’s cynical corridors of power.