>>>Personally, I prefer Len Deighton. If you haven't read the trilogy trilogy ( Berlin Game, Mexico Set, London Match, Spy Hook, Spy Line, Spy Sinker, Faith, Hope, Charity ) I think that represents some of the most compelling work in the genre.
>>
>>So many books! So little time! I haven't read Len Deighton in at least 20 years ... time for a re-visit methinks. <g>
>>
>>BTW, thanks for starting this particular set of posts in this thread. I'm always looking for new (to me) authors, and you and Alan have always recommended some good ones.
>>
>>~~Bonnie
>
>Bonnie, don't read Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann. Just a heads up. ;)

Why the blanket condemnation? I have not read it but know it has its fans. 10 years or so ago I had an online friendship with a woman in Berlin. She had read about everything and was extremely smart. It was her favorite book, to the point of naming her cat Castorp.