Winter in Madrid: A Spy Story
U.K Writer C. J. Simpson Pens a Great Spy Tale
Winter in Madrid is an eye-opening introduction to the abhorrent cruelties and deprivations that took place in post civil war Spain. General Franco playes his cards close to his chest while deciding whether to enter the war or retain Spain’s neutrality. Hunger, fear and violence rule, although the city of Madrid has never been so quiet. People live in fear of their lives, trusting no one, and staying off the streets as much as possible.
Into this scene comes the ex- public school boy Harry Brett, a traumatized World War I veteran, recruited as a reluctant spy. The British Secret Services aim to use Harry’s language skills as cover for him to spy on his old school chum, Sandy Forsyth, now a ruthless businessman working in and around Madrid.
From bombings in London to depression in Madrid, Harry seeks to make contact with Forsyth, which plunges him into an uncertain and dangerous world of the black market and political alliances.
Meanwhile another former school contemporary, Bernie, (missing presumed dead), is being searched for by his girlfriend who is now the not-so-willing girlfriend of the slick Forsyth.
The class system, black market and disappearance of innocent people continues long after the civil war has ended. Drought and destroyed infrastructure have left the people on the edge of starvation, rummaging in rubbish bags and begging. Nice “boy” Harry reluctantly learns to live, lie and survive on these streets.
This book is a page-turner, with its enjoyable action-packed twists and the moving not -so- far fetched descriptions of the times. Some of the years after the war and under Franco’s regime were harder and more harrowing than the war itself.
Simpson has woven a great tale of history, love and intrigue, which blends this story into a classic tale of loyalties and new allegiances. There's no need to be a spy or war book fan to enjoy the novel; it is a satisfying read for many reasons including love entanglements, history, and emotion.
A big story, fascinating read and a great introduction to the troubled times that mark Spain’s past.
