Yesterday's Spy by Tom Bradby (2022)

An "impulse borrow" from the library the last time I was there, this book reads like a James Bond film script set in 1953.  The author really should have availed himself of professor Amanat's fantastic history book; he made some blunders about the leaders and factions in the 1953 chaos in which the story takes place. But the thriller aspects of the story were fun and it was wildly entertaining, despite how depressing the situation was. 3/5 Stars.

Eifelheim by Michael Flynn

The characters, settings, and writing craft are fantastic but I am disappointed by the plot, character arcs, and story.  3/5 Stars.

Call for the Dead by John Le Carré (1961)

I thought I had read all of Le Carré's books, including the posthumously published Silverview. I could not remember this one when I saw it in the library and sure enough, I had missed it.  The author and his main character are both younger, more passionate and energetic in this book than the later, cerebral novels.  It's a fun1950's cold war spy thriller, 4/5 Stars.

The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham

Fascinating look at the rise and fall of the Dixie Mafia with thrilling legal drama and great storytelling. 5/5 Stars.

Swann's War by Michael Oren

I am a big fan of Dr. Oren's history books so when I saw this one in the library I grabbed it.  The story is interesting and good; the mystery is ok, not that great.  I love the historical context and setting. 3/5 Stars.