Naughtie’s sophisticated Cold War spy thrillers continue as Will Flemyng navigates the dangerous labyrinth of Washington politics.

‘At this juncture,’ Flemyng began deliberately, ‘this is the worst news we could have.’

1. There are whispers across Paris that Will Flemying, secret servant of the British embassy, is being posted to Washington. The rumours hint he may be investigating the American special agents being sent unexploded bombs. There have been seventeen so far, only three have been triggered.

The bomber may not have killed anyone yet, but for Flemying, the list of targets rings every alarm bell he could name. They are men and women who operate in his world - in the shadows - and soon Flemyng will have to confront the campaign of violence that has already begun.