The Drop & The List

This collection features two novellas centered on espionage, exploring the complex lives of spies facing moral dilemmas and hidden secrets, ultimately revealing how past choices can impact their futures. The Drop & The List.

The Drop & The List features two gripping novellas set in the world of espionage, showcasing the intricate and often perilous lives of spies. In The Drop, Solomon Dortmund, a seasoned operative, witnesses a suspicious exchange in a café, prompting him to report his concerns to John Bachelor, a handler for retired spies. This seemingly innocuous act sets off a chain of events that will dramatically impact the lives of those involved. As Bachelor struggles with his own precarious situation, Hannah Weiss, a double agent, begins to embrace the complexities of her role, while Lech Wicinski, an analyst, finds himself entangled in a favor that could jeopardize his career. Lady Di Taverner, determined to maintain order within the Service, is prepared to make tough decisions, even if it means sacrificing her own agents.

In the second novella, The List, the sudden death of Dieter Hess, an aging spy, leaves John Bachelor facing a crisis. The discovery of a secret second bank account raises troubling questions about Hess’s loyalty and whether he was a double agent. As Bachelor delves deeper into the mystery, he realizes that uncovering the truth could unravel years of carefully guarded secrets, threatening not only his own career but also the stability of the spy network.

Together, these novellas highlight the tension and moral ambiguity inherent in the world of espionage, where trust is a luxury and every decision carries weighty consequences. Mick Herron’s masterful storytelling immerses readers in a shadowy realm filled with intrigue and suspense, making The Drop & The List a compelling addition to the genre.