An interesting part of the development of many of the characters in the "audley" series of novels. They all reflect on the position of individuals in the contemporary scene as considered by an amateur historian writing a few years later. The author's interst in history is clear. This book's view of the middle east, framed by UK politics, has both relevance and entertainment value. Strongly recommended as quality thriller/detective fiction in an historical background. (other novels go back from current to "recent" and even napolionic history)