From this point if you do a shot every time someone in the book says "habiti" you will be quite smashed in 25-30 pages. As the novel progresses the tension ramps up, each progressive sentence feels like it could all collapse. Of course, Mariam is a stunning knockout and, against all protocol, a passionate love affair blossoms between these unlikely allies.

Carrying on the traditions of LeCarre and all of the other greats the twist and turns will keep you flipping the pages and questioning your self all night! If anyone in the Palace finds out, she would face torture and would almost certainly be shot as a traitor.

The two fall into a forbidden relationship, which supercharges Haddad's recruitment and creates unspeakable danger when they enter Damascus to find the man responsible for the disappearance of an American spy. The addition of Mariam Haddad, the Syrian Palace official recruited by Joseph, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. I had only devoured a dozen or so chapters, before I realized that this book is worthy of every ounce of praise.

We are experiencing delays with deliveries to many countries, but in most cases local services have now resumed.

DAMASCUS STATION is an extremely effective modern espionage novel, filled with action and incident but also a profound knowledge of the people and factions of Syria, the complex maneuvers of spycraft, the gray areas, competing egos and overlapping priorities that make every day a journey through the minefield. As we move towards the "climactic" ending the CIA stooge allows himself to be captured and tortured to "protect" the asset he loves from exposure (yes insert a little mouth vomit here). Highly recommended, especially for readers of Daniel Silva and Charles Cumming, and hopefully the first of many more books to come from this author. The strength of "Damascus Station" lies in McCloskey's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create a palpable atmosphere of tension and suspense.

Once in Damascus, Joseph and Head of Station, Artemis Proctor are thrust into a dangerous game as they hunt for the man responsible for the disappearance of a CIA officer in the city.Getting into a relationship with an asset signals immediate disciplinary action and separation from the Agency. Sam Joseph is a CIA case officer in Paris and is tasked with recruiting Mariam Haddad, a Syrian national who works in the Syrian palace. This sobering and electrifying novel is a nail-biter that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the last page is read.