this is said, by some, to be the best spy novel ever written. so reading this first, like eating the best thing on your plate first, is not the most logical choice, but i could get hit by a bus tomorrow which turns all logic quite pear-shaped.

if this is the best spy novel ever written, the pool of competition must be pretty bleak. it was ok. i did finish it. i just find it surprising that it would be called the best of anything. or perhaps the lesson here is to be more responsible when throwing around 'best-ever' claims and use more thoughtful and leveled descriptors.