The Barcza Gambit

"The Americans are planning to pull out of Iraq. This leaves Israel surrounded by hostile countries, one of them an unstable neighbour. A senior Mossad Agent takes matters in to his own hands to ensure America’s sustained presence in Iraq. A senior figure is in danger. Retribution is planned. The British Government present Commander Alec Fincham, Special Boat Squadron, with the challenge. With his expertise in anti terrorism in the Middle East, he is asked to assist with training the American forces, but is dragged in to a series of events outside his control. The more he investigates, the deeper he is embroiled, and his life is threatened, one way or another he has to take decisive action..."

Although this could be taken from a new Hollywood blockbuster, it is in fact the description on the back cover of a book called "The Barcza Gambit", a debut novel from a colleague of mine, Roger Cave. Carole and I have both worked with Roger for several years now, and have been aware for some time that he writes, so to actually see him realise his ambition of getting a book into print is something we're really pleased about.

Roger is an avid reader, a James Bond enthusiast and a self-confessed military 'nut', so the topic he's chosen for his first novel isn't a huge surprise. He doesn't hold back either, with a high body count and a major figure being assassinated, so it's certainly no Mills & Boon.

So, is it a good read? Well, yes I'd say it is. Whilst it's true to say there are parts that perhaps would be worded a little differently with more experience, it is nevertheless an enjoyable story which has been well constructed. What's clear is the huge amount of work Roger's put in to this project, and I hope it brings him success.

The Barcza Gambit is published through Lulu.com, an online publisher, and can be bought for £7.99 or downloaded for £2.50 from this link: The Barcza Gambit