PositiveThe Times (UK)Rush is subtle, and never quite owns up to his comic intent. The whole thing is told with a straight face ... Neither is the humour ever unkind. Ray’s absurd complaisance as a husband is shown to be part of his decent, philosophical outlook ... Although Iris is clearly a major irritant, we are compelled to see her through Ray’s eyes and recognise her problems as well as his ... The fine detail of the African setting, the spy shenanigans and the interplay between the large cast of characters make the novel well worthwhile, provided you have a long enough while to spare.
