Episode description

Tim Shipman, the chief political commentator at the Sunday Times, conducts a captivating interview with author David McCloskey on the Spybrary podcast. McCloskey's debut novel, Damascus Station, garnered much excitement among spy thriller readers. Shipman explores how his second book, "Moscow X," measures up. The interview delves into the complexities of modern espionage, as well as themes of betrayal, love, loyalty, and vengeance in the shadow war between the West and Moscow.

Discover the thrilling world of espionage in Moscow X the gripping second novel by David McCloskey. Set in present-day Russia, this fast-paced spy thriller follows the CIA's Artemis Proctor as she masterminds a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Russian intelligence. With a plot centered around a covert operation to destabilize Putin's regime, Moscow X delves into the complex world of money, power, and betrayal. Prepare for a heart-pounding yet realistic adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat or as in my case, late for work, yes it is that good!

The second novel from the author of Damascus Station (‘One of the best spy thrillers in years’ The Times)

A daring CIA operation threatens chaos in the Kremlin.
But can Langley trust the Russian at its center?

CIA operatives Sia and Max enter Russia to recruit Vladimir Putin’s moneyman. Sia works for a London firm that conceals the wealth of the super-rich. Max’s family business in Mexico – a CIA front since the 1960s – is a farm that breeds high-end racehorses. They pose as a couple, and their targets are Vadim, Putin’s private banker, and his wife Anna, who is both a banker and an intelligence officer herself…

Praise for Damascus Station:

‘Simply marvellous storytelling…a stand-out thriller and essential reading for fans of the genre’ – Financial Times

‘The best spy novel I have ever read’ – General David Petraeus, former director of the CIA