The Spies of Warsaw

"Sip the wine, taste the food, find everyone fascinating - a good motto for diplomacy."

"I guess that's one way to save the world."

Alan Furst's novel is a glimpse on the dreary and sophisticated diplomatic life. Espionage isn't always thrilling. Spies in World War II dealt with obtaining intelligence rather than battling goons or thugs Salt-esque (Angelina Jolie), but equally dangerous. But diplomats live a double life. While they're not prying on their enemies' secrets, they show up at parties just to conspire against each other. Scandalous in their uniforms, waistcoats, and beautiful women in their arms. 

World War II, espionage, love affair, vintage black and white cover. I ticked off every item and knew I'd love this book. The Spies of Warsaw has no beginning or end. World War II is the bigger picture, then Furst zooms in on Colonel Mercier's story. If you're not a history buff, or you don't have an inkling about WWII, you'll seriously get dizzy. I actually had a hard time following the who's and when's of the historical background, but at least I have an idea of who's up against who. I was quite familiar with the overall theme, international relations, the League of Nations, diplomats, espionage, it's four-years-worth-of-college (I'm a bit nostalgic). The love affair was brief but just the right amount to get you tipsy. There were parts that dragged. Overall, it was a good read but not one you'd read again.