Icebreaker By John Gardner

Hello dear listeners!

What do the best spy stories involve? Intrigue, of course. A decent plot as well, that goes without saying. Engaging characters certainly, what would a spy story be without that? Surprising twists and turns seem reasonable to expect as well. After all, spies are often engaged in mysterious missions from which the outcome can unravel in unexpected ways. Now imagine all of these elements coming together in a John Gardner Bond novel.

‘’Ridiculous!’’ we hear you say. ‘’Preposterous!’’ you shout. ‘’Unbelievable!’’ thunders from your mouths.

And yet it’s true.

Co-hosts Mathieu and Edgar return to the Gardner literary 007 this week with an in-depth discussion of the author’s third venture, Icebreaker. Whereas Licence Renewed had us mildly intrigued and entertained and For Special Services left us and friend Emery Cormier flabbergasted and confused, Icebreaker arrives like a fresh new start. Featuring one of the more complicated plots of any of the Bond novels, Fleming or otherwise, the boys have a lot of material to wade through.

In fact, there are so many intricate plot details and twists that Matt and Edgar’s heads might start spinning. Be that as it may, it nevertheless makes for a wonderfully different 00 reading experience. Even Fleming never pulled off what Gardner does here with Icebreaker.

So sit back and grab a hot cup of cocoa. It’s fitting that this episode should be released during a stretch of Montreal January when the temperature has dropped considerably. Rest assured however, for just as the weather outside is frightful, this Bond novel is so delightful!