Synopsis

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, "Restless" introduces Eva Delectorskaya, a vibrant 28-year-old Russian émigrée living in pre-war Paris. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is recruited into the British Secret Service by the enigmatic Lucas Romer. Under his demanding tutelage, Eva is meticulously transformed into a cold, calculating spy, mastering the art of deception and emotional detachment, learning to trust no one—not even those she holds dear. The narrative then fast-forwards to the 1970s, where Eva, now known as Sally Gilmartin, lives a seemingly idyllic life as a quintessential English wife and mother. However, the ghosts of her past refuse to stay buried. A deep-seated sense of betrayal from her espionage days resurfaces, compelling her to embark on one final, perilous mission. This time, she cannot operate alone; she enlists the unwitting help of her daughter, Ruth, peeling back layers of a meticulously constructed life to reveal a dangerous history that threatens to engulf them both.

Critical Reception

"William Boyd's "Restless" is widely lauded for its intricate plotting, rich historical detail, and profound exploration of identity and betrayal within the espionage genre."

Adaptations

A two-part BBC television mini-series adaptation starring Hayley Atwell and Rufus Sewell aired in 2012.

Metadata

ISBN:9781408835180
Pages:337
Age Rating:16+

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