Secret Service, Bradby - B+

              It is likely that the only positive aspect of the Russian Federation's return to Stalinism is as pulp for novelists. This very good novel features Kate Henderson as the head of MI6's Russian desk. Kate juggles a mother with dementia, two teenage kids, and a husband who works for an MP, along with her job. She receives what appears to be actionable intelligence from a Russian friend she knew as a student decades ago. Sergei likely has something to do with the Russian state, but neither Kate nor MI6 know exactly what he does. Armed with his lead, MI6 learns that their PM is about to step down and that the Foreign Minister may be in the pay of Moscow Centre. Also, there is a possible mole at what we used to know as the Circus. Is it good information or are they being played? There is not just bribery, manipulation, and disinformation, but also some good old fashioned wet work in the heart of London.