The Predicament

Title: The Predicament

Author: William Boyd

Genre: Political Thriller

Series: Espionage series book 2

Publisher: Viking

Published Date: 2025

Book Length: 258

Format Read: Paperback

Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend

About Book: Gabriel Dax, travel writer and accidental spy, is back in the shadows. Unable to resist the allure of his MI6 handler, Faith Green, he has returned to a life of secrets and subterfuge. Dax is sent to Guatemala under the guise of covering a tinderbox presidential election, where the ruthless decisions of the Mafia provoke pitch-black warfare in collusion with the CIA.As political turmoil erupts, Gabriel's reluctant involvement deepens. His escape plan leads him to West Berlin, where he uncovers a chilling realisation: there is a plot to assassinate magnetic young President John F. Kennedy. In a race against time, Gabriel must navigate deceit and danger, knowing that the stakes have never been higher . . .

My Thoughts: The Predicament by William Boyd is a compelling political thriller and the second instalment in Boyd’s Espionage series. From early on, I found myself captivated by the character of Gabrielle Dax. Boyd writes Dax’s voice perfectly for his time—a gentleman, restrained yet simmering with frustration at his circumstances. Every nuance of his personality seems to seep through the lines, making him feel vivid and authentic.

Set over several months in 1963, the novel weaves in numerous side stories. What may seem like small diversions at first actually enrich the main narrative, adding texture and a sense of realism. Boyd’s attention to detail brings both the era and the political backdrop to life, making the story feel both grounded and atmospheric.

The pacing is steady, giving room for the tension to build gradually. By the final chapters, you can feel the adrenaline rising, propelling you towards the climax. What stood out most for me was Boyd’s skill in portraying Dax’s dual nature—the polished exterior and the truth beneath—so that his real self subtly weaves into the false persona he must maintain.

The Predicament is a sophisticated, slow-burning espionage thriller that rewards careful reading. With its layered plotting, richly drawn characters, and Boyd’s elegant prose, it delivers a story that feels both intelligent and immersive. Gabrielle Dax, in particular, is a character who lingers in the mind long after the final page—making this a must-read for fans of character-driven political thrillers.