Stained Glass

I've always enjoyed reading Buckley's essays, whether I agreed with his premises or not. This is the 2nd of his Blackford Oakes novels I've read--I hope to read them all in the chronological order of their publish dates. Having only read 2 books of the series, I have already realized how much Buckley has constructed his stories by using historical events and figures of the time in which the novels take place. There isn't a whole lot of action, but the plots are fairly intricate, and Oakes is placed in circumstances that are at the very least uncomfortable if not out-and-out dangerous. This is adult spy reading at a very high level.

Buckley endeavors to spin a tale of intrigue that forces the reader to face complex questions of morality and ethics in the context of high stakes Cold War espionage. Buckley's protagonist, Blackford Oakes simultaneous emanates couth more so than even 007 while functioning as an everyman to the average reader. Additionally, the author also uses his Blackford to dispel the sometimes cunning sophistry of communist agents. Overall, a marvelous story packed with deeper thoughts that only an author of Buckley's intellect can address.

I must admit that I really like WFB's fiction, and I'm delighted that his publisher challenged him to try it.The Blackford Oakes series relies on Buckley's own experience with the CIA, I'm sure. But the stories are more than depictions of black craftsmanship. Buckley has a fine ability to weave an interesting plot, and his characterizations are detailed and marvelous. He has spent time and effort bringing his characters to life, and giving them motivation and hstory.There is, of course, a cynical side to international espionage, and he has also portrayed that convincingly.In this story, for example, the Soviets and the Americans actually cut cards to see which side will murder a heroic German character whose greatest desire it is to reunify his country.I think it is amazing how well he has interwoven history and historical characters with fiction and his invented characters, and made it all hang together so convincingly.Bill Buckley, sir, you are an amazing man and one to admire.Joseph Pierre

Not quite as good as the first blackford oakes novel, but nonethless good. It really picked up at the end and made it worthwile. I really appreciate the wit in Buckley's writing as well as his ability to twist a plot right out from under you. The occasional intrusion by actual historical figures also makes the Oakes books very interesting.

Buckley brings something rarely seen to the spy novel: intelligence and moral dilemma. Stained Glass also has wonderful characterization, witty dialogue, and humor. I highly recommend this unique approach to spy novel fans.