The front cover of this book does not appeal to me. The picture could represent a number of periods of history/ events from the past. I find it rather non specific. I read the first impression and felt a little lost and unsure of where the story might be heading. I found the translations with the text to be a distraction from the developing storyline. Spy novels are not a favourite of mine. Maybe if I enjoyed this genre more in general, I would take more pleasure in reading this particular novel.