I just read “The Predicament”, the second book in William Boyd’s Gabriel Dax trilogy. I am still stuck in its web of Cold War intrigue, moral ambiguity, and quiet despair. Boyd does not write the usual spy thriller, as you can see in “Gabriel’s Moon”. Gabriel Dax is neither smooth or smart; he is a travel writer who is good at being misled. He wants things to be normal, but he cannot help but be drawn to mystery. And that is what makes him so interesting.
This time, Gabriel is dispatched to Guatemala to examine a priest who has become a unionist, but things go wrong when the man is killed and Gabriel just avoids an attempt on his own life. After that, he is taken to Berlin, where JFK is due to give his famous “Ich bin ein Berliner” address. There are also rumours of an assassination plan. Gabriel has to find out the truth, but like always, he does not know what is going on. He gets just enough knowledge to keep him moving, but not enough to feel in charge.
I like Boyd’s way of thinking since he does not make spying seem cool. Gabriel knows he is not a hero; he is a pawn. Faith Green, his handler, is both his passion and his tormentor. Their relationship is one of the most interesting parts of the book. The author does a great job of showing Gabriel’s mental struggle between wanting to get out of the spy game and not being able to. He knows himself, and that makes him feel real, even though it hurts.
Thematically, “The Predicament” looks at manipulation, identity, and the blurry lines between obligation and desire. Boyd’s writing is exquisite and restrained, with just the right amount of bite to keep you on your toes. The historical setting: 1963, the Cold War, and JFK’s trip to Berlin, is integrated into the story in a way that makes it feel like a part of the story rather than a history lesson.
What worked best for me:
- The quiet tension that develops throughout, never too much but always there.
- The period details, which seem real without being too much.
- The supporting cast, especially Sergeant Major Begg and Tyrone, who offer depth and contrast to Gabriel’s introverted demeanour.
- Boyd’s dry sense of humour and occasional genre parody (calling moles “termites” is a good touch).
- The way hints are dropped like breadcrumbs, making you always be one step behind or ahead of the story.
That being said, I do not like how women are shown in this. Gabriel’s relationships typically go in predictable directions, and the way female characters are sexualised feels old-fashioned. It is a small complaint in an otherwise interesting book, but it is worth mentioning.
This book is perfect for anybody who like Cold War novels, thrillers with strong characters, or anything by John le Carré. It is not about gadgets or explosives; it is about quiet betrayals, psychological stress, and the creeping loss of certainty.
In the end, “The Predicament” is a good follow-up to “Gabriel’s Moon”, and I am eagerly looking forward to the last book. Boyd has written an espionage series that makes you think, sets the mood, and is gently heartbreaking. I highly suggest it to everyone who likes thrillers with a literary twist.
Thank you to Penguin Random House South Africa for the opportunity to read this book.
Also read Gabriel’s Moon by William Boyd
