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The Translator
The Sunday Best Thrillers of 2023. Financial Best Summer Thrillers of 2023. “A classic thriller of the new Cold War.” Antony Beevor, author of Stalingrad. A highly topical espionage novel about a Russian plot to cut the undersea communication cables linking the US to the UK. Also, a passionate love story between two people determined to stop this cataclysmic act.
Clive Franklin, a Russian language expert in the Foreign Office, is summoned unexpectedly to Moscow to act as translator for the British Prime Minister. His life is upended when he discovers that his former lover, Marina Volina, is the interpreter to the Russian President. Together they will try to stop the attack that could paralyze communications and collapse the Western economy.
Clive Franklin, a Russian language expert in the Foreign Office, is summoned unexpectedly to Moscow to act as translator for the British Prime Minister. His life is upended when he discovers that his former lover, Marina Volina, is the interpreter to the Russian President. Together they will try to stop the attack that could paralyze communications and collapse the Western economy.
416 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2023
88 people are currently reading
668 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
December 2, 2024
Adding to this review: I am a huge fan of experts writing about their fields in thrillers, as proves to be the case here. Life imitates fiction as 11-29-2024 WSJ reports "Chinese Ship Suspected of Sabotage"--a Chinese bulk carrier, the Yi Peng, was deliberately dragging its anchor in order to (and successfully did) sever undersea cables in the North Sea, first cutting a cable between Sweden and Lithuania, then shutting down its identification system, the cutting a second cable between Germany and Finland.
Here is my original review:
A insider's touch (but with many humorous notes): a highly realistic plot about a Russian plan to sabotage UK cables to bring the UK to its knees. Written by a pro who lived and worked in Russia. Excellent tension as both a spy thriller and a love story.
More here: https://www.harrietcrawley.com/
Highly readable and highly recommended.
Here is my original review:
A insider's touch (but with many humorous notes): a highly realistic plot about a Russian plan to sabotage UK cables to bring the UK to its knees. Written by a pro who lived and worked in Russia. Excellent tension as both a spy thriller and a love story.
More here: https://www.harrietcrawley.com/
Highly readable and highly recommended.
February 12, 2025
Novi hladni rat... U glavnim ulogama su Velika Britanija (naravno kao good guy) i moćna Rusija (normalno kao bad guy).
Sporedni likovi su Klajv i Marina, prevodioci dve velike sile, ruski predsednik, bahati i korumpirani general ruske tajne službe, britanska premijerka, britanski ambasador u Moskvi...
Ne mogu da kažem da sam prezadovoljna onim što sam pročitala, prva polovina romana je spora, autorka uvodi dosta likova, dok je druga polovina znatno dinamičnija i konkretnija sa dešavanjima.
Slobodno mogu da kažem da su mi pasija špijunski romani, da ne kažem da se "ložim" na obaveštajne službe, pa iz ugla samoproklamovanog "eksperta" mogu da konstatujem da je roman Prevodilac zanimljivo štivo za koje je potrebno strpljenje, u kojem su jasno podeljene uloge između "dobrih" i "loših" momaka, i koji ima filmičan kraj.
E da, ako vas zanima kako i zašto je počeo rat u Ukrajini, eto preporuke 🥸
Ocena: realne 3 ⭐
Sporedni likovi su Klajv i Marina, prevodioci dve velike sile, ruski predsednik, bahati i korumpirani general ruske tajne službe, britanska premijerka, britanski ambasador u Moskvi...
Ne mogu da kažem da sam prezadovoljna onim što sam pročitala, prva polovina romana je spora, autorka uvodi dosta likova, dok je druga polovina znatno dinamičnija i konkretnija sa dešavanjima.
Slobodno mogu da kažem da su mi pasija špijunski romani, da ne kažem da se "ložim" na obaveštajne službe, pa iz ugla samoproklamovanog "eksperta" mogu da konstatujem da je roman Prevodilac zanimljivo štivo za koje je potrebno strpljenje, u kojem su jasno podeljene uloge između "dobrih" i "loših" momaka, i koji ima filmičan kraj.
E da, ako vas zanima kako i zašto je počeo rat u Ukrajini, eto preporuke 🥸
Ocena: realne 3 ⭐
April 5, 2023
I feel like I’ve been to Moscow after reading this book - Crawley writes about it so authentically. She also seems to have great admiration for Russian culture. The characters are great, and I felt at home with them straightaway. The one who didn’t ring true, it turns out, didn’t ring true for a reason! The thriller itself was very good, occasionally medium paced, and had a great finale. There is only one plot device used that jarred with me and it didn’t spoil the effect of the whole.
June 4, 2024
read if you need motivation to reset all your passwords
July 18, 2024
What a book, first book in a while where I’ve genuinely been excited to read it
March 1, 2023
Harriet Crawley’s The Translator, has been described by Antony Beever as ‘a classic thriller of the new Cold War’.
I thoroughly enjoyed it! Set in 2017, the story centres on Clive Franklin, a Russian language expert in the Foreign Office, who is summoned unexpectedly to act as translator for the British Prime Minister on a visit to Moscow. His life is turned on its head when, after more than a decade, he discovers that his former lover, Marina Volina, is now the interpreter to the Russian President.
At the British Embassy, Clive learns of a Russian plot to cut the undersea cables linking the US to the UK which would paralyse communications and collapse the Western economy. Marina stuns Clive with the news that she’s ready to help stop the attack, betraying her country for a new identity and a new life….
This novel has all the classic spy thriller ingredients, and I was very quickly hooked in. It’s a pacy read, intricately plotted, with a satisfying amount of intrigue and tension, and the characters are well drawn. Apparently, the author lived in Moscow for a number of years, and this has surely informed the powerful sense of place that she has created within the novel. You really feel that you are right there in the heart of the city, with its iconic buildings.
I did love all the intrigue, and I found the premise of the Russian plot all too believable, which seems to add a layer of authenticity and credibility. It is a novel which is firmly rooted in the realms of possibility, rather than it being a James Bond “flight of fantasy” type of spy novel.
I haven’t read anything else by Harriet Crawley, but based on this I would read more of her novels, and if you enjoy a good spy thriller I can definitely recommend this one!
Thank you to Bitter Lemon Press and Random Things Tours for a review copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed it! Set in 2017, the story centres on Clive Franklin, a Russian language expert in the Foreign Office, who is summoned unexpectedly to act as translator for the British Prime Minister on a visit to Moscow. His life is turned on its head when, after more than a decade, he discovers that his former lover, Marina Volina, is now the interpreter to the Russian President.
At the British Embassy, Clive learns of a Russian plot to cut the undersea cables linking the US to the UK which would paralyse communications and collapse the Western economy. Marina stuns Clive with the news that she’s ready to help stop the attack, betraying her country for a new identity and a new life….
This novel has all the classic spy thriller ingredients, and I was very quickly hooked in. It’s a pacy read, intricately plotted, with a satisfying amount of intrigue and tension, and the characters are well drawn. Apparently, the author lived in Moscow for a number of years, and this has surely informed the powerful sense of place that she has created within the novel. You really feel that you are right there in the heart of the city, with its iconic buildings.
I did love all the intrigue, and I found the premise of the Russian plot all too believable, which seems to add a layer of authenticity and credibility. It is a novel which is firmly rooted in the realms of possibility, rather than it being a James Bond “flight of fantasy” type of spy novel.
I haven’t read anything else by Harriet Crawley, but based on this I would read more of her novels, and if you enjoy a good spy thriller I can definitely recommend this one!
Thank you to Bitter Lemon Press and Random Things Tours for a review copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2024
it was so so
As they say ~ your expectations, your problems. Somehow I had high expectations in terms of authenticity, that it could be a novel that a Russian would read and believe. it did satisfy some of them but the profile of the president and the administration left me puzzled…
As they say ~ your expectations, your problems. Somehow I had high expectations in terms of authenticity, that it could be a novel that a Russian would read and believe. it did satisfy some of them but the profile of the president and the administration left me puzzled…
March 26, 2024
A decent thriller with an interesting duo of leads
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
September 8, 2024
This book was a page turner to the end. I loved the backdrop of political themes and tension that the book explored and it only served to heighten the story. It was also interesting to see the topic of cyber warfare explored in a modern age and only served to tie the book further towards reality. I also liked that the author highlighted parts of Russian culture and literature, instead of vilifying the whole nation as is wont to do in most media these days. Totally recommend this if cold war-style espionage is your thing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 22, 2024pretty good. i would’ve liked more of the beginning where the guy was just going for hikes and reading chekhov….scandi lit vibes….
October 31, 2024
Wasn't that interesting. The characters were well described, but the action was pure fantasy. The obsession with marathon running was somewhat silly, and the evil "bad guy" was rather corny and his demise was, again, not very authentic. Sorry, but at least I did finish it.
February 25, 2025
Listened on Audible. The production was fine. The plot was just average in terms of being entertaining, but very relevant in todays world. Nothing about the book was so engaging that I couldn’t stop and start it without trying to find an excuse to keep listening.
July 28, 2025
Od subote se dvoumim koju ocenu da dam knjizi. I evo, prelomih. Previše je naivno za jedan politički triler. Takođe, za jedan politički triler, samo je jedna strana u sukobu ocrnjena. Moje je uverenje da su političke vode izrazito mutne i da tu svako radi isključivo zarad sopstvenog interesa.
March 17, 2023
Great spy thriller, full of authentic (sounding, to me) detail of Russai. very topical. Let down by its poor literary quality (Dan Brown standard)
March 30, 2024
This is a perfectly adequate Cold War political thriller. It never made my heart race or want to turn to the last page, but it was an enjoyable read.
March 29, 2023
Clive Franklin loves all things Russian. He thinks and speaks the language like a native, but there is no doubt that the demands of his career as a translator for the Foreign Office are taking their toll. He is enjoying a well-earned sabbatical when a call from the Prime Minster's office brings him back to reality with a bump. His services are needed urgently for a trip to Moscow to act as translator for the new firebrand PM, Martha Maitland, as she undertakes tricky talks with the Russian president Nikolai Serov. Clive can hardly refuse.
Clive is delighted to be back in Moscow, and finds himself looking forward to the challenge of testing his language skills once more, despite the difficulties of a country where the beady eye of the FSB is constantly turned in your direction. But when the talks begin he is sent reeling by the presence of a woman he has not seen for ten years, who is now acting as interpreter for the President Servov - his former lover, Marina Volina.
Marina is part of Serov's inner circle, but she is embittered by the strain of living on a knife-edge and the impact it has had on her personal life. Clive's appearance stirs feelings she thought were long buried, and through him she sees a possibility that she might escape the position she is in. When Marina discovers a devious plot to target the undersea cables that link the USA and the UK, she confides to Clive that is is willing to betray her country by discovering all she can about the plans, in return for a new identity.
As the situation becomes ever more complex, Clive finds himself embroiled in a dangerous intelligence operation with the woman he loves. Can they gather the information they need to stop the plot before it is too late?
The Translator is just my kind of Russian spy thriller. Harriet Crawley enfolds you a very timely espionage story that highlights everything about the current complexities of the political situation between Russia and the West, while evoking all those Cold War vibes that I adore.
Crawley's Russia is one that finds itself torn between its long-standing Soviet ambitions and the temptations of the modern age, where corruption vies constantly with ideology. At the centre of the story, we have two characters in Clive and Marina who are not spies, and yet the nature of their jobs brings them into contact with the constant push and pull of the intelligence whirlwind that operates around them as they go about their work, and Crawley uses this to perfection to craft a story full of glorious underlying tension.
There are delicious characters on all sides, and the threads of their individual stories weave beautifully throughout to make an authentic spy thriller with lashings of emotional depth. Clive and Marina's relationships shed light on so many aspects of the mass of contradictions that make up modern Russia, from the cynical machinations of the corridors of the Kremlin, through the rise of the oligarchs, and right down to the political unrest on the streets. President Serov makes an intriguing Putin-esque figurehead, and the personalities in his inner-circle provide fodder for some excellent story-lines, especially the chilling General Varlamov with his personal and professional agendas.
Crawley deftly plays off the influences of the old world and the modern age against each other in this story. She lavishes you with references to art, literature and music, and also brings you bang up to date with themes of state-of-the-art technology, which makes this story delightfully many-layered. There are darker emotions and intrigues galore to keep you on the edge of your seat, but also rich threads of love, passion, romance, loyalty and friendship that tie you completely to the fate of the protagonists and their endeavours.
This book has everything I want in a political thriller, with a twist that comes from looking at this through the eyes of two translators. This throws up some really thought-provoking issues around language and interpretation that I have not considered before - not only around the speed that translators of speech have to work at, but how their choice of words can influence the meaning of very tricky situations. One to ponder!
The Translator has all the hallmarks of the first part in a new series, and there is a lovely hook into a possible sequel that I really want to read. This is a classy novel, and I like Crawley's style very much. I look forward to reading more of her work.
Clive is delighted to be back in Moscow, and finds himself looking forward to the challenge of testing his language skills once more, despite the difficulties of a country where the beady eye of the FSB is constantly turned in your direction. But when the talks begin he is sent reeling by the presence of a woman he has not seen for ten years, who is now acting as interpreter for the President Servov - his former lover, Marina Volina.
Marina is part of Serov's inner circle, but she is embittered by the strain of living on a knife-edge and the impact it has had on her personal life. Clive's appearance stirs feelings she thought were long buried, and through him she sees a possibility that she might escape the position she is in. When Marina discovers a devious plot to target the undersea cables that link the USA and the UK, she confides to Clive that is is willing to betray her country by discovering all she can about the plans, in return for a new identity.
As the situation becomes ever more complex, Clive finds himself embroiled in a dangerous intelligence operation with the woman he loves. Can they gather the information they need to stop the plot before it is too late?
The Translator is just my kind of Russian spy thriller. Harriet Crawley enfolds you a very timely espionage story that highlights everything about the current complexities of the political situation between Russia and the West, while evoking all those Cold War vibes that I adore.
Crawley's Russia is one that finds itself torn between its long-standing Soviet ambitions and the temptations of the modern age, where corruption vies constantly with ideology. At the centre of the story, we have two characters in Clive and Marina who are not spies, and yet the nature of their jobs brings them into contact with the constant push and pull of the intelligence whirlwind that operates around them as they go about their work, and Crawley uses this to perfection to craft a story full of glorious underlying tension.
There are delicious characters on all sides, and the threads of their individual stories weave beautifully throughout to make an authentic spy thriller with lashings of emotional depth. Clive and Marina's relationships shed light on so many aspects of the mass of contradictions that make up modern Russia, from the cynical machinations of the corridors of the Kremlin, through the rise of the oligarchs, and right down to the political unrest on the streets. President Serov makes an intriguing Putin-esque figurehead, and the personalities in his inner-circle provide fodder for some excellent story-lines, especially the chilling General Varlamov with his personal and professional agendas.
Crawley deftly plays off the influences of the old world and the modern age against each other in this story. She lavishes you with references to art, literature and music, and also brings you bang up to date with themes of state-of-the-art technology, which makes this story delightfully many-layered. There are darker emotions and intrigues galore to keep you on the edge of your seat, but also rich threads of love, passion, romance, loyalty and friendship that tie you completely to the fate of the protagonists and their endeavours.
This book has everything I want in a political thriller, with a twist that comes from looking at this through the eyes of two translators. This throws up some really thought-provoking issues around language and interpretation that I have not considered before - not only around the speed that translators of speech have to work at, but how their choice of words can influence the meaning of very tricky situations. One to ponder!
The Translator has all the hallmarks of the first part in a new series, and there is a lovely hook into a possible sequel that I really want to read. This is a classy novel, and I like Crawley's style very much. I look forward to reading more of her work.
April 4, 2023
‘The Translator’ feels very relevant as you can imagine every single thing happening very easily. It was a gripping tale of espionage, secrets and lies and kept me up till very early in the morning! This is a brilliant political thriller that manages to highlight some thought-provoking issues and certainly makes the reader think. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and it definitely sets itself up for a sequel I would not hesitate to pick up.
Clive Franklin is on a well-deserved sabbatical in the Scottish Highlands when he is called back to serve his government. The newly appointed PM is about to embark on a visit to Russia and needs a translator immediately. Franklin is delighted to be back in Moscow, a place he knows and loves. He talks Russian like a native and has many friends in Moscow. But being in Russia is difficult when the FSB is monitoring every move you make. When the talks commence he is shocked to find his opposite number is a woman he hasn't seen for over 10 years and Marina Volina broke his heart. Marina is part of President Serov's inner circle but she is tired of this life, especially after the death of her foster son. Marina wants out but she has to have something to offer the British government and they want intelligence on something specific - the cutting of the Atlantic data cables. Can Marina find out the information and get out of Russin in time?
This was a fast-paced book which I devoured in a few sittings. It follows the idea that wars between nations are primarily going to be fought on a technical footing rather than via physical fighting. There are other ways to disable countries in this modern world. I liked how the author doesn't pull any punches when it comes to the description of Russia, it's disparity in the wealth of it's citizens and Putin (Serov). The idea of Serov wanting to be the ‘Russian Bear’, the cult of personality around him and the blatant desire for power and standing in the world. The language aspect was something else I found intriguing - I once tried to learn basic Russian as part of my uni course as I studied Russian history and I was terrible at it!! It seems my brain just does not like languages. But it is the allure of knowing a language to the extent of being able to translate it that I loved here. Especially the translation of the proverbs. Franklin and Marina are well-formed and nuanced characters and I found them to be relatable. I especially liked Marina’s strength and loyalty to her friends and family.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I don't hesitate to recommend it!
Clive Franklin is on a well-deserved sabbatical in the Scottish Highlands when he is called back to serve his government. The newly appointed PM is about to embark on a visit to Russia and needs a translator immediately. Franklin is delighted to be back in Moscow, a place he knows and loves. He talks Russian like a native and has many friends in Moscow. But being in Russia is difficult when the FSB is monitoring every move you make. When the talks commence he is shocked to find his opposite number is a woman he hasn't seen for over 10 years and Marina Volina broke his heart. Marina is part of President Serov's inner circle but she is tired of this life, especially after the death of her foster son. Marina wants out but she has to have something to offer the British government and they want intelligence on something specific - the cutting of the Atlantic data cables. Can Marina find out the information and get out of Russin in time?
This was a fast-paced book which I devoured in a few sittings. It follows the idea that wars between nations are primarily going to be fought on a technical footing rather than via physical fighting. There are other ways to disable countries in this modern world. I liked how the author doesn't pull any punches when it comes to the description of Russia, it's disparity in the wealth of it's citizens and Putin (Serov). The idea of Serov wanting to be the ‘Russian Bear’, the cult of personality around him and the blatant desire for power and standing in the world. The language aspect was something else I found intriguing - I once tried to learn basic Russian as part of my uni course as I studied Russian history and I was terrible at it!! It seems my brain just does not like languages. But it is the allure of knowing a language to the extent of being able to translate it that I loved here. Especially the translation of the proverbs. Franklin and Marina are well-formed and nuanced characters and I found them to be relatable. I especially liked Marina’s strength and loyalty to her friends and family.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I don't hesitate to recommend it!
March 8, 2023
Thriller set in MOSCOW
Clive Franklin is a Russian language expert for the Foreign Office (UK) and he is on a sabbatical in the Highlands. In fact, he is at Lochleven, which coincidentally recently featured as a location in Peter May’s climate thriller A Winter Grave.
Clive is brought urgently back to work, to accompany a delegation to Moscow, headed by the Prime Minister. He is clear that he wishes to be considered a translator, not an interpreter and slides into the job with ease. Early on he has down time to revisit familiar places and familiarise himself once again with streets and buildings of the impressive city, and of course, a trip to the Bolshoi is in order. The Metropol gets a good look in, with its curious coloured marble and which was made so famous through the Amor Towles’ novel A Gentleman in Moscow, where the hotel was a character in itself.
The British PM might be a woman in this novel and Serov might be Putin by any other name, the acuity and similarities for readers cannot be overlooked. There is Russian interference, blame and bluster, fudging and smoke screens, threats and counter-threats that all feel so depressingly familiar from contemporary international relations in the real world, the deviousness is excellently captured in this novel.
Clive happens upon an old lover, Marina, interpreter to the Russian President, who plays games and is apparently slow to recognise him. But she has an agenda. The two uncover a plot, designed by Russia, that will cause immeasurable harm to the West. Clive, a man keen to remain in the background, is catapulted into a tight web of intrigue and espionage. There are so many plates to keep spinning for this quiet man, as he reconnects with Marina in a way that he would never have envisaged.
The sense of place is excellent in The Translator and as the story progresses, the tension and pace ratchet up, symbolically mirrored in the two main characters running the Moscow Marathon, the FSB hard on their heels.
This really is a political spy thriller for our times.
Clive Franklin is a Russian language expert for the Foreign Office (UK) and he is on a sabbatical in the Highlands. In fact, he is at Lochleven, which coincidentally recently featured as a location in Peter May’s climate thriller A Winter Grave.
Clive is brought urgently back to work, to accompany a delegation to Moscow, headed by the Prime Minister. He is clear that he wishes to be considered a translator, not an interpreter and slides into the job with ease. Early on he has down time to revisit familiar places and familiarise himself once again with streets and buildings of the impressive city, and of course, a trip to the Bolshoi is in order. The Metropol gets a good look in, with its curious coloured marble and which was made so famous through the Amor Towles’ novel A Gentleman in Moscow, where the hotel was a character in itself.
The British PM might be a woman in this novel and Serov might be Putin by any other name, the acuity and similarities for readers cannot be overlooked. There is Russian interference, blame and bluster, fudging and smoke screens, threats and counter-threats that all feel so depressingly familiar from contemporary international relations in the real world, the deviousness is excellently captured in this novel.
Clive happens upon an old lover, Marina, interpreter to the Russian President, who plays games and is apparently slow to recognise him. But she has an agenda. The two uncover a plot, designed by Russia, that will cause immeasurable harm to the West. Clive, a man keen to remain in the background, is catapulted into a tight web of intrigue and espionage. There are so many plates to keep spinning for this quiet man, as he reconnects with Marina in a way that he would never have envisaged.
The sense of place is excellent in The Translator and as the story progresses, the tension and pace ratchet up, symbolically mirrored in the two main characters running the Moscow Marathon, the FSB hard on their heels.
This really is a political spy thriller for our times.
February 20, 2025
🔍 The Translator – Spies, Secrets & a Love That Could Change the World 🌍❤️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 electrifying, espionage-filled stars!)
What happens when a Russian interpreter and a British translator, once lovers, now political opposites (oof), hold the fate of the world in their hands? Well... a lot!
The Translator is a gripping, high-stakes thriller packed with espionage, forbidden romance, and a terrifyingly real plot to sabotage global communications.
What to expect:
-An urgent mission to Moscow – Clive Franklin, a top UK translator, is pulled into a world of political intrigue.
-A reunion with his ex, Marina – The Russian President’s interpreter, now torn between loyalty and love.
-A chilling plot – A secret plan to cut undersea cables, crippling the West’s economy and sparking global chaos.
-A desperate gamble – Can Clive and Marina stop it in time, or will their past—and their countries—tear them apart?
Why I Loved It:
-Fast-Paced & Intelligent – If you love John le Carré-style espionage mixed with modern-day threats, this one delivers.
-A Love Story with Real Stakes – Forget your typical will-they-won’t-they. Clive and Marina’s romance could literally change world history. I do love a little bit of romance in my reads…
-Atmospheric & Authentic – Written by a former Moscow insider, the book oozes real-life knowledge of Russia’s political underbelly.
What could be a drawback:
-More Thriller Than Romance – If you’re expecting a swoon-worthy love story, this is more edge-of-your-seat than heart-fluttering. This has small elements of romance, so don’t dive into this thinking this is the main plot.
-Lots of Political Detail – The book is packed with intricate spy craft and diplomacy, which might slow the pacing for some.
Should You Decode The Translator?
YES! If you love spy thrillers with real-world relevance, a strong sense of place, and a touch of bittersweet romance, this is a must-read.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 electrifying, espionage-filled stars!)
What happens when a Russian interpreter and a British translator, once lovers, now political opposites (oof), hold the fate of the world in their hands? Well... a lot!
The Translator is a gripping, high-stakes thriller packed with espionage, forbidden romance, and a terrifyingly real plot to sabotage global communications.
What to expect:
-An urgent mission to Moscow – Clive Franklin, a top UK translator, is pulled into a world of political intrigue.
-A reunion with his ex, Marina – The Russian President’s interpreter, now torn between loyalty and love.
-A chilling plot – A secret plan to cut undersea cables, crippling the West’s economy and sparking global chaos.
-A desperate gamble – Can Clive and Marina stop it in time, or will their past—and their countries—tear them apart?
Why I Loved It:
-Fast-Paced & Intelligent – If you love John le Carré-style espionage mixed with modern-day threats, this one delivers.
-A Love Story with Real Stakes – Forget your typical will-they-won’t-they. Clive and Marina’s romance could literally change world history. I do love a little bit of romance in my reads…
-Atmospheric & Authentic – Written by a former Moscow insider, the book oozes real-life knowledge of Russia’s political underbelly.
What could be a drawback:
-More Thriller Than Romance – If you’re expecting a swoon-worthy love story, this is more edge-of-your-seat than heart-fluttering. This has small elements of romance, so don’t dive into this thinking this is the main plot.
-Lots of Political Detail – The book is packed with intricate spy craft and diplomacy, which might slow the pacing for some.
Should You Decode The Translator?
YES! If you love spy thrillers with real-world relevance, a strong sense of place, and a touch of bittersweet romance, this is a must-read.
March 16, 2024
Discover the locations in the novel here
This book really intrigued me. Not only is it about the work of a translator, but we go behind the scenes in the political corridors of both Moscow and London.
Clive Franklin is an expert in the Russian language and works for the Foreign Office in London. He’s on a bit of a break when he is called back to work. He’s asked to head to Moscow with a delegation and the PM. Not surprisingly, he is nervous. Ok, so he speaks the language but he likes to stay ‘ safe’ behind the translators lines. Acting as an interpreter makes you more vulnerable as you are ‘live’ and visible. As a translator in this very unstable political drama, he can relax a little.
When he gets to Moscow, we get to discover the city with him. Luckily, he has time to explore and familiarize himself with the streets and landmarks of the capital. There’s a bit of a guided tour in a way around the ballet and the Metropol, as well as the politically famous Red Square and government buildings.
As I was reading this, I felt shivers up and down my spine. Relations between Russia, the UK and the West. I felt I was living the news or recent history at least and that heightened the scary experience. I got scared for Clive when he meets up with Marina who is an interpreter for the Russian President. He and Marina have history. Now, that was where the tensions really ramped up for me. The atmosphere was electric by this point.
This novel felt fresh and relevant, interesting and compelling. There is SO much to chew on here and I urge you to dive in.
Bitter Lemon Press does it again!
August 10, 2025
Competent but uninspiring New Cold War spy thriller (her debut? I forget) by a woman who lived in Moscow for years as an expat Brit during the post-Soviet explosion of wealth and corruption.
Entertaining enough, but not exceptionally dramatic. The writing style is a bit dry and never manages to communicate the emotion that it could. There's some intrigue, some violence, some subplots, some star-crossed romance, some off-camera sex - all the typical elements of a spy novel.
Oddly enough, in the early part of the book, the main character (an British interpreter of Russian) makes an obnoxious point of correcting numerous people for calling him an "interpreter" instead of "translator" because apparently there is no separate word for "interpreter" in Russian. Then, once we get to Russia, every single time, the native Russians use the word "interpreter" instead of "translator". I mean, it's the title of the damned book! WTF?
There's also a weird bit in the middle where one of the good guys accurately guesses what the bad guys are up to, in about one paragraph. This is based on almost no information and with very little buildup (or maybe the author thought she was building it up?). He even guesses the approximate location and timeframe. So the whole second half of the book is more or less about discovering exactly where and exactly when. This doesn't make for much mystery.
There are also a couple of examples of Chekov's Gun: items that the author goes at some length to describe, with plot potential, but then never really feature at all in the story.
Everything about The Translator is mostly OK, but that's about the extent of it.
Entertaining enough, but not exceptionally dramatic. The writing style is a bit dry and never manages to communicate the emotion that it could. There's some intrigue, some violence, some subplots, some star-crossed romance, some off-camera sex - all the typical elements of a spy novel.
Oddly enough, in the early part of the book, the main character (an British interpreter of Russian) makes an obnoxious point of correcting numerous people for calling him an "interpreter" instead of "translator" because apparently there is no separate word for "interpreter" in Russian. Then, once we get to Russia, every single time, the native Russians use the word "interpreter" instead of "translator". I mean, it's the title of the damned book! WTF?
There's also a weird bit in the middle where one of the good guys accurately guesses what the bad guys are up to, in about one paragraph. This is based on almost no information and with very little buildup (or maybe the author thought she was building it up?). He even guesses the approximate location and timeframe. So the whole second half of the book is more or less about discovering exactly where and exactly when. This doesn't make for much mystery.
There are also a couple of examples of Chekov's Gun: items that the author goes at some length to describe, with plot potential, but then never really feature at all in the story.
Everything about The Translator is mostly OK, but that's about the extent of it.
April 5, 2023
As the political climate stands at this moment in time I think it’s fair to say that the Cold War never really ceased – it just evolved into a modernised version. A battleground that has also moved into the virtual sphere Where groundwork was laid for a more peaceful, less combative and more humane cohabitation between Russia and the West, certain warmongering leaders have destroyed that groundwork and created the basis for a possible third World War.
Serov imagines himself to be a figurehead and true descendant of the Stalin era, Old Mother Russia needs to be restored to her original boundaries, regardless of the toes he tramples on or the losses he causes. Clive is asked to step in to translate for the British PM in Russia where he finds himself drawn into the insidious intrigues of the Russians, and also surprised to find his ex-girlfriend in the midst of this dangerous game of political chess.
The author has taken the idea of such an incendiary and fragile political scenario, added a layer of intrigue and spycraft to the story, and drawn both a fascinating comparison and fast-paced read with an ending that allows for further stories with this fearless set of characters.
Serov imagines himself to be a figurehead and true descendant of the Stalin era, Old Mother Russia needs to be restored to her original boundaries, regardless of the toes he tramples on or the losses he causes. Clive is asked to step in to translate for the British PM in Russia where he finds himself drawn into the insidious intrigues of the Russians, and also surprised to find his ex-girlfriend in the midst of this dangerous game of political chess.
The author has taken the idea of such an incendiary and fragile political scenario, added a layer of intrigue and spycraft to the story, and drawn both a fascinating comparison and fast-paced read with an ending that allows for further stories with this fearless set of characters.
March 25, 2024
What an amazing read!
Going into his book I thought I knew was I was going to get but I was wowed with what I actually received. Crawley transports you to Moscow, having never been in my life, I could still picture every scene the author wrote with the amazingly detailed attention to detail. I found myself sucked in from the first page. This is an action packed novel, that will keep you hooked between its pages.
Clive the main character is a like able man who makes this story even more interesting. You can tell the time Harriet took to craft this mmc as at times he felt so realistic I forgot I was reading a fiction book. While this is a thriller I enjoyed the little romance subplot we got, it really helped keep me going while I was knee deep in this book. This was plot was so well developed that I never had a moment where I felt like I could put this down, I ended up devouring this within a day with a couple cups of coffee to keep me going but it was worth it. If you political thrillers this should definitely be on your must read list!
Going into his book I thought I knew was I was going to get but I was wowed with what I actually received. Crawley transports you to Moscow, having never been in my life, I could still picture every scene the author wrote with the amazingly detailed attention to detail. I found myself sucked in from the first page. This is an action packed novel, that will keep you hooked between its pages.
Clive the main character is a like able man who makes this story even more interesting. You can tell the time Harriet took to craft this mmc as at times he felt so realistic I forgot I was reading a fiction book. While this is a thriller I enjoyed the little romance subplot we got, it really helped keep me going while I was knee deep in this book. This was plot was so well developed that I never had a moment where I felt like I could put this down, I ended up devouring this within a day with a couple cups of coffee to keep me going but it was worth it. If you political thrillers this should definitely be on your must read list!
February 7, 2024
The Translator by Harriet Crawley
This book started slow but gradually grabbed me. The translator, not an interpreter is a British national, he is sent to substitute for the regular translator who had suffered an accident. Experienced but semi-retired, he has dragged back into the fray. The British Government is going to Moscow to scold the Russians for their recent behavior.
The plot becomes more complex when Clive, the translator, discovers an old flame is the translator for the Russian Premier. Emotions run high and Russian paranoia runs deep. There is a great deal of cynicism over the oligarchs reaping obscene profits. Struck me as amusing as they are so similar to the robber barons of old and the tech giants today.
There was a lot of tension and paranoia, fear, anger and a touch of action. This is a thoughtful and thought-provoking book rather than an action adventure.
I enjoyed it.
This book started slow but gradually grabbed me. The translator, not an interpreter is a British national, he is sent to substitute for the regular translator who had suffered an accident. Experienced but semi-retired, he has dragged back into the fray. The British Government is going to Moscow to scold the Russians for their recent behavior.
The plot becomes more complex when Clive, the translator, discovers an old flame is the translator for the Russian Premier. Emotions run high and Russian paranoia runs deep. There is a great deal of cynicism over the oligarchs reaping obscene profits. Struck me as amusing as they are so similar to the robber barons of old and the tech giants today.
There was a lot of tension and paranoia, fear, anger and a touch of action. This is a thoughtful and thought-provoking book rather than an action adventure.
I enjoyed it.
November 30, 2024
Finally, a real political thriller - 100%. Moscow vs. London. Today’s time, the old antagonism and a new cold war. But in the epicenter of the spy plot is an old and, now renewed, love story. Of course, between an Englishman and a Russian woman. The whole story is exciting, without redundant and boring descriptions, with an adequate number of characters, something is constantly happening and, in general, it resembles the novels of my favorite Ken Follett. Maybe it's a good thing that the author is not a writer by profession, but a journalist and business woman who writes "cinematically". Her "Translator" simply begs to be adapted for the big screen. It would undoubtedly be a good movie, similar to "Russia House" with Connery and Michelle Pfeiffer. In any case, this is a reading that will keep you late into the night. Don't say you weren't warned!
(Serbian edition: "Prevodilac", Laguna 2024, translated by B. Radević-Stojiljković)
(Serbian edition: "Prevodilac", Laguna 2024, translated by B. Radević-Stojiljković)
April 9, 2024
The Translator is a brilliant political thriller with lashings of espionage that will have you turning the pages long after you should have gone to sleep.
The basic premise here is that wars between countries will be fought on a technological basis, rather than physically with soldiers fighting. This is already happening in the world today with countries hacking each other's computer systems, using drones to drop bombs etc so the Translator feels Incredibly relevant.
It's a thought-provoking read packed with secrets, lies and spies and I read this in two sittings.
Through great storytelling, you really feel like you've been to Moscow after reading this and I found the characters to have great depth.
For me, the story was mostly fast paced, occasionally medium paced and I think there is definitely scope for a second novel, which I'd love to read.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 "s from me.
The basic premise here is that wars between countries will be fought on a technological basis, rather than physically with soldiers fighting. This is already happening in the world today with countries hacking each other's computer systems, using drones to drop bombs etc so the Translator feels Incredibly relevant.
It's a thought-provoking read packed with secrets, lies and spies and I read this in two sittings.
Through great storytelling, you really feel like you've been to Moscow after reading this and I found the characters to have great depth.
For me, the story was mostly fast paced, occasionally medium paced and I think there is definitely scope for a second novel, which I'd love to read.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 "s from me.
April 11, 2023
This spy novel would be super on the telly! Crawley speaks Russian and lived and worked in Moscow for years, so her vision of Moscow should be spot on. When Clive Franklin is seconded to accompany the Prime Minister on an important trip, little does he know that he will meet his old lover Marina again across the table during negotiations, nor that he'll be the go-between for information about a Russian threat to the transatlantic cables that link North America and Europe from Marina. Will they get out alive? This was a really great read with many a twist and plenty of jeopardy. Loved it.
Read my full review on my blog here: https://annabookbel.net/the-translato...
Read my full review on my blog here: https://annabookbel.net/the-translato...
April 14, 2023
this is such an exciting read. It is written so well and I love the storyline. Between political lines and the tensions between countries, the book gives you such a great journey in a time that is dependant on the communications link to keep the countries running smoothly. You start to wonder whether a sly plan will not only lead to the problem being fixed, but more. As we go through the chapters, we wonder whether it will work or if the countries will fall apart. The tension is kept high, and the detail given to the characters is brilliant. I loved the flow and pace of the story, which was excellent. Overall, the book was brilliant and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 7, 2023
Praise for The Translator
‘A classic thriller of the new Cold War.’ Sir Antony Beevor, author of Stalingrad
'Fast-paced political-cum-spy thriller with a chilling ring of authenticity and an eerie closeness to present events in Ukraine. Unputdownable.' Xan Smiley, The Economist
‘A gripping, prophetic and ingenious novel of love and political intrigue in the new Cold War. A real page turner.’ Owen Matthews, author of Overreach and Red Traitor
‘Prescient and pacey, this book sizzles with the author’s expertise.’ Edward Lucas, author of The New Cold War: Putin’s Threat to Russia and the West
‘The Translator is an intricate, stylish political thriller brimful of poetry and love. Harriet Crawley’s storytelling is audacious and irresistible.’ Rachel Polonsky, author of Molotov’s Magic Lantern
‘A classic thriller of the new Cold War.’ Sir Antony Beevor, author of Stalingrad
'Fast-paced political-cum-spy thriller with a chilling ring of authenticity and an eerie closeness to present events in Ukraine. Unputdownable.' Xan Smiley, The Economist
‘A gripping, prophetic and ingenious novel of love and political intrigue in the new Cold War. A real page turner.’ Owen Matthews, author of Overreach and Red Traitor
‘Prescient and pacey, this book sizzles with the author’s expertise.’ Edward Lucas, author of The New Cold War: Putin’s Threat to Russia and the West
‘The Translator is an intricate, stylish political thriller brimful of poetry and love. Harriet Crawley’s storytelling is audacious and irresistible.’ Rachel Polonsky, author of Molotov’s Magic Lantern
March 24, 2023
This is my first read by the author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We follow the story of Clive Franklin, a Russian language expert in the Foreign Office. He's then recruited to translate for the Prime Minister and travel to Moscow. There, he meets his ex-girlfriend Marina.
I really enjoyed this classic spy thriller. It's fast-paced, and the plot is definitely solid. You can tell she has done a tremendous amount of research, and it reflects in her writing.
I definitely recommend this stylish, well written spy thriller. It will keep you captivated until the end.
I really enjoyed this classic spy thriller. It's fast-paced, and the plot is definitely solid. You can tell she has done a tremendous amount of research, and it reflects in her writing.
I definitely recommend this stylish, well written spy thriller. It will keep you captivated until the end.
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