This is the Day They Dream Of

Inspector Taleb #2

by Robert Goddard

The mind-bending sequel to the Times Thriller of the Year bestseller, This is the Night They Come for You.

'A finely-written, atmospheric and interesting story' Sunday Times, Best Thrillers of 2025
'Our finest practitioner of the double-cross plotting' Mick Herron
‘Splendidly serpentine and immaculately plotted, this is British thriller writing at its very best’ Daily Mail
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Trouble has a way of finding those who spend most of their time trying to avoid it. Or so it appears to Superintendent Taleb, whose attempts to wind his career down to an unobtrusive retirement are once again in jeopardy.

When delegated a television interview to discuss a thirty year old political controversy, his instructions are clear whatever you say, do not rock the boat. But an inexplicable urge in the moment to tell the truth lands him in dangerously hot water. It also reopens some decades wounds which will bring him to the forefront of an investigation he is keen to avoid.

Whether he likes it or not, the past is coming for him. And the past in Algeria is venomous, vengeful and relentless, quick to consume the unwary traveller. He will soon find himself staring down the barrel of a long buried mystery, which looks likely to add him to its lengthy roster of victims.

This Is the Day They Dream Of is the scintillating sequel to the critically acclaimed This Is The Night They Come For You, which introduced the world-weary Taleb and his always resourceful colleague Agent Hidouchi of the Algerian Secret Service. Together they must navigate the country’ treacherous history to save themselves from its perilous present.
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Praise for This is the Night They Come For You

'Truly ingenious' The Tablet
'Goddard sprinkles head-turning double-crossing with delightful by-play between his two leads' The Times
'Fast-paced, beautifully crafted with some excellently drawn characters... engages from start to finish' Choice Magazine
'Goddard writes amazing novels of mystery/suspense. His new one is magical and the title is simply the best' Stephen King

Genres: Fiction, Crime, Detective, Mystery

442 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 5, 2025

About the author

In a writing career spanning more than twenty years, Robert Goddard's novels have been described in many different ways - mystery, thriller, crime, even historical romance. He is the master of the plot twist, a compelling and engrossing storyteller and one of the best known advocates for the traditional virtues of pace, plot and narrative drive.

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

enjoyed some of this book felt however could of been shorter

[Marianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Is The Day They Dream Of is the second book in Robert Goddard’s Inspector Taleb series. Since their return from Paris eighteen months earlier, Superintendent Mouloud Taleb and DSS Agent Saoud Hidouchi have been quietly working together trying to reduce Algerian corruption. But in a gross misstep, Taleb, conscripted into an appearance on TV current affairs program, Microscope, makes some unwise comments in response to journalist Rochdi Abidi’s provocation.

Later he can only blame memories of his long-dead wife and daughter as the impetus to stop telling the usual lies. His boss, Director Farid Bouras gave him strict instructions not to rock the boat. Now, Taleb is put on stress leave in a cottage in faraway Beni Saf, and instructed to remain invisible and silent.

That lasts only a short time: Bouras orders him back to Algiers because a DSS agent, the son of the corrupt DRS boss at the time of President Boudiaf’s assassination thirty years earlier, has been kidnapped in France, and held for ransom. Having proved his lack of sympathy for the DRS/DSS, Taleb is picked to go to Marseille to handle the ransom payment and hand over of Karim Mokrani.

When Taleb meets up with a representative of les souveniristes, it turns out they want something besides money, something that spells suicide for Taleb, should he acquiesce. And while Bouras and Hidouchi can’t help beyond providing information, it turns out that Taleb does have some friends in Marseille.

Meanwhile, back in Algiers, Abidi has been murdered, and evidence at the scene points to Hidouchi. She wonders, at first, if her boss, Deputy Director Kadri is trying to get rid of her, but discounts that idea when he gives her carte blanche to investigate the murder, the kidnappers, and the reason Mokrani was in Marseille in the first place.

In a story that takes many unexpected turns, eventually, Taleb is sought by the French police for two murders, while General Mokrani is convinced he has taken off with five million Swiss francs ransom money. Everyone keeps telling him to be careful, and the best Bouras can suggest is to leave France, but not for Algeria. When they finally discover the truth of what is going on, they understand that it’s a lot more dangerous, both for themselves, and their country, than they could ever have imagined.

Goddard provides an easily assimilated lesson in Algerian history (eg When the former boss of the feared DRS is interrogated: “Nothing the DRS did was criminal. By definition”) while giving the reader plenty of action and dialogue that is often blackly funny:
“’Any last words of advice?’
‘Don’t make him angry. He has a temper like … Vesuvius.’
‘I’m not planning to make him angry.’
‘It could happen without you meaning it to.’
‘Thanks, Abdou. That’s very useful.’”

He populates his novel with characters who often are not what they initially seem, and gives some of them insightful observations particularly applicable in Algiers: Taleb to the man who garages his car: ‘I’m a police officer, Akram. What favour could I possibly do for an honest man such as yourself?’
‘But there you have it, Inspector. Surely you know that in this country there’s nothing more dangerous than being honest.’ Brilliant crime/history/suspense.

[MJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A slow build-up, getting more and more exciting as the story develops.

[Tania · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This is the Night They Come for You”
Is one of my favorite books in recent years. So this sequel meant a lot to me. I preordered it Nov. 14th for the June 6th release.

And it exceeded my expectations! This is an amazing book. What a mystery! And a riveting sequel. I loved the continuation of these characters and the complicated history of Algeria. A thirty year old assassination isn’t in the past, it’s still a fresh wound; even in a country as blood soaked as Algeria.

“That is the reality of the country we live in. You are a good man in a bad world Taleb. Not a recipe for happiness.”

World weary Taleb must do the impossible, trapped between Algeria and France. The sinister repercussions from the time period in Algeria during the 1990s is called “La décennie noire” …the black decade. But were the Islamist rebel groups to blame for everything? Or were French interests still puppeteers in their former colony?

Taleb’s confidante and much younger colleague Agent Souad Hidouchi plays such a big part in his mystery. I loved all the complicated plot twists and how brilliant she is! I love these characters and what their friendship means to them, across their generational divide. I was riveted every step of their journey. A very satisfying book!

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Goddard but struggled to get into this book

[Tom - Reader of Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Superintendent Taleb is back with his colleague, Algerian Secret Service Agent Hidouchi. This clever and charming crime caper works wonderfully against the backdrop of real life Algerian tension and historical events, which any long-term admirers will know is a trademark of Goddards.

Unlike some of his truly captivating pieces though, this central mystery wasn’t quite as enthralling as it could have been, some of the turns weren’t quite as unexpected or engaging. But for the most part it’s a very well written and enjoyable capable, highlighted by Taleb’s desire to wind down. A very enjoyable read.

[Val Wheeler · Rating 3 out of 5]

really enjoyed the first book in the series so was looking forward to the follow up.

Again filled with Algerian history and politics it was very interesting, but I felt this was very slow paced in comparison that I struggled at times to keep going with it and I didn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to.

There were two timelines now and thirty years ago and a lot of Algerian background which I felt showed down the pace of the book, so much that at times, it took away from the story a little too much for my liking. That said its definitely a book I will pick up again in the future

A big thanks to Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Bantam for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.

[Kath · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book featuring Superintendent Mouloud Taleb, the first being the excellent This is the Night they Come for You, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Sadly, this book did not quite live up to the heady heights of the series opener but it was a good read nonetheless.
So... Taleb is still trying to wind his stellar career down with no further fuss. Sadly, trouble has a way of seeking him out and, yay for us readers, as it would be a short boring book had this not been the case! This time it comes after a decision to tell the complete truth when talking about a decades old controversial political incident which basically opens up old wounds for some and a whole heap of trouble for him, and by association, his Algerian Secret Service colleague Hidouchi.
This is one of my favourite authors going back many many years. I just love the way that he manages to weave a story around some really interesting characters and this series is no exception to that. The story mixes Algeria's past and present and I have to admit that I did get a wee bit bogged down with it all at times which did have a bit of a knock on effect to the pacing, slowing it down for me on occasion. That said it is necessary for the overall story.
That said, I do love the juxtaposition of the two main characters. The chalk and cheese are Taleb and Hidouchi, who rub up and off each other perfectly, adding a whole other layer to the story being told. Outwith the historical explanations, the rest of the story got on with itself very well indeed and was filled with fast paced action.
And then there are the well crafted and well executed twists that you would expect from this author. But I will leave you to discover these for yourself.
All in all a solid follow up to a cracking series opener, leaving me excited to see what's next. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another gripping mystery in the second installment of the Inspector Taleb series! Picking up after the events of This is the Night they Come for You, this sequel finds Chief Inspector Mouloud Taleb attempting to ease into retirement, only to be thrust back into the fray by a seemingly harmless TV interview. When the truth slips out, it reopens an old political wound tied to Algeria’s toxic past.

From the outset, Goddard’s expertise in weaving historical depth into taut thrillers shines. The murky echoes of Algeria’s colonial era and the political fallout of a 30-year-old scandal form a rich backdrop for the present day investigation. Taleb, reluctant, introspective and quietly heroic, is matched by Hidouchi, whose intelligence and steely resolve elevate every scene they share. The dynamic between Taleb and Hidouchi, a blend of respect and tension, brings warmth to a dark story. Taleb's moral struggles and his conflict between professional duty and personal desire add real weight.

Goddard’s plotting remains labyrinthine yet clear, with double-crosses and buried secrets turning what should have been a routine investigation into a dangerous game. The pace is well balanced, methodical enough to appreciate the intricate politics and character motivations, yet punctuated by real tension and suspense. Goddard doesn’t just reference Algeria’s past; he immerses you in it without slowing the pace.

If you enjoyed the first Inspector Taleb novel, this sequel builds on it deftly, delivering atmospheric intrigue, moral complexity and a signature twist. Even readers new to Taleb’s world can dive in, though you’ll appreciate the deeper context if you're familiar with the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my review.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this second book of what is clearly becoming a series, we revisit Superintendent Taleb of the Algerian police force -past retirement age but still working - and the much younger Agent Hidouchi of the DSS, the Algerian Secret Service. Although they make an unlikely pair, given the gender difference, wide age gap and the uneasy relationship between their two departments, they form a solid alliance built on mutual trust and respect.

In this novel, they are thrown together in a politically charged case, which they approach from different angles but pursue through constant communication. The plot is a slow burner: the first part of the book carefully sets the scene for a cracking second half full of unexpected turns.

The narrative style demands concentration, as the viewpoint shifts between Taleb and Hidouchi—sometimes from one paragraph to the next—without clear section breaks. If your attention wanders even briefly, it’s easy to lose track and have to retrace your steps. Still, there’s no mistaking who holds centre stage: Taleb’s character is given greater weight and depth throughout.

Overall, it’s an engaging adventure story and, apart from the rapid scene changes within chapters, a very smooth and satisfying read.

[Luis Gouveia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A follow up to "This is the night when they come for you".

A story set in Algeria, both in the present day and thirty years ago, unfolds with several unexpected twists and surprises.

While the plot can feel somewhat complex at times, the author’s grasp of Algeria’s historical and political landscape — including the often-overlooked countries to the south — is truly impressive. The geopolitical backdrop enriches the story without overwhelming it.

The main protagonist is a likable and charismatic figure, someone readers will quickly connect with. His relation with the main female character also also adds a whole other layer to the story being told.

The story also features a cast of morally ambiguous, "grey" characters who add depth and intrigue to the plot, creating a web of loyalties and betrayals that keeps the reader guessing.

There is, however, one thing I must admit I did not enjoy as much. At times, I found myself reading not out of enjoyment, but simply to find out what would happen next. This speaks to the author’s skill in crafting a compelling plot, but it also suggests a certain weakness in character development or scene engagement.

[Oundle Crime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Algeria this is a good mystery but - for me - it was the way Robert Goddard wove the country’s history through the story that made it so fascinating and raised the book to another level. Police Superintendent Taleb is delegated to give a live television interview about a 30-year-old case and, when ambushed on-air by an unexpected question, lands himself in hot water. It’s against this backdrop that he’s later drawn into a hostage negotiation and has to travel to France, all too aware that he’s being set up to take the fall for something much, much bigger. He and his colleague, Agent Hidouchi of the Algerian Secret Service, must navigate a swamp of political intrigue and double-dealing if they are to survive with their lives and careers intact. Clever plotting and beguiling characters made this memorable for me and I was still thinking about it weeks later.
Review by Cornish Eskimo, Oundle Crime

[Oliver Dowson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a phenomenal book. A twist-filled thriller packed into a comprehensive history of Algeria since 1990! It takes some concentration to get into, and I imagine that some who seek a straightforward thriller might give up after a chapter or two, but personally I found it incredibly rewarding. The plot is highly convoluted and quite unpredictable!

I do like books set in interesting places. I've never been to Algeria - it's not a country that seems to welcome tourists, and many parts of it are apparently quite dangerous. It's not clear that Robert Goddard has been there either, but I trust his extensive research and, encouraged to learn more online, now feel I know a little of the country.

[Verity Halliday · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the Day They Dream Of Is the second book in Robert Goddard’s Inspector Taleb series, set in Algeria and France. I really enjoyed the first book, so I was excited to be given the opportunity to read book two.

Unfortunately I found this one a bit of a slog. There is a dual timeline, both quite dense with Algerian politics, multiple government agencies and a large cast of characters. The plot was propulsive, but I often forgot which timeline I was in and who was who, especially as the book took me quite a while to read.

A recommended read for lovers of complex political thrillers.

[Peter Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhh! What a good read…

This was book #2 of the Inspector Taleb series and it was just as good as book #1.

Crime stories are generally a good read, but when set in “exotic locations” it just gives them an extra bit of interest.

Taleb is a likeable character and his secret service off-sider, Agent Hidouchi they make a formidable team.

“This is the day…” is an action packed romp across Algeria, southern France and then back to Algeria. Does our crime-fighting duo manage to bring outwit the various villains? You will have to read the book to see. One thing I’m sure of is that you will enjoy your read.

Regards,
Peter

[Neil Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robert Goddard wrote some excellent novels, especially the first few. Past Caring, for example. I felt the quality dropped off and neglected him for a while until I was forced to scan the library shelves and picked this up.

it seems he has moved into Robert Harris territory, and this thriller is both well plotted and well researched. If you want a good read and a clear unpacking of recent Algerian history, this is for you.

Along the way, you will gain more understanding of just how badly the Europian colonial nations treated and still treat their (ex) colonies.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second in the brilliant series featuring Algerian policeman Superintendent Taleb. This was a fast-paced exciting read with plenty of surprising twists. The characters are engaging and the plot is tightly controlled. I learnt a lot about Algerian political history. A very entertaining read.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.

[Graham Humpage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story that I finished in super quick time. Robert Goddard at his best. An insight into Algerian/French politics that would normally send you looking for the Kindle library and heading for something a little less overly political and - easier to digest. The interwoven story makes for an excellent cloak and dagger soliloquy that keeps on giving and adheres the pages and tale to your hand. I had to finish it without delay to get back to my life……

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always eagerly anticipate a new Goddard book, and he never disappoints. The many twists and turns of Algerian and French security services, and the links to historically significant events, together with the eminently likeable main characters, intertwine to create a book I struggled to put down.

[Anita Bartholomew · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting sequel to This is the Night they Come for You. I liked the characters Taleb and Hidouchi and wanted to read more about them. I felt like it took a while to get going before I became really involved in the plot and about half way through it became a really fast paced thriller with unexpected plot twists.
I don't have any knowledge of Algerian history so this was an added bonus.

[Joyce Borthwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well constructed and fast moving.

Though it’s a sequel that doesn’t matter - though it’s better to read the first one first! It’s a complex plot which is believable and fast moving mixing contemporary activity with fiction. Good characters and well written.

[Vicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 rather than 4 stars because it's not the kind of thing I usually like to read.

[Linda Drawater · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Barondestructo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting history of Algerian politics and intrigue, but it feels like it goes on a little too long.

[hols -`♡´- · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The afternoon of this day is actually more troubling than the morning. But the morning has to be lived through first.”

[Helen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first book in this series but I found this a slog and it took me a long time to get through it.

[John Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with the first book of this series, I needed to do some research myself about the situation in Algeria at the time.
Quite surprised that I was so unaware of what happened there and have to wonder who decides what news we receive!!

This was as exciting as some of the original James Bonds but there at least with 007,  you knew who were the goodies and baddies. Here that was far from clear.

The situation in Algeria at this time was incredibly complex. Apart from the factions  trying to keep order today, there was still a strong under current caused by the 'Black Decade'. Some factions were happy for the atrocities of those years to be forgotten (rather like the Northern Ireland troubles for the UK) while others were keen to see justice done.

Then the son of one of the old gang bosses is kidnapped and held to ransom. Because of his record,  Superintendant Taleb is called upon to deal with the paying of the money and  release of the kidnapped man who is now an agent for the security services. The unlikely partnership of Taleb with agent Hidouchi from the Algerian Secret Service that we saw in the previous book,  is still in evidence here..

Police and security services clash as suspicions run high and in the background a top secret conference is going on with anonymous participants apart from one senior French Ministry official.

It is obvious from the 'ordinary people' of the time that there was little respect for the law and that corruption was still rife.

Goddard is a master story teller. He draws the reader into this foreign conflict. He pulls together a good yarn with peaks of excitment  as the ending approaches and just as you think its all resolved he pulls a further twist to round off the story.

An enjoyable one and even though it is fiction, most thought provoking.

[Robin Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully rendered story with several characters we have met once before. Robert Goddard continues to excel with thrillers and taut mystery novels which are as varied as they are brilliant.
The plot is a clever and complex mix of Algeria's dark political past and current events which could bring its difficult relationship with France into open conflict.
Superintendent Taleb and Agent Hidouchi are a perfectly mismatched double-act, and two of my favourite characters. I do hope they will return in future novels.
The action is fast-paced and there is never a dull moment. The locations are exotic and well-drawn. The villains are viciously evil and in true Robert Goddard style there is twist after twist after twist.
A captivating thriller. Not to be missed.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping thriller that is book two in a series. It is the story of corruption in Algiers and how two officers, one in their version of the secret service and the other a policeman, seek to fight as best they can against it.

[Kate Hyde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent thriller, with two great protagonists, twists and turns and action galore, and I learned a lot about Algerian history.