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The Sterling Directive

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The Sterling Directive

By: Tim Standish
Narrated by: Gordon Griffin
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It is 1896. In an alternative history where Babbage’s difference engines have become commonplace Captain Charles Maddox, wrongly convicted of a murder and newly arrested for treason, is rescued from execution by a covert agency called the Map Room. Maddox is given the choice of taking his chances with the authorities or joining the Map Room as an agent and helping them uncover a possible conspiracy surrounding the 1888 Ripper murders. Seeing little choice, Maddox accepts the offer and joins the team of fellow agents Church and Green. With help from the Map Room team, Maddox (now Agent Sterling) and Church investigate the Ripper murders and uncover a closely-guarded conspiracy deep within the British Government. Success depends on the two of them quickly forging a successful partnership as agents and following the trail wherever, and to whomever, it leads.

An espionage thriller set in an alternative late 19th century London. Crime Thrillers Espionage Europe Great Britain Historical Science Fiction Spies & Politics Thriller & Suspense
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If you are a fan of steampunk or alternate history, this book is a must-read. The way Standish grounds his mechanical, computer-driven 1896 Victorian England in real-world logic rather than magic makes the world incredibly believable. The technology, from the primitive internet to the kinetic screens, feels like a natural extension of the era. What truly drives the story, however, is the fantastic cast of characters. Captain Charles Maddox is a compelling, quick-witted protagonist, and his dynamic with the rest of the Map Room team—especially the laconic Church and the brilliant tapper Patience—makes for an engaging, character-driven thriller.

Characters and world building

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I loved the book!

The story and characterisation developed well and I was always anticipating my next listen.

Can’t wait for the next one !

Great listen

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