A. L. Wildman

The Spontiak Enigma is a conspiracy mystery about a secret project that began during World War II. There are several important characters, two of whom, Nathan King, a photographer, and Martha Kemp, a retired World War II spy known as Sparrow, are out to expose the truth behind a British government conspiracy. The story takes place in England and involves a powerful secret government agency that lacks accountability as it assassinates any person who threatens to expose it. The US and Germany are also involved in this agency’s conspiracy and help fund its project.

Martha Kemp, an old woman, is ruthless when threatened. She quickly dispatches anyone sent to stop her. Her cunning and ruthlessness adds a little comedy to the story. The project’s goal is not disclosed until well on into the story. Once its purpose is known, the challenge for Nathan and Martha becomes one of exposing the conspiracy with sufficient proof to support their claims. Martha’s secondary aim was to protect the true nature of the project so that Britain can resurrect it under the direction of an ethical agency. The future of Britain’s defense will greatly benefit from the outcome of this project.

The book's title is a bit of an anomaly. Spontiak played a background role in the book but wasn’t an active character. Were it just for the title, I don’t think that I would have selected this book. However, the book’s description on Amazon captured my attention. It described a mystery and an ex-spy. That was enough for me and I’m glad that I decided to read it.

Once started, I anxiously looked forward to reading this book every night. While the first two chapters seemed disconnected, it soon became clear that the author, A. L. Wildman, added those chapters at the beginning for needed background information.

The story layout is well crafted and that made the book a joy to read.… (meer)