I would describe this story as an Alistair MacLean adventure crossed with the James Bond books by Ian Fleming. I have read seven books by Fleming but only one by MacLean (The Guns of Navarone) so this may not be entirely accurate. Manston is working for an unnamed secret intelligence group but the story felt much more like an adventure thriller to me, with romance included. All of it was very well done, including the romance, so no complaints here.
Manston is a very likable character. He shows up later in the Rex Carver books, and in those books he is a bit different, darker. I also like the portrayal of Irina, the dancer, a woman who is capable and unafraid. That may be one of Canning's strongest points for me; he does a very good job with his characters, keeping me interested and involved whether they are good or bad or in between. There are some very interesting villains in this book too.
I am a big fan of Victor Canning's writing. I have only read his mystery and espionage fiction, and this is only the fourth book of his I have read, but I will be seeking out more of his books.
One resource I used in writing this review was a reference book by John Higgins, A Rex Carver Companion.
This review of Limbo Line at Mystery*File has more details, and more about the author's writing career and recommended books.
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Publisher: Berkley Medallion Books, 1965. Orig. pub. 1963.
Length: 192 pages
Format: Paperback
Setting: UK, France
Genre: Adventure, Thriller
Source: I purchased this book.
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