@ShaulaEvans @bookstodon

I read "The human factor" at around the same age, but I wasn't moved by it. Haven't read that author since. Apart from the general plot, the only scene I remember is the protagonist choosing to kill his dog before deserting, even when someone offers to do it for him. At that time, I found that incomprehensible, why would you choose that? Now I understand that it is presented as part of the amorality of the espionage world. Probably if I re-read the novel now with an adult (i.e. more cynic) mind I would enjoy it a bit better.