From Russia a Virgin

FROM RUSSIA A VIRGIN This reverses the stereotype spy scenario in that the main character is a heroine and Russian. She is a reluctant spy, as is the British engineer in possession of sensitive information. The incidents related in the first chapter are based on personal experience of the author and formed the trigger for the story that follows. Galya, a Graduate in Physics, and with a good working knowledge of English is seconded as a translator to a British engineer, Frank Wigmore, at a symposium in Moscow. Through working closely together for two weeks a bond is established between them. Colonel Ilyanovitch of the KGB is finding it difficult to find suitable agents to carry out commercial espionage in Europe. His mistress, Sonia, suggests her old college friend Galya. Galya is appointed against her will to an accredited trade mission in London, where she again meets Frank Wigmore, who offers to assist her in non-sensitive data gathering, without compromising the Official Secrets Act. Sonia, now Galya's boss, and Ilyanovitch put Galya under pressure to do more. MI6 show an interest in Frank. The tensions arising between friendship, loyalty, and patriotism develop, complicated by problems in Frank's marriage. A sub plot develops with Sonia developing a relationship with Colonel Ilyanovitch's new superior, a general, appointed by President Gorbechev to present a more acceptable face to the KGB. During the coup to overthrow Gorbechev, Ilyanovitch plots the downfall of the general for his support for the President. The general is arrested. Sonia seeking to avenge the general, plans to kill Ilyanovitch.