Here is a novel that is surely the dictionary definition of the word "caper." Despite its eighties setting, while reading it I could just imagine it as a sixties-style film, complete with Iron Curtain spies, skiing, Christmas card town squares and plenty of comedy and romance. Vicky narrates as usual, torn between wanting romance and being a modern girl with a keen brain and a good job she loves. It is this angle that keeps the books evergreen, while the descriptions of unspoiled beauty spots (and the Berlin Wall) give an air of nostalgia.  To its detriment, the story sags in the middle somewhat while the characters argue and get into some all-too-predictable trouble romantically and otherwise. It needs a little tightening there. It is the longest so far of this series so maybe "less is more," or at least less repetitive. But there is plenty to enjoy here too, and it is easy to see why the books are worthy of reprinting.