A Spy Returns

The gripping and prescient third novel from former MI6 operative Charles Beaumont, pulling back the curtain on the murky world of modern espionage...

A terrorist bombing, a migrant crisis, and an insidious plot

It's 1999, and a young Simon Sharman is in Moscow on his first mission as a British spy. He learns of an FSB plot to bomb apartment blocks, killing hundreds of civilians, which will be blamed on Chechen terrorists. On his return to London his intelligence is treated with scepticism. When it proves correct, some in the British Establishment seem to want to bury the story altogether...

In 2026, an older Simon is in northern Nigeria, trying to leave the horrors of the Ukraine war, and the betrayals of his 'friends' behind. But even here, the tendrils of Russian influence seem to find him, as the Russian Afrika Korps formerly Wagner Group mercenaries begin operations in the area. Keeping tabs on them, he finds links between the Korps and the people smugglers spiriting migrants into Europe. But why?

Could there be a link between the 1999 bombings, and the modern-day migrant crisis? Is the Russian spy ring at the heart of the British Establishment making its ultimate move?

The explosive conclusion to the Oxford Spy Ring trilogy, as Beaumont once more shines a light on the enemies of democracy and their cynical partners hidden among our elites.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs