Slow Horses

Compare and contrast at least two members of the slow horses team. How does their relationship and narrative dynamic develop through the novel? What do you think this is intended to show?

The novel mostly shows Jackson Lamb through the perspectives of other people in the first half, transitioning more to his perspective later. Why do you think the novel withholds and reveals Lamb’s own perspective in this way? What does this achieve?

Consider the relationship between secrecy and trust as portrayed in the novel.

Consider how the character of River’s grandfather impacts the presentation of the past in the novel. How does the withholding of information about the O.B.’s past reflect on the place of nostalgia in the novel?

The constant threat of betrayal is a common trope of the spy thriller. How does this novel employ this trope?

What does the novel have to say about foreign and domestic political and security threats? Do you think the novel has a political message?

Hassan Ahmed is a comedian as well as a hostage survivor. Why do you think Herron adds this aspect of his character, and what does it say about the role of humor in the book?

Do you think the slow horses have earned redemption by the end? Should they be offered a role at Regent’s Park? Would they accept? Why or why not?