The BBC Hunters

Russia's Web Brigades have created a divided West, but both the European and the American intelligence services are getting wise to their tactics. When Stanislav Kuznetsov, the FSB's Director of Overseas Strategic Affairs, entrusts a group of young idealists with the task of devising the next phase in the disruption of Russia's enemies, little does he suspect that six weeks later, they'll come up with a plan to suborn the British Broadcasting Corporation. His first reaction is mingled incredulity and exasperation. Have they taken leave of their senses? But then he studies the details. And actually, it's not as far-fetched as it looks. In fact it's entirely workable. It might even be worth passing off as his own idea. Which, technically speaking, is intellectual property theft, and certain to offend the hard-working members of his young focus group. One night, by way of showing how angry they are, they all disappear from Moscow simultaneously. Which is bad enough. But what makes it far worse is that there's evidence to suggest they're intent on contacting a British MI7 agent called John Mordred. Talk about getting their revenge. This could be the crisis to end all crises. Heads will definitely roll. Only, whose?