The Enigmatic Evan Tanner

Evan Tanner stands as one of Block's most distinctive individualists, a maverick of sorts. He operates as a quasi-rogue spy, indulging in espionage on his own terms for a shadowy government entity so clandestine that even the CIA remains clueless about its true purpose. Tanner's affinity for lost causes provides him with allies and potential comrades across the globe, individuals who require nothing more than a whispered password or the mention of a fellow member to welcome him as one of their own. Block describes Tanner as the quintessential outsider; his alignment with fringe groups reflects his inherent resistance to the mainstream. His perpetual insomnia offers him an abundance of time to devour books, amass peculiar knowledge, and master exotic languages, granting him the ability to connect with people in remote corners of the world and within enigmatic cultures. This linguistic prowess also enables him to eavesdrop on secrets that others never suspect he can decipher.

Tanner's Romantic Entanglements

A colorful cast of characters flutters through the series, representing Tanner's romantic escapades. His undeniable charm effortlessly draws a bevy of alluring young women into his arms—requiring no explanations, no time for formalities, and devoid of any lingering complications. These women greet him with passionate embraces and part with the same ease, delivering uninhibited affection with no emotional strings attached. This seamless seduction forms part of the enigmatic allure surrounding super spies like James Bond. Among his romantic liaisons, Annalya Prolov stands out; Tanner revisits her in Tanner's Twelve Swingers (1967), where her lack of jealousy is notable. She remains unperturbed by his dalliances, content in the knowledge that he fathers children solely with her.

The Villains of Tanner's World

Antagonists in the series rarely present formidable threats. More often than not, the men plotting against him are driven by understandable motives of self-interest and avarice. Tanner frequently outsmarts and thwarts them, leveraging his superior foresight, sharp insight, or sheer good fortune. Unlike the universe of Bond, there are no grandiose villains like Goldfinger or Dr. No. Tanner's foray into violence unfolds gradually over the series, culminating in the demise of a vile old Nazi and a British procurer involved in white slavery. Block skillfully avoids reducing every adversary to a caricature of fiendish evil, opting for more nuanced portrayals.