I need help finding the title of a British mystery novel?

Question

I picked up a book at a yard sale and lost it before I could finish it. This is what I know;
- The author is a man and is British
- The word "smoke" was in the title
- The main character was a cat burgler named Jethro who is being blackmailed by the British government.
- The book takes place in London shortly after WWII
- I think it may be part of a series because there were references to earlier events that the author seemed to feel that the reader would be aware of.

I know it's not a lot to go on. I've stumped the folks at the local Barnes and Noble. I would appreciate any help that anyone can give. The book was very good and I was really enjoying it until I misplaced it. Thanks in advance to everyone.

Answer 1

I think the book you are referring to is The Smoke by Tony Broadbent. Copies are available through Amazon.com. The Smoke is the first Jethro novel and Spectres in the Smoke is the second.

Answer 2

Try going to the 'booksleuth' bit at the books website http://forums.abebooks.co.uk/abesleuthuk - the people there are brilliant at solving stuff like this!

Just remember to check back on their site - people post messages onto a thread, they don't email you direct.