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Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
400 pages, 2011
From the bestselling author of A Legacy of Spies, John le Carré’s new novel, Agent Running in the Field (available October 2019), is a cautionary tale about how easily our governments can be compromised by foreign powers.
The man he knew as Control is dead, and the young Turks who forced him out now run the Circus. But George Smiley isn't quite ready for retirement—especially when a pretty, would-be defector surfaces with a shocking accusation: a Soviet mole has penetrated the highest level of British Intelligence. Relying entirely on his wits and a small, loyal cadre, Smiley recognizes the hand of Karla—his Moscow Centre nemesis—and sets a trap to catch the traitor.
John le Carré's Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy takes you deep into the world of espionage. You'll explore the complexities and moral ambiguities of this secretive profession. It's not all James Bond-style glamour, but a gritty, realistic look at the life of a spy.
Loyalty is a major theme in the book. The protagonist, George Smiley, is a man of unwavering loyalty to his country, even when it costs him personally. Le Carré makes you question: What are you loyal to and what would you sacrifice for it?
Deception is a key tool in the spy's arsenal, and le Carré shows us just how devastating it can be. The book will make you think about the lies we tell others and ourselves, and the impact they can have.
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy isn't just about the spy game, it's about the people who play it. Le Carré gives us a glimpse into the personal lives of his characters, showing us that they're not just spies, but human beings with their own hopes, fears, and flaws.
The book is set during the Cold War, a time of high tension and paranoia. It's a fascinating look into this period of history, and le Carré's detailed portrayal will make you feel like you're right there in the thick of it.
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John le Carré's Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling.
Stephen King - Horror Fiction AuthorTinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a timeless masterpiece of espionage literature.
William Boyd - British NovelistLe Carré's Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a novel of profound and delicate insight.
Ian McEwan - Contemporary Fiction WriterRecommendations
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