Description

A gripping new novel set in the universe of John le Carre’s most iconic spy, George Smiley, written by acclaimed novelist Nick Harkaway

Set in the missing decade between two iconic instalments in the George Smiley saga, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Nick Harkaway’s Karla’s Choice is an extraordinary, thrilling return to the world of spy fiction’s greatest writer, John le Carre.

It is spring in 1963 and George Smiley has left the Circus. With the wreckage of the West’s spy war with the Soviets strewn across Europe, he has eyes only on a more peaceful life. And indeed, with his marriage more secure than ever, there is a rumour in Whitehall – unconfirmed and a little scandalous – that George Smiley might almost be happy.

But Control has other plans. A Russian agent has defected in the most unusual of circumstances, and the man he was sent to kill in London is nowhere to be found. Smiley reluctantly agrees to one last simple task: interview Susanna, a Hungarian emigre and employee of the missing man, and sniff out a lead. But in his absence the shadows of Moscow have lengthened. Smiley will soon find himself entangled in a perilous mystery that will define the battles to come, and strike at the heart of his greatest enemy…

Publisher Review

‘Is this new ‘le Carre’ novel even better than the master himself? Harkaway has done an extraordinarily good job with his father’s legacy. Karla’s Choice is note-perfect.’ — Jake Kerridge * The Telegraph * What a treat! Karla’s Choice expertly evokes the atmosphere of the originals * Guardian * A loving tribute as well as an excellent novel in its own right — Anthony Cummins * The Observer * It is difficult to encapsulate what a remarkable achievement this novel is. Karla’s Choice is absolutely first rate, as both a homage to le Carre and as a work in its own right — Stuart Kelly * The Scotsman * Karla’s Choice breathes new life into the murky world of the Circus. If you haven’t read any Smiley books, then this wouldn’t be a bad place to start — David Mills * Sunday Times * An accomplished and welcome addition to le Carre’s oeuvre. Harkaway has drawn on his deep knowledge of his father’s work to produce a tale faithful to the originals, while subtly adding a lighter, more modern touch. * The Financial Times * Harkaway is a fine writer and he has resurrected his father’s books brilliantly * The I * Brilliant – every bit as suspenseful and knowing as the original, and often more humorous * The Spectator – Books of the year II * A satisfyingly intricate tale filled with intrigue and suspense. Karla’s Choice is an accomplished homage and a captivating thriller. * Economist – Best books of 2024 * Tense and atmospheric, meditative and moving. Fans of le Carre will have much to rejoice about — Tan Twan Eng