A thrilling return to the world of espionage, where shadows conceal deadly secrets.

Karla’s Choice: A John le Carré Novel is a gripping tale that unearths the intricate and perilous world of espionage through the eyes of George Smiley, one of literature’s most iconic spies. Written by acclaimed author Nick Harkaway, this novel unfolds during the spring of 1963, a time when Smiley has seemingly left the tumult of the Circus behind him for a quieter life, perhaps even contentment in his marriage. Whispers in Whitehall suggest a scandal: George Smiley might be happy.

Yet, peace is fleeting. Control, Smiley’s former superior, has other plans. The narrative thrusts readers into a plot where a Russian agent defects, leading Smiley on a treacherous mission to interview Szusanna, a Hungarian employee linked to the missing man who was the intended target of this defector. What begins as a benign inquiry spirals into a complex web of deception and danger, pulling Smiley back into the underbelly of Cold War intrigue in East Berlin.

Karla’s Choice is set in the enigmatic decade bridging two of le Carré’s celebrated works, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. Harkaway’s prose is both thrilling and contemplative, offering readers a poignant homage to le Carré while exploring themes of trust, disillusionment, and the often murky morality of espionage.

The book has been well-received, boasting an average rating of 4.14 from over 3,300 ratings. Critics and readers alike praise Harkaway’s ability to capture the essence of le Carré’s world, with 46 reviews reflecting on its depth and vibrancy. Nick Harkaway himself, known for his inventive storytelling and sharp wit, adds his unique voice to this complex narrative, ensuring it resonates with both longtime fans of spy fiction and newcomers alike.

Whether you’re drawn by the historical context, the tension of espionage, or the reflections on human nature within conflict, Karla’s Choice offers a masterful reading experience that delves deeply into the shadows that linger long after the final page is turned.