Step into the world of spies and espionage with this captivating book list. Explore thrilling true stories of real-life spies and undercover operations that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive into the secrets of intelligence agencies and uncover the covert techniques used to gather information.
Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a thrilling read, these books will take you on a fascinating journey through the shadowy world of espionage. Get ready to uncover the truth behind the world's most captivating spy stories.
Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger is a delightful blend of manners and mischief. Set in an alternate Victorian era, this book follows the adventures of young Sophronia as she attends a finishing school that teaches not only etiquette but also the art of espionage. With a witty writing style and a cast of charming characters, it's a fun and entertaining read for anyone who enjoys a mix of steampunk, mystery, and a dash of humor.
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn is a gripping historical fiction novel that intertwines the stories of two women during World War I and post-World War II. It follows the journey of a female spy and a young American socialite as they join forces to uncover the truth about a traitor in their midst. Filled with suspense, betrayal, and the resilience of the human spirit, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction.
I Am Pilgrim is a gripping thriller that follows a former intelligence agent known as Pilgrim as he races against time to stop a terrorist plot. Filled with complex characters, meticulous detail, and unexpected twists, the novel takes readers on a thrilling journey from New York to the Middle East and beyond. It is a masterfully crafted story that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Patriot Games is a gripping political thriller by Tom Clancy. It follows former CIA analyst Jack Ryan as he becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse with an IRA splinter group. Filled with action, suspense, and intricate plot twists, the novel explores themes of terrorism, loyalty, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones.
Eye of the Needle is a gripping spy thriller set during World War II. Written by Ken Follett, it follows a ruthless German spy known as "The Needle" who possesses crucial information about the Allies' plans. As he attempts to escape to Germany, a determined woman stands in his way, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse.
Scorpia is a thrilling novel by Anthony Horowitz that follows the teenage spy, Alex Rider, as he uncovers a sinister plot by the criminal organization Scorpia. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
The Spy Who Came In from the Cold is a gripping espionage novel by John le Carré. Set during the Cold War, it tells the story of Alec Leamas, a British intelligence officer who embarks on a dangerous mission to bring down an East German intelligence operative. Filled with intrigue, betrayal, and moral ambiguity, the book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the world of espionage.
The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen is a gripping novel that delves into the complexities of identity, loyalty, and betrayal. Set during the Vietnam War, it follows a communist spy who infiltrates the South Vietnamese army and eventually escapes to the United States. Through his unique perspective, the book offers a thought-provoking exploration of political and personal struggles.
Only the Good Spy Young is the fourth book in the Gallagher Girls series by Ally Carter. It follows teenage spy Cammie Morgan as she uncovers a dangerous secret that puts her and her friends in grave danger. Filled with action, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
A Legacy of Spies is a gripping espionage novel by John le Carré. It delves into the past of legendary spy George Smiley and uncovers long-buried secrets from the Cold War era. Filled with intrigue, betrayal, and moral dilemmas, the book offers a thought-provoking exploration of loyalty and the consequences of past actions.
Berlin Game by Len Deighton is a gripping spy thriller set in Cold War-era Berlin. The story follows British intelligence officer Bernard Samson as he navigates double agents, political intrigue, and personal betrayals. With its intricate plot and compelling characters, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Also Known As by Robin Benway is a thrilling and witty novel about a teenage spy named Maggie Silver. When Maggie is assigned to go undercover and befriend the son of a potential enemy, she must navigate the complexities of high school while also carrying out her mission. Filled with humor, romance, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Eagle Strike is the fourth book in the Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. In this action-packed novel, teenage spy Alex Rider uncovers a sinister plot involving a wealthy philanthropist and a deadly weapon. With thrilling twists and turns, the book takes readers on a high-stakes adventure as Alex races against time to stop a catastrophic event.
American Spy by Lauren Wilkinson is a gripping novel that follows the story of Marie Mitchell, a black woman working as an intelligence officer for the FBI during the Cold War. Set in the 1980s, the book delves into themes of race, identity, and espionage as Marie is tasked with infiltrating a revolutionary group in Burkina Faso. Blending history and fiction, it offers a unique perspective on the world of espionage and the complexities of loyalty.
Clear and Present Danger is a gripping political thriller by Tom Clancy. It follows CIA analyst Jack Ryan as he uncovers a covert war being waged by the U.S. government against a powerful Colombian drug cartel. Faced with moral dilemmas and dangerous enemies, Ryan must navigate through a world of deceit and betrayal to bring the truth to light.
American Assassin by Vince Flynn is a gripping thriller that introduces the character of Mitch Rapp. Recruited by the CIA after the tragic events of 9/11, Rapp undergoes intense training to become a ruthless and efficient counter-terrorism operative. As he embarks on his first mission, Rapp uncovers a deadly conspiracy that could have devastating consequences. This action-packed novel provides an inside look at the world of espionage and the relentless fight against terrorism.
Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy is a thrilling young adult novel by Ally Carter. It follows the story of Cammie Morgan, a student at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women, who is training to become a spy. When Cammie discovers that she is being followed by a mysterious boy, she embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about him and the secrets he may be hiding. Filled with action, romance, and espionage, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.
At Risk is a gripping novel by Stella Rimington that delves into the world of counter-terrorism. With a strong, intelligent female lead, it offers a unique perspective on the pursuit of an elusive terrorist. Filled with tension and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Ark Angel is a thrilling young adult novel by Anthony Horowitz. It follows the story of teenage spy Alex Rider as he embarks on a dangerous mission to uncover a sinister plot in space. Packed with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Casino Royale by Ian Fleming is a gripping espionage thriller that introduces the world to the iconic character James Bond. Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes poker game at the titular casino, this novel takes readers on a rollercoaster journey filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists. As Bond faces off against the enigmatic Le Chiffre, we get a glimpse into the thrilling and dangerous world of international espionage.
Crocodile Tears is a thrilling novel by Anthony Horowitz that follows teenage spy Alex Rider as he uncovers a sinister plot to unleash a deadly virus upon the world. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
A Death in Vienna by Daniel Silva is a gripping espionage thriller that takes you on a journey through the dark history of World War II. When an old friend is killed in Vienna, art restorer and spy Gabriel Allon uncovers a sinister conspiracy that leads back to the Nazi era. Filled with suspense and intricate plot twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
For Your Eyes Only is actually a collection of James Bond short stories written by Ian Fleming. First published in 1960, it features thrilling adventures as Bond navigates through espionage, action, and intrigue. With a blend of suspense and wit, the book offers a glimpse into the dangerous world of secret agents.
Etiquette & Espionage is a delightful blend of manners and mayhem, set in a steampunk version of Victorian England. Follow the adventures of 14-year-old Sophronia as she navigates a finishing school for young ladies that secretly trains them in the arts of espionage and assassination. With witty dialogue, clever inventions, and a strong female protagonist, this book is a fun and fast-paced read for anyone who enjoys a mix of historical fiction and fantasy.
Readers who enjoy young adult fiction with a steampunk twist
Those interested in stories that blend etiquette and espionage in a whimsical manner
People who appreciate strong, witty female protagonists in a historical fantasy setting
The Spy Who Loved Me is a gripping novel by Ian Fleming that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the world of espionage. Told from the perspective of a young woman named Vivienne Michel, the book delves into her encounter with the enigmatic James Bond and the dangerous events that unfold at a remote motel. Filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists, this book is a must-read for fans of spy fiction.
The Thirty-Nine Steps is a classic thriller novel by John Buchan. It follows the story of Richard Hannay, who becomes embroiled in a deadly conspiracy after discovering a plot to assassinate a Greek politician. Fleeing across the Scottish moors, Hannay must evade capture and unravel the mystery of the thirty-nine steps in order to save himself and prevent a catastrophic international incident.
The Confessor by Daniel Silva is a gripping thriller that delves into the dark history of World War II and the Catholic Church. When a deadly secret from the past resurfaces, art restorer and spy Gabriel Allon must race against time to uncover the truth and stop a powerful conspiracy.
The Gray Man by Mark Greaney is a gripping thriller that follows Court Gentry, a former CIA operative turned assassin. When Gentry becomes the target of a powerful adversary, he must use all his skills and resourcefulness to evade capture and turn the tables on those hunting him. Filled with action, suspense, and a relentless protagonist, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Thunderball is a thrilling spy novel by Ian Fleming that follows the iconic character James Bond as he investigates the theft of two nuclear warheads. Set in the exotic locations of the Bahamas and France, Bond uncovers a sinister plot by the organization SPECTRE and must race against time to prevent a global catastrophe. Filled with action, suspense, and espionage, this book is a must-read for fans of the James Bond series.
The Cardinal of the Kremlin is a gripping espionage thriller by Tom Clancy. Set during the Cold War, it follows CIA analyst Jack Ryan as he uncovers a high-level Soviet plot. Filled with political intrigue, technological warfare, and intense action, this novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
You Only Live Twice is a thrilling spy novel by Ian Fleming. In this book, James Bond is sent on a mission to Japan to investigate the disappearance of spacecraft. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a sinister plot by the secretive organization SPECTRE. Packed with action, intrigue, and exotic locations, this book is a must-read for fans of espionage fiction.
Goldfinger is a thrilling spy novel by Ian Fleming that follows the iconic character James Bond as he investigates the suspicious activities of Auric Goldfinger, a wealthy and enigmatic businessman. Bond uncovers a sinister plot to manipulate the gold market and must race against time to stop Goldfinger from carrying out his deadly plans. Filled with action, suspense, and espionage, this book is a must-read for fans of the James Bond series.
The Man With the Golden Gun is a thrilling spy novel by Ian Fleming. In this action-packed story, James Bond is tasked with eliminating the deadly assassin Francisco Scaramanga. Set in Jamaica, Bond faces danger at every turn as he navigates a world of espionage and betrayal. With its gripping plot and unforgettable characters, this book is a must-read for fans of the spy genre.
The Key to Rebecca is a thrilling historical novel set during World War II. Written by Ken Follett, it tells the story of a German spy in Cairo who uses a secret code to send crucial information to the Nazi army. As British intelligence races to uncover the spy's identity, a deadly game of cat and mouse unfolds in the desert.
The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott is a captivating novel that weaves together history, espionage, and literature. Set during the Cold War, it tells the story of how the CIA smuggled Doctor Zhivago out of the Soviet Union and the women who played a crucial role in the mission. Filled with secrets, romance, and intrigue, this book sheds light on a fascinating chapter of literary history.
I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You is a thrilling young adult novel by Ally Carter. It follows the story of Cammie Morgan, a student at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women, which is actually a school for spies. When Cammie falls for a normal boy outside of the school, she must navigate the complexities of teenage romance while keeping her true identity a secret. Full of action, humor, and romance, this book is a captivating read.
The Unlikely Spy by Daniel Silva is a gripping historical thriller set during World War II. Filled with espionage, double agents, and high-stakes missions, the book follows an unlikely British spy as he infiltrates Nazi Germany in a race against time to uncover a deadly secret. With its intricate plot and compelling characters, this novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Sum of All Fears by Tom Clancy is a gripping political thriller that explores the terrifying possibility of nuclear war. When a covert operation goes wrong, tensions between the United States and Russia reach a breaking point, and the world is pushed to the brink of destruction. With high-stakes action and intricate plotting, Clancy keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Odessa File is a gripping thriller by Frederick Forsyth that delves into the aftermath of World War II. The story follows a young journalist who stumbles upon a secret organization called Odessa, which is dedicated to helping former SS members escape justice. As he delves deeper into the conspiracy, he uncovers a web of lies and deceit that puts his own life in danger.
Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh is a classic children's novel that follows the adventures of an 11-year-old girl named Harriet M. Welsch. With her notebook in hand, Harriet observes and writes down everything she sees in her neighborhood. But when her notebook falls into the wrong hands, it leads to unexpected consequences. This heartwarming and thought-provoking story explores themes of friendship, honesty, and the power of self-expression.
Stormbreaker is a gripping young adult novel by Anthony Horowitz. It follows the story of a teenage boy named Alex Rider who is recruited by MI6 to investigate his uncle's death. Packed with action, suspense, and high-tech gadgets, this book takes readers on an adrenaline-fueled adventure as Alex uncovers a sinister plot that could threaten the world.
The Quiet American by Graham Greene is a gripping novel set in the political turmoil of 1950s Vietnam. Through the eyes of a jaded British journalist, it explores themes of love, idealism, and the consequences of foreign intervention. A thought-provoking and beautifully written book that delves into the complexities of human nature.
Model Spy by Shannon Greenland is a thrilling young adult novel that follows the story of a teenage girl named Jessica. When Jessica is recruited by a top-secret agency to become a model spy, she must navigate the world of high fashion and international espionage. With action, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Executive Power is a gripping political thriller by Vince Flynn, delving into the world of espionage and national security. When a series of deadly terrorist attacks occur, CIA operative Mitch Rapp is tasked with uncovering the truth behind the conspiracy. As Rapp navigates through dangerous political territories and international conflicts, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about power, morality, and the lengths one would go to protect their country.
The Recruit by Robert Muchamore is a thrilling young adult novel that follows the story of James, a troubled teenager who is recruited into a secret government organization called CHERUB. Trained as a spy, James must navigate dangerous missions and uncover a sinister plot while grappling with his own personal demons. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book is a gripping read for anyone who loves a good spy story.
The Rembrandt Affair by Daniel Silva is a thrilling novel that takes readers on a journey through the world of art theft and international espionage. When a valuable painting by Rembrandt is stolen, art restorer and spy Gabriel Allon is pulled into a dangerous game of cat and mouse as he races to recover the artwork and uncover the truth behind the theft. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
The Faithful Spy by Alex Berenson is a gripping thriller that follows CIA agent John Wells as he goes undercover in al-Qaeda. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, the book delves into the complexities of terrorism and espionage, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva is a gripping espionage thriller that follows master spy Gabriel Allon as he uncovers a deadly conspiracy within the world of international terrorism. Filled with twists and turns, this book delves into the shadowy world of intelligence agencies and the lengths they will go to protect their secrets.
Moonraker is a thrilling spy novel by Ian Fleming that follows the iconic character James Bond as he investigates a suspicious millionaire, Sir Hugo Drax. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, Bond uncovers a sinister plot to destroy London using a nuclear weapon. Packed with action, suspense, and espionage, this book is a must-read for fans of the spy genre.
Diamonds Are Forever is a thrilling spy novel by Ian Fleming. In this classic James Bond adventure, 007 is tasked with infiltrating a diamond smuggling ring operating out of Africa and America. As he delves deeper into the criminal underworld, Bond uncovers a web of deceit and danger, leading to a high-stakes showdown. Packed with action, intrigue, and a touch of romance, this book is a must-read for fans of espionage fiction.
The Constant Gardener by John le Carré is a gripping thriller that delves into the world of pharmaceutical companies and government corruption. When a British diplomat learns of his wife's suspicious death in Africa, he sets out to uncover the truth behind her murder. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit and conspiracy that puts his own life at risk.
Scorpia is a thrilling novel by Anthony Horowitz that follows the teenage spy, Alex Rider, as he uncovers a dangerous secret organization. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book takes readers on an adrenaline-pumping adventure that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Readers who enjoy action-packed and suspenseful young adult novels
Fans of spy thrillers and espionage
Those interested in exploring complex and morally ambiguous characters
Scorpia Rising is a gripping novel by Anthony Horowitz that follows teenage spy Alex Rider as he faces his most dangerous mission yet. When an international terrorist organization, Scorpia, plans to unleash a deadly weapon, Alex must infiltrate their ranks and stop their evil plans. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Readers who enjoy action-packed and suspenseful young adult novels
Fans of the Alex Rider series who want to follow the protagonist on his final mission
Those interested in exploring the world of international espionage and secret organizations
'The Messenger' by Daniel Silva is a gripping espionage thriller that follows art restorer and Israeli spy Gabriel Allon as he races against time to stop a terrorist attack. Filled with twist and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Restless by William Boyd is a gripping novel that delves into the world of espionage during World War II. The story follows the life of a young woman named Eva Delectorskaya, who is recruited as a spy by the British Secret Service. Filled with intrigue, betrayal, and unexpected twists, the book keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Eva navigates the dangerous and unpredictable world of espionage.
Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter is a thrilling young adult novel that follows teenage spy Cammie Morgan as she navigates the dangerous world of espionage. When her friend Macey is targeted by a mysterious group, Cammie must use all her skills and wit to uncover the truth and protect her friend. With twists and turns at every corner, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Transfer of Power by Vince Flynn is a gripping political thriller that takes place in the United States. When terrorists seize control of the White House and hold the president hostage, it's up to CIA operative Mitch Rapp to lead a daring mission to take back the most secure building in the world. Filled with action, suspense, and political intrigue, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Uncommon Criminals is the second book in the Heist Society series by Ally Carter. It follows teenage thief Katarina Bishop as she embarks on a daring heist to steal a priceless artwork. Filled with twists, turns, and clever schemes, this book is a thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth is a gripping thriller that follows an anonymous assassin, known as the Jackal, as he is hired to kill Charles de Gaulle, the President of France. With meticulous planning and a relentless pursuit by the authorities, the Jackal embarks on a deadly mission that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Defector by Daniel Silva is a gripping espionage thriller that follows former Israeli intelligence operative Gabriel Allon as he is drawn back into the world of espionage. When a Russian defector reveals a secret that could bring down the Russian government, Allon must navigate a web of deception and betrayal to uncover the truth and prevent a global crisis.
Heist Society (2010) by Ally Carter is a thrilling dive into the world of a young criminal mastermind. Focusing on Katarina Bishop, a teenager whose father is wrongly accused of art theft, Carter spins a tale of high intrigue and clever deception. Assembling a crew of skilled adolescent con artists, Katarina embarks on a daring mission to steal back the wrongly attributed artwork and prove her father's innocence. Packed with suspense and ingenious plot twists, this novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Palace of Treason is a gripping espionage thriller that delves into the dangerous world of Russian intelligence. Written by Jason Matthews, it follows former Russian spy Dominika Egorova as she navigates the treacherous political landscape and undertakes a high-stakes mission to uncover a mole within the CIA. Filled with suspense, betrayal, and intricate spy craft, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Prince of Fire is a gripping thriller by Daniel Silva that follows art restorer and former Israeli intelligence operative Gabriel Allon as he investigates a deadly bombing in Rome. As he delves into the dark world of international terrorism, Allon uncovers a sinister plot that leads him on a dangerous mission to seek justice and prevent further bloodshed.
Moscow Rules by Daniel Silva is a gripping spy thriller that takes you deep into the world of espionage and international intrigue. When a Russian journalist is assassinated, master spy Gabriel Allon uncovers a deadly plot that could lead to a new Cold War. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Out of Sight, Out of Time is a thrilling young adult novel by Ally Carter. It follows the story of a teenage girl named Cammie who wakes up with no memory of the past few months. As she tries to piece together what happened to her, she uncovers a dangerous secret that puts her and her friends in grave danger. Filled with mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Perfect Scoundrels by Ally Carter is a thrilling heist novel that follows the story of Kat Bishop, a teenage master thief, and her crew. When Kat's boyfriend Hale gets mixed up in a dangerous con, she must use all her skills to outsmart a cunning adversary and pull off the ultimate heist to save him. With twists and turns at every corner, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Set in Cuba during the Cold War, "Our Man in Havana" follows the story of a vacuum cleaner salesman turned secret agent, who fabricates intelligence reports to earn extra income. As his fake reports gain attention from both the British and Cuban governments, the protagonist finds himself caught in a web of deceit and danger. This satirical novel offers a humorous and thought-provoking commentary on the world of espionage and political intrigue.
Red Sparrow is a gripping espionage novel that delves into the world of Russian intelligence. Written by Jason Matthews, a former CIA operative, the book follows the story of a young ballerina turned spy, Dominika Egorova, as she is trained in the art of seduction and manipulation. Filled with intrigue, betrayal, and high-stakes espionage, this thrilling novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
United We Spy is the thrilling conclusion to Ally Carter's Gallagher Girls series. As Cammie and her friends uncover a dangerous plot, they must put their spy skills to the test to protect their school and country. With action, friendship, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Live and Let Die is a thrilling spy novel written by Ian Fleming. Released in 1954, it is the second book in the James Bond series. The story follows the infamous British Secret Service agent James Bond as he investigates the mysterious deaths of fellow agents and uncovers a dangerous network of criminal activities in the Caribbean. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book is a must-read for fans of espionage and adventure.
Need to Know by Karen Cleveland is a gripping thriller that follows CIA analyst Vivian Miller as she uncovers a shocking secret about her husband. Torn between loyalty to her family and her duty to her country, Vivian must make impossible choices that will change her life forever. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Night Soldiers is a historical spy novel by Alan Furst. Set in Europe during the years leading up to and during World War II, it follows the story of a Bulgarian teenager who is recruited into the Soviet intelligence network. The book delves into the world of espionage, political intrigue, and the personal sacrifices made by individuals caught up in the tumultuous events of the time.