Mrs Spy

LoveReading Says

Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s London, Mrs Spy introduces readers to the magnificent Maggie Flynn, a 45-year-old widow, devoted mother, and unlikely MI5 operative. Ex store detective she spends her days as a Watcher, the lowest rung of the agency, a lone female within a motley crew, looking for grey shadows amid the dazzling city of possibilities where anyone could be an infiltrator or a snitch.

Balancing her clandestine missions with the challenges of raising a Beatles-obsessed teenage daughter, Maggie's life takes a perilous turn when a chance encounter with a Russian agent reveals unsettling truths about her late husband's past.

With ex Detective Inspector Tanner by her side, Maggie's surrogate father, confidante, fixer and therapist Frank navigate the lies and infiltrate MI5. In their own inimitable style.

Robotham masterfully weaves historical detail with suspense, crafting a narrative that's both thrilling and emotionally resonant. Maggie's character stands out as a refreshing departure from traditional spy protagonists—her wit, resilience, and authenticity make her instantly relatable. With her Mary Poppins bag of tricks and disguises, we fall in love with Mags as she humorously compares her situation to that of the great spy masters: “James Bond and George Smiley really should learn to knit” and she works within the lower levels of MI5: "the same monetary well as the suave cinematic Mr Bond serving to prop up my wayward mother and fatherless child."

For those seeking a spy thriller that combines intrigue with heapfuls of heart, Mrs Spy delivers a compelling journey through espionage, personal discovery, and the complexities of trust. I really hope we get to see more of Mags.

Deborah Maclaren

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