Karla’s Choice: Nick Harkaway’s Brilliant Return to John le Carré’s World of Espionage

In a landmark addition to the world of spy fiction, acclaimed author Nick Harkaway resurrects the intrigue of the Cold War with Karla’s Choice, set in the universe of John le Carré’s iconic spy George Smiley. This new novel picks up in 1963, in the missing decade between two of le Carré’s most beloved works, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

George Smiley’s New Mission: A Lasting Legacy

The story begins with George Smiley in a rare moment of peace, seemingly settled into domestic life after stepping away from the Circus, the covert British intelligence agency. However, his world is soon disrupted by Control, his old handler, who has a new mission that Smiley can’t ignore: investigating the sudden defection of a Russian agent and the mysterious disappearance of the agent’s target. Smiley’s task seems straightforward—interview a Hungarian émigré named Szusanna, an employee of the missing man, to uncover any leads. But as Smiley delves deeper, he finds himself drawn back into the shadows of Moscow and facing off with a formidable new adversary: Karla, the mysterious Russian spymaster who will become his greatest enemy.

A New Chapter in the Cold War’s Shadowed Legacy

Karla’s Choice* draws on le Carré’s signature tension and intricate character studies, exploring the high-stakes world of espionage with intelligence and insight. Harkaway brings a fresh perspective while honoring le Carré’s classic style, creating a novel that feels both nostalgic and thrillingly original. The novel captures the relentless atmosphere of the Cold War, where alliances are fragile, and trust is as rare as peace.

Why Readers Will Love Karla’s Choice

Masterful Spycraft: Harkaway’s storytelling adds a layer of complexity, following in le Carré’s footsteps by weaving a narrative that explores the psychological depths of spycraft and the ethical dilemmas faced by those in the intelligence world.

A Nod to the Classics: Set between two of the most pivotal books in le Carré’s universe, Karla’s Choice offers a bridge that deepens the Smiley saga, making it a must-read for longtime fans of le Carré and newcomers alike.

Timeless Themes: The novel explores loyalty, betrayal, and the search for personal peace in a world shaped by conflict, making it a story that resonates even today.

Karla’s Choice* is the ideal read for anyone who loves classic espionage tales with moral ambiguity, complex characters, and gripping suspense. Find it at White Rain Book House and step back into the shadows with George Smiley as he confronts the greatest threat of his career.