If you’re looking for vicarious fulfilment of those ambitions, we’ve got you covered in this post that lists the 40 best spy novels of all time. From oldie-but-goodie classics of the genre to cutting edge contemporary techno-thrillers, these books will have you time travelling and globe-trotting.

1,222 books based on 2196 votes: Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy by John Le Carré, The Spy Who Came In from the Cold by John Le Carré, The Bourne Identity b... Home My Books

Nov 27, 2001 · Dive into the world of espionage with these top-rated spy books. Each title has masterfully eluded the shadows to be featured prominently in multiple best-of lists and critical roundups.

Jan 10, 2025 · Mystery spy and espionage thriller books are often characterized by their intricate plots and high-stakes, globe-trotting action. They typically revolve around a protagonist, often a spy or intelligence officer, working against time to solve a mystery or foil a serious threat.

May 9, 2024 · In the best spy novels below, you’ll find classics of the spycraft genre as well as new releases from authors whose knowledge of the spy game may surprise you. No matter what you choose, you’ll be drawn into the web of secrets …

Dec 12, 2024 · The CrimeReads editors make their selections for the best spy novels of the year. Nobody writes sophisticated, atmospheric spy fiction quite like Joseph Kanon, and his newest book, Shanghai, is one of the best entries in a storied career.

Feb 6, 2025 · Below the list of my 16 favorites, you’ll find reviews of the full list of the best espionage novels I’ve reviewed with ratings of at least ★★★★☆. Those titles, too, are listed in alphabetical order by the authors’ last names.

Nov 6, 2020 · So, in the spirit of saving the world before bedtime, here – from the genre-defining classics to modern espionage masterpieces – are some of the most iconic spy stories in literature. American Spy by Lauren Wilkinson (2019)

Mar 18, 2024 · From the iconic Jason Bourne and George Smiley to the pulse-pounding exploits of Mitch Rapp and Gabriel Allon, these books are sure to satisfy your craving for excitement, intrigue, and suspense with gripping tales of legendary spies, …

Mar 27, 2025 · From a novel about the murder of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba to the latest John le Carré novel, from a Mossad agent in London to the hunt for a traitor at CIA HQ in Virginia, Shane Whaley, host of Spybrary—the podcast for lovers of spy books—talks us through his best spy novels of 2024.