Ever wonder what spy novels a real-life Special Forces and CIA operative can't put down?Former Special Forces & CIA operative James Stejskal reveals his top five spy thrillers on Spybrary's Dead Drop 5.The Dead Drop 5 is back! In this much-requested Spybrary feature, our guest is embedded behind the Iron Curtain and can request five...

Best Spy Writers Guide Introduction to the thrillers of Alistair MacLean Alistair MacLean is one of the most celebrated thriller writers of the 20th century, known for his fast-paced, action-packed novels that often blend espionage with war, adventure, and high-stakes missions. A former naval officer, MacLean infused his stories with authentic military and intelligence details,...

Best Spy Writers Guide Introduction to the spy books of Clive Egleton Clive Egleton was a British author of hard-edged, intricately plotted spy fiction, renowned for his realistic portrayal of intelligence work and political intrigue. A former British Army officer, Egleton brought firsthand military and operational knowledge to his novels, crafting espionage thrillers that emphasized...

Best Spy Writers Guide Introduction to the thriller books of Michael Gilbert While Michael Gilbert wrote across multiple crime and thriller subgenres, his espionage books, particularly Game Without Rules showcase his skill at blending realism, dry wit, and high-stakes intrigue. A former lawyer, Gilbert brought a sharp, analytical mind to his storytelling, offering spy fiction...

Best Spy Writers Guide Introduction to the thriller books of Frederick Forsyth Frederick Forsyth is one of the most iconic authors in the world of thriller fiction, renowned for his meticulously researched and intricately plotted novels. With a career spanning decades, Forsyth has captivated readers with his tales of international intrigue, espionage, and high-stakes missions....

William Garner Books Introduction to the thriller books of William Garner William Garner was a British author celebrated for his sharp, inventive spy fiction, particularly his John Morpurgo series. Garner’s works stand out for their intellectual depth, tightly woven plots, and a touch of dark humor. Blending psychological intrigue with espionage, Garner explored the ethical...

Author Craig Thomas Introduction to the thriller books of Craig Thomas Craig Thomas was a trailblazing British author who combined espionage, military technology, and high-stakes adventure in his gripping novels. Best known for his Kenneth Aubrey and Patrick Hyde series, Thomas crafted complex plots filled with cutting-edge technology, Cold War intrigue, and morally ambiguous characters....

Writer Dan Fesperman pictured in his home. Lloyd Fox [Sun Photographer] Introduction to the books of Dan Fesperman Dan Fesperman is a critically acclaimed author of espionage and thriller novels, celebrated for his ability to blend suspenseful storytelling with rich historical and geopolitical detail. A former journalist, Fesperman’s work is informed by his firsthand experiences...

The espionage books of Robert Harris. Photograph: Eamonn McCabe for the Guardian Introduction to the books of Robert Harris Robert Harris is a renowned British author celebrated for his meticulously researched historical novels and gripping espionage thrillers. His works often blend real historical events with fictional narratives, providing readers with immersive stories that explore the...

The espionage books of Don Winslow Introduction to the books of Don Winslow Don Winslow is an internationally acclaimed author known for his razor-sharp storytelling, intricate plots, and deeply human characters. While Don Winslow is celebrated for his crime novels, his contributions to espionage fiction are equally compelling. Drawing on his keen understanding of human...