A treachery of spies - Manda Scott

THRILLER OF THE MONTH 'Superb . . . a blend of historical imagination and storytelling verve reminiscent of Robert Harris.' The Sunday Times

'The most exciting, involving thriller I've read in an age, and I can't recommend it highly enough.' Mick Herron

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A Treachery of Spies is an espionage thriller to rival the very best, a high stakes game of cat-and-mouse, played in the shadows, which will keep you guessing every step of the way.

An elderly woman of striking beauty is found murdered in Orleans, France. Her identity has been cleverly erased but the method of her death is very specific: she has been killed in the manner of traitors to the Resistance in World War Two.

Tracking down her murderer leads police inspector Ins Picaut back to 1940s France where the men and women of the Resistance were engaged in a desperate fight for survival against the Nazi invaders.

To find answers in the present Picaut must discover what really happened in the past, untangling a web of treachery and intrigue that stretches back to the murder victim's youth: a time when unholy alliances were forged between occupiers and occupied, deals were done and promises broken. The past has been buried for decades, but, as Picaut discovers, there are those in the present whose futures depend on it staying that way - and who will kill to keep their secrets safe...

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'A Treachery of Spies is the equal of Charlotte Gray in its insights into the period and, I would say, beats it for sheer excitement one of the most gripping spy stories I have ever read.' Jake Kerridge, S Magazine

'This is a rich vein for fiction, and Scott does it more than justice, with this beautifully imagined, beautifully written, smart, sophisticated - but fiercely suspenseful - thriller.' Lee Child

'Ingeniously plotted and wonderfully written.' Antonia Senior, The Times

'The most exquisite story of heroism, deception, love and treachery you'll find this year.' Simon Mayo

'A fast-moving tightly-wrought thriller. The destination is in fact as unexpected as it's satisfying - and very thought-provoking.' Robert Goddard

'A Treachery of Spies is a masterclass in thriller-writing. It is a heart-racing, heart-wrenching read, conceived with passion and executed with frightening skill. An awe-inspiring achievement.' Giles Kristian