Eye of the Needle

by Ken Follett
Eye of the Needle cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 1465
  • Added: 2025-10-06
  • Updated: 2025-10-06
  • ISBN: 9780330354295
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 1998-01-01
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99

In 'Eye of the Needle,' Ken Follett crafts a masterful tale of suspense and intrigue set during World War II. The story revolves around a brilliant and ruthless Nazi spy, code-named 'The Needle,' who uncovers the Allies' greatest deception. His knowledge could turn the tide of the war, but his path is obstructed by an unlikely adversary: a lonely Englishwoman living on an isolated island. As their fates intertwine, the narrative delves into the dangerous machinations of the human heart, blending espionage with a complex emotional dynamic. /n/n This P.S. edition of the book includes additional insights, such as author interviews and recommended reading, enhancing the reading experience with behind-the-scenes content that provides deeper context and appreciation for Follett's work.

Reviews
ManoflaBook · 2023-01-24
Exciting 4.00

They describe it as an exciting and well-written book with a thrilling espionage chase.

The reviewer from ManoflaBook praises 'Eye of the Needle' for its fast-paced and well-written narrative. They particularly enjoy the espionage chase involving MI5 agents, which adds a layer of excitement and suspense. The reviewer appreciates Follett's ability to craft a compelling story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. They highlight the book's engaging plot and the skillful way it blends historical elements with thrilling action.

Quick quotes

    This is an exciting, fast-paced, and well-written book

    Mr. Follett crafts a great espionage chase of MI5 agents on the trail of Faber

    The pacing and suspense are top-notch

The Pump Don’t Work · Patrick Treardon · 2021-06-22
Gripping 4.50

The novel remains a gripping read nearly half a century later. They praise its fast-paced plot and suspenseful ending.

Patrick Treardon highlights how 'Eye of the Needle' has remained a gripping read decades after its publication. They appreciate the fast-paced plot and the suspense that keeps readers engaged until the very end. The reviewer also notes the novel's timeless appeal, making it a must-read for thriller enthusiasts. They find the characters well-crafted and the historical setting immersive, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the book.

Quick quotes

    Ken Follett's 1978 novel Eye of the Needle works so well — nearly half a century later, it remains a gripping read

    It may well be the perfect blend of historical fiction and thriller

    The suspense and pacing are masterfully done

Reddit - Recommended Books · 2021-01-04
thrilling 3.50

The book could have been longer with more details, but it still offers a thrilling read. The story is engaging, but some details are scarce.

A Reddit user felt that 'Eye of the Needle' could have been longer with more details, as they didn't feel fully immersed in the story. However, they still found it to be a thrilling read. The reviewer appreciates the engaging plot and the suspenseful moments, but they wish there were more depth and details to enhance the overall experience. Despite this, they acknowledge the book's strengths in keeping readers engaged and entertained.

Quick quotes

    I felt that book could've easily been double the length of what it is.

    I felt details were scarce, and I wasn't truly inside of the story.

    Follett was a journeyman thriller writer for many years.

MeinBlogLand · 2018-12-05
Dramatic 4.00

The tale is filled with a mix of emotions and thrilling moments, making it a dramatic read.

The reviewer from MeinBlogLand describes 'Eye of the Needle' as a tale rich with a variety of emotions, including love, lust, anger, and patriotism. They appreciate the suspense and thrills that Follett weaves into the story, making it a dramatic and engaging read. The reviewer notes the complexity of the characters and the well-crafted plot, which contribute to the overall enjoyment of the novel. They highlight the book's ability to keep readers hooked from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    The tale of espionage is replete with love, lust, anger, guilt, resentment, patriotism, suspense, thrills and drama

    Follett's ability to blend various emotions into a thrilling narrative is commendable

    The characters are well-developed and the plot is engaging

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