An Officer and a Spy

An Officer and a Spy cover
Good Books rating 4.5
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Technical
  • ID: 8569
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780099580881
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2014-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

An Officer and a Spy is a gripping historical thriller by Robert Harris, winner of the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction. The story unfolds in Paris, 1895, where Colonel Georges Picquart witnesses the public humiliation of Alfred Dreyfus, a convicted spy. As Picquart takes over the intelligence unit that tracked Dreyfus down, he stumbles upon a shocking revelation: secrets are still being handed over to the Germans. This discovery draws him into a perilous web of deceit and corruption that jeopardizes not only his honor but also his life. The novel masterfully blends historical events with a thrilling narrative, offering a deep dive into the political and social climate of the time./n/nThe book is praised for its meticulous research and compelling storytelling. Harris's vivid portrayal of the characters and the intricate plot keep readers on the edge of their seats. An Officer and a Spy is a testament to Harris's skill in crafting historical fiction that is both informative and entertaining. The novel's exploration of themes such as justice, loyalty, and the consequences of unchecked power adds layers of depth to the story, making it a must-read for fans of historical thrillers.

Reviews
Cristina Sanders Blog · Cristina Sanders · 2019-06-29
gripping 4.50

The book is a gripping story based on real events, sparking discussions about the line between fact and fiction. It's a compelling read that blends historical events with a thrilling narrative.

Cristina Sanders found the book to be a gripping tale that masterfully intertwines real events with a thrilling narrative. Her book group had lively discussions about what was fact and what was fictionalized, which speaks to the book's ability to engage and provoke thought. The historical context is richly detailed, making it a compelling read that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.


Quick quotes

    In An Officer & a Spy, Robert Harris creates a gripping story around real events.

    Our book group argued a bit about what was true and what fictionalised to make the story more compelling.

    The historical context is richly detailed, making it a compelling read that stays with you.

Moment Mag · 2014-12-01
thrilling 4.25

The book reads like a thriller, beautifully set in belle époque France. It's a richly detailed and verifiable account of historical events.

Moment Mag's review praises the book for its thrilling narrative and rich historical details. The setting in belle époque France is beautifully crafted, immersing readers in the era. The reviewer appreciates how Harris roots the story in verifiable historical elements, making the narrative both engaging and authentic. The book's ability to blend historical accuracy with a thrilling plot makes it a standout read.


Quick quotes

    Harris's book reads like a thriller, beautifully placed amid the rich details of belle époque France.

    It's a richly detailed and verifiable account of historical events.

    The book's ability to blend historical accuracy with a thrilling plot makes it a standout read.

The Guardian · 2013-10-10
masterful 4.75

The book is both a gripping thriller and a classic adventure, with impeccably paced revelations. It's a masterful blend of historical fiction and suspense.

The Guardian's review highlights how Robert Harris has crafted a novel that is both a gripping thriller and a classic adventure. The pacing of the revelations is impeccable, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The book's ability to blend historical fiction with suspense makes it a standout read. The reviewer particularly appreciates the way Harris brings historical events to life, making them feel immediate and relevant.


Quick quotes

    Against the odds, the result is both gripping thriller and Buchan-esque adventure: its revelations impeccably paced and its original material.

    The book's ability to blend historical fiction with suspense makes it a standout read.

    Harris brings historical events to life, making them feel immediate and relevant.

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