“Mrs Spy” by M. J. Robotham is an absolute gem — a beautifully crafted espionage novel that captures the spirit of Slow Horses while carving out a voice all its own. Set against the richly atmospheric backdrop of mid-sixties London, it follows Maggie Flynn, a single mother turned MI5 operative, as she delves into the agency’s murky underworld of betrayal, secrets, and conspiracies.
Maggie is a wonderful protagonist: sharp, resourceful, and deeply human, juggling the demands of motherhood with the perils of spycraft. Part of the emotional pull of the story is her discovery that her late husband — whom she thought she knew — had been a spy himself, a revelation that adds a bittersweet depth to her mission and personal journey. Robotham’s writing balances tension and dark humour perfectly, giving the book a dry, knowing wit that never undercuts the stakes.
The plot is believable yet filled with clever twists, leading to a smart and satisfying conclusion that left me hoping we’ll see Maggie and her team again. In a genre often dominated by flashy action, Mrs Spy stands out for its nuance, heart, and authenticity. It’s a masterclass in character-driven espionage fiction — and a must-read for anyone who loves their spy stories clever, stylish, and laced with just the right amount of cynicism.
