Nick Harkaway On Karla's Choice, Writing in His Father's World, George Smiley and More.
Release Date: 10/23/2024
The Second Traitor with Alex Gerlis
Spybrary Spy Podcast
In this episode of Spybrary, host Shane Whaley interviews author about his latest novel, , book 2 in the spy series which is set against the backdrop of World War II and the early Cold War. They discuss the complexities of writing historical fiction, the importance of research, and the intricate character dynamics within the story. Gerlis shares insights into the historical events that inspired his work, including Operation Sea Lion, the Invasion Warning, Sub-Committee and the role of German intelligence (Abwehr). The conversation also touches on the balance between action and intrigue in...
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Spy Movie Perfection? Breaking Down Three Days of the Condor
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Dive into Three Days of the Condor with Spybrary. CIA conspiracies, moped escapes, and one of the best assassins in spy cinema. Redford stars in this slow-burn, cerebral classic that still resonates today. Join 4000 other spy fans, chatting spy movies, books and TV. Welcome to another edition of Section F on Spybrary, where spy film enthusiasts gather to dissect classic espionage cinema. In Episode 270, Shane is joined by Michael, Jonathan, and debut guest Pierce to delve deep into Three Days of the Condor (1975), directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Robert Redford. Episode...
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Is You Only Live Twice, Ian Fleming's Worst Bond Book Ever?
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Prepare to experience Ian Fleming's James Bond novels as if reading them for the first time in the year of publication, as we embark on this 007 James Bond literary adventure together. In this time‑travel special, the Spybrary crew—Shane, David Craggs, Andy Onyx, and Ian Douglas—journey back to 1964 to dissect Ian Fleming’s latest novel, You Only Live Twice. They kick off by setting the scene: Bond mania is reaching fever pitch, with spy fiction booming, thanks to Ian Fleming, the Bond films are on a roll, and Fleming reported to be in very ill-heath. As the conversation delves into...
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He Stole the KGB’s Secrets For Years! With Gordon Corera
Spybrary Spy Podcast
makes his Spybrary debut in this riveting episode of the Spybrary podcast. Host Shane Whaley welcomes the former BBC security correspondent, espionage historian and host of podcast, Gordon Corera to discuss his latest book, . The Cold War might be over, but its shadows stretch far into the present. What if one of the Soviet Union’s most overlooked insiders — a quiet KGB archivist — decided to turn against the very institution he once served? How did he smuggle a mountain of secrets out from under Moscow’s nose? And why did the CIA turn him away, only for MI6 to uncover what may...
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Inside the Int. Spy Museum: Shane & Joe’s Espionage Adventure
Spybrary Spy Podcast
In this special episode of Spybrary, Shane is joined by fellow spy fan Joe Modzelewski for an in-depth International Spy Museum review. Recorded after their recent visit to the museum in Washington D.C., this episode is packed with honest reflections, surprising discoveries, and plenty of spy geekery. From Virginia Hall’s heroic story to rare artifacts like the Enigma machine and a section of the Berlin Tunnel, Shane and Joe cover it all—including the museum’s interactive spy games, an exhibit on intelligence analysis, and the must-see “Bond in Motion” car display. Whether you're a...
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The Poet's Game - A Spy in Moscow with Author Paul Vidich
Spybrary Spy Podcast
On this episode of Spybrary, I welcome back one of today's finest spy fiction authors, . We're diving into his gripping new novel, , a contemporary espionage thriller rooted in the tense geopolitics of modern-day Russia and the United States. Paul joins me to unpack the creative process, real-life inspirations, and the deeply personal conflicts faced by his latest protagonist, Alex Matthews. We explore how Paul's personal family connections to the intelligence world have shaped his storytelling, and what drives him to keep revisiting the morally complex world of spies. From constructing...
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Breaking John le Carré news: George Smiley Returns: New Novel Announced, Plus The Spy Who Came in From the Cold Heads to West End
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Fans of George Smiley, John le Carré’s legendary spymaster, have reason to celebrate. In a rare double coup for the espionage world, Nick Harkaway—le Carré’s son—has announced The Taper Man, a new Smiley novel arriving in 2026, while The Spy Who Came in From the Cold will receive its first-ever stage adaptation in the West End this autumn. The announcement marks a major return of the “Circus,” le Carré’s iconic fictionalised British intelligence service, and the literary rebirth of one of spy fiction’s most enduring characters. Join - the ultimate community for spy...
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Secrets, Spies, and Espionage with The London Spy
Spybrary Spy Podcast
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Michael Idov on Spy Fiction, OSINT, and Writing The Collaborators
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What Does a Real Spy Read? Valerie Plame’s Favorite Spy Books
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Ever wonder what spy books former CIA spy Valerie Plame can't put down? Today on Spybrary, host Shane Whaley is joined by none other than —former CIA covert operative, bestselling author, and an iconic voice in the world of intelligence and espionage. For over a decade, Valerie Plame served on the front lines of national security, operating undercover in some of the world’s most complex and volatile environments. Her CIA career—and the controversial public outing that ended it—has been the subject of headlines, books, and a major Hollywood film '' Now, Valerie Plame joins us for...
info_outlineKarla's Choice sees the return of John le Carré's George Smiley. Today we're joined by his son, the author Nick Harkaway, along with John le Carré fans Steve Ritterman and Matthew Bradford, Our host Shane Whaley hosts this fascinating discussion about Harkaway’s foray into his father John le Carré's iconic universe, particularly his latest novel Karla's Choice.
Nick Harkaway shares his unique journey of bridging the narrative gaps between familiar stories like The Spy Who Came In From The Cold and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, highlighting his creative freedom and the challenges of inheriting such a revered literary legacy. He explains the pleasure and pressure of developing beloved characters like George Smiley and delving into lesser-explored figures of the Circus and its enemies.
Listeners will enjoy insights into the intricate balancing act of character development.. We also explore the complex relationships within the espionage world, emphasising the human element and emotional depth that drive these spy narratives.
Harkaway's admiration for his father's work is palpable, and his thoughtful approach to writing Karlas Choice within the established George Smiley universe will resonate with both seasoned fans and new readers alike. Don't miss this episode packed with literary reflections, historical intrigue, and the timeless allure of spy fiction. Nick also shares more about life growing up with John le Carrè, the Circus and reveals his favourite John le Carré novels.
Tune in and join the conversation on the latest chapter in the Smiley saga!
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