1. TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY
The best spy novel written, and certainly the most literary. Read the first chapter again if you don’t understand the ending. In fact, read it again anyway.
2. THE SPY WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD
Early, grim antidote to Bond phenomenon. George Smiley in cameo role.
3. THE LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL
The master in prophetic mode takes his talent to the Middle East.
4. A PERFECT SPY
Le Carré at his most autobiographical, with input from his father and Kim Philby. Love, deceit, death.
5. THE TAILOR OF PANAMA
A deep distrust of US imperialism, but let down by the author’s acceptance of the Hollywood version’s travestied ending.
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6. THE NAIVE AND SENTIMENTAL LOVER
No, don’t. A love story and an exotic aberration. Only for those who want to read the complete canon.
Peter Millar reviews thrillers for The Times