The Secret Pilgrim

John le Carre
1991

Pre-loved
Hardcover
Good condition
Small amount of foxing present

Companion to the George Smiley Series

The Secret Pilgrim by John le Carré is a reflective espionage novel that delves into the moral complexities of intelligence work during the Cold War. The narrative unfolds through the recollections of Ned, a seasoned British intelligence officer, who, during a dinner at the spy-training school in Sarratt, listens to a talk by his mentor, George Smiley. Smiley's insights prompt Ned to revisit pivotal moments of his career, revealing a series of interconnected stories that span the globe—from London to Beirut to Saigon. Through these vignettes, the novel explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the personal costs of a life spent in espionage. Le Carré's nuanced storytelling offers a profound meditation on the end of the Cold War and the uncertain future that lies ahead for those who served in its shadows.