Reviews

This is a lovely read which tells the story of Minnie Gray, who is recruited as a spy in the inter war period. She finds herself in the middle of the Communist movement in London, living a double life.

patriziadc's review

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adventurous tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

norwayellesea's review

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4.0

A compelling historical novel about how a suburban typist from Edgbaston become a spy for MI5!

A Typist for the Automobile Association, Minnie Gray isn't like other young women her age. In a world where getting married and having children is the norm, she wants more from her life. So, when she meets Dolly Pyle at an event, the slightly older woman's mysterious description of her job intrigues her.

'It's not always exciting what I do, but it is useful and important.'

To Minnie's astonishment, when the two acquaintances meet again, Dolly suggests she should also work for the government. So with a promise, her details will pass on to the relevant contact, Minnie continues with her day to day life. As the weeks pass with no news, she accepts the opportunity has slipped, that's until an unexpected letter arrives, asking her to attend an interview – the beginnings of a double life.

'You'd be marvellous, I can tell. I've been watching you for a while. There's something about you they'd like, Minnie Gray.'

The author is new to me, so I jumped in feet first not knowing what to expect. As I turned the pages and details of Minnie covert work are exposed, Ms Hore's narrative highlights the intensity of the role the heroine undertook as well as her feelings for the people with whom she became associated. Specifically, the relationships she had with Percy Gladings, Max and Raymond. It emphasises Minnie's conflicting emotions and the mental pressures she endured whilst leading a double life...and the personal sacrifices she made.

Based on a true story, it's a point I was unaware of when I began A Beautiful Spy and therefore appreciate how the author has drawn our attention to the work Minnie (Olga) Gray did in the years before the breakout of WWII.

Overall, this is a thrilling and enlightening novel, which highlights the emotions of the times, not only from society but for the characters enveloped within it.

***Review copy received courtesy of Simon and Schuster UK via NetGalley***

tonyriver's review

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4.0

An interesting story with some basis in truth. The protagonist is an intelligent woman, doing the best for her country. The mental anguish this causes her is a feature of the book and really makes it quite different to many other spy stories.

I found it grueling at times as it is just so hard to cope with the constant fear of discovery. Worth a read. Great historical setting, before WW2, when communism seemed the biggest enemy and fascism was perhaps seen as a counter to the red threat?