A Beautiful Spy

‘A superb novel. I absolutely loved it. Rachel Hore brilliantly contrasts the thrilling world of high-stakes politics with the inner life of a passionate woman leading a dangerous double existence’ – Wendy Holden, author of The Governess
‘Phenomenal! Absolutely loved it. I was rooting for Minnie from page one right to the very end… What a treat of a read’ – Tracy Rees, author of The House at Silvermoor
‘Based on the life of Olga Gray, this atmospheric thriller is a delight to read’
* Sun *
‘Based on a true story, this fantastic novel follows the adventures of a suburban girl recruited by MI5 to infiltrate the British Communist Party (BCP) in the years before World War II… Hore reveals a thrilling world of high-stakes politics alongside the inner life of a passionate young woman leading a dangerous double existence. The humdrum, lonely nature of espionage is brilliantly evoked; Minnie longs for friendships but can’t get too close, while love is out of the question, particularly love for Max. Exciting, impeccably researched and full of powerful period atmosphere’ * Daily Mail *
‘Stunning. A masterclass in storytelling. Flawless writing and a great plot that builds suspense… This is one of those unforgettable books whose characters stay with you and whom you miss when they’re gone… I loved every moment’
– Dinah Jefferies, author of The Tuscan Contessa
‘Rachel Hore has written a masterful novel, rich in period detail, and her heroine is an unforgettable character – an ordinary young woman who achieves extraordinary things for her country’
* Sunday Express *
‘As far as her friends and family think, Minnie is an ordinary girl but she is a government spy – recruited to infiltrate the communist government. But how long can anyone lead a double life? Based on a true story’ * Best *
‘A compulsive and enjoyable read’
– Historical Novel Society
‘Historical suspense… Minnie Gray – on the outside an ordinary woman, inside a spy for the British Government who is asked to infiltrate the Russians. Inspired by the real-life story of secretary Olga Gray’ * My Weekly *

Rachel Hore worked in London publishing for many years before moving with her family to Norwich, where she taught publishing and creative writing at the University of East Anglia until deciding to become a full-time writer. The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is her fourteenth novel. She is married to the writer D.J. Taylor and they have three sons.

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