The novels in the list of best spy novels often have elements of secrecy. For example, in 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold', the main character has to keep his true motives hidden from everyone. They also tend to have complex plots. Like in 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy', the web of lies and double - agents makes the story really convoluted. And many of them, such as 'The Bourne Identity', have a sense of danger and high - stakes action.
Well, 'Smiley's People' is very well - liked. It's the final part of John le Carré's Karla Trilogy. It continues the story of George Smiley and his battle against his Soviet counterpart, Karla. The novel is full of political intrigue and espionage. It shows the complex relationships and power plays in the world of spying. The characters are richly developed, and the plot is full of suspense as Smiley tries to outwit Karla once and for all.
One of the best spy novels according to The Economist could be 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy' by John le Carré. It's a classic in the spy genre with complex characters and an intricate plot set during the Cold War.
The 'Jason Bourne' series by Robert Ludlum also often features on such lists. These books are full of high - octane action and mystery as the amnesiac Bourne tries to uncover his past. The fast - paced nature of the novels keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Then there's 'Operation Mincemeat' by Ben Macintyre. It has an interesting premise based on a real - life operation during World War II. The story is told in an accessible way that will draw in new readers to the world of true spy novels.
Another great one might be 'Red Sparrow' by Jason Matthews. It features a female protagonist in the world of Russian espionage. The book is full of action, intrigue, and a lot of political undertones which makes it an exciting read.
Unfortunately, I don't know the specific 8 spy novels from The Economist. However, one of the most popular spy novels is 'Eye of the Needle' by Ken Follett. It has a great plot that keeps the readers on the edge of their seats. It involves a German spy during World War II.
One of the most popular is likely 'The Bourne Identity' by Robert Ludlum. It has been extremely successful and was made into a popular movie franchise. The story of Jason Bourne, a man with amnesia trying to figure out his past as a spy, is very engaging.
There's also 'The Day of the Jackal' by Frederick Forsyth. It's a high - tension thriller about an assassination plot. The detailed planning and the cat - and - mouse game between the assassin and the authorities make it a really exciting spy novel.
'The 39 Steps' by John Buchan is a classic that is not too complex for new readers. It has a simple yet thrilling plot about an ordinary man getting caught up in a web of spies and international danger.