British author Henry Porter delivers a gripping spy thriller with The Enigma Girl, proving why he’s considered a worthy successor to John le Carré. The novel introduces Slim Parsons, a disgraced MI5 agent who’s as sharp as she is dangerous. After a botched deep-cover operation leaves her with a target on her back, she’s reluctantly pulled back in to infiltrate an investigative news site. What starts as a routine job soon turns into a tangled web of political intrigue, cyber threats, and old enemies resurfacing with a vengeance.
Tension, layered subplots, and sharp character work fill the novel. Slim is an exceptional lead: smart, resourceful, and unafraid to challenge authority. Porter masterfully builds suspense, weaving in connections to Bletchley Park and wartime code breakers. The action is relentless, though the novel feels longer than necessary. Some subplots, while intriguing, slow the pace.
The audiobook narrator enhances the experience, skillfully distinguishing characters. While some themes may not appeal to all readers, the novel delivers a highly readable spy thriller with a strong, complex heroine. Porter proves once again why he’s considered a modern master of the genre.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐