The Peacock and the Sparrow
“The perfect spy tale.”
Ian Caldwell, New York Times bestselling author
Winner of the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best First Novel
One of the New Yorker’s Best Books of 2023
An NPR Best Book of the Year
Finalist for the Barry Award for Best First Novel
A Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine Pick of 2023's Best Books
A Diplomatic Courier Best Book of the Year
During the Arab Spring, an American spy’s final mission goes dangerously awry in this explosive and eerily realistic espionage debut from a former CIA officer
Shane Collins, a world-weary CIA spy, is ready to come in from the cold. Stationed in Bahrain off the coast of Saudi Arabia for his final tour, he is anxious to dispense with his mission—uncovering Iranian support for the insurgency against the monarchy. But then he meets Almaisa, a beautiful and enigmatic artist, and his eyes are opened to a side of Bahrain most expatriots never experience.
When his trusted informant becomes involved with a murder, Collins finds his growing romance with Almaisa and Bahrain upended. In an instant he’s caught in the crosshairs of a revolution. Now he must rely on his skills to navigate a bloody uprising, win Almaisa’s love, and uncover the blurred lines between the dark secrets of both Bahrain and the United States.
The Peacock and the Sparrow is a timely story of the elusiveness of truth, the power of love and belief, and the universal human desire to be part of a cause greater than yourself.
This eerily realistic espionage debut from a former CIA officer is perfect for fans of Daniel Silva, Alan Furst, and John le Carré.
Praise