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Top 125 Spy Thriller Authors
Ranked by Tim Shipman

Declassified: Your mission briefing to spy fiction. The definitive ranking, the perfect “start here” book for each author, and Tim’s personal favorites.

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Created by Tim Shipman — award-winning author and UK political journalist.

What you’ll get:

  • The definitive ranking of the 125 greatest spy authors (from John le Carré to Robert Ludlum and beyond).
  • The best first book for each author so you never waste time on the wrong entry point.
  • Tim’s personal favorites and why they hit.
  • Bonus intel from the Spybrary Dead Drop to deepen your reading mission.

Curated by Tim Shipman. For espionage readers who want clarity, not guesswork.

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