Agent in the Shadows

The Wolf Pack Spies #3

by Alex Gerlis

June, 1943. In Lyon, the capital of the French resistance, a secret meeting is held under orders from General de Gaulle . The objective is to unite all resistance factions. The future of France is on the line. But when the meeting is raided by the Gestapo under Klaus Barbie , the 'Butcher of Lyon', the plan disintegrates and the leaders are captured. The movement has been betrayed. There is a traitor in Lyon. British undercover agents Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf are sent to France. They must find the informer and save the resistance. But the Gestapo is on the hunt. More traitors emerging from the shadows. The net is closing. This unmissable espionage thriller from modern master Alex Gerlis is perfect for readers of Alan Furst, Charles Cumming and Rory Clements.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Thriller, Espionage, World War II, Fiction, Mystery, Audiobook

346 pages, Paperback

Published February 9, 2023

About the author

Alex Gerlis was born in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, in 1955. He graduated with a degree in Law and Politics from Hull University in 1977 and, after working as a political researcher and journalist, joined the BBC in 1983 as a researcher on Panorama.

Over the next twenty years he worked on a number of BBC News and Current Affairs programmes, including making documentaries for The Money Programme and election programmes with David Dimbleby and Jeremy Paxman. He has also edited Breakfast News, the One o'Clock News, the Six o'Clock News and the Weekend News for the BBC. In August 1998 he was the BBC TV News duty editor on the day of the Omagh bomb in Northern Ireland, the coverage of which later won a Royal Television Society award. In September 2001 he was one of the BBC Newsroom team covering the attack on the Twin Towers. He has also worked for the BBC throughout Europe, the United States, the Middle East and in China, and from 2005 to March 2011 was Head of Training at the BBC College of Journalism – the body in charge of the training of the corporation's 7,500 journalists.

Alex's first novel was inspired by his work covering the 50th anniversary of D-Day from Normandy. He is married with two daughters and lives in west London.

Reviews

[Oldbookishwoman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This plot contains a great mix of fact and fiction. As a result it all feels like it all actually happened. This is down to great writing, using a mix of real life people and fictional characters all are written in a very believable way. The WW2 back drop is perfect for this type of cloak and dagger shadowy espionage plot which keeps you guessing and stressing throughout the story... I was suspecting and accused everyone.... including myself!!
I will say that this is the final book in the Wolf Pack series and would recommend that you read the others in the series too in order if possible.

The author also gives the reader some historical context at the start and a brief what happened to certain factual characters at the end of the book. All made for interesting reading too.

[Clive Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third and final entry into this enjoyable and exciting trilogy of wartime spying by a diverse cast of characters that we have come to know over the conflict. The story this time centred on the French Resistance in and around Lyon in France, and the British efforts to encourage and sustain this, whilst at the same time the efforts of the Germans to uncover and destroy it. Concurrently there were those within both the British and German societies that would side with the 'enemy' for various, often very personal, reasons, and who invariably proved to be the fly in the ointment for the authorities on both sides, and a harbinger of tragedy for those individuals they sought out to aid them in their work.
Notwithstanding an exciting story, it was hugely interesting to see the lengths that had to be gone to to ensure that activities remained secret and safe for those that would seek to aid the undermining of the brutal occupying forces. Bravery and cruelty are on display throughout the story, and it is another instance of this reader wondering if he would have had the courage to 'do what was right' if he had been unlucky enough to be in some of the character's shoes.

[John Kiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Agent in the Shadows" by Alex Gerlis is a captivating historical thriller that plunges readers into the intricate world of espionage during World War II. Set in Lyon, the heart of the French resistance, the novel unfolds in June 1943, a critical moment when the fate of France hangs in the balance.

The clandestine meeting ordered by General de Gaulle to unite resistance factions takes a dark turn when the Gestapo, led by the infamous Klaus Barbie, descends upon it. The betrayal is evident, and the leaders are captured, leaving the movement in disarray. The mission to save the resistance falls on the shoulders of British undercover agents Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf, thrust into a perilous game where the stakes are life and death.

Gerlis masterfully weaves fact and fiction, creating a narrative that feels both authentic and enthralling. The backdrop of World War II provides a perfect setting for the cloak-and-dagger world of espionage, keeping readers on edge throughout the story. The tension is palpable as the Gestapo closes in, and the shadows reveal more traitors, adding layers of complexity to the plot.

The author's meticulous research shines through, offering a rich and immersive experience of wartime Europe. The historical accuracy, from spycraft details to the portrayal of occupied France, enhances the novel's authenticity. Gerlis doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the time, making the narrative more compelling.

The characters, especially Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf, are skillfully crafted, adding depth to the story. Their challenges, moral dilemmas, and vulnerabilities make them relatable and compelling protagonists. The supporting cast, though numerous, enriches the narrative with diverse perspectives on the war effort.

While the intricate plot and multiple storylines may initially challenge readers, the payoff is a rewarding journey through a pivotal period in history. Gerlis successfully maintains a balance between action-packed sequences and moments of character development, preventing the narrative from becoming predictable.

As an amateur author of historical fiction focused on World War II, I found "Agent in the Shadows" not only inspiring but also a valuable resource for understanding the nuances of crafting a compelling historical narrative. The blend of real-life figures and fictional characters, coupled with Gerlis's attention to historical detail, sets a high standard for the genre.

In conclusion, Alex Gerlis delivers a gripping conclusion to "The Wolf Pack Spies" series. The suspenseful plot, well-drawn characters, and historical authenticity make "Agent in the Shadows" a must-read for fans of espionage thrillers. As I share this review on Goodreads for my friends to discover, I'm confident they'll be as captivated by the story as I was. 📚✨

[Maux Ochoa · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Agent in the Shadows" by Alex Gerlis is a compelling and well-crafted historical thriller that immerses readers in the complex world of espionage during World War II. With its intricate plot, meticulously researched historical details, and a cast of intriguing characters, this novel stands as a testament to the author's skill in the genre.

Set against the backdrop of wartime Europe, the story follows the perilous missions of British agenda as they navigate the treacherous landscape of Nazi-occupied France. Gerlis masterfully captures the atmosphere of uncertainty and danger that characterized this era, transporting readers to a time when every step could mean life or death.

The plot is a web of espionage, secrets, and intrigue, and it keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. Gerlis weaves a complex narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns, making it challenging for readers to predict the outcome. The pacing is well-managed, with moments of tension and action interspersed with periods of character development and historical context.

One of the novel's strengths is its attention to historical accuracy. Gerlis clearly conducted extensive research, and it shows in the vivid and authentic portrayal of the wartime setting. From the details of spycraft to the descriptions of occupied France, the novel provides readers with a rich and immersive experience.

The characters in "Agent in the Shadows" are well-drawn and multi-dimensional. Richard Prince is a compelling protagonist whose moral dilemmas and vulnerabilities add depth to his character. The supporting cast, including various spies and resistance fighters, enhances the story by offering different perspectives on the war effort.

However, some readers might find that the large cast of characters and multiple storylines can be somewhat challenging to keep track of, particularly in the early chapters. It requires a degree of patience as the narrative threads gradually come together.

In conclusion, "Agent in the Shadows" is a meticulously researched and intricately plotted historical thriller that successfully captures the intrigue and danger of World War II espionage. Alex Gerlis's ability to blend historical accuracy with a gripping narrative makes this novel a rewarding read for fans of the genre. While the complexity of the story and numerous characters may require some effort from readers, the payoff is a rich and immersive journey through a pivotal period in history.

[Darius Ostrowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

The superb Wolf Pack trilogy comes to an end in “Agent in the Shadows” by Alex Gerlis. It is 1943, the war in Europe is beginning to turn against Germany, but that doesn’t seem to be slowing the Nazis down in France. Klaus Barbie comes to Lyon to run the Gestapo and crush the resistance. Thanks to the presence of a mole, he is able to raid and destroy some of the cells, but others get away.

The French turn to the English for assistance, and the British send two of their top agents to ferret out the mole: American journalist Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf, wife of a German officer, who are enjoying some downtime (and each other) in Switzerland after completing their last mission. Sophia gets sent to work in the Gestapo offices, Jack gets sent in later to act as a radioman. As they search for the traitor and work to help the resistance, a German mole in Switzerland exposes the two and sends the Nazis looking for them. Will Jack and Sophia complete their mission before the noose closes in around them?

This has been an excellent series and this last book is no exception. Mr. Gerlis writes from several viewpoints, one must stay on one’s toes to follow the narrative, but the weaving of different stories is what makes this such an outstanding read: you read about someone being slowly blackmailed into becoming a spy and you wonder where he will fit into the rest of the story. And just like real life, not everything ends with “happily ever after”. So sad to see Jack and Sophia’s story ending, looking forward to more from Mr. Gerlis.

I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Canelo via NetGalley. Thank you!

[Ewan Hamilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good ending to a wonderful series of books from Gerlis.

I found this to be somewhat slower to get going than the first two stories in the series but it was still an absolute page turner from beginning to end.

As usual, Gerlis has the ability to keep you absolutely hooked from chapter to chapter without the unrelenting action feeling far fetched or unbelievable. The expertly crafted characters and plot that I have come to expect from Gerlis was present and seems to be the trademark of his books.

My only absolutely minor criticism (which is true for all of the Wolfpack thrillers but especially this one) would be that I sometimes feel that there are opportunities missed to elaborate on situations that characters find themselves in. Often, loose ends are tied up in a single paragraph rather than being fully explored. This can sometimes disappoint me and perhaps may seem somewhat lazy on the writer’s part. However, I understand that books with so many minor characters can struggle with striking the balance. Arguably, if Gerlis was to give each situation a minor character finds themselves in a full description and aftermath, then this book (and the other two) would be twice the length that they are.

Overall, I have loved reading this series and it has really refreshed my memory of what I actually love in a book: readability, engaging plot, believable characters, well researched setting and a bloody good ending.

I look forward to reading Gerlis’s other two spy series in the not so distant future.

[Pirate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and moving wartime thriller set largely in Lyon, though, it spreads its wings to Switzerland, Germany and England too. The description of Lyon and its silk district -- the constant moving around of the resistants within the narrow traboules -- is spellbinding. The characters are well drawn, Klaus Barbie, the Butcher of Lyon, is especially spot on. The spiders web cast by a particularly unappealing English Fascist adds another layer to the plot as does the presence of a collaborator whose own family disown him. I will not divulge the details of the main strand of the plot only to say it is engrossing, tense and at times upsetting, as it encompasses one of the most infamous round-ups of children by the Nazis, the Jewish orphanage at Izieu, all of the youngsters -- aged between 4 and 17 -- were murdered. It tackles too one of the thorniest subjects of French 20th century history who betrayed the great French resistance leader Jean Moulin. Gerlis does not pinpoint anyone in particular -- one person Rene Hardy was tried twice for the betrayal and doubts over his innocence persisted even though he was acquitted, committing perjury in the first trial -- and indeed for good reason. For even now writing well after all of those involved are dead he says: "more than once I was warned off writing about this, even in fiction." The wounds are still raw as I have found in writing on the same topic. He should be applauded for persevering and producing such a gripping book. A must read.

[Michael Witt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the finale in Alex Gerlis’s three-book Wolf Pack series of spy novels set in World War II. (Let’s hope there are more series to come.) He proves once again that he is the grandmaster of that sub-genre.

In June 1943 General de Gaulle calls a secret meeting to take place in Lyon, France to unify the various factions of the French Resistance. But the covert proceeding is intercepted by the Gestapo under Klaus Barbie, known as the “Butcher of Lyon.” The leaders are captured and the meeting is aborted. It is thus clear there is a traitor in the Resistance.

Two seasoned British undercover spies from the prior books in the series, Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf, are sent to France to ferret the traitor out of the shadows and thus save the Resistance. But Klaus Barbie’s dastard Gestapo and other traitors are out in the shadows too, making for a potentially deadly cat and mouse game.

The complex but realistic plot, masterfully drawn, weaves through these seasoned spies, gripping the reader and not letting go. It is evocative of the complex intelligence matters of the times and the dangers in immersing in them.

The suspense advances at an evenly accelerating rate until the final showdown. The presence of Barbie in the plot makes the story haunting after the covers of the book are closed for the final time. I highly recommend the book whether the reader has read the prequels or not.

[Doris M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well crafted tale of espionage during World War II which is riveting from start to finish, no dull moments here. Sophia and Jack, first rate British agents and the newly recruited spy, Siegfried are sent to Lyon to track down a Nazi mole hidden in the French resistance. Barney Allen, their handler, has been sent to the MI6 Swiss station to coordinate their activities with the French in preparation for the allied landings. He is also on the trail of a fascist spy, who has infiltrated MI6 risking all of their covert operations. The hunt for two active spies will lead to unpredictable situations with plenty of casualties. - this is where fiction becomes almost too real for comfort.
Sophia von Naundorf, wife of a Wehrmacht general and Jack Miller, an American journalist have carried out their hazardous missions since the beginning of the series and kept my interest with their poignant and enduring relationship. Another standout character is Siegfried Schroth, a former actor who used disguises to help Sophia, Jack and himself escape to safety numerous times. Most notable is his rescue of Jack after his brutal interrogation by Klaus Barbie (the butcher of Lyon). The mole in the French resistance was never identified by MI6, not fictionally or actually as explained in the author's very informative notes.

[David Lowther · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conclusion of The Wolf Pack Spies series is exciting, gloomy and tragic. The setting is Lyon where head of Gestapo Klaus Barbie rules rules with a reign of terror of such sadism that compares with even the worst of Nazi atrocities in the occupied territories.
The story is mostly fictional but there are a number of real-life characters woven into this tale of misery, murder, courage, treason and collaboration. It feels as if these events might really have taken place.
A couple of comments; there are probably one or two too many characters and telling the story from multiple points of view is a little confusing at times. Whilst the conclusion is spot on, the end of Nazi rule in Lyon is feels a little rushed; rather a potted history.
Otherwise Agent in the Shadows is another cracking espionage thriller from Alex Gerlis.

David Lowther. Author of The Blue Pencil, Liberating Belsen, Two Families at War and The Summer of ‘39, all published by Sacristy Press.

[N.L. Craig · Rating 4 out of 5]

A secret meeting is taking place in France but when it is intercepted they know a traitor is among them. Undercover agents Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf are sent to France to uncover the traitor and save the resistance.

A book full of espionage, danger and twists. This book really will have you holding your breath and suspecting everyone.

Gerlis writes with excitement and atmosphere making sure his readers are brought into every page and experiencing the action as they read.

This was a fantastic WW2 spy novel mixed with fact as well as fiction which makes it even more interesting.

I had not realised this is actually the third book in a series and I highly recommend that if you like the sound of this go and read the other books first, especially if those are anything like this one.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third and final book in the Wolf Pack series. It's now 1943 and Sophia and Jack are once again working undercover. This time they are working in Lyon in France in order to help the resistance movement.
This book is so fast paced, I couldn't put it down. The plot is intricately woven around a large number of characters. The danger the agents encounter and their bravery is truly moving and vividly brought to life through the superb historical detail . I found the ending very emotional, all the more so as the events are based on real incidents. An excellent series, well-written and highly recommended.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Agent in the Shadows by Alex Gerlis is the conclusion to the Wolf Pack trilogy and what a brilliant finale it was.
In short, British undercover agents Jack Miller and Sophia Von Naundorf are sent to France to find the traitor in the Resistance at Lyon and it soon becomes a very dangerous mission as more traitors emerge enabling the Gestapo to close in on the group.
I’ve absolutely loved this spy series, it’s tautly written, cleverly plotted, fast paced and convincing…I could go on and on! To all readers that enjoy an entertaining gritty spy thriller simply read this Wolf Pack series, it’s superb. I’m very much looking forward to reading more from Alex.
Big thanks to Alex Gerlis, Canelo and NetGalley for this eARC which I chose to read in return for my honest review.

[Ross Cameron · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three stars may feel a bit harsh I’ll admit. I enjoyed large elements of this book. But I write this immediately after finishing and the end of the book just felt rushed, lacklustre and poorly thought out. The style of the novel seemed to change to brief summaries of what happened, with time allowed to gallop at pace and with very little actual dialogue - a contrast to what had come before.

The plot follows a team of British spies placed in Lyon to work with the French Resistance to identify a spy and facilitate better organisation of the Resistance Groups.

A good and exciting read in places, but lacking character development of the main protagonists and too much in this story seems convenient or scarcely believable.

[Michael Greene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Agent in the Shadows is another strong entry in the Wolf Pack Spies series. I have really enjoyed following Jack Miller and Sophia von Naundorf, and this book continues their story with the same mix of tension, historical detail, and moral complexity that I have come to expect from Alex Gerlis. The setting in Lyon during the effort to unite the French resistance made for a compelling backdrop, and the search for the traitor kept me fully engaged. The theme of what the British are willing to do in the name of the greater good continues to make me think long after the story ends.

I am sad that the series appears to have come to an end, and I am eagerly awaiting the next Alex Gerlis book.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed it! Once started, I couldn't stop reading. Many characters, some changing their names according to their new "roles", but this didn't hinder the plot, or was in any way confusing. Very credible plot, with realistic characters, accurate historical background. Enthralling and thrilling. I definitely want to read more novels by this author.
I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from NetGalley, and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.

[Claire Ball · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was drawn in by the blurb of this book as I love World War 2 fiction. The plot was exciting to follow and I enjoyed how it progressed. I did find it hard to get all the characters clear in my head as there were quite a few but the explanation at the front was very helpful to keep popping back to. I have never read anything from this author before but I will certainly be keeping an eye out for them in the future!

[Mark Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Gerlis’s latest spy thriller is a scintillating read. The main storyline revolves around the activities of the Resistance in Occupied Lyon in World War 2, when the local Gestapo was run by the infamous Klaus Barbie. Other locations such as Switzerland and London feature and there is a good deal of flashback activity. The book is superbly crafted and beautifully written and I devoured it in only a few sittings. I look forward to reading many more of the author’s books.

[d sheldrake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story and excellent series

I discovered Alex Gerlis a few months ago and have read a number of his books now.
Every book is 10/10
Alex draws you into the stories so easily, making the characters seem real.
You really get a sense of the suspense and danger of those times.
If I read correctly, his books will now become a TV series and I'm not surprised.
I will certainly look out for them.
Absolutely recommend these books and Alex Gerlis.

[Thomasso · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not uninteresting, but one has to read this book in a relatively short period of time. Perhaps too many characters (who also adopt several names) and too many storylines to my taste. At times the book is compelling but at other times rather dull. Yet, it (also) gave me some insights in the resistance movement in France/ Lyon and in this notorious Klaus Barbie. I never spent much time in Lyon (just changing trains, I suppose) but it will put this city on my 'to visit' list

[Ant Koplowitz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this one a bit slow going. I think this was down to the excessive use of big chunks of description being used to explain and propell the plot forward. Sometimes, this novel read more like a work of non-fiction. long descriptive explanations and summaries are fine in a historical account, but in what should be a fast-paced thriller, all they do is grind the plot down. Not one of Gerlis's best.

[Debbie Trammell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sensational series

The last book in this series I could not put down as it was with the first two. I have read all of Alex's book and look forward to any new ones he writes. He is a master storyteller. All of his book are well researched. They are very emotional and puts you right there with the characters. I highly recommend his books.

[John Mathews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I struggled to get all the characters organized mentally but once done it was a very enjoyable read. Interesting to be able to understand the characters from Resistance fighters to Collaborators (cooperators?) and how it's so easy to justify what we want to justify. Playing into the hands of opportunists who ultimately must pay a price for their choices. A great read overall.

[Larmie Fahrendorff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mixed Reaction

This book, for me, is difficult to review. The two main characters in this series really did very little in this finale. The story held my interest, but little was accomplished during their post in Lyon. The security leak escaped capture, as did the murderer of their boss back in Switzerland. So in a way I was somewhat disappointed.

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent finale

Once again, Alex Gerlis has pulled out all the stops and brought this rollercoaster trilogy to a cracking end.
Excellently researched, beautifully written, this book has been unputdownable. This is the stuff of top-class TV drama.
I cannot wait to read what Alex has in store for his next book or series.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐
This is the conclusion of the Wolfpack series, and it did not disappoint. The Resistance is a central part of this chapter in the series. Here we also learn how each character's story ends. It's engaging, exciting, surprising, and sometimes tragic.
Alex Gerlis is an excellent writer. So glad I happened upon this series.

[A Gill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written and researched to the point where it could almost pass as non-fiction. A page turner from beginning to end. Grateful for the list of characters at the beginning of the book due to the vast numbers involved and whilst I liked the detail given to the setting I struggled to visualise it, possible because the level of detail may have been too much.

[Greville Waterman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this, the last in the Wolf Pack series. Historically accurate with excellent descriptions of occupied France this is a breathtakingly exciting story of spies, Nazis, traitors and the resistance.

I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[SJS Edmonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant finale to the Wolf Pack series

Gripping story from start to finish, twists and turns in plot lines, expertly researched by Alex Gerlis, this was a brilliant end to the Wolf Pack Agent series. Highly recommended.

[Margaret Wray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant this last book. The whole series was pretty good. The author really dragged you in on this last episode! A few heart stopping moments I can tell you. Justice served to some but others who escaped that one. Would highly recommend.