Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies

by Karl Wegener

Winner - Literary Titan Book Award, 2025
 
Longlisted Author - 2025 Spymasters Book Prize
 
"Packed with historical details, spy tradecraft, and brimming with intrigue, Wegener's story will leave you gutted, affected, heartbroken, and, most of all, wanting more." - I.S. Berry, Author, The Peacock and the Sparrow, A New Yorker & NPR Best Book of the Year, Winner - Edgar Award for Best First Novel
 
"I'd recommend Operation Nightfall to anyone who loves historical fiction with a hard edge, especially fans of John le Carré or Alan Furst. If you're looking for a tidy, good-guys-win sort of spy story, this isn't it. But if you want a gripping tale of loyalty, survival, and the deep scars left by war, this book delivers in spades." - Thomas Anderson, Editor-in-Chief, Literary Titan
 
"Operation The Web of Spies is a crackling tale of intrigue, betrayal, and heroism set in post-World War Two Poland. It brings us back to an all but forgotten period of East European history when the West covertly fought against the spread of communism and Soviet domination." - Jeremiah Davis, Author, "A Borderline More Tales from The Super-Secret Army Security Agency"
 
 
A secret war. A shattered mission. A betrayal buried inside British intelligence.
 
In 1948, as postwar Europe fractures and Stalin's grip spreads across Eastern Europe, two British operatives are sent behind the Iron Curtain on a mission that no one expects them to survive. Former SOE agent Luba Haas and newly minted MI6 officer Natalie Jenkins are tasked with supporting the Polish resistance and reactivating a long-silent sleeper agent. But from the moment they cross into Soviet-occupied territory, they know something is wrong.
 
Written for fans of spy novels, espionage fiction, and military thrillers, this is a compelling addition to the world of historical fiction best sellers 2025. It explores the human cost of betrayal and the moral complexity of trust under pressure. appealing to readers who enjoy spy thriller books grounded in true events and layered with psychological tension.
 
Based on declassified Cold War intelligence files and inspired by the real-life insurgencies and shadow wars that followed World War II, Operation The Web of Spies blends historical fiction, spy thriller suspense, and military realism into a gripping page-turner.
 
If you're drawn to Cold War conspiracy, intelligence sabotage, and the shadow wars that defined post-WW2 Europe, this book belongs on your shelf. With rich detail, sharp pacing, and powerful characters, it's a must-read for fans of historical spy novels, fans of John Le Carré, Kate Quinn, William Boyd, Alan Furst, and readers who crave both action and depth.

Genres: Thriller, Espionage, Historical Fiction, Suspense

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 17, 2024

About the author

Karl Wegener is an American author who served as a Russian linguist in the United States Army Security Agency and with the Intelligence & Security Command during the Cold War. He also served as a combat interrogator in the United States Air Force Intelligence Service Reserve.

Upon leaving active duty, he served as an intelligence and targeting analyst and worked on issues that included Soviet and Warsaw Pact force readiness, Soviet tactical and strategic missile system deployment and doctrine, and nuclear weapons logistics.

With the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, he began a nearly 30-year career in marketing and advertising. He was a vice president of marketing and product planning for a large Japanese consumer electronics company. He also worked as a freelance content strategist, copywriter, and editor for more than 15 years until he gave it up for the good life. He retired and moved to be near the ocean.

Nowadays when he is not writing, he enjoys cooking for friends and family. Sunday night dinner is his favorite event of the week.

Grown Men Cry Out at Night is his first novel. He currently resides on the East Coast of the United States with his wife and two dogs.

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The gore and violence are no worse than action/adventure fiction books/TV/movies. The difference here is that it is based on historical facts and told by one who has Been there, Done that. Despite my own relationship with ER/CSI, it was a bit odd for me to read about characters with the last names of some of my relatives. All this to say that the plot is solid and moves well, the characters are very thoroughly done, and I am sending a print copy to #3 son who will absolutely love it.
I requested and received a free temporary uncorrected advance proof from FJK-KW Press via NetGalley. Thank you!
#OperationNightfall #TheWebOfSpies by Karl Wegener #FJK-KW Press @ibpa #NetGalley #ColdWar #Poland

[Debra Kushnick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even better than the first book in the series!

Wegner tells s compelling story. It went by so fast and so engaging o didn't realize I was near the end of the book,! His character feels like they could walk off the page. Thank you for a truly wonderful book.

[Chris Mahon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The characters were so well developed and portrayed that at times I personally felt the emotions that they were experiencing!!

[Jody Dall'Armi Krazeise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept me riveted through the whole read from start to finish. I was unfamiliar of the struggle of Poland after WWII and how after the Germans left how they had to deal with the Soviets. I read Wegener’s first book “Grown Men Cry Out at Night” and found it wonderful to see some of the characters from that book continue on in his new book. I highly recommend this book.

[Francis Hamit · Rating 5 out of 5]

My friend Karl and I share a background in the Intelligence Community. That "been there and done that" sensibility is on every page of this well researched historical thriller set in Poland and MI6 HQ in London just after World War Two. It adds depth to the many characters that populate this special ops scenario.

The unexpected manual Morse transmission from a WW Two "left behind" agent thought long dead sparks surprise and suspicion. Is it really her? A former SOE agent who has retired and put the war behind her is reluctantly pulled back in. Guerillas from the abandoned Polish Home Army are still fighting Communist oppression, both Polish and Russian. The Polish intelligence service is dominated and infiltrated by the NKVD. MI6 has a brace of traitors (one modeled on Kim Philby, one of the Cambridge Five) whose spying compromises the security of the Polish operation.

To say more would provide spoliers. The writing is excellent and the research and period detail is impressive. The characters are fully developed. Even minor ones are fully developed. This is a real-page turner, a fast, enjoyable raed for a quiet weekend.

There is a sad post script. Karl is fighting for his life. He has cancer. Writing the book between treatments is a tribute to his authorial integrity. More reason to read this novel and his first one as we wait for the next in the series.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Thrilling, well researched. Reads better than the first one in this series. Can’t wait till the third!

[Ned Criscimagna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you like stories of the intrigue, danger, and the intricate dance of moves and countermoves that are the hallmark of spy stories? Then Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies is a book for you. Taking place after WW II, the story is inspired by true events of Poland’s anti-communist insurgency, following the efforts of British intelligence to aid the Polish resistance in their struggles against their Soviet oppressors.

Yes, there is plenty of the violence and surprises one expects and wants in a spy novel. But the real jewel in this book is the cast of characters. Many are based on historical figures making them very real to the reader. As he did in his first book, Grown Men Cry Out at Night, the author instills in his people the humanity, foibles, and evil that bring them to life. In the Acknowledgements, the author mentions that his characters whispered to him as he wrote. Indeed, the reader comes to believe it, able to envision the characters at the author’s side as they related their stories to him.

Among the characters are two from the author’s first book, Ludmilla (Luba) Haas and Caspar Lehman, both of whom are based on real-life people who carried out a perilous mission in post-war Germany to take down a notorious Gestapo officer. Luba, and her real-life counterpart, is a remarkable woman, skilled in espionage and equally skilled in combat. These two are joined by new characters who share their love of freedom and are willing to put their lives on the line to bring it to the people of Poland, despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

You become invested in the lives of these characters, these people, holding your breath as the good ones risk their lives, feeling anger and contempt for those who pose the threat. And you can hardly wait to turn each page, straining at the leash as it were to see what happens next. And you are never disappointed.

The author’s writing is crisp and direct, almost Hemingway in style but straightforward, not requiring the reader to look for hidden meaning. His depiction of the characters, as already stated, is flawless but no more so than his description of the places where the events take place. He uses real places that can easily be found on a map, and describes them accurately, further immersing readers in the story. Whether it be a government building in London, Moscow, or Polish village, the author captures all the details that help readers visualize the locales.

If you are looking to add a gem to your library, if you want to read a book you can’t put down until you reach the end, then Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies is a must buy

[Saya Jacaranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterpiece

This book is a masterpiece of historical spy fiction. Operation Nightfall immerses readers in the Cold War era with incredible detail. The female protagonists are written with such depth and strength that they steal the show. I loved how the story balanced tense action with the emotional weight of betrayal and survival. The twists kept me guessing, and the historical connections made the book feel authentic.
It’s a gripping, intelligent read that highlights the untold bravery of women in espionage.

[IngramSpark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This title was selected for IngramSpark's Indie Title Discovery Spotlight 2025!

Fans of high-stakes thrillers, espionage adventures, and post-WWII historical fiction will love this!

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Operation Nightfall although a work of fiction was written based on real facts and people and it has certainly turned out to be an extremelly interesting reading about the Polish resistance and the horrific struggles after WWII. Luba Hass and Natalie Jenkins make an incredible duo that initially antagonizing each other become first allies when survival is flimzy. The story got my attention from the start, it's well-written, and I'll be looking to reading the first book in this series (although having not read it did not impair my understanding of Operation Nightfall).
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for the copy of this book.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally engaging novel.

This novel surprised me in the best way. I picked it up expecting a typical spy story, but it’s so much more. The writing is sharp, and the tension is palpable throughout. I loved how Luba and Natalie’s courage and intelligence were central to the plot. The historical details added depth without overwhelming the story. It’s an entertaining thriller and an eye-opening look at a forgotten chapter of history.

[Daniel Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling read

Author Karl Wegener has crafted a spy thriller that feels thrilling and raw. The setting of Poland in 1948 is vividly portrayed; it made me feel the tension of the post-war chaos.
The plot is complex but not confusing, weaving historical events into the story. It’s a book that kept my heart racing, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves a well-researched historical thriller.

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sensational must-read cold war spy thriller inspired by true events.

Set in 1948, Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies opens in Northwest Poland. As the country shifts toward Communist rule, the Polish Home Army has been dissolved, and its members face persecution in what can only be described as a purge. But in the shadows, and with the assistance of American and British intelligence, a resistance movement is afoot.

The action opens as Russian Colonel Yuri Sokolov, a sinister officer with analytics skills that would rival Sherlock Holmes, investigates a reported act of brutality. He finds the body of a young man who had been stabbed and scalped. Another victim, who had been riding a motorcycle, was decapitated. Sokolov quickly deduces that the men were the victims of a taut-wire trap set by a woman. Knowing that insurrection can spread like cancer, he urges the local Polish commander to round up everyone in town in order to eliminate the perpetrator and everyone she is connected with. He ends his tutoring session with a threat: “You don’t want me involved…I always win…no matter how many people have to die.”

It’s a promising introduction to Sokolov, who is one of the book’s most memorable characters. Author Karl Wegener – a Russian linguist, intelligence analyst, and interrogator who served in the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force Reserves, and the Intelligence Community during the Cold War – manages a huge cast of characters, many of which are inspired by real people. In the book’s gripping first 100 pages, we are privy to clandestine operations at British intelligence operations headquartered in London’s Citadel, morse code transmissions received in the dead of night near Buckinghamshire, and the scathing post-war resentment of ordinary citizens in a Polish market.

After careful world-building, we are introduced properly to Strategic Operations Executive (SOE) operative Luba Haas and MI6 agent Natalie Jenkins. Haas, glamorous, tough and deadly with a knife, is a fictional character inspired by the real-life figure Krystyna Skarbek, one of the first female agents of the SOE during World War II. Jenkins is half-polish and fluent in the language, a factor that launches her from the typing pool to high-stakes field work.

Both women enter Poland to aid the insurgency. As they soon discover, their mission has been compromised. Haas and Jenkins find themselves on the run, chased by forces acting under Sokolov’s direction. From the book’s midpoint, the narrative transitions from a methodical simmer to a chess match with torrents of blistering action. It’s all quite riveting, but most intriguing are the details that only someone of Wegener’s experience could add. In a world where we can summon detailed topographical maps with just a few keystrokes, Wegener revisits a time when a pre-war Polish forestry map was far more valuable than anything the Red Army possessed. And at a time now, when encrypted messages can be handled by software, the painstaking care required to create, send and receive a simple coded message in 1948 is brilliantly recreated in the book.

For fans of cold war history and spy fiction, Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies is simply unmissable.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting espionage thriller set in post-WWII Poland.

Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies is the second of Karl Wegener’s riveting post-WWII spy thrillers featuring Major Casper Lehman and Luba Haas. In this adventure, the focus is on Poland and the underdog national resistance fighting the Soviet takeover in the aftermath of the war. When the British intelligence service wireless monitors pick up a transmission from a dormant undercover operative they’d long thought as lost, it opens doors for Lehman and Haas to assist the Polish Home Army, who are hiding in the forests and hills fighting a clandestine, guerilla war against their brutal Soviet oppressors. Meanwhile, a skilled Soviet military investigator is on the trail of the resurrected in-country operative, and it is a race to see which side will get to them first.

This story hits the ground running with a surprise ambush of a Soviet military convoy, and it never lets up. The plot is tense as Ada Bialik, the embedded operative, comes out of obscurity to bolster the efforts of the hidden Home Army insurgents. To cover her intentions, she takes a position as the new kindergarten teacher in the small town of Puck, and, naturally, she is under constant scrutiny. With only her instincts to guide her on who she can trust, she successfully connects with the leader of the local cell of resistance and contacts her handlers on the outside. Back in Bremen, Casper Lehman and Luda Haas scramble to authenticate Bialik’s identity as she was one of Luda’s assets recruited during the war.

What a satisfying and surprising story! I was immersed in the tale from the very start, courtesy of the author’s absolutely cinematic descriptions and suspenseful action sequences. The danger felt ever-present and was hammered home with graphic but believably realistic scenes of warfare carnage and personal violence. The details of the spycraft involved were mesmerizing and gave the entire story a robust realism and weight. The characters are well-drawn, and I quickly became engaged in their situations and invested in the successful completion of their missions. I am sadly ignorant of Poland’s history, so this story was an emotional surprise and covered new ground for me.

As mentioned, this is the second book about some of these characters, but readers should be able to easily read and enjoy this book on its own as I did. I look forward to reading the previous novel and more of this author’s work.

I recommend OPERATION NIGHTFALL: THE WEB OF SPIES to readers of historical fiction, especially those interested in stories about the aftermath of World War II and Poland.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.

[Neena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wegener blends history and intrigue in his excellent latest novel, offering a taut exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral grey zones of covert operations. Set in 1948 Poland—a land rife with danger and deception—former SOE operative Luba Haas and MI6 agent Natalie Jenkins are tasked with a covert mission to connect with a sleeper agent and anti-communist insurgents. Unbeknownst to them, their operation has already been compromised by a mole within British intelligence. As Soviet and Polish forces close in, the two agents find themselves trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse, where trust is scarce and survival hinges on outsmarting their relentless pursuers.

Wegener’s characters are neither heroes nor villains; they navigate a murky world where loyalty and survival are in constant conflict. The emotional and psychological costs of their decisions add depth to the story, making it more than just a spy thriller. It becomes a reflection on trust, sacrifice, and the human cost of war. The novel brings a fresh perspective by highlighting the unique challenges women face in the world of espionage. Much like Kate Quinn's The Alice Network, it centers on strong female protagonists navigating a male-dominated arena, intensifying both the tension and the stakes with their distinct perspectives and experiences.

Luba, inspired by the real-life spy Krystyna Skarbek, stands out as a resourceful former SOE operative whose threat of betrayal comes from within her own ranks. Her partnership with MI6 agent Jenkins is fraught with tension, as trust becomes both a weapon and a weakness. Relentless, laser-focused, and unwavering in her loyalty, Ada’s technical skills are unmatched, but it’s her raw emotional grit that holds everything together when the mission spirals out of control.

Wegener’s writing is lean and sharp, steering clear of the typical action-heavy thriller. Instead, he delves into moral complexity and the psychological toll of espionage. Every twist heightens the stakes, and the ever-present threat of a mole intensifies the suspense. The pacing is tight, blending action with quieter moments of reflection that deepen the characters and their struggles.

The historical backdrop—Poland’s anti-communist insurgency—grounds the novel in real-world stakes, elevating the narrative and immersing readers in a world where the line between friend and foe is ever-shifting. Wegener uses history not merely as a backdrop but as a crucial element that drives the plot forward. With its smart plotting, complex characters, and razor-sharp tension, Wegener delivers a gripping, thought-provoking addition to the genre.

[Leonora Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly entertaining and satisfying read!

Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies, by Karl Wegener, is a gripping journey into the world of post-World War II politics, espionage, and the deceit, mistrust and brutal violence associated with it.
The story starts in Poland and with an introduction to Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Sokolov, or Comrade Colonel, as his subordinates call him. A man with a sardonic wit, Sokolov’s mere presence is intimidating, and he has an unmistakable sinister vibe about him.
He knows that communist Russians aren’t welcome on Polish soil. That the Poles (and nervous Western leaders) feel that way, however, is not his concern. His mission is to help weed out every bit of resistance by any means necessary to advance the Red Army’s goals.
When British Intelligence receives a transcript of a manual Morse code from a Polish sleeper agent who hasn’t been active in three years, they send Luba Haas, a former SEO operative living in Germany and MI6 agent Natalie Jenkins on a secret mission to Poland to confirm the agent’s identity.
There is much at stake not only for the remnants of the Polish Home Army fighting what seems to be a losing battle against the Russians but also for the women as they try to establish contact with their target and avoid getting caught.
Wegener paints colourful scenes that provide an excellent visual and historical background for the characters and landscapes. He draws the reader into the web of manipulative games of those who wouldn’t bat an eye to betray their country or slaughter innocent people for money and self-advancement. As Europe rebuilds itself in the aftermath of the Second World War, remembering the price of fighting tyranny, Western leaders scramble to protect freedom and democracy against the spread of Stalin’s poisonous doctrines and Russia’s lust for power.
Wegener’s knowledge and experience of counterintelligence during the Cold War is evident. This, along with his craftiness as a writer, helps create an intriguing plot with plausible characters you will love and hate. He employs subtle hints and nuances to create suspicion because suspicion, after all, is the name of the game in espionage. Furthermore, his use of cultural humour, mannerisms and expressions is delightful and effective, bringing humanity to the story and the characters’ struggles.
Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies is an intelligent and elegantly written novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more when you finish. I recommend it to lovers of espionage, historical fiction and anyone who appreciates quality literature.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies by Karl Wegener, I’m left both shaken and impressed. The novel is a slow-burning but deeply immersive espionage thriller set against the backdrop of post-World War II Poland. It follows a deadly cat-and-mouse game between Soviet-backed Polish authorities and remnants of the Polish Home Army. The story unfolds with brutal precision, opening with a horrific ambush and evolving into a tightly woven narrative of deceit, identity, and revenge. At the center of it all is Ada Bialik, a woman shaped by war and driven by a quiet, burning fury. Through calculated acts of rebellion and sharp instincts, she becomes the most compelling figure in a world where trust is rare and survival depends on cunning.

I found Wegener’s writing to be razor-sharp in its detail and emotional depth. The characters aren’t just chess pieces in a war story—they’re raw, bruised humans, often trying to make sense of a world shattered by ideology. The language is spare but impactful, often letting silence and implication carry emotional weight. I appreciated that. The dialogue never felt forced. It carried a natural, believable rhythm, which grounded the story in a gritty realism. There’s also a strong visual element—the way forest paths, bloodied uniforms, and stark interrogation rooms are described pulls you in like scenes from a black-and-white film. I found myself holding my breath during key sequences.

But what really got to me was the moral fog that hangs over everything. There are no clean hands in this book. Wegener doesn’t preach, doesn’t glorify violence, but he doesn’t flinch from it either. Some parts made me uncomfortable, like the cold way Lieutenant Colonel Sokolov manipulates others, or how easily people vanish into the system. And yet, it all felt real. That murkiness is part of the book’s strength. It reminds you that history isn’t neat. The idealists don’t always win. People betray each other. Sometimes for survival. Sometimes for belief. Sometimes for nothing at all. The emotional undercurrent is subtle but devastating.

I’d recommend Operation Nightfall to anyone who loves historical fiction with a hard edge, especially fans of John le Carré or Alan Furst. If you're looking for a tidy, good-guys-win sort of spy story, this isn’t it. But if you want a gripping tale of loyalty, survival, and the deep scars left by war, this book delivers in spades. It stays with you. I’m still thinking about Ada. Still wondering what justice looks like in a world built on lies.

[Jeremiah Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kurt Wegener’s newest novel, Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies, is a crackling tale of intrigue, betrayal, and heroism set in post-World War Two Poland where bands of anti-communist patriots fought against both the Soviet-installed puppet government and occupying Soviet military and security forces. It brings us back to an all but forgotten period of East European history when the West covertly fought against the spread of communism and Soviet domination.
Wegener is a masterful storyteller who vividly describes scenes and characters that seize the reader’s attention from the very first pages. We are re-introduced to the two main characters from his debut novel, Grown Men Cry Out at Night, U.S. Army counterintelligence officer Casper Lehman and former MI6 operative Luba Haas. Haas is tasked to enter Poland clandestinely and make contact with elements of the anti-communist Home Army and with an agent whom she had trained in the final days of WWII and who was thought to have been killed or captured by the communists. What follows is a riveting trip into the labyrinthine world of Cold War intelligence operations. The author effortlessly includes interesting historical bits of culture and references to period music to subtly remind the reader of the time setting of the story.
Operation Nightfall is an exceptionally well researched novel. The author excels at describing locales in London and Poland and bringing the reader into the surroundings as if he were actually there. Wegener paints portraits of the key characters in the readers’ minds as the story and characters develop. Like an Agatha Christie murder mystery, he feeds us clues and the occasional red herring as he draws us into the intricately woven plot.

Wegener is an author whose work is reminiscent of Ken Follett and John Le Carre. His background as an intelligence professional brings an insider’s perspective to the spy genre that radiates authenticity. Operation Nightfall truly rates a five-star review. This reviewer will be eagerly awaiting its sequel.

[Martin Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies" opens in Poland, in 1948. The war is over, but Poland now has to deal with the incursion of Russian troops. The anti-communist resistance, remnants of the Home Army, are still operating in the area and fighting to combat the occupiers, but it badly needs fighters and equipment. When a young woman arrives in a small town, and makes tentative attempts to contact the resistance, it looks as if both could be on offer. The woman has the means to contact the British secret services and request supplies, and when her messages are received, it sets in motion events which won't always go to plan.

The story moves along at a fair pace, as three key figures, Luba, Natalie, and Ada, all women whose backgrounds make them ideal for this work, meet, plan and execute operations to help combat Russia. They are up against several Russian officers whose motivations run deep, and who will go to dreadful length to destroy the resistance. The story backdrop, Poland fighting, while feeling it has been let down by the allies, is vividly brought to life. Even more so, the human cost - deaths, the stress of working under cover, in constant fear of discovery, the frustration felt by those too far away to help, is all brought starkly to the fore. Divided loyalties, hidden loyalties, and hidden motives, all play a part in this deeply moving story of people doing what they think best, while struggling with the cost of their actions.

The author clearly knows his stuff - this is the early years of the Cold War, and the story shows a deep understanding of the complex forces at play. People on both sides, doing what they have to do, for what they believe, and simply to survive. His knowledge of Russian history and military intelligence adds so much depth and scope to the events.

My single, solitary negative criticism? It's "whisky" in the UK ,not "whiskey". This book will appeal to fans of Kate Quinn, William Boyd and Alan Furst. Highly recommended.

[Michael Martz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed "Operation Nightfall" a lot. It's historical fiction with a great plot, well-developed characters, fine tradecraft, and solid writing. What I liked most about it was that I learned much more about post=WWII Europe and the beginnings of the Cold War.

Operation Nightfall is about English efforts to support Polish insurgents as Poland is being moved into Russia's orbit. Out of the blue, a message is received in London from Bialik, a deep cover agent embedded in a small Polish town who'd been silent for years but now needed help from the Brits to aid the insurgent soldiers with whom she was working. Luba Haas, her handler, a high level woman intelligence officer with a stellar reputation due to her work during the war, thinks the communication is real but others in the spy hierarchy feel it may be a trap. Haas and Jenkins, another young woman who trained as a spy during the war but wasn't able to get into action, are sent on a tremendously risky mission to Poland to verify the identity of Bialik and to begin the process of supporting the insurgents. Unfortunately, there's a mole in the mix and the Russian and Polish troops have plans of their own to use Haas and Jenkins to lead them to the hidden location of the insurgents.

Operation Nightfall is a fascinating view into a period that has relevance even today. Europe was recovering from WWII, Russia was expanding its sphere of influence while the West was trying to stop it, individual countries (like Poland) were struggling to retain independence, and the American intelligence community was in its infancy. Karl Wegener takes all of those ingredients and bakes a quickly moving story that shows how individual courage and resilience can make a difference.

[Avira N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wegener’s latest novel is a taut, gripping exploration of covert operations, brimming with moral complexity and razor-sharp suspense. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of post-World War II Poland, the story centers on three operatives—Luba Haas, Natalie, and Ada—who are on a high-stakes mission to infiltrate an enemy camp suspected of holding British intelligence agents captive. This premise sets the stage for a dangerous and uncertain operation.


Wegener masterfully constructs an environment where trust is tenuous and the line between ally and adversary constantly blurs. Ada’s escalating paranoia is palpable, while Luba and Natalie, also entangled in this treacherous landscape, face conflicting agendas and moral dilemmas. These operatives are portrayed not as clichés but as complex survivors shaped by personal trauma and the harsh realities of war. Navigating a male-dominated world with both intellect and courage, they defy conventional espionage tropes. Wegener’s portrayal of their resilience and emotional depth adds genuine authenticity to their characters.

The novel excels in capturing the historical essence of late 1940s Eastern Europe, a region caught between hope and fear. The clash between Soviet communism and lingering resistance movements provides a rich backdrop of ideological tension. Wegener skillfully avoids simplistic notions of good versus evil, instead presenting a morally ambiguous world where personal ideals are continually weighed against the harsh realities of survival. With its tightly controlled prose and expertly paced suspense, the novel hooks readers from the first page and never lets go.

[Mes Curls Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Operation Nightfall is a riveting espionage thriller that peels back the iron curtain to reveal a chilling, lesser-known chapter of Cold War history. Set in 1948 Poland, the novel follows former SOE operative Luba Haas and MI6 agent Natalie Jenkins as they plunge into a mission riddled with betrayal, political intrigue, and relentless danger. What begins as a covert operation to connect with anti-communist insurgents quickly unravels into a desperate fight for survival, as a deep-cover mole compromises their mission and both Soviet and Polish intelligence close in.

Wegener’s strength lies in his ability to balance the intricacies of real-world intelligence work with pulse-pounding suspense. This isn't just another spy thriller—Operation Nightfall challenges outdated espionage archetypes by placing fiercely capable women at the helm. Haas and Jenkins are not damsels or distractions—they're strategists, survivors, and every bit as formidable as their male counterparts.

What makes this book particularly compelling is its foundation in true events: the echoes of the Cambridge Five, MI6’s post-war covert efforts, and Poland’s own resistance movement. Wegener’s background as an intelligence analyst brings a level of authenticity that makes the story all the more gripping. The atmosphere is tense, the stakes are high, and the question of trust hangs over every interaction.

For readers who crave historical depth in their thrillers, Operation Nightfall is a standout—unflinching, intelligent, and utterly immersive. It’s not just a story of spies—it’s a story of courage, betrayal, and the human cost of fighting shadows in a divided world.

[LBR · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies" is a captivating historical thriller that delivers a well-developed portrayal of its characters, especially with Luba Hass as a protagonist. Wegener expertly blends historical authenticity with an engaging plot, making this novel competitive in its genre. Taking place during the Polish anti-communist uprising from 1945 to 1952, the novel delves into the interesting lives of spies and rebels as they maneuver through the volatile political terrain of post-war Europe. It reflects the harsh realities of those living in the Cold War era, creating a tension so thick that it can only be resolved by finishing the book.

A stand out to me was the fact that unlike so many espionage novels that have been dominated by male protagonists, the leads in Operation Nightfall were women- and believable, relatable women at that. By doing this, Wegener has expanded upon the genre, no longer relegating women as "necessary but peripheral" but as a focal point and a force to be reckoned with.

Wegener writes with a refined sensitivity and attention to detail when these characters are introduced. We experience their stream of consciousness in a way that makes these women in his story sympathetic and has us hanging on to the edges of our seats as we're fully invested in their outcome. He also uses elements such as flashbacks to broaden our understanding of their experiences, making them more understandable.

This book was well-paced and entertaining- a true gem. Anyone interested in history would be keen to read this book.

[Renko Dekker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies by Karl Wegener offers an intriguing premise set in post-WWII Cold War landscape of 1948 Poland. That's why I chose this book on Netgalley (which I received from Xpresso Book Tours).

The story follows Luba Haas, a former SOE operative, and MI6 agent Natalie Jenkins, as they navigate a high-stakes mission that quickly turns perilous. With Soviet and Polish intelligence forces closing in, the agents must deal with a mole in British intelligence. The book promises a thrilling ride through espionage, counterintelligence, and survival.

However, while the historical inspiration behind the novel—Poland's anti-communist insurgency—is compelling, the execution falls flat. The pacing is uneven, with sections of the plot feeling overly slow or bogged down by unnecessary exposition. In addition, the characters feel underdeveloped.

The tension and suspense promised in the blurb don't always materialize, as many of the twists and turns feel predictable or overly familiar. While the historical context is rich and the stakes are high, the novel struggles to balance historical detail with engaging action and character development.

2/5 ⭐️

[Stefanie Barnfather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This page-turning book is a fantastic continuation of the first in the series. The story is riveting!

Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies further develops the anti-communist spy narrative started in Book One. With its cast of dynamic women in the lead—and a fictitious world brought to life by an alarming amount of detail about Cold War Intelligence (thanks to the expert author, Karl Wegener)—the novel was difficult to put down.

Aside from the well-paced plot, adventure-driven action, and realistic characters, Wegener’s writing is exceptional. Dare I say . . . even better than in his debut? Wegener blends the tension and immediacy in a spy story with historical accuracy and prose charged with drama. His ‘web’ caught and held my attention from beginning to end; and I can’t wait for the next book.

[Aditi Goud · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy tension, Batman! Operation Nightfall had me HOOKED from page one. Spies, sabotage, secret missions—and two badass women leading the charge? YES PLEASE.

I went into this expecting your typical Cold War thriller, but this felt so much more layered. The setting (late 1940s Berlin and Warsaw) was done so well—you can almost feel the danger lurking in every corner. Luba and Natalie are both complex, fierce, and so human. You root for them even when they make tough (sometimes heartbreaking) choices.

The writing? Super cinematic. It played out in my head like a gritty Netflix series. And the twists? Let's just say I did NOT see them coming.

Highly recommend if you love spy thrillers with actual emotional depth and unforgettable characters. Can’t wait for more from this author!

[Aspirant__ifs · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing Operation Nightfall, I just sat there for a moment, taking it all in. It was intense in the best way — like being dropped right into the heart of post-war Europe, where trust is dangerous and survival is never guaranteed. I loved how it didn’t rely on the usual spy clichés. Luba and Natalie felt real — strong but vulnerable, smart but constantly under pressure. The stakes weren’t just global; they were deeply personal.

What stayed with me most was the quiet tension — the kind that creeps up on you and doesn’t let go. It wasn’t just a thriller; it felt like a tribute to the unsung women who fought in the shadows. Raw, gripping, and full of atmosphere — this book made me feel the cold, the fear, the urgency. And I’ll be thinking about it for a while.

[C. Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Operation Nightfall is an engaging spy thriller that introduces readers to the fast-paced, high-stakes world of espionage through the eyes of the main character.
Set against the intriguing backdrop of Poland’s anti-communist age, the story swiftly escalates and the stakes increase.

Author Karl Wegner’s ability to weave together crime, double agents, and international intrigue creates a narrative that’s both cerebral and action-packed.

The book is packed with suspense and clever twists, though the brisk pace can make it hard to absorb all the intricate plot points.

[cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Operation Nightfall is captivating from the very first page. It is a book you will not want to put down, and you will not want it to end.
Karl Wegener weaves a wonderful tale of fiction woven in with a vast knowledge of history.
The ending leaves the reader anticipating the next book in the series!
I highly recommend following this new author Karl Wegener. His first book "Grown Men Cry Out at Night" was excellent, and "Operation Nightfall: The Web of Spies" is brilliant.

[virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! What an influential book! I thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspect of the story, which educated me further on the struggle Poland faced during WWII and how the Soviet-German alliance imploded. The characters were believable, and the plot kept me glued to my chair with endless cups of tea - at the ready. I highly recommend this book to any WWII history buff.
I want to thank Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book as a free ARC. This review is voluntary and mine alone.