Tightrope
by Simon Mawer
Winner of the 2016 Walter Scott Prize for historical fiction
Tightrope by Simon Mawer is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Marian Sutro, a young woman who worked as a secret agent for the British during World War II. The book explores the themes of love, loss, and betrayal as Marian struggles to come to terms with her experiences during the war and navigate the challenges of post-war life. Mawer’s writing is both evocative and insightful, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of a tumultuous period in history. With its compelling characters, rich historical detail, and poignant themes, Tightrope is a masterful work of fiction that will stay with readers long after they turn the last page.