The Secrets We Kept

Two female spies. A banned masterpiece. A book that changed history.

A BANNED MASTERPIECE

1956. A celebrated Russian author is writing a book, Doctor Zhivago, which could spark dissent in the Soviet Union. The Soviets, afraid of its subversive power, ban it. But in the rest of the world it's fast becoming a sensation.

TWO FEMALE SPIES

The CIA plans to use the book to tip the Cold War in its favour. Their agents are not the usual spies, however. Two typists – the charming, experienced Sally and the talented novice Irina – are charged with the mission of a lifetime: to smuggle Doctor Zhivago back into Russia by any means necessary.

A BOOK THAT CHANGED HISTORY

It will not be easy. There are people willing to die for this book – and agents willing to kill for it. But they cannot fail - as this book has the power to change history.

Sold in twenty-five countries and poised to become a global literary sensation, Lara Prescott's dazzling first novel about the women in the CIA's typing pool and the fate of Boris Pasternak's banned masterpiece is a sweeping page turner and the most hotly anticipated debut of the year.

'What a fantastic novel The Secrets We Kept is. Thrilling, seductive and thoroughly compelling - Lara has created something really special. And it's made me want to re-read Doctor Zhivago! I absolutely loved it! ' SARAH WINMAN, author of TIN MAN

'Triumphant ... This debut shines as spy story, publication thriller and historical romance with a twist. ' PUBLISHERS WEEKLY