Moscow, 1958. At the height of the Cold War, MI6 secretary Lois Vale is on a deep cover mission to identify a diplomatic traitor. She can trust only one man: Johann, a German journalist also working covertly for the British secret service. As the trail leads to Vienna and the Black Sea, Lois and Johann begin an affair but as love grows, so does the danger to Lois.

A tense Cold War spy story told from the perspective of a bright young working class woman recruited to MI6 at a time when men were in charge of making history and women were expendable.

"With its rich historical detail, compelling characters, and a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, 'The Secretary' is a standout addition to Cold War fiction. Deborah Lawrenson delivers a story that is both thrilling and deeply human, a tribute to unsung heroines who dared to make history from the shadows." Women Talking magazine