Penguin Michael Joseph scoops ‘addictive’ puzzle book Spydle

Penguin Michael Joseph has snapped up “addictive” puzzle book Spydle, featuring espionage mysteries inspired by records from the National Archives.

Head of non-fiction Dan Bunyard bought world all language rights directly from the National Archives, in partnership with Dr Gareth Moore and Laura Jayne Ayres, and the book will be published in trade paperback and e-book on 26th September 2024.

The synopsis says: “Drawing on five centuries of British intelligence, spycraft and cryptography – from Sir Francis Walsingham’s Elizabethan school of espionage and the interception of the Gunpowder Plot through to MI5 operations, cryptographers at Bletchley Park and Cold War agents – each puzzle will be inspired by real-life events and original records from the National Archives, some recently discovered, taking the reader on a tour that will educate, excite and leave them scratching their heads.”

Kirsty Schaper of the National Archives commented: “Britain has a long history of espionage, codebreaking and cryptography and we’re thrilled our records are providing the inspiration for puzzles that would challenge even the most inquisitive of minds.”

Bunyard added: “Gareth and Laura are exceptionally gifted at producing accessible but challenging puzzles, while the National Archives have offered up a wealth of often previously unknown stories and records to bring the world of spycraft alive.”