Ashenden or The British Agent

Set against the backdrop of World War I, this collection of stories draws from Maugham's own experiences as a secret agent. The protagonist, Ashenden, serves as an autobiographical figure, while Chandra Lal is inspired by Indian nationalist Virendranath Chattopadhyaya. The narratives explore Britain's covert operations in Europe, including attempts to eliminate Indian nationalists. One notable tale intertwines the assassination plot against Chattopadhyaya with elements of Mata Hari's life. Winston Churchill even urged Maugham to discard several other stories.