Slow Horses

“Slow Horses” is a term that typically refers to a group of underperforming or disgraced intelligence officers in the British Secret Intelligence Service (MI6). In the context of the novel series by Mick Herron, it specifically denotes a fictional team of agents who have been sidelined to a department known as Slough House, where they handle mundane and less glamorous tasks. The designation “slow horses” is a play on the term “slow learners,” indicating that these agents are not regarded as the best in their field or are struggling to regain their reputations. The series explores themes of espionage, redemption, and the complexities of human character among those who find themselves at the fringes of intelligence work. It combines elements of dark humor, suspense, and character-driven storytelling, showcasing the lives and challenges of these flawed individuals as they navigate the treacherous world of espionage.