New York Times Bestselling author Ben Macintyre is a prolific writer, publishing new and amazingly well-researched non-fiction works at a breathtaking speed (though probably not fast enough for some of his most devout fans). Macintyre’s books always bring to light new archival materials, while captivating readers’ attention and leaving them, at times, forgetting that the twists and turns of the pages are a work of non-fiction, vice novel. Whether you are a devout Macintyre follower, or just getting into the business of non-fiction spy books, we’ve curated a list of the seven best books by Ben Macintyre.
Much of his work focuses on the World War II era and the intricate networks of spies in Germany, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain. Through his research, he uncovers new aspects of old stories, bringing them alive again for casual readers and history buffs alike. If you are looking for some edge-of-your-seat reading, check out some of these great reads.
1. Agent Sonya: The Spy Next Door
A Review, via Haiku
Sonya. Ursula.
Stole: The Bomb for Stalin? No!
Meek? Wife? Brilliant. Spy.
2. Operation Mincemeat
A Review, via Haiku
While it is true that
A dead man can’t tell secrets,
He can win a war.
3. Rogue Heroes
A Review, via Haiku
Strategic service:
A future way of combat.
Secret, until now.
4. A Spy Among Friends: Kim Philby and the Great Betrayal
A Review, via Haiku
A friend, patriot—
The ultimate betrayal.
Nothing as it seems.
5. Double Cross: The True Story of the D-Day Spies
A Review, via Haiku
An odd assemblage.
Quirky, yet useful. Doubles.
Too wacky to cross?
6. Prisoners of the Castle: An Epic Story of Survival and Betrayal from Colditz
A Review, via Haiku
Prisoner of War
Brilliant, tragic, joy, despair:
Prisoner no more.
7. The Spy and the Traitor
A Review, via Haiku
Drive: A Better Life;
Free his world from lies. A Spy.
Drive: Wealth. A Traitor.