Book description
'Sensationally good ... A riveting story, the real-life spooks and spies far more compelling than anything you will see on the screen ... history doesn't come more fascinating than this' Evening Standard
For over 100 years, the agents of MI5 have defended Britain against enemy subversion. Their work has remained…
Why read it?
1 author picked The Defence of the Realm as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
I loved this book because it represents an extremely enjoyable and thorough account of the work of Secret Intelligence.
One noteworthy aspect of this book is the troubling awareness it brings that what the work involves is, in the main, unknown and goes largely unrecognised.
Another very salient truth that emerges (from this volume) is that the work is thoroughly international in nature. For me, the author also demonstrates in adept fashion that the question of how the peacetime accountability of the work of MI5 is to be assured is a multi-dimensional and deeply political one.
A stunning read!
From John's list on historical books with hitherto untold stories of courage and hope.
If you love The Defence of the Realm...
Need to Know
The authoritative but accessible history of the birth of modern American intelligence in World War II that treats not just one but all of the various disciplines: spies, codebreakers, saboteurs.
Told in a relatable style that focuses on actual people, it was a New Yorker "Best of 2022" selection and…
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