In 'The Spy and the Traitor,' Ben Macintyre delves into the riveting true story of Oleg Gordievsky, a double agent whose daring actions turned the tide of the Cold War. As a high-ranking officer in the KGB, Gordievsky secretly collaborated with British intelligence, risking his life to expose Soviet secrets. The book combines thrilling espionage with deep psychological insight, revealing the moral complexities faced by spies. With masterful storytelling, Macintyre captures the tension of a world on the brink of nuclear war and the ultimate quest for freedom. Will Gordievsky's bravery save the West or seal his fate?
By Ben Macintyre
Published: 2018
"Loyalty can be a prison, limiting not just freedom, but also the choices that define who we truly are."
The son of two KGB agents and the product of the best Soviet institutions, Oleg Gordievsky grew to see his nation's communism as both criminal and philistine. He took his first posting for Russian intelligence in 1968 and became the Soviet Union's top man in London, but from 1973 on he was secretly working for MI6. Desperate to keep the circle of trust close, MI6 never revealed Gordievsky's name to its counterparts in the CIA, which in turn grew obsessed with figuring out the identity of Britain's obviously top-level source. The CIA officer assigned to identify him was Aldrich Ames, who would become infamous for secretly spying for the Soviets. -- adapted from jacket.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Diana Kimball is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of the mentorship platform Mentor List, which connects people looking for guidance with industry leaders. Kimball is a champion for personal and professional development, emphasizing the power of mentorship to foster growth and build meaningful connections. She has worked in product management and marketing roles at companies like Twitter and Microsoft, bringing her unique insights into tech and community building. Kimball also speaks and writes on topics related to leadership, career development, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. Her work has helped people build stronger networks and pursue their goals with purpose.
George Raveling is a celebrated figure in the realms of sports and literature, best known for his profound impact on basketball and his contributions as an author and speaker. As a pioneering African American coach, he broke barriers in collegiate basketball, notably serving as the head coach at Washington State, Iowa, and USC. Raveling is also renowned for his profound influence off the court, particularly as a Nike executive and motivational speaker. His literary contributions include "Coaching for Success," a book that blends his coaching philosophy with life lessons. Additionally, Raveling is a custodian of an important historical artifact—an original copy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, which he obtained while volunteering at the 1963 March on Washington.
Daniel Petre is a distinguished Australian entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist known for his impactful contributions to the business and literary worlds. He co-founded the venture capital firm AirTree Ventures, which has significantly influenced the technology startup ecosystem in Australia. Petre has authored several influential books on technology and leadership, including "The Clever Country?" and "Father Time," which explore themes of innovation and work-life balance. His writing often reflects his deep commitment to shaping a forward-thinking, inclusive society. Beyond his literary and business endeavors, Petre is also recognized for his substantial philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“Loyalty can be a prison, limiting not just freedom, but also the choices that define who we truly are.”
The Spy and the Traitor
By Ben Macintyre
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ben Macintyre is a British author, historian, and columnist known for his captivating narrative non-fiction. He has written several notable works, including 'Agent Zigzag,' 'The Spy and the Traitor,' and 'Double Cross,' all of which explore themes of espionage and World War II. Macintyre's writing style blends meticulous research with engaging storytelling, making complex historical events accessible and compelling to a broad audience. He frequently contributes to The Times and often appears on radio and television to discuss history and espionage.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Captive Prince," the captivating tale of power and betrayal unfolds as Laurent, the cunning prince of Vereck, must navigate the treacherous politics of his enemy's court. When Damen, the exiled warrior prince of Akielos, becomes a slave to Laurent, forced into a world of subterfuge and intrigue, unexpected alliances begin to form. As the two grapple with their conflicting loyalties and simmering desires, they are drawn into a dangerous game that could alter the fate of their kingdoms. The tension escalates with each page, revealing secrets that could shatter their lives and reshape their loyalties. Will love conquer all, or will the weight of a fractured legacy seal their doom?
In "The Wealthy Gardener," author John Soforic reveals the transformative journey of a father teaching his son the intricate balance between wealth and wisdom. Through a series of poignant parables, readers explore the seeds of financial success that sprout from patience, dedication, and the right mindset. The book intertwines personal anecdotes with practical advice, challenging conventional notions of prosperity and fulfillment. As the characters navigate the gardens of their lives, they uncover profound truths about happiness, legacy, and the true meaning of wealth. Prepare to dig deep into a narrative that cultivates both inspiration and actionable insights for your own growth.
In "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," Stephen R. Covey unveils a transformative framework for personal and professional success that goes beyond mere productivity. Through powerful principles that encourage self-mastery and proactive living, Covey guides readers to shift their paradigms and cultivate meaningful relationships. Each habit builds upon the last, leading to a holistic approach to achieving goals and overcoming challenges. As you journey through the chapters, you'll discover practical strategies that foster resilience and interdependence. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of effectiveness and redefine what it means to thrive in a complex world?
In 'Will', Will Smith chronicles his remarkable journey from a young boy in West Philadelphia to becoming a global entertainment icon. He shares personal anecdotes, profound lessons, and the struggles he faced, revealing his vulnerabilities and how they shaped his character. The narrative is laced with humor, heart, and insight from a life lived in the spotlight. As he navigates fame, family, and self-discovery, Smith invites readers to reflect on their own dreams and the ambitions that drive them. This candid memoir is not just a celebrity story; it’s a universal tale of resilience and the pursuit of happiness.
In 'The Dhandho Investor', Mohnish Pabrai unveils the secrets of value investing through the lens of the Dhandho philosophy, rooted in the principles of Indian entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of a low-risk, high-uncertainty approach that allows investors to maximize gains while minimizing potential losses. By sharing insightful anecdotes and the strategies of legendary investors like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, Pabrai encourages readers to rethink conventional investing wisdom. As he navigates the fascinating intersections of culture and finance, you'll discover how to harness the power of relentless focus and strategic decision-making. This book not only challenges your investment perspective but also invites you to question your own approach to wealth creation.
In 'The Record of the Paper', authors Howard Friel and Richard A. Falk unveil the intricate web of misinformation surrounding key historical events. They challenge prevailing narratives by meticulously examining the role of media and politics in shaping public perception. Through compelling case studies, Friel and Falk reveal how selective reporting can distort truth and influence policy decisions. The book not only serves as a critical analysis of historical records but also encourages readers to question the sources of their information. Prepare to embark on a journey that uncovers hidden truths and reshapes your understanding of history.
In 'Collusion Across the Jordan,' Avi Shlaim unveils the intricate and often hidden relationships between Israel and Jordan during pivotal moments in Middle Eastern history. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he reveals how political maneuvering and shared interests have shaped the narratives of both nations. The book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to reconsider the complexities of Arab-Israeli relations. Shlaim's insights highlight the impact of diplomacy and secret agreements that influenced the region's fate. Prepare for a journey that intertwines history, politics, and the human spirit in ways that will leave you questioning the very foundations of contemporary geopolitics.
In 'The Lily,' Daniel Cloud intricately weaves the concepts of evolution, play, and societal freedom into a compelling narrative. The book challenges conventional thinking by illustrating how play is an essential mechanism for innovation and adaptation in both nature and human society. Cloud argues that true freedom fosters creativity and collaboration, ultimately leading to a vibrant and progressive community. With captivating examples and thought-provoking insights, the narrative invites readers to reconsider the intersection of individual liberty and collective growth. Discover how the delicate balance of evolution and play can empower a society to thrive in unpredictable times.