All His Spies: The Secret World of Robert Cecil

by Stephen Alford
All His Spies: The Secret World of Robert Cecil cover
Good Books rating 4.5
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Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £30.00
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  • ID: 3088
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 2
Reviews
ahc.leeds.ac.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-19
fascinating 4.50

All His Spies delves into the secretive world of Robert Cecil, a key figure in Elizabethan and Jacobean politics. The book highlights his intricate web of spies and informants, offering a fresh perspective on his influence and the political landscape of the time.

All His Spies by Professor Stephen Alford provides a fascinating look into the life and times of Robert Cecil, one of the most powerful figures in late 16th and early 17th century England. The book reveals how Cecil's extensive network of spies and informants played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. It's a compelling narrative that sheds light on the often hidden machinations of power. The author's meticulous research and engaging writing style make the book both informative and enjoyable. While some might find the detail overwhelming, it's a testament to the depth of Cecil's influence and the complexity of the era.

Quick quotes

    The book offers a fresh perspective on Robert Cecil's influence

    Cecil's network of spies and informants was extensive and crucial

    The author's meticulous research and engaging writing style make the book both informative and enjoyable

historytoday.com · Unknown · 2024-08-08
engaging 4.50

The review discusses two books on Tudor and Stuart espionage, highlighting Robert Cecil's role as a spymaster and the intricate world of spycraft. It praises the authors' use of original manuscripts and their exploration of the material aspects of espionage, including invisible inks and letter-locking techniques.

The review covers two books that delve into the secretive world of Tudor and Stuart espionage. The first book, 'All His Spies: The Secret World of Robert Cecil,' focuses on Robert Cecil's life and his pivotal role as a spymaster during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I. The reviewer appreciates the author's use of original manuscripts, which provide insights into Cecil's character and the intrigues of the royal court. The second book, 'Spycraft: Tricks and Tools of the Dangerous Trade from Elizabeth I to the Restoration,' explores the material aspects of espionage, such as invisible inks, letter-locking techniques, and the use of ciphers. The reviewer highlights the book's emphasis on the active involvement of women in espionage and the dangers they faced. Both books are praised for their detailed and engaging exploration of a fascinating historical period.

Quick quotes

    The Cecils — subject of a now-complete trilogy by Stephen Alford — were the most powerful royal ministers for over five decades.

    These were years when fears and rumours of treason, imminent Spanish invasion and Catholic assassination plots against Elizabeth were rife.

    The uncertain life of the spy is demonstrated by Thomas Phelippes, a gifted linguist and cryptographer best known for deciphering the Babington Letters in 1586.

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