The Spy and the Traitor

by Ben Macintyre
The Spy and the Traitor cover
Good Books rating 4.33
History
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  • ID: 3123
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780241186671
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2018-09-20
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Spy and the Traitor is a thrilling account of one of the most daring espionage operations in history. It follows the story of a senior KGB officer who became a double agent for British intelligence, providing invaluable secrets that crippled the Soviet intelligence machine. The book is not just a tale of espionage but also a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the shadows of the Cold War. /n/n Ben Macintyre, a renowned historian, brings this extraordinary story to life with meticulous research and compelling narrative. The book includes a new afterword, offering additional insights into the impact of this spy's actions. It's a must-read for anyone fascinated by real-life spy stories and the intricacies of Cold War history.

Reviews
Spybrary · 2025-10-16
thrilling 4.50

The book masterfully weaves together a complex and precarious tale of espionage, making it both thrilling and historically significant. The reviewer is impressed by the author's ability to bring this true story to life.

This reviewer is blown away by the intricacy and suspense of the narrative. They highlight how the author manages to turn a real-life story into something that feels like a gripping thriller. The attention to detail and the way the story is pieced together is commended, making it a standout in the genre of espionage literature. The reviewer also appreciates the historical context and the insights into the Cold War era, which add depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Macintyre's work putting together the challenging (understatement), precarious tale of how Gordievsky was brought in from Russia is unbelievable. But it's true.

    The Spy and the Traitor is a suspenseful, well-researched and absorbing read.

    Ben Macintyre masterfully weaves the intricate threads of this true Cold War espionage story into a gripping narrative that kept me on the edge of my seat.

I've Read This · 2019-03-26
exciting 4.50

The book is described as a suspenseful and well-researched read that absorbs the reader from start to finish. The reviewer is thrilled they took a chance on this book.

This reviewer is excited to have discovered this book, describing it as a suspenseful and well-researched read that keeps the reader engaged throughout. They appreciate the depth of research and the way the story is told, making it both absorbing and informative. The reviewer also mentions that the book's ability to blend historical facts with a thrilling narrative makes it a standout in the genre. Overall, it's a highly recommended read for those interested in espionage and Cold War history.

Quick quotes

    Wow, I am so excited I took a chance on this; The Spy and the Traitor by Ben MacIntyre is a suspenseful, well-researched and absorbing read.

    The book is every bit as exciting as my favorite spy novels.

    You may be wondering why Macintyre applies the label 'spy' to the double agent.

The Guardian · 2018-09-19
compelling 4.00

The book is praised for its dramatic and insightful portrayal of a critical figure in Cold War espionage. The reviewer appreciates how it complements and enhances the subject's first-person account.

This reviewer finds the book to be a wonderful complement to the first-person account of the central figure, adding layers of drama and insight. They particularly enjoy how the narrative reveals the dramatic role played by the protagonist, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also notes the elegance of the prose and the occasional quotable asides that enrich the storytelling. Overall, it's seen as a significant contribution to the genre.

Quick quotes

    Ben Macintyre's wonderful The Spy and the Traitor complements and enhances Gordievsky's first-person account.

    Macintyre's prose is elegant and enlivened with occasional asides that are eminently quotable.

    It reveals the dramatic role played by Gordievsky, making it a gripping narrative.

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