a spy among friends ben macintyre review

There’s a measure of admiration in the text for Philby’s run of luck and audacious accomplishments, as when he was actually placed in charge of anti-Soviet intelligence: “The fox was not merely guarding the henhouse but building it, running it, assessing its strengths and frailties, and planning its future construction.” Entertaining and lively, Macintyre’s account makes the best fictional thrillers seem tame. Working with colorful characters and an anything-can-happen attitude, Macintyre builds up a picture of an intelligence community chock-full of intrigue and betrayal, in which Philby was the undisputed king of lies.

Moreover, Macintyre widens his scope to look at Philby’s closest allies and friends, including fellow MI6 officer Nicholas Elliot and CIA operative James Jesus Angleton-the men who stood by him when all others were convinced of his as-yet-unproven guilt. Macintyre describes well how shaken he must have felt at suddenly confronting a truth he had so long and so confidently denied. Macintyre covers the full range of Philby’s career, from his work during WWII and the early years of the Cold War to his downfall and defection to the Soviet Union.

In this engaging real-life spy story, Macintyre ( Double Cross) pulls back the curtain on the life and exploits of Kim Philby, who served for decades in Britain’s intelligence community while secretly working as a Soviet double agent. (Starred review.) Ben Macintyre offers a fresh look at master double agent Kim PhilbyFans of James Bond will enjoy this look into the era that inspired Ian.

A spy among friends ben macintyre review