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Agent Zigzag

The True Wartime Story of Eddie Chapman: Lover, Traitor, Hero, Spy
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( 18,361 ratings, 1,545 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Agent Zigzag by Ben Macintyre is a gripping historical account that delves into the true story of Eddie Chapman, a charming British double agent during World War II. Skillfully switching allegiances, Chapman plays a dangerous game of espionage, navigating the treacherous waters between the Nazis and MI5. This riveting tale captures his extraordinary exploits and the intricate spycraft of the era.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by true stories of espionage, double agents, and World War II intrigue. This thrilling tale offers a gripping mix of adventure, daring missions, and historical detail, perfect for fans of historical fiction with a twist of real-life drama.

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Agent Zigzag

'If you're looking for a good spy thriller, I definitely recommend this' Daily Express The thrilling real-life story of a double agent in the Second World War

'If you're looking for a good spy thriller, I definitely recommend this' Daily Express The thrilling real-life story of a double agent in the Second World War

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

On a cold December night in 1942, an unusual event occurred in a quiet Cambridgeshire field: a Nazi parachutist descended from the sky with the mission to wreak havoc on the British war effort. His name was Eddie Chapman, an enigmatic figure who would soon play an extraordinary role as MI5's Agent Zigzag.

Agent Zigzag by Ben Macintyre is a riveting account of the life of Eddie Chapman, a man whose story is filled with intrigue, danger, and espionage. As a master of deception, Chapman is depicted as dashing and louche, often unpredictable but always enigmatic. Despite being a traitor working for the Nazis, inside, he harboured a complex loyalty to Britain. He deftly manoeuvred between playing the role of a villain and a hero, leaving those around him, including his multiple lovers and espionage handlers, in a constant state of uncertainty regarding his true allegiance.

Macintyre skilfully weaves together a rich tapestry of historical details sourced from diaries, letters, photographs, and memories, as well as top-secret MI5 files. These sources combine to paint a vivid portrait of Chapman, capturing the very essence of his daring exploits and the intricate web of espionage and counter-espionage during World War II. The narrative provides not just an exhilarating glimpse into the life of Britain's most sensational double agent, but also a sobering reminder of the precarious line between heroism and betrayal.

Agent Zigzag delivers a compelling narrative that reads like a thriller, captivating readers with its pace and depth. The book goes beyond mere historical recount, delving into the psychology of deception and the high stakes of international espionage. It leaves readers contemplating the true nature of patriotism and the often blurry boundaries between right and wrong in times of war.

Ultimately, Ben Macintyre's carefully pieced-together account of Eddie Chapman’s double life is an exhilarating and thought-provoking read, offering an unparalleled look into one of the most fascinating espionage stories of the 20th century.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Agent Zigzag by Ben Macintyre has received high praise for its thrilling and meticulously researched account of true-life espionage adventures. Critics commend the book for being immensely entertaining, superbly told, and often very moving, with John le Carré noting its superb storytelling. The Times and Mail on Sunday highlight its engaging nature and fascinating details, making it highly recommended for a broad audience, including those interested in historical espionage.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781408885406

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 22 September 2016

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Illustration: B&W Inserts

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 320g

Pages: 400

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About the Author

Ben Macintyre is a columnist and Associate Editor on The Times. He has worked as the newspaper's correspondent in New York, Paris and Washington. He now lives in London with his wife and three children. Agent Zigzag is his fifth book.

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