All books are shipped from New Zealand 📚

Try our Gift Wrap Service free this weekend only 🎁

WRAPITUP

A Spy Among Friends

Now a major ITV series starring Damian Lewis and Guy Pearce
4.18 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 25,979 ratings, 2,293 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
In A Spy Among Friends, Ben Macintyre delves into the fascinating true story of Kim Philby, a brilliant and charming British intelligence officer who was secretly working as a Soviet double agent. The book explores Philby's complex relationships, his betrayal, and the staggering impact on espionage and intelligence. This gripping narrative unveils an extraordinary tale of friendship, deceit, and Cold War intrigue.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2499
GET IT FOR CHRISTMAS | OVERNIGHT DELIVERY

Found a better price? Request a price match

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 are fascinated by true espionage stories, delving into the complexities of friendship and betrayal in the world of intelligence during the Cold War. The gripping narrative and richly detailed historical context make it a captivating read for history buffs and spy enthusiasts alike.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

A Spy Among Friends

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
NOW A MAJOR SIX-PART SERIES ON ITVX, STARRING DAMIAN LEWIS AND GUY PEARCE A SUNDAY TIMES No. 1 BESTSELLER WITH AN AFTERWORD BY JOHN LE CARRÉ

A Spy Among Friends by Ben Macintyre delves into the astonishing true story of Kim Philby, a high-ranking British intelligence officer who became one of history's most dangerous Soviet moles. Set against the richly evocative backdrop of post-war espionage, this gripping narrative explores the intricate and ultimately catastrophic relationship between Philby and his closest friends, Nicholas Elliott and James Jesus Angleton.

At the height of the Cold War, Philby was the charming and seemingly trustworthy colleague who betrayed the West by leaking Allied secrets to the Russians. His deception had far-reaching consequences and shattered the lives and careers of those who trusted him most. Elliott and Angleton, who considered Philby a confidant and ally, were left stunned and disillusioned upon discovering the extent of his betrayal.

The book intricately examines themes of loyalty, friendship, and treachery. It provides a nuanced look at how class and conscience played critical roles in the private and professional lives of these men. Macintyre, with access to newly released MI5 files and previously unseen documents, unveils what is perhaps the last great secret of the Cold War.

A Spy Among Friends is more than a recounting of historical events; it's a deeply human story that captures the fraught relationships between colleagues in the shadowy world of espionage. Macintyre’s compelling prose brings to life the emotional turbulence and moral ambiguities faced by those who operate in the clandestine realm.

'Riveting, astounding ... An unputdownable postwar thriller'Observer

'Irresistibly readable'Sunday Times

'Worthy of John le Carré at his best'Guardian

'Hugely engrossing ... Both authoritative and enthralling' — William Boyd

A Spy Among Friends is not just a tale of espionage, but a penetrating exploration of trust and betrayal amongst the very people sworn to protect their countries. Its narrative, filled with historical insights and moral complexities, makes it a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intrigues of the Cold War era.

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?

Critics acclaim A Spy Among Friends for its gripping and engaging narrative on Kim Philby's treachery. It has been praised for combining historical accuracy with the excitement of fiction, offering deep insights into personal relationships and espionage. The book is described as both authoritative and enthralling, with many reviewers highlighting Macintyre's storytelling skills and the intimate portrayal of Philby's friendships.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781408851784

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 12 March 2015

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Illustration: 2 x 16pp B&W plate section

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 313g

Pages: 368

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

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 is the author of nine previous books including Agent Zigzag, shortlisted for the Costa Biography Award and the Galaxy British Book Award for Biography of the Year 2008, and the no. 1 bestsellers Operation Mincemeat and Double Cross. He lives in London.

Also by Ben Macintyre

View all

More from Biography & Memoir

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 10,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Pick Ups

Auckland Pick Ups

We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.

Reviews from our customers