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The Spy and the Devil

The untold story of the MI6 agent who penetrated Hitler’s inner circle
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Brief Description
The forgotten tale of MI6's top spy in Nazi Germany and his bid to stop the Second World War. In the world of espionage, where the accounts of renowned spies often dominate the narrative, this is a rare gem - an untold story of a completely... Read More
Format: Hardback
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The first published account of the undercover agent who fought for Britain in the Great War, and became MI6's most important resource in the highest Nazi circles

The first published account of the undercover agent who fought for Britain in the Great War, and became MI6's most important resource in the highest Nazi circles

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

The forgotten tale of MI6's top spy in Nazi Germany and his bid to stop the Second World War.

In the world of espionage, where the accounts of renowned spies often dominate the narrative, this is a rare gem - an untold story of a completely unknown spy. Baron William de Ropp, a Baltic German aristocrat, wasn't just any ordinary spy; he was MI6's top secret agent in Nazi Germany from 1931 to 1939, managing to escape Berlin just before war broke out. This unsung hero had direct access to Adolf Hitler and an inside track on the Nazi regime. His reports, shrouded in secrecy, had the power to shape British policy toward Germany in a pivotal period of history.

The Spy and the Devil is a riveting tale of espionage, intrigue, and the untold impact of one man's secret mission on the course of history. A journey into the shadows of Nazi Germany, where a forgotten British spy worked tirelessly to avert catastrophe, and discover the secrets that history almost left behind.

Bill de Ropp's story has never been published in full before, adding an extra dimension to what is, by any standard, the account of a very remarkable man. Drawing on his years of service in the Foreign Office, Tim Willasey-Wilsey offers an insider's view of this outstandingly effective but enigmatic British spy.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781789468670

Publisher: John Blake Publishing Ltd

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 08 May 2025

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: John Blake Publishing Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 40.0mm

Width: 166.0mm

Height: 244.0mm

Weight: 710g

Pages: 448

About the Author

Tim Willasey-Wilsey, CMG, is Visiting Professor of War Studies at King's College, London and Senior Associate Fellow at the Royal United-Services Institute (RUSI). He served for twenty-seven years as a Foreign Office diplomat in Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe. He has published numerous articles and reviews for both the national press and academic institutions and think tanks.

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  • The Spy and the Devil
    This is the forgotten tale of MI6's top spy in Nazi Germany and his bid to stop the Second World War. In the world of espionage, where the accounts of renowned spies often dominate the narrative, this is a rare gem - an untold story of a completely unknown spy. Baron William de Ropp, a Baltic German aristocrat, wasn't just...
    Paperback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Spy and the Devil
    Pre-order
    The Spy and the Devil
    The forgotten tale of MI6's top spy in Nazi Germany and his bid to stop the Second World War. In the world of espionage, where the accounts of renowned spies often dominate the narrative, this is a rare gemβ€”a story of a completely unknown spy. Baron William de Ropp, a Baltic German aristocrat, wasn't just any ordinary spy; he was...
    Paperback
    $2999
    Pre-order
    Out 6 Aug 2026

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