SpyMasters https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ en Aspects of History Writer and journalist Antonia Senior interviews all the best writers on espionage. Each episode will bring you fascinating stories on spies, covert action and more - delving in to fact and fiction, past and present. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/b7a52174-bb75-11ee-a585-3784f27b42bd/image/16e05e34841c6d47ddfdd713585643ca.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress SpyMasters https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ no episodic Antonia Senior Writer and journalist Antonia Senior interviews all the best writers on espionage. Each episode will bring you fascinating stories on spies, covert action and more - delving in to fact and fiction, past and present. Writer and journalist Antonia Senior interviews all the best writers on espionage. Each episode will bring you fascinating stories on spies, covert action and more - delving in to fact and fiction, past and present.

]]> Oliver Webb-Carter editor@aspectsofhistory.com Master of Lies: How Anthony Blunt's Treachery Changed Our World Piers Blofeld talks to Spymasters about his new book on Anthony Blunt, MASTER OF LIES, the greatest traitor, working for Churchill and Stalin, Operation Market Garden, a not-confession confession, enjoying the limelight of discovery. MASTER OF LIES: In a brilliant feat of literary detective work Master of Lies tells the extraordinary untold story of Anthony Blunt's life as a spy. Based on extensive research into newly released files he is revealed as not simply "the fourth man", but the most dangerous spy of the twentieth century.During the war, as the fate of the world hung in the balance, Blunt's intelligence was being fed straight on to the desks of Hitler, Stalin and Churchill. His hand was secretly guiding our collective fate and his treason led to the deaths of tens of thousands. He casts a shadow which looms large to this day.The official narrative is that Blunt was the least of the Cambridge spies - and yet he was the one who got away with it. While the rest drank themselves to death in dingy Moscow flats, Blunt revelled in his brilliant career as an art historian, Surveyor of the Queen's pictures and Knight of the Realm. He was protected not just by his many friendships with the great and the good, but by the brilliance with which he played the game - his was a secret too big to be told.Master of Lies reads like the best spy fiction but it solves one of the great espionage mysteries of our times. Piers Blofeld is a literary agent and, apart from a brief stint as a story consultant in the video games industry he has worked in publishing for the whole of his career. A regular commentator on the mysteries of the book business he has had his own column in Writing Magazine for the last five years. Born and bred in Norfolk, his surname made it all but inevitable he would nurture a fascination with supervillainy and spying. Master of Lies is his first book. Recommended Anthony Glees The Secrets of the Service Paul Burke is editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 07 May 2026 18:17:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Piers Blofeld talks to Spymasters about his new book on Anthony Blunt, MASTER OF LIES, the greatest traitor, working for Churchill and Stalin, Operation Market Garden, a not-confession confession, enjoying the limelight of discovery. MASTER OF LIES: In a brilliant feat of literary detective work Master of Lies tells the extraordinary untold story of Anthony Blunt's life as a spy. Based on extensive research into newly released files he is revealed as not simply "the fourth man", but the most dangerous spy of the twentieth century.During the war, as the fate of the world hung in the balance, Blunt's intelligence was being fed straight on to the desks of Hitler, Stalin and Churchill. His hand was secretly guiding our collective fate and his treason led to the deaths of tens of thousands. He casts a shadow which looms large to this day.The official narrative is that Blunt was the least of the Cambridge spies - and yet he was the one who got away with it. While the rest drank themselves to death in dingy Moscow flats, Blunt revelled in his brilliant career as an art historian, Surveyor of the Queen's pictures and Knight of the Realm. He was protected not just by his many friendships with the great and the good, but by the brilliance with which he played the game - his was a secret too big to be told.Master of Lies reads like the best spy fiction but it solves one of the great espionage mysteries of our times. Piers Blofeld is a literary agent and, apart from a brief stint as a story consultant in the video games industry he has worked in publishing for the whole of his career. A regular commentator on the mysteries of the book business he has had his own column in Writing Magazine for the last five years. Born and bred in Norfolk, his surname made it all but inevitable he would nurture a fascination with supervillainy and spying. Master of Lies is his first book. Recommended Anthony Glees The Secrets of the Service Paul Burke is editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Piers Blofeld talks to Spymasters about his new book on Anthony Blunt, MASTER OF LIES, the greatest traitor, working for Churchill and Stalin, Operation Market Garden, a not-confession confession, enjoying the limelight of discovery.

MASTER OF LIES: In a brilliant feat of literary detective work Master of Lies tells the extraordinary untold story of Anthony Blunt's life as a spy. Based on extensive research into newly released files he is revealed as not simply "the fourth man", but the most dangerous spy of the twentieth century.
During the war, as the fate of the world hung in the balance, Blunt's intelligence was being fed straight on to the desks of Hitler, Stalin and Churchill. His hand was secretly guiding our collective fate and his treason led to the deaths of tens of thousands. He casts a shadow which looms large to this day.
The official narrative is that Blunt was the least of the Cambridge spies - and yet he was the one who got away with it. While the rest drank themselves to death in dingy Moscow flats, Blunt revelled in his brilliant career as an art historian, Surveyor of the Queen's pictures and Knight of the Realm. He was protected not just by his many friendships with the great and the good, but by the brilliance with which he played the game - his was a secret too big to be told.
Master of Lies reads like the best spy fiction but it solves one of the great espionage mysteries of our times.


Piers Blofeld is a literary agent and, apart from a brief stint as a story consultant in the video games industry he has worked in publishing for the whole of his career. A regular commentator on the mysteries of the book business he has had his own column in Writing Magazine for the last five years. Born and bred in Norfolk, his surname made it all but inevitable he would nurture a fascination with supervillainy and spying. Master of Lies is his first book.


Recommended Anthony Glees The Secrets of the Service


Paul Burke is editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen From Silent to Streaming will be published in September.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3726 no Stalin's Apostles: The Cambridge Five and the Making of the Soviet Empire Pt.2 STALIN'S APOSTLES: The Cambridge Five and the making of the Soviet Empire, Part 2. From MacLean and Burgess' defection to today, research, new sources, The Cambridge Five are surrounded by myth. It was time for a new sober and revealing history of the most deadly spy ring ever. Paul Burke talks to Antonia Senior about her new thrilling account of Burgess, Maclean, Philby, Blunt & Cairncross: STALIN'S APOSTLES is a radical new look at the way five people allowed their obsession with Communist ideology to overshadow any sense of morality or decency - or loyalty to their country. Why did these gilded charming men, blessed with brains, and beauty and opportunities, choose to betray their country?Using recently declassified files, STALIN'S APOSTLES explores as never before the treachery of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Kim Philby, John Cairncross and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures Anthony Blunt, all radicalised while at Cambridge University in the 1930s. Their clandestine supply of British and US intelligence material gave Stalin an inside track on US and British decision-making until the implosion of the spy-ring in May 1951. There was barely a secret, barely a decision made, that Stalin did not know about, thanks to his Cambridge spies, and his networks in the United States. The Five became tools in Stalin's imperial scheme, responsible directly and indirectly for the death of thousands of men and women fighting against Soviet domination.Shielded for so long by the British Establishment, four of the five were never prosecuted for their crimes. As STALIN'S APOSTLES reveals, they were exposed as much by their own incompetence as by forensic investigation by the CIA, MI5 or MI6. And in time another dictator emerged as ruthless as Stalin, but with an even greater desire to establish a Russian Empire that would threaten Western democracy. The legacy of the Cambridge Five is not only in the graveyards of eastern Europe, but at the heart of Putin's Kremlin. Paul Burke is the new presenter of Spymasters and editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:35:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior STALIN'S APOSTLES: The Cambridge Five and the making of the Soviet Empire, Part 2. From MacLean and Burgess' defection to today, research, new sources, The Cambridge Five are surrounded by myth. It was time for a new sober and revealing history of the most deadly spy ring ever. Paul Burke talks to Antonia Senior about her new thrilling account of Burgess, Maclean, Philby, Blunt & Cairncross: STALIN'S APOSTLES is a radical new look at the way five people allowed their obsession with Communist ideology to overshadow any sense of morality or decency - or loyalty to their country. Why did these gilded charming men, blessed with brains, and beauty and opportunities, choose to betray their country?Using recently declassified files, STALIN'S APOSTLES explores as never before the treachery of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Kim Philby, John Cairncross and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures Anthony Blunt, all radicalised while at Cambridge University in the 1930s. Their clandestine supply of British and US intelligence material gave Stalin an inside track on US and British decision-making until the implosion of the spy-ring in May 1951. There was barely a secret, barely a decision made, that Stalin did not know about, thanks to his Cambridge spies, and his networks in the United States. The Five became tools in Stalin's imperial scheme, responsible directly and indirectly for the death of thousands of men and women fighting against Soviet domination.Shielded for so long by the British Establishment, four of the five were never prosecuted for their crimes. As STALIN'S APOSTLES reveals, they were exposed as much by their own incompetence as by forensic investigation by the CIA, MI5 or MI6. And in time another dictator emerged as ruthless as Stalin, but with an even greater desire to establish a Russian Empire that would threaten Western democracy. The legacy of the Cambridge Five is not only in the graveyards of eastern Europe, but at the heart of Putin's Kremlin. Paul Burke is the new presenter of Spymasters and editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices STALIN'S APOSTLES: The Cambridge Five and the making of the Soviet Empire, Part 2. From MacLean and Burgess' defection to today, research, new sources,

The Cambridge Five are surrounded by myth. It was time for a new sober and revealing history of the most deadly spy ring ever. Paul Burke talks to Antonia Senior about her new thrilling account of Burgess, Maclean, Philby, Blunt & Cairncross:

STALIN'S APOSTLES is a radical new look at the way five people allowed their obsession with Communist ideology to overshadow any sense of morality or decency - or loyalty to their country. Why did these gilded charming men, blessed with brains, and beauty and opportunities, choose to betray their country?
Using recently declassified files, STALIN'S APOSTLES explores as never before the treachery of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Kim Philby, John Cairncross and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures Anthony Blunt, all radicalised while at Cambridge University in the 1930s. Their clandestine supply of British and US intelligence material gave Stalin an inside track on US and British decision-making until the implosion of the spy-ring in May 1951. There was barely a secret, barely a decision made, that Stalin did not know about, thanks to his Cambridge spies, and his networks in the United States. The Five became tools in Stalin's imperial scheme, responsible directly and indirectly for the death of thousands of men and women fighting against Soviet domination.
Shielded for so long by the British Establishment, four of the five were never prosecuted for their crimes. As STALIN'S APOSTLES reveals, they were exposed as much by their own incompetence as by forensic investigation by the CIA, MI5 or MI6. And in time another dictator emerged as ruthless as Stalin, but with an even greater desire to establish a Russian Empire that would threaten Western democracy. The legacy of the Cambridge Five is not only in the graveyards of eastern Europe, but at the heart of Putin's Kremlin.

Paul Burke is the new presenter of Spymasters and editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3629 STALIN'S APOSTLES: The Cambridge Five and the making of the Soviet Empire The Cambridge Five are surrounded by myth. It was time for a new sober and revealing history of the most deadly spy ring ever. Paul Burke talks to Antonia Senior about her new thrilling account of Burgess, Maclean, Philby, Blunt & Cairncross: STALIN'S APOSTLES is a radical new look at the way five people allowed their obsession with Communist ideology to overshadow any sense of morality or decency - or loyalty to their country. Why did these gilded charming men, blessed with brains, and beauty and opportunities, choose to betray their country?Using recently declassified files, STALIN'S APOSTLES explores as never before the treachery of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Kim Philby, John Cairncross and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures Anthony Blunt, all radicalised while at Cambridge University in the 1930s. Their clandestine supply of British and US intelligence material gave Stalin an inside track on US and British decision-making until the implosion of the spy-ring in May 1951. There was barely a secret, barely a decision made, that Stalin did not know about, thanks to his Cambridge spies, and his networks in the United States. The Five became tools in Stalin's imperial scheme, responsible directly and indirectly for the death of thousands of men and women fighting against Soviet domination.Shielded for so long by the British Establishment, four of the five were never prosecuted for their crimes. As STALIN'S APOSTLES reveals, they were exposed as much by their own incompetence as by forensic investigation by the CIA, MI5 or MI6. And in time another dictator emerged as ruthless as Stalin, but with an even greater desire to establish a Russian Empire that would threaten Western democracy. The legacy of the Cambridge Five is not only in the graveyards of eastern Europe, but at the heart of Putin's Kremlin. Paul Burke is the new presenter of Spymasters and editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 09 Apr 2026 17:10:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior The Cambridge Five are surrounded by myth. It was time for a new sober and revealing history of the most deadly spy ring ever. Paul Burke talks to Antonia Senior about her new thrilling account of Burgess, Maclean, Philby, Blunt & Cairncross: STALIN'S APOSTLES is a radical new look at the way five people allowed their obsession with Communist ideology to overshadow any sense of morality or decency - or loyalty to their country. Why did these gilded charming men, blessed with brains, and beauty and opportunities, choose to betray their country?Using recently declassified files, STALIN'S APOSTLES explores as never before the treachery of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Kim Philby, John Cairncross and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures Anthony Blunt, all radicalised while at Cambridge University in the 1930s. Their clandestine supply of British and US intelligence material gave Stalin an inside track on US and British decision-making until the implosion of the spy-ring in May 1951. There was barely a secret, barely a decision made, that Stalin did not know about, thanks to his Cambridge spies, and his networks in the United States. The Five became tools in Stalin's imperial scheme, responsible directly and indirectly for the death of thousands of men and women fighting against Soviet domination.Shielded for so long by the British Establishment, four of the five were never prosecuted for their crimes. As STALIN'S APOSTLES reveals, they were exposed as much by their own incompetence as by forensic investigation by the CIA, MI5 or MI6. And in time another dictator emerged as ruthless as Stalin, but with an even greater desire to establish a Russian Empire that would threaten Western democracy. The legacy of the Cambridge Five is not only in the graveyards of eastern Europe, but at the heart of Putin's Kremlin. Paul Burke is the new presenter of Spymasters and editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices The Cambridge Five are surrounded by myth. It was time for a new sober and revealing history of the most deadly spy ring ever. Paul Burke talks to Antonia Senior about her new thrilling account of Burgess, Maclean, Philby, Blunt & Cairncross:


STALIN'S APOSTLES is a radical new look at the way five people allowed their obsession with Communist ideology to overshadow any sense of morality or decency - or loyalty to their country. Why did these gilded charming men, blessed with brains, and beauty and opportunities, choose to betray their country?
Using recently declassified files, STALIN'S APOSTLES explores as never before the treachery of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Kim Philby, John Cairncross and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures Anthony Blunt, all radicalised while at Cambridge University in the 1930s. Their clandestine supply of British and US intelligence material gave Stalin an inside track on US and British decision-making until the implosion of the spy-ring in May 1951. There was barely a secret, barely a decision made, that Stalin did not know about, thanks to his Cambridge spies, and his networks in the United States. The Five became tools in Stalin's imperial scheme, responsible directly and indirectly for the death of thousands of men and women fighting against Soviet domination.
Shielded for so long by the British Establishment, four of the five were never prosecuted for their crimes. As STALIN'S APOSTLES reveals, they were exposed as much by their own incompetence as by forensic investigation by the CIA, MI5 or MI6. And in time another dictator emerged as ruthless as Stalin, but with an even greater desire to establish a Russian Empire that would threaten Western democracy. The legacy of the Cambridge Five is not only in the graveyards of eastern Europe, but at the heart of Putin's Kremlin.


Paul Burke is the new presenter of Spymasters and editor of Aspects of Crime. His first book Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4409 Spymasters Documentary - Sky Arts, Director Adrian Munsey Adrian Munsey, director/writer of Spymasters a new documentary series for Sky Arts talks to Paul Burke about the intersection between history and its representation in film and fiction. The documentary features contributions from Christopher Andrews, academics, writers and has extensive archival footage and movie clips. Featured here: the biography of our times, exploring the boundaries between private and public, reality and perception, truth and myth/propaganda. An ordinance survey of geopolitical realities and the state versus the individual. Why do we love spy fiction, is it to ameliorate our fears or to better understand the world. Adrian Munsey is an entrepreneur, producer, impresario, composer and author. He has enjoyed one of the most varied careers in British media. Spymasters , following on from the Wonderland series of documentaries, is his latest production. Spymasters airs on Sky Arts at 9pm on March, 31st. Paul Burke is the editor of Aspects of Crime and is writing an encyclopedia of spy fiction. His first book, Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Episode produced by Junkyarddog Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Adrian Munsey, director/writer of Spymasters a new documentary series for Sky Arts talks to Paul Burke about the intersection between history and its representation in film and fiction. The documentary features contributions from Christopher Andrews, academics, writers and has extensive archival footage and movie clips. Featured here: the biography of our times, exploring the boundaries between private and public, reality and perception, truth and myth/propaganda. An ordinance survey of geopolitical realities and the state versus the individual. Why do we love spy fiction, is it to ameliorate our fears or to better understand the world. Adrian Munsey is an entrepreneur, producer, impresario, composer and author. He has enjoyed one of the most varied careers in British media. Spymasters , following on from the Wonderland series of documentaries, is his latest production. Spymasters airs on Sky Arts at 9pm on March, 31st. Paul Burke is the editor of Aspects of Crime and is writing an encyclopedia of spy fiction. His first book, Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September. Episode produced by Junkyarddog Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Adrian Munsey, director/writer of Spymasters a new documentary series for Sky Arts talks to Paul Burke about the intersection between history and its representation in film and fiction. The documentary features contributions from Christopher Andrews, academics, writers and has extensive archival footage and movie clips. Featured here: the biography of our times, exploring the boundaries between private and public, reality and perception, truth and myth/propaganda. An ordinance survey of geopolitical realities and the state versus the individual. Why do we love spy fiction, is it to ameliorate our fears or to better understand the world.

Adrian Munsey is an entrepreneur, producer, impresario, composer and author. He has enjoyed one of the most varied careers in British media. Spymasters , following on from the Wonderland series of documentaries, is his latest production.

Spymasters airs on Sky Arts at 9pm on March, 31st.


Paul Burke is the editor of Aspects of Crime and is writing an encyclopedia of spy fiction. His first book, Spies on Screen: From Silent to Streaming will be published in September.


Episode produced by Junkyarddog

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3667 no The Spy Who Shaped Britain: Daniel Defoe and the Secret Politics of Union What if one of the founders of the English novel was also a spy? In this episode of Spymasters, host Paul Burke speaks with historian Marc Mierowski about the extraordinary secret career of Daniel Defoe. Today Defoe is remembered as the author of Robinson Crusoe, Moll Flanders, and Roxana: The Fortunate Mistress. But long before he became a novelist, he operated in the murky world of intelligence, propaganda, and political influence. Working for the powerful minister Robert Harley, Defoe became a key government agent during the negotiations that led to the Acts of Union 1707. He infiltrated political networks, shaped public opinion through pamphlets, and gathered intelligence across Scotland as Britain struggled to create a new unified state. In this fascinating conversation, we explore: How Daniel Defoe became a government spy The intelligence war behind the Act of Union Pamphlets as the “social media” of the 18th century The economic and political crisis after the Darien Scheme The hidden networks of spies, propagandists and political operatives Why Defoe may have been one of Britain’s earliest modern intelligence agents This is the hidden world of espionage behind one of the most important political transformations in British history. The Club — Leo Damrosch The Lunar Men — Jenny Uglow King Leopold’s Ghost — Adam Hochschild The Wife of Bath — Marion Turner Parallel Lives — Phyllis Rose Also mentioned Janet Malcolm — discussed as an admired writer William Dalrymple — referenced in relation to his books on the East India Company Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior What if one of the founders of the English novel was also a spy? In this episode of Spymasters, host Paul Burke speaks with historian Marc Mierowski about the extraordinary secret career of Daniel Defoe. Today Defoe is remembered as the author of Robinson Crusoe, Moll Flanders, and Roxana: The Fortunate Mistress. But long before he became a novelist, he operated in the murky world of intelligence, propaganda, and political influence. Working for the powerful minister Robert Harley, Defoe became a key government agent during the negotiations that led to the Acts of Union 1707. He infiltrated political networks, shaped public opinion through pamphlets, and gathered intelligence across Scotland as Britain struggled to create a new unified state. In this fascinating conversation, we explore: How Daniel Defoe became a government spy The intelligence war behind the Act of Union Pamphlets as the “social media” of the 18th century The economic and political crisis after the Darien Scheme The hidden networks of spies, propagandists and political operatives Why Defoe may have been one of Britain’s earliest modern intelligence agents This is the hidden world of espionage behind one of the most important political transformations in British history. The Club — Leo Damrosch The Lunar Men — Jenny Uglow King Leopold’s Ghost — Adam Hochschild The Wife of Bath — Marion Turner Parallel Lives — Phyllis Rose Also mentioned Janet Malcolm — discussed as an admired writer William Dalrymple — referenced in relation to his books on the East India Company Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices What if one of the founders of the English novel was also a spy?

In this episode of Spymasters, host Paul Burke speaks with historian Marc Mierowski about the extraordinary secret career of Daniel Defoe.

Today Defoe is remembered as the author of Robinson Crusoe, Moll Flanders, and Roxana: The Fortunate Mistress. But long before he became a novelist, he operated in the murky world of intelligence, propaganda, and political influence.

Working for the powerful minister Robert Harley, Defoe became a key government agent during the negotiations that led to the Acts of Union 1707.

He infiltrated political networks, shaped public opinion through pamphlets, and gathered intelligence across Scotland as Britain struggled to create a new unified state.

In this fascinating conversation, we explore:

  • How Daniel Defoe became a government spy

  • The intelligence war behind the Act of Union

  • Pamphlets as the “social media” of the 18th century

  • The economic and political crisis after the Darien Scheme

  • The hidden networks of spies, propagandists and political operatives

  • Why Defoe may have been one of Britain’s earliest modern intelligence agents

This is the hidden world of espionage behind one of the most important political transformations in British history.

  • The Club — Leo Damrosch

  • The Lunar Men — Jenny Uglow

  • King Leopold’s Ghost — Adam Hochschild

  • The Wife of Bath — Marion Turner

  • Parallel Lives — Phyllis Rose

Also mentioned

  • Janet Malcolm — discussed as an admired writer

  • William Dalrymple — referenced in relation to his books on the East India Company

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3381 Spies and Other Gods: James Wolff on British intelligence, secrecy, and the “soul” of spying Former British intelligence officer (writing under a pseudonym), James Wolff, joins Antonia Senior for a smart, funny, unflinching conversation about his daring new novel Spies and Other Gods — a spy story told in a totally unexpected voice. We talk secrecy and censorship, the strange culture of intelligence, oversight (and why it rarely works), the moral “grubbiness” baked into espionage, and why the most interesting spy drama is often just two people in a room talking. Buy the book: Waterstones, Amazon, or your favourite indie (links below). Find Antonia on History Book Buffs: YouTube + podcast.  Spies and Other Gods (Waterstones): https://www.waterstones.com/book/spies-and-other-gods/james-wolff/9781399826310 Spies and Other Gods (Amazon UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spies-Other-Gods-electrifying-mysterious/dp/139982631X Spies and Other Gods (Daunt Books): https://dauntbooks.co.uk/shop/books/spies-and-other-gods/ History Book Buffs (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@TheHistoryBookBuffs History Book Buffs (Spotify show): https://open.spotify.com/show/1374VWNaaXrnveueY4iclQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Former British intelligence officer (writing under a pseudonym), James Wolff, joins Antonia Senior for a smart, funny, unflinching conversation about his daring new novel Spies and Other Gods — a spy story told in a totally unexpected voice. We talk secrecy and censorship, the strange culture of intelligence, oversight (and why it rarely works), the moral “grubbiness” baked into espionage, and why the most interesting spy drama is often just two people in a room talking. Buy the book: Waterstones, Amazon, or your favourite indie (links below). Find Antonia on History Book Buffs: YouTube + podcast.  Spies and Other Gods (Waterstones): https://www.waterstones.com/book/spies-and-other-gods/james-wolff/9781399826310 Spies and Other Gods (Amazon UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spies-Other-Gods-electrifying-mysterious/dp/139982631X Spies and Other Gods (Daunt Books): https://dauntbooks.co.uk/shop/books/spies-and-other-gods/ History Book Buffs (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@TheHistoryBookBuffs History Book Buffs (Spotify show): https://open.spotify.com/show/1374VWNaaXrnveueY4iclQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former British intelligence officer (writing under a pseudonym), James Wolff, joins Antonia Senior for a smart, funny, unflinching conversation about his daring new novel Spies and Other Gods — a spy story told in a totally unexpected voice.

We talk secrecy and censorship, the strange culture of intelligence, oversight (and why it rarely works), the moral “grubbiness” baked into espionage, and why the most interesting spy drama is often just two people in a room talking.

Buy the book: Waterstones, Amazon, or your favourite indie (links below). 
Find Antonia on History Book Buffs: YouTube + podcast. 


Spies and Other Gods (Waterstones): https://www.waterstones.com/book/spies-and-other-gods/james-wolff/9781399826310

Spies and Other Gods (Amazon UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spies-Other-Gods-electrifying-mysterious/dp/139982631X

Spies and Other Gods (Daunt Books): https://dauntbooks.co.uk/shop/books/spies-and-other-gods/

History Book Buffs (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@TheHistoryBookBuffs

History Book Buffs (Spotify show): https://open.spotify.com/show/1374VWNaaXrnveueY4iclQ

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2204 A Stranger in Corfu: MI6, Betrayal, and the Island Where Spies Disappear, with Alex Preston In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior sits down with acclaimed author Alex Preston to discuss his gripping new novel A Stranger in Corfu — a dark, atmospheric story that blends the glamour of the Mediterranean with the psychological wreckage of espionage. At the centre of the novel is Nina, a young MI6 agent dispatched into the collapsing chaos of 1990s Yugoslavia, where the moral certainties of her training collide with the brutal reality of intelligence work. What follows is a haunting journey — one that eventually leads her to a mysterious island off Corfu, a place that feels less like paradise and more like a retirement home for damaged spies. Alex reveals the real-world inspirations behind the story, including Corfu’s extraordinary intelligence history, and the chilling legacy of Operation Valuable — the failed Anglo-American Cold War effort to destabilise communist Albania. This is an episode about idealism, betrayal, compromised souls, and the seductive power of “beautiful lies.” If you love John le Carré, moral complexity, or spy stories that feel uncomfortably real… you’re going to love this conversation. 🔗 Buy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=A+Stranger+in+Corfu+Alex+Preston 🔗 Buy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=Stalin%27s+Apostles+Antonia+Senior If you love deep-dive history, espionage stories, and book-led discussions… 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HistoryBookBuffs🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4eI5pI5YFZy9Oa4XwQ7m9c🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/search?term=History%20Book%20Buffs A Stranger in Corfu, Alex Preston, Spymasters podcast, MI6 spy novel, espionage fiction, Corfu spy history, Operation Valuable, Cold War operations, John le Carré influence, moral ambiguity, literary spy thriller, Yugoslavia intelligence, British intelligence fiction, CIA and MI6 operations, spy retirement island, psychological espionage fiction Spy fiction is at its best when it’s morally uncomfortable. Nina’s story captures the psychological cost of being trained to lie for a living. Corfu isn’t just beautiful — it’s a landscape soaked in Cold War intrigue. Operation Valuable remains one of the most fascinating and disastrous intelligence missions of the era. The novel’s dual timeline structure deepens both suspense and emotional impact. Espionage isn’t about heroes and villains — it’s about people trying to survive the compromises they’ve made. “What drives us all?” “Is it ever worth it?” “A dark wave that is constantly about to break.” 00:00 – Introduction to Alex and A Stranger in Corfu02:37 – Why Corfu is the perfect spy setting06:51 – Kim Philby, betrayal, and the ghost of intelligence history11:25 – Nina’s story and the power of a dual timeline16:48 – The moral ambiguities of espionage20:59 – Generational links and inherited damage26:50 – Idealism vs. reality in the spy world30:06 – The seduction of “beautiful lies”35:23 – Nina, trauma, and the dark wave38:47 – Future projects and closing thoughts Please consider following Spymasters, leaving a rating, and sharing the episode with a fellow spy-fiction addict. Because the truth is rarely clean… and espionage never ends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior sits down with acclaimed author Alex Preston to discuss his gripping new novel A Stranger in Corfu — a dark, atmospheric story that blends the glamour of the Mediterranean with the psychological wreckage of espionage. At the centre of the novel is Nina, a young MI6 agent dispatched into the collapsing chaos of 1990s Yugoslavia, where the moral certainties of her training collide with the brutal reality of intelligence work. What follows is a haunting journey — one that eventually leads her to a mysterious island off Corfu, a place that feels less like paradise and more like a retirement home for damaged spies. Alex reveals the real-world inspirations behind the story, including Corfu’s extraordinary intelligence history, and the chilling legacy of Operation Valuable — the failed Anglo-American Cold War effort to destabilise communist Albania. This is an episode about idealism, betrayal, compromised souls, and the seductive power of “beautiful lies.” If you love John le Carré, moral complexity, or spy stories that feel uncomfortably real… you’re going to love this conversation. 🔗 Buy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=A+Stranger+in+Corfu+Alex+Preston 🔗 Buy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=Stalin%27s+Apostles+Antonia+Senior If you love deep-dive history, espionage stories, and book-led discussions… 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HistoryBookBuffs🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4eI5pI5YFZy9Oa4XwQ7m9c🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/search?term=History%20Book%20Buffs A Stranger in Corfu, Alex Preston, Spymasters podcast, MI6 spy novel, espionage fiction, Corfu spy history, Operation Valuable, Cold War operations, John le Carré influence, moral ambiguity, literary spy thriller, Yugoslavia intelligence, British intelligence fiction, CIA and MI6 operations, spy retirement island, psychological espionage fiction Spy fiction is at its best when it’s morally uncomfortable. Nina’s story captures the psychological cost of being trained to lie for a living. Corfu isn’t just beautiful — it’s a landscape soaked in Cold War intrigue. Operation Valuable remains one of the most fascinating and disastrous intelligence missions of the era. The novel’s dual timeline structure deepens both suspense and emotional impact. Espionage isn’t about heroes and villains — it’s about people trying to survive the compromises they’ve made. “What drives us all?” “Is it ever worth it?” “A dark wave that is constantly about to break.” 00:00 – Introduction to Alex and A Stranger in Corfu02:37 – Why Corfu is the perfect spy setting06:51 – Kim Philby, betrayal, and the ghost of intelligence history11:25 – Nina’s story and the power of a dual timeline16:48 – The moral ambiguities of espionage20:59 – Generational links and inherited damage26:50 – Idealism vs. reality in the spy world30:06 – The seduction of “beautiful lies”35:23 – Nina, trauma, and the dark wave38:47 – Future projects and closing thoughts Please consider following Spymasters, leaving a rating, and sharing the episode with a fellow spy-fiction addict. Because the truth is rarely clean… and espionage never ends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior sits down with acclaimed author Alex Preston to discuss his gripping new novel A Stranger in Corfu — a dark, atmospheric story that blends the glamour of the Mediterranean with the psychological wreckage of espionage.

At the centre of the novel is Nina, a young MI6 agent dispatched into the collapsing chaos of 1990s Yugoslavia, where the moral certainties of her training collide with the brutal reality of intelligence work. What follows is a haunting journey — one that eventually leads her to a mysterious island off Corfu, a place that feels less like paradise and more like a retirement home for damaged spies.

Alex reveals the real-world inspirations behind the story, including Corfu’s extraordinary intelligence history, and the chilling legacy of Operation Valuable — the failed Anglo-American Cold War effort to destabilise communist Albania.

This is an episode about idealism, betrayal, compromised souls, and the seductive power of “beautiful lies.” If you love John le Carré, moral complexity, or spy stories that feel uncomfortably real… you’re going to love this conversation.

🔗 Buy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=A+Stranger+in+Corfu+Alex+Preston

🔗 Buy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=Stalin%27s+Apostles+Antonia+Senior

If you love deep-dive history, espionage stories, and book-led discussions…

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HistoryBookBuffs
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4eI5pI5YFZy9Oa4XwQ7m9c
🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/search?term=History%20Book%20Buffs

A Stranger in Corfu, Alex Preston, Spymasters podcast, MI6 spy novel, espionage fiction, Corfu spy history, Operation Valuable, Cold War operations, John le Carré influence, moral ambiguity, literary spy thriller, Yugoslavia intelligence, British intelligence fiction, CIA and MI6 operations, spy retirement island, psychological espionage fiction

  • Spy fiction is at its best when it’s morally uncomfortable.

  • Nina’s story captures the psychological cost of being trained to lie for a living.

  • Corfu isn’t just beautiful — it’s a landscape soaked in Cold War intrigue.

  • Operation Valuable remains one of the most fascinating and disastrous intelligence missions of the era.

  • The novel’s dual timeline structure deepens both suspense and emotional impact.

  • Espionage isn’t about heroes and villains — it’s about people trying to survive the compromises they’ve made.

“What drives us all?”

“Is it ever worth it?”

“A dark wave that is constantly about to break.”

00:00 – Introduction to Alex and A Stranger in Corfu
02:37 – Why Corfu is the perfect spy setting
06:51 – Kim Philby, betrayal, and the ghost of intelligence history
11:25 – Nina’s story and the power of a dual timeline
16:48 – The moral ambiguities of espionage
20:59 – Generational links and inherited damage
26:50 – Idealism vs. reality in the spy world
30:06 – The seduction of “beautiful lies”
35:23 – Nina, trauma, and the dark wave
38:47 – Future projects and closing thoughts

Please consider following Spymasters, leaving a rating, and sharing the episode with a fellow spy-fiction addict.

Because the truth is rarely clean… and espionage never ends.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2581 From CIA to Spy Novelist: The Israel–Iran Shadow War Behind The Persian | David McCloskey Former CIA analyst and bestselling spy novelist David McCloskey returns to Spymasters to talk to Antonia Senior about his new thriller The Persian — a razor-sharp spy story set inside the Israel–Iran shadow war. We discuss how real-world covert operations (from sabotage to targeted assassinations) have shaped modern espionage, and how spy fiction can capture the human cost of clandestine conflict: fear, tradecraft, loyalty, identity, and moral compromise. McCloskey breaks down how he researches intelligence operations using open-source reporting and conversations with former practitioners — and why he chose to write a spy novel with no Americans at the center of the story. We also explore the culture and risk tolerance differences between intelligence services, the evolution of surveillance and remote warfare, and the perennial question: should writers “stay in their lane,” or is imagining other lives the whole point of fiction? What the Israel–Iran covert conflict looks like — and why it’s perfect terrain for a spy novel The premise of The Persian: a Persian Jewish dentist recruited as a Mossad asset Researching espionage through open-source intelligence (OSINT), reporting, and real tradecraft insight Mossad vs CIA: risk tolerance, bureaucracy, operational style, and culture Remote and tech-enabled killing — drones, distance, and the changing nature of modern war Writing morally complex characters (and why the book isn’t a “morality play”) Representation in fiction: writing characters outside your own experience A teaser for McCloskey’s next novel: CIA and MI6 under strain — and spying on each other again David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst and the author of multiple acclaimed spy novels including Damascus Station, Moscow X, and The Seventh Floor. His work is known for its operational authenticity and insider-level realism — without losing sight of the human story. The Persian is out now (publication-day episode). Available wherever you buy books, or here: https://amzn.eu/d/5DzqbwC If you enjoy deep-dive conversations on espionage, intelligence history, covert action, tradecraft, and spy fiction, hit Follow on Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts and leave a rating — it helps more listeners find the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Former CIA analyst and bestselling spy novelist David McCloskey returns to Spymasters to talk to Antonia Senior about his new thriller The Persian — a razor-sharp spy story set inside the Israel–Iran shadow war. We discuss how real-world covert operations (from sabotage to targeted assassinations) have shaped modern espionage, and how spy fiction can capture the human cost of clandestine conflict: fear, tradecraft, loyalty, identity, and moral compromise. McCloskey breaks down how he researches intelligence operations using open-source reporting and conversations with former practitioners — and why he chose to write a spy novel with no Americans at the center of the story. We also explore the culture and risk tolerance differences between intelligence services, the evolution of surveillance and remote warfare, and the perennial question: should writers “stay in their lane,” or is imagining other lives the whole point of fiction? What the Israel–Iran covert conflict looks like — and why it’s perfect terrain for a spy novel The premise of The Persian: a Persian Jewish dentist recruited as a Mossad asset Researching espionage through open-source intelligence (OSINT), reporting, and real tradecraft insight Mossad vs CIA: risk tolerance, bureaucracy, operational style, and culture Remote and tech-enabled killing — drones, distance, and the changing nature of modern war Writing morally complex characters (and why the book isn’t a “morality play”) Representation in fiction: writing characters outside your own experience A teaser for McCloskey’s next novel: CIA and MI6 under strain — and spying on each other again David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst and the author of multiple acclaimed spy novels including Damascus Station, Moscow X, and The Seventh Floor. His work is known for its operational authenticity and insider-level realism — without losing sight of the human story. The Persian is out now (publication-day episode). Available wherever you buy books, or here: https://amzn.eu/d/5DzqbwC If you enjoy deep-dive conversations on espionage, intelligence history, covert action, tradecraft, and spy fiction, hit Follow on Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts and leave a rating — it helps more listeners find the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former CIA analyst and bestselling spy novelist David McCloskey returns to Spymasters to talk to Antonia Senior about his new thriller The Persian — a razor-sharp spy story set inside the Israel–Iran shadow war.

We discuss how real-world covert operations (from sabotage to targeted assassinations) have shaped modern espionage, and how spy fiction can capture the human cost of clandestine conflict: fear, tradecraft, loyalty, identity, and moral compromise. McCloskey breaks down how he researches intelligence operations using open-source reporting and conversations with former practitioners — and why he chose to write a spy novel with no Americans at the center of the story.

We also explore the culture and risk tolerance differences between intelligence services, the evolution of surveillance and remote warfare, and the perennial question: should writers “stay in their lane,” or is imagining other lives the whole point of fiction?

  • What the Israel–Iran covert conflict looks like — and why it’s perfect terrain for a spy novel

  • The premise of The Persian: a Persian Jewish dentist recruited as a Mossad asset

  • Researching espionage through open-source intelligence (OSINT), reporting, and real tradecraft insight

  • Mossad vs CIA: risk tolerance, bureaucracy, operational style, and culture

  • Remote and tech-enabled killing — drones, distance, and the changing nature of modern war

  • Writing morally complex characters (and why the book isn’t a “morality play”)

  • Representation in fiction: writing characters outside your own experience

  • A teaser for McCloskey’s next novel: CIA and MI6 under strain — and spying on each other again

David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst and the author of multiple acclaimed spy novels including Damascus Station, Moscow X, and The Seventh Floor. His work is known for its operational authenticity and insider-level realism — without losing sight of the human story.

The Persian is out now (publication-day episode). Available wherever you buy books, or here: https://amzn.eu/d/5DzqbwC

If you enjoy deep-dive conversations on espionage, intelligence history, covert action, tradecraft, and spy fiction, hit Follow on Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts and leave a rating — it helps more listeners find the show.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2626 KGB Literati: How Soviet Spy Fiction Shaped the Secret State What happens when a secret police force writes its own novels? In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior is joined by academic and KGB expert Filip Kovacevic to explore the hidden world of Soviet spy fiction—and the extraordinary role it played inside the KGB itself. Drawing on his book KGB Literati, Kovacevic reveals how intelligence officers, counter-spies, and veterans of state security became novelists, producing stories designed to shape public opinion, recruit future officers, and redefine the image of the KGB within Soviet society. From the early post-war novels of Roman Kim to the officially sanctioned Chekist Stories series produced by the KGB Press Bureau, the conversation uncovers how fiction became a tool of counterintelligence, psychological influence, and regime legitimacy. We also examine why Western intelligence analysts paid close attention to these books, how they influenced a young Vladimir Putin, and why the tradition continues today under the FSB and SVR. A deep dive into propaganda, imagination, and power—and a reminder that in espionage, stories can be as important as secrets. Find the book: https://amzn.eu/d/fRVZgoI Find Filip on X: @chekistmonitor on the web: thechekistmonitor.blogspot.com on substack: https://kgbstack.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior What happens when a secret police force writes its own novels? In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior is joined by academic and KGB expert Filip Kovacevic to explore the hidden world of Soviet spy fiction—and the extraordinary role it played inside the KGB itself. Drawing on his book KGB Literati, Kovacevic reveals how intelligence officers, counter-spies, and veterans of state security became novelists, producing stories designed to shape public opinion, recruit future officers, and redefine the image of the KGB within Soviet society. From the early post-war novels of Roman Kim to the officially sanctioned Chekist Stories series produced by the KGB Press Bureau, the conversation uncovers how fiction became a tool of counterintelligence, psychological influence, and regime legitimacy. We also examine why Western intelligence analysts paid close attention to these books, how they influenced a young Vladimir Putin, and why the tradition continues today under the FSB and SVR. A deep dive into propaganda, imagination, and power—and a reminder that in espionage, stories can be as important as secrets. Find the book: https://amzn.eu/d/fRVZgoI Find Filip on X: @chekistmonitor on the web: thechekistmonitor.blogspot.com on substack: https://kgbstack.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices What happens when a secret police force writes its own novels?

In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior is joined by academic and KGB expert Filip Kovacevic to explore the hidden world of Soviet spy fiction—and the extraordinary role it played inside the KGB itself. Drawing on his book KGB Literati, Kovacevic reveals how intelligence officers, counter-spies, and veterans of state security became novelists, producing stories designed to shape public opinion, recruit future officers, and redefine the image of the KGB within Soviet society.

From the early post-war novels of Roman Kim to the officially sanctioned Chekist Stories series produced by the KGB Press Bureau, the conversation uncovers how fiction became a tool of counterintelligence, psychological influence, and regime legitimacy. We also examine why Western intelligence analysts paid close attention to these books, how they influenced a young Vladimir Putin, and why the tradition continues today under the FSB and SVR.

A deep dive into propaganda, imagination, and power—and a reminder that in espionage, stories can be as important as secrets.

Find the book: https://amzn.eu/d/fRVZgoI

Find Filip on X: @chekistmonitor

on the web: thechekistmonitor.blogspot.com

on substack: https://kgbstack.substack.com/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3735 Spymasters and Aspects of Crime Books of the Year 2025! This special crossover episode brings together espionage and crime fans for a fast-paced round-table on our Books of the Year 2025. Antonia Senior (Spymasters) is joined by: Paul Burke – host of Aspects of Crime Mark Ellis – bestselling author of the Frank Merlin series Thomas Waugh – author of Endgame Together we unpack the best in spy fiction, crime writing, historical thrillers and intelligence non-fiction—from World War II espionage and Cold War intrigue to the new era of China-focused spy thrillers. Books discussed include: The Darkest Winter by Carlo Lucarelli Appointment in Paris by Jane Thynne The Second Traitor by Alex Gerlis The Peak by Sam Guthrie Shadow of a Queen by Peter Tonkin The Predicament by William Boyd Smoke and Embers by John Lawton The Poet’s Game by Paul Vidich Clown Town by Mick Herron The Revolutionists by Jason Burke Man of Bones by Ben Creed The Spy in the Archives by Gordon Corera Expect passionate debate, insider recommendations, Cold War gossip, a very loud puppy, and a surprising amount of Noel Coward. Perfect listening for fans of John le Carré, Mick Herron, Len Deighton, Helen Fry, and anyone hunting for genuinely brilliant new espionage reads. 🎙️ Spymasters x Aspects of Crime – Books of the Year 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:25:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior This special crossover episode brings together espionage and crime fans for a fast-paced round-table on our Books of the Year 2025. Antonia Senior (Spymasters) is joined by: Paul Burke – host of Aspects of Crime Mark Ellis – bestselling author of the Frank Merlin series Thomas Waugh – author of Endgame Together we unpack the best in spy fiction, crime writing, historical thrillers and intelligence non-fiction—from World War II espionage and Cold War intrigue to the new era of China-focused spy thrillers. Books discussed include: The Darkest Winter by Carlo Lucarelli Appointment in Paris by Jane Thynne The Second Traitor by Alex Gerlis The Peak by Sam Guthrie Shadow of a Queen by Peter Tonkin The Predicament by William Boyd Smoke and Embers by John Lawton The Poet’s Game by Paul Vidich Clown Town by Mick Herron The Revolutionists by Jason Burke Man of Bones by Ben Creed The Spy in the Archives by Gordon Corera Expect passionate debate, insider recommendations, Cold War gossip, a very loud puppy, and a surprising amount of Noel Coward. Perfect listening for fans of John le Carré, Mick Herron, Len Deighton, Helen Fry, and anyone hunting for genuinely brilliant new espionage reads. 🎙️ Spymasters x Aspects of Crime – Books of the Year 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This special crossover episode brings together espionage and crime fans for a fast-paced round-table on our Books of the Year 2025.

Antonia Senior (Spymasters) is joined by:

  • Paul Burke – host of Aspects of Crime

  • Mark Ellis – bestselling author of the Frank Merlin series

  • Thomas Waugh – author of Endgame

Together we unpack the best in spy fiction, crime writing, historical thrillers and intelligence non-fiction—from World War II espionage and Cold War intrigue to the new era of China-focused spy thrillers.

Books discussed include:

  • The Darkest Winter by Carlo Lucarelli

  • Appointment in Paris by Jane Thynne

  • The Second Traitor by Alex Gerlis

  • The Peak by Sam Guthrie

  • Shadow of a Queen by Peter Tonkin

  • The Predicament by William Boyd

  • Smoke and Embers by John Lawton

  • The Poet’s Game by Paul Vidich

  • Clown Town by Mick Herron

  • The Revolutionists by Jason Burke

  • Man of Bones by Ben Creed

  • The Spy in the Archives by Gordon Corera

Expect passionate debate, insider recommendations, Cold War gossip, a very loud puppy, and a surprising amount of Noel Coward.

Perfect listening for fans of John le Carré, Mick Herron, Len Deighton, Helen Fry, and anyone hunting for genuinely brilliant new espionage reads.


🎙️ Spymasters x Aspects of Crime – Books of the Year 2025

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4104 China, Espionage and the Price of Compromise: The Peak, with San Guthrie Former diplomat and political insider Sam Guthrie joins Antonia Senior to talk about Chinese espionage, industrial spying and his debut Hong Kong–set thriller, The Peak. Blending politics, business and spycraft, the novel follows an unreliable narrator, a dangerous love triangle and a single act of compromise that changes everything. Sam and Antonia dig into how modern China, ASIO-style counterintelligence, and the clash between national security and trade shaped the book. They explore honey traps, business delegations gone wrong, and why ordinary executives—not just spooks—are now targets for Chinese intelligence and industrial espionage. The conversation ranges from Australia–China relations and foreign interference laws to AI, quantum computing and the future of great-power competition. Along the way, they discuss the human side of spying: flawed characters, loyalty, guilt, and how a 1990s mixtape becomes both a love letter and a vehicle for secret messages. In this episode: Chinese espionage, industrial spying and national security Hong Kong, Australia and the new front line of geopolitics Compromise, honey traps and how people get turned Writing flawed, unlikeable but compelling characters China’s rise, Western naivety and what might come next Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Former diplomat and political insider Sam Guthrie joins Antonia Senior to talk about Chinese espionage, industrial spying and his debut Hong Kong–set thriller, The Peak. Blending politics, business and spycraft, the novel follows an unreliable narrator, a dangerous love triangle and a single act of compromise that changes everything. Sam and Antonia dig into how modern China, ASIO-style counterintelligence, and the clash between national security and trade shaped the book. They explore honey traps, business delegations gone wrong, and why ordinary executives—not just spooks—are now targets for Chinese intelligence and industrial espionage. The conversation ranges from Australia–China relations and foreign interference laws to AI, quantum computing and the future of great-power competition. Along the way, they discuss the human side of spying: flawed characters, loyalty, guilt, and how a 1990s mixtape becomes both a love letter and a vehicle for secret messages. In this episode: Chinese espionage, industrial spying and national security Hong Kong, Australia and the new front line of geopolitics Compromise, honey traps and how people get turned Writing flawed, unlikeable but compelling characters China’s rise, Western naivety and what might come next Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former diplomat and political insider Sam Guthrie joins Antonia Senior to talk about Chinese espionage, industrial spying and his debut Hong Kong–set thriller, The Peak. Blending politics, business and spycraft, the novel follows an unreliable narrator, a dangerous love triangle and a single act of compromise that changes everything.

Sam and Antonia dig into how modern China, ASIO-style counterintelligence, and the clash between national security and trade shaped the book. They explore honey traps, business delegations gone wrong, and why ordinary executives—not just spooks—are now targets for Chinese intelligence and industrial espionage.

The conversation ranges from Australia–China relations and foreign interference laws to AI, quantum computing and the future of great-power competition. Along the way, they discuss the human side of spying: flawed characters, loyalty, guilt, and how a 1990s mixtape becomes both a love letter and a vehicle for secret messages.

In this episode:

  • Chinese espionage, industrial spying and national security

  • Hong Kong, Australia and the new front line of geopolitics

  • Compromise, honey traps and how people get turned

  • Writing flawed, unlikeable but compelling characters

  • China’s rise, Western naivety and what might come next

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2357 Spy fiction: hidden classics and old favourites with Paul Burke In this lively literary conversation, Antonia Senior and Paul Burke explore the fascinating world of spy and crime fiction — from the golden age of classic espionage novels to the digital dilemmas of modern spy thrillers. As Paul launches Aspects of Crime, a new magazine, and a platform for authors and readers, they discuss how technology reshapes the genre, why characters like Charlie Muffin and Frederick Forsythe still resonate, and how emerging writers are redefining the moral and political edges of spy literature today. Expect deep dives into literary influences, lesser-known espionage gems, and the enduring tension between secrecy, betrayal, and morality that defines the best spy stories. Whether you love Le Carré, Deighton, Fleming, or new voices in espionage fiction, this episode offers both nostalgia and discovery for fans of intelligent thrillers. 🎙️ Key themes: spy fiction, crime fiction, book recommendations, espionage, modern literature, classic novels, emerging writers, book reviews, literary discussion spy fiction podcast, crime fiction podcast, espionage literature, classic spy novels, modern spy thrillers, book review podcast, literary podcast, authors interview, Aspects of Crime, Charlie Muffin, Philip Marlowe, spy books, thriller writers, book discussion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this lively literary conversation, Antonia Senior and Paul Burke explore the fascinating world of spy and crime fiction — from the golden age of classic espionage novels to the digital dilemmas of modern spy thrillers. As Paul launches Aspects of Crime, a new magazine, and a platform for authors and readers, they discuss how technology reshapes the genre, why characters like Charlie Muffin and Frederick Forsythe still resonate, and how emerging writers are redefining the moral and political edges of spy literature today. Expect deep dives into literary influences, lesser-known espionage gems, and the enduring tension between secrecy, betrayal, and morality that defines the best spy stories. Whether you love Le Carré, Deighton, Fleming, or new voices in espionage fiction, this episode offers both nostalgia and discovery for fans of intelligent thrillers. 🎙️ Key themes: spy fiction, crime fiction, book recommendations, espionage, modern literature, classic novels, emerging writers, book reviews, literary discussion spy fiction podcast, crime fiction podcast, espionage literature, classic spy novels, modern spy thrillers, book review podcast, literary podcast, authors interview, Aspects of Crime, Charlie Muffin, Philip Marlowe, spy books, thriller writers, book discussion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this lively literary conversation, Antonia Senior and Paul Burke explore the fascinating world of spy and crime fiction — from the golden age of classic espionage novels to the digital dilemmas of modern spy thrillers. As Paul launches Aspects of Crime, a new magazine, and a platform for authors and readers, they discuss how technology reshapes the genre, why characters like Charlie Muffin and Frederick Forsythe still resonate, and how emerging writers are redefining the moral and political edges of spy literature today.

Expect deep dives into literary influences, lesser-known espionage gems, and the enduring tension between secrecy, betrayal, and morality that defines the best spy stories. Whether you love Le Carré, Deighton, Fleming, or new voices in espionage fiction, this episode offers both nostalgia and discovery for fans of intelligent thrillers.

🎙️ Key themes: spy fiction, crime fiction, book recommendations, espionage, modern literature, classic novels, emerging writers, book reviews, literary discussion

spy fiction podcast, crime fiction podcast, espionage literature, classic spy novels, modern spy thrillers, book review podcast, literary podcast, authors interview, Aspects of Crime, Charlie Muffin, Philip Marlowe, spy books, thriller writers, book discussion


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]]> 1841 Spying on the Revolution: Gunnar Ekberg, Infiltration, and the Birth of Modern Terrorism. In this episode, Antonia Senior speaks with journalist and author Jason Burke about The Revolutionists, and the extraordinary true story of Gunnar Ekberg — the Swedish spy who infiltrated radical left-wing movements in Europe during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Ekberg witnessed first-hand a moment of enormous ideological energy: when secular, nationalist and progressive revolutionary groups believed they were the vanguard of global change. Embedded inside these movements, he saw their organising, their fervour, their drift toward violence — and ultimately, their decline. But Ekberg’s story also marks the hinge-point in modern terrorism. As the decade unfolded, the revolutionary energy that once drove secular movements shifted dramatically. Islamism emerged as the dominant revolutionary force in the Middle East, while Western Europe’s security focus transformed as left-wing groups faded and jihadist networks rose. Through Ekberg’s eyes — and Burke’s deep analysis — this conversation explores how ideology, violence and global power structures evolved, and why that shift still shapes the world we live in today. terror history, Gunnar Ekberg, Jason Burke, The Revolutionists, 1970s radicalism, secular nationalism, Islamism, hijackings, European terrorism, Middle East extremism, podcast interview, history of terrorism.If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, rate us, and check the links below for Jason Burke’s book. UK: https://amzn.eu/d/4R5tIYd UK Independent Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-revolutionists-the-story-of-the-extremists-who-hijacked-the-1970s-jason-burke/1c42ef7f8d866dbe?ean=9781847926067&next=t https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-revolutionists-the-story-of-the-extremists-who-hijacked-the-1970s-jason-burke/1c42ef7f8d866dbe?ean=9781847926067&next=t Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:04:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode, Antonia Senior speaks with journalist and author Jason Burke about The Revolutionists, and the extraordinary true story of Gunnar Ekberg — the Swedish spy who infiltrated radical left-wing movements in Europe during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Ekberg witnessed first-hand a moment of enormous ideological energy: when secular, nationalist and progressive revolutionary groups believed they were the vanguard of global change. Embedded inside these movements, he saw their organising, their fervour, their drift toward violence — and ultimately, their decline. But Ekberg’s story also marks the hinge-point in modern terrorism. As the decade unfolded, the revolutionary energy that once drove secular movements shifted dramatically. Islamism emerged as the dominant revolutionary force in the Middle East, while Western Europe’s security focus transformed as left-wing groups faded and jihadist networks rose. Through Ekberg’s eyes — and Burke’s deep analysis — this conversation explores how ideology, violence and global power structures evolved, and why that shift still shapes the world we live in today. terror history, Gunnar Ekberg, Jason Burke, The Revolutionists, 1970s radicalism, secular nationalism, Islamism, hijackings, European terrorism, Middle East extremism, podcast interview, history of terrorism.If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, rate us, and check the links below for Jason Burke’s book. UK: https://amzn.eu/d/4R5tIYd UK Independent Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-revolutionists-the-story-of-the-extremists-who-hijacked-the-1970s-jason-burke/1c42ef7f8d866dbe?ean=9781847926067&next=t https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-revolutionists-the-story-of-the-extremists-who-hijacked-the-1970s-jason-burke/1c42ef7f8d866dbe?ean=9781847926067&next=t Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Antonia Senior speaks with journalist and author Jason Burke about The Revolutionists, and the extraordinary true story of Gunnar Ekberg — the Swedish spy who infiltrated radical left-wing movements in Europe during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Ekberg witnessed first-hand a moment of enormous ideological energy: when secular, nationalist and progressive revolutionary groups believed they were the vanguard of global change. Embedded inside these movements, he saw their organising, their fervour, their drift toward violence — and ultimately, their decline.

But Ekberg’s story also marks the hinge-point in modern terrorism. As the decade unfolded, the revolutionary energy that once drove secular movements shifted dramatically. Islamism emerged as the dominant revolutionary force in the Middle East, while Western Europe’s security focus transformed as left-wing groups faded and jihadist networks rose.

Through Ekberg’s eyes — and Burke’s deep analysis — this conversation explores how ideology, violence and global power structures evolved, and why that shift still shapes the world we live in today.
 terror history, Gunnar Ekberg, Jason Burke, The Revolutionists, 1970s radicalism, secular nationalism, Islamism, hijackings, European terrorism, Middle East extremism, podcast interview, history of terrorism.
If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, rate us, and check the links below for Jason Burke’s book.

  • UK: https://amzn.eu/d/4R5tIYd

  • UK Independent Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-revolutionists-the-story-of-the-extremists-who-hijacked-the-1970s-jason-burke/1c42ef7f8d866dbe?ean=9781847926067&next=t

https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-revolutionists-the-story-of-the-extremists-who-hijacked-the-1970s-jason-burke/1c42ef7f8d866dbe?ean=9781847926067&next=t

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]]> 3895 Behind German Lines: The White Lady, with Dr Helen Fry In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior speaks with bestselling historian Dr. Helen Fry about her riveting new book, The White Lady. Set in German-occupied Belgium during World War I and World War II, Fry’s book uncovers the incredible true story of a secret  spy network that risked everything to gather intelligence behind enemy lines. Together, Fry and Senior explore: How ordinary women became extraordinary spies The ingenious knitting codes and covert communication systems they used The bravery of Thérèse de Radiguès How these early networks inspired were remobilised in the run up to World War II The untold stories of courage, deception, and sacrifice that shaped modern intelligence work If you love stories of espionage, resistance networks, women in war, and WWI intelligence, this conversation is not to be missed. 📘 Buy Helen Fry’s The White Lady on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1526779318 “Espionage was a family affair in many cases.”“The genius of deception saved lives.”“Bravery and sacrifice — the cost of freedom.” 00:00 — Introduction: Helen Fry and The White Lady01:07 — The Espionage Networks of World War I03:47 — The Knitting Women of Belgium07:20 — The Consequences of Espionage10:08 — Thérèse de Radiguès’s Heroism13:41 — The Significance of the White Lady Network15:56 — How Intelligence Shaped the War19:33 — The Return of Resistance in WWII23:45 — Thérèse’s Defiance Against the Gestapo27:21 — The Legacy of Women in Espionage31:22 — Closing Reflections WWI espionage, Helen Fry, The White Lady, women spies, Belgian resistance, SOE, secret agents, female intelligence networks, World War I history, Spymasters podcast, Antonia West, hidden histories, British intelligence, resistance heroes 🔊 Sound Bites⏱️ Chapters🔎 Keywords Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:05:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior speaks with bestselling historian Dr. Helen Fry about her riveting new book, The White Lady. Set in German-occupied Belgium during World War I and World War II, Fry’s book uncovers the incredible true story of a secret  spy network that risked everything to gather intelligence behind enemy lines. Together, Fry and Senior explore: How ordinary women became extraordinary spies The ingenious knitting codes and covert communication systems they used The bravery of Thérèse de Radiguès How these early networks inspired were remobilised in the run up to World War II The untold stories of courage, deception, and sacrifice that shaped modern intelligence work If you love stories of espionage, resistance networks, women in war, and WWI intelligence, this conversation is not to be missed. 📘 Buy Helen Fry’s The White Lady on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1526779318 “Espionage was a family affair in many cases.”“The genius of deception saved lives.”“Bravery and sacrifice — the cost of freedom.” 00:00 — Introduction: Helen Fry and The White Lady01:07 — The Espionage Networks of World War I03:47 — The Knitting Women of Belgium07:20 — The Consequences of Espionage10:08 — Thérèse de Radiguès’s Heroism13:41 — The Significance of the White Lady Network15:56 — How Intelligence Shaped the War19:33 — The Return of Resistance in WWII23:45 — Thérèse’s Defiance Against the Gestapo27:21 — The Legacy of Women in Espionage31:22 — Closing Reflections WWI espionage, Helen Fry, The White Lady, women spies, Belgian resistance, SOE, secret agents, female intelligence networks, World War I history, Spymasters podcast, Antonia West, hidden histories, British intelligence, resistance heroes 🔊 Sound Bites⏱️ Chapters🔎 Keywords Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior speaks with bestselling historian Dr. Helen Fry about her riveting new book, The White Lady.

Set in German-occupied Belgium during World War I and World War II, Fry’s book uncovers the incredible true story of a secret  spy network that risked everything to gather intelligence behind enemy lines. Together, Fry and Senior explore:

  • How ordinary women became extraordinary spies

  • The ingenious knitting codes and covert communication systems they used

  • The bravery of Thérèse de Radiguès

  • How these early networks inspired were remobilised in the run up to World War II

  • The untold stories of courage, deception, and sacrifice that shaped modern intelligence work

If you love stories of espionage, resistance networks, women in war, and WWI intelligence, this conversation is not to be missed.

📘 Buy Helen Fry’s The White Lady on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1526779318

“Espionage was a family affair in many cases.”
“The genius of deception saved lives.”
“Bravery and sacrifice — the cost of freedom.”

00:00 — Introduction: Helen Fry and The White Lady
01:07 — The Espionage Networks of World War I
03:47 — The Knitting Women of Belgium
07:20 — The Consequences of Espionage
10:08 — Thérèse de Radiguès’s Heroism
13:41 — The Significance of the White Lady Network
15:56 — How Intelligence Shaped the War
19:33 — The Return of Resistance in WWII
23:45 — Thérèse’s Defiance Against the Gestapo
27:21 — The Legacy of Women in Espionage
31:22 — Closing Reflections

WWI espionage, Helen Fry, The White Lady, women spies, Belgian resistance, SOE, secret agents, female intelligence networks, World War I history, Spymasters podcast, Antonia West, hidden histories, British intelligence, resistance heroes

🔊 Sound Bites⏱️ Chapters🔎 Keywords

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]]> 2040 Spies, fiction, and the legacy of October 7. The Protocols of Spying with Merle Nygate. Join host Antonia Senior as she delves into the gripping world of espionage with author Merle Nygate. In this episode, they explore the challenges of writing a spy thriller set against the backdrop of real-world events, focusing on Nygate's latest novel, "The Protocols of Spying." Discover how the Mossad's London station grapples with intelligence failures and what lies ahead for its chief, Eli Amran, in a post-October 7th world. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the art of crafting a compelling spy narrative. Subscribe and follow for more engaging discussions on the world of spies. Buy the novel: https://amzn.eu/d/4MhdKTb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 02 Oct 2025 04:02:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Join host Antonia Senior as she delves into the gripping world of espionage with author Merle Nygate. In this episode, they explore the challenges of writing a spy thriller set against the backdrop of real-world events, focusing on Nygate's latest novel, "The Protocols of Spying." Discover how the Mossad's London station grapples with intelligence failures and what lies ahead for its chief, Eli Amran, in a post-October 7th world. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the art of crafting a compelling spy narrative. Subscribe and follow for more engaging discussions on the world of spies. Buy the novel: https://amzn.eu/d/4MhdKTb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Join host Antonia Senior as she delves into the gripping world of espionage with author Merle Nygate. In this episode, they explore the challenges of writing a spy thriller set against the backdrop of real-world events, focusing on Nygate's latest novel, "The Protocols of Spying." Discover how the Mossad's London station grapples with intelligence failures and what lies ahead for its chief, Eli Amran, in a post-October 7th world. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the art of crafting a compelling spy narrative. Subscribe and follow for more engaging discussions on the world of spies.

Buy the novel: https://amzn.eu/d/4MhdKTb

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]]> 1985 The Wolfpack and the Codebreakers: The Enigma story from the German perspective, with Roger Moorhouse In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior interviews historian Roger Moorhouse about the Enigma code and its impact on naval warfare during World War II. The conversation explores the crucial role of Polish codebreakers, the operations of U-boats, and the significant turning points in the Battle of the Atlantic. Morehouse shares insights into the human cost of U-boat warfare, the effectiveness of aerial attacks, and the technological advantages gained through codebreaking, ultimately highlighting the complexities of this critical theatre of war. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/eDr7o0Z Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:01:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior interviews historian Roger Moorhouse about the Enigma code and its impact on naval warfare during World War II. The conversation explores the crucial role of Polish codebreakers, the operations of U-boats, and the significant turning points in the Battle of the Atlantic. Morehouse shares insights into the human cost of U-boat warfare, the effectiveness of aerial attacks, and the technological advantages gained through codebreaking, ultimately highlighting the complexities of this critical theatre of war. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/eDr7o0Z Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode of Spymasters, Antonia Senior interviews historian Roger Moorhouse about the Enigma code and its impact on naval warfare during World War II. The conversation explores the crucial role of Polish codebreakers, the operations of U-boats, and the significant turning points in the Battle of the Atlantic. Morehouse shares insights into the human cost of U-boat warfare, the effectiveness of aerial attacks, and the technological advantages gained through codebreaking, ultimately highlighting the complexities of this critical theatre of war.

Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/eDr7o0Z

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2236 SOE in Europe: extraordinary women with Kate Vigurs In this compelling episode of the Spymasters Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary tales of women who defied the odds during World War II. From Hannah Szenes's daring mission to disrupt the Holocaust to the courageous acts of Polish women in the resistance, these stories reveal the incredible bravery and sacrifice of those who risked everything for freedom. Join us as we explore the personal journeys of these unsung heroines and their indelible impact on history. With top historian Kate Vigurs, talking about her brilliant book: Mission Europe: The Secret History of the Women of SOE. Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/3JjQPCN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:44:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this compelling episode of the Spymasters Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary tales of women who defied the odds during World War II. From Hannah Szenes's daring mission to disrupt the Holocaust to the courageous acts of Polish women in the resistance, these stories reveal the incredible bravery and sacrifice of those who risked everything for freedom. Join us as we explore the personal journeys of these unsung heroines and their indelible impact on history. With top historian Kate Vigurs, talking about her brilliant book: Mission Europe: The Secret History of the Women of SOE. Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/3JjQPCN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this compelling episode of the Spymasters Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary tales of women who defied the odds during World War II. From Hannah Szenes's daring mission to disrupt the Holocaust to the courageous acts of Polish women in the resistance, these stories reveal the incredible bravery and sacrifice of those who risked everything for freedom. Join us as we explore the personal journeys of these unsung heroines and their indelible impact on history.

With top historian Kate Vigurs, talking about her brilliant book: Mission Europe: The Secret History of the Women of SOE. Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/3JjQPCN

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]]> 2602 From Cold War to Cyber Age: Frederick Forsyth, Modern Spy Thrillers & the Spymasters Book Prize In this episode of the Spymasters Podcast, host Antonia Senior and special guest Oliver Webb Carter explore the enduring influence of Frederick Forsyth, the legendary author behind classics like The Day of the Jackal and The Odessa File. Discover how Forsyth redefined spy fiction with his journalistic precision, insider intelligence, and gritty realism drawn from his time with MI6. As the genre experiences a compelling renaissance in espionage fiction, Antonia and Oliver spotlight a new generation of contemporary spy authors who are capturing today’s complex geopolitical themes—from cyberwarfare to AI surveillance. Plus, don’t miss the exciting reveal of the inaugural Spymasters Book Prize, which aims to celebrate the best in modern spy thrillers, espionage novels, and literary spy fiction. Whether you're a fan of classic thrillers, Cold War espionage, or cutting-edge spy stories, this episode is packed with insider commentary, book recommendations, and rich literary analysis of one of the most influential authors in the spy fiction genre. 🔑 Keywords for Apple & Spotify Search : 🎧 Key Takeaways: Frederick Forsyth brought a new level of authenticity and tension to the spy fiction genre. His real-world experience as a journalist and MI6 agent added depth to his storytelling. The digital age presents both challenges and new opportunities for spy narratives. The human element remains critical to great espionage literature. Today’s global instability is fueling a creative boom in spy novels and thrillers. The Spymasters Book Prize will spotlight outstanding contemporary spy fiction. The podcast features in-depth conversations with today’s top spy fiction authors. The shortlist for the Spymasters Book Prize will be revealed in October. 🕵️ Chapter Breakdown: 00:00 — Remembering Frederick Forsyth: His Life & Legacy 14:45 — The Renaissance of Spy Fiction: Why It Matters Now 18:36 — Announcing the Spymasters Book Prize: Celebrating the Best in Modern Spy Fiction 🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites: "He was an incredibly brave man." "He had to write five books in five years." "He wrote it in just 35 days." "We’re living in quite a strong time for spy fiction." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of the Spymasters Podcast, host Antonia Senior and special guest Oliver Webb Carter explore the enduring influence of Frederick Forsyth, the legendary author behind classics like The Day of the Jackal and The Odessa File. Discover how Forsyth redefined spy fiction with his journalistic precision, insider intelligence, and gritty realism drawn from his time with MI6. As the genre experiences a compelling renaissance in espionage fiction, Antonia and Oliver spotlight a new generation of contemporary spy authors who are capturing today’s complex geopolitical themes—from cyberwarfare to AI surveillance. Plus, don’t miss the exciting reveal of the inaugural Spymasters Book Prize, which aims to celebrate the best in modern spy thrillers, espionage novels, and literary spy fiction. Whether you're a fan of classic thrillers, Cold War espionage, or cutting-edge spy stories, this episode is packed with insider commentary, book recommendations, and rich literary analysis of one of the most influential authors in the spy fiction genre. 🔑 Keywords for Apple & Spotify Search : 🎧 Key Takeaways: Frederick Forsyth brought a new level of authenticity and tension to the spy fiction genre. His real-world experience as a journalist and MI6 agent added depth to his storytelling. The digital age presents both challenges and new opportunities for spy narratives. The human element remains critical to great espionage literature. Today’s global instability is fueling a creative boom in spy novels and thrillers. The Spymasters Book Prize will spotlight outstanding contemporary spy fiction. The podcast features in-depth conversations with today’s top spy fiction authors. The shortlist for the Spymasters Book Prize will be revealed in October. 🕵️ Chapter Breakdown: 00:00 — Remembering Frederick Forsyth: His Life & Legacy 14:45 — The Renaissance of Spy Fiction: Why It Matters Now 18:36 — Announcing the Spymasters Book Prize: Celebrating the Best in Modern Spy Fiction 🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites: "He was an incredibly brave man." "He had to write five books in five years." "He wrote it in just 35 days." "We’re living in quite a strong time for spy fiction." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode of the Spymasters Podcast, host Antonia Senior and special guest Oliver Webb Carter explore the enduring influence of Frederick Forsyth, the legendary author behind classics like The Day of the Jackal and The Odessa File. Discover how Forsyth redefined spy fiction with his journalistic precision, insider intelligence, and gritty realism drawn from his time with MI6.

As the genre experiences a compelling renaissance in espionage fiction, Antonia and Oliver spotlight a new generation of contemporary spy authors who are capturing today’s complex geopolitical themes—from cyberwarfare to AI surveillance. Plus, don’t miss the exciting reveal of the inaugural Spymasters Book Prize, which aims to celebrate the best in modern spy thrillers, espionage novels, and literary spy fiction.

Whether you're a fan of classic thrillers, Cold War espionage, or cutting-edge spy stories, this episode is packed with insider commentary, book recommendations, and rich literary analysis of one of the most influential authors in the spy fiction genre.

🔑 Keywords for Apple & Spotify Search :

🎧 Key Takeaways:

  • Frederick Forsyth brought a new level of authenticity and tension to the spy fiction genre.

  • His real-world experience as a journalist and MI6 agent added depth to his storytelling.

  • The digital age presents both challenges and new opportunities for spy narratives.

  • The human element remains critical to great espionage literature.

  • Today’s global instability is fueling a creative boom in spy novels and thrillers.

  • The Spymasters Book Prize will spotlight outstanding contemporary spy fiction.

  • The podcast features in-depth conversations with today’s top spy fiction authors.

  • The shortlist for the Spymasters Book Prize will be revealed in October.

🕵️ Chapter Breakdown:
00:00 — Remembering Frederick Forsyth: His Life & Legacy
14:45 — The Renaissance of Spy Fiction: Why It Matters Now
18:36 — Announcing the Spymasters Book Prize: Celebrating the Best in Modern Spy Fiction

🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites:

  • "He was an incredibly brave man."

  • "He had to write five books in five years."

  • "He wrote it in just 35 days."

  • "We’re living in quite a strong time for spy fiction."



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 1444 Torture, Terror and Trump: The CIA in the 21st Century with Tim Weiner Description: In this explosive episode of The Spymasters Podcast, journalist and host Antonia Senior sits down with legendary investigative reporter and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tim Weiner to discuss his gripping new book, The Mission: The CIA and the 21st Century. From the darkest days of the War on Terror to the chaotic aftermath of 9/11, Weiner unpacks the CIA's transformation—and failures—in the modern era. We delve deep into the CIA’s use of torture, the ethics of enhanced interrogation, and the long shadow of Guantanamo Bay. Weiner exposes the battles between intelligence and policy, the resurgence of Russia, and the ongoing crises within the American intelligence community. We ask what does a a second Trump presidency mean for the CIA, for global intelligence alliances, and for democracy itself? This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in espionage, covert operations, national security, and the real story behind the CIA’s role in shaping the 21st century. Keywords: CIA, Tim Weiner, The Mission, War on Terror, 9/11, torture, enhanced interrogation, Guantanamo Bay, intelligence failure, covert operations, Trump CIA, Trump 2024, American intelligence, NSA, FBI, drone strikes, national security, espionage podcast, Antonia Senior, The Spymasters Podcast, intelligence agencies, deep state, CIA torture program, counterterrorism, CIA history, CIA Trump, CIA Biden, spy podcast, CIA secrets, Black Sites, CIA coverups Links: 📘 Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/9ot0xvR 🎧 Subscribe for more episodes: The Spymasters Podcast 📱 Follow Antonia Senior on X: @tonisenior. @spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 17 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Description: In this explosive episode of The Spymasters Podcast, journalist and host Antonia Senior sits down with legendary investigative reporter and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tim Weiner to discuss his gripping new book, The Mission: The CIA and the 21st Century. From the darkest days of the War on Terror to the chaotic aftermath of 9/11, Weiner unpacks the CIA's transformation—and failures—in the modern era. We delve deep into the CIA’s use of torture, the ethics of enhanced interrogation, and the long shadow of Guantanamo Bay. Weiner exposes the battles between intelligence and policy, the resurgence of Russia, and the ongoing crises within the American intelligence community. We ask what does a a second Trump presidency mean for the CIA, for global intelligence alliances, and for democracy itself? This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in espionage, covert operations, national security, and the real story behind the CIA’s role in shaping the 21st century. Keywords: CIA, Tim Weiner, The Mission, War on Terror, 9/11, torture, enhanced interrogation, Guantanamo Bay, intelligence failure, covert operations, Trump CIA, Trump 2024, American intelligence, NSA, FBI, drone strikes, national security, espionage podcast, Antonia Senior, The Spymasters Podcast, intelligence agencies, deep state, CIA torture program, counterterrorism, CIA history, CIA Trump, CIA Biden, spy podcast, CIA secrets, Black Sites, CIA coverups Links: 📘 Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/9ot0xvR 🎧 Subscribe for more episodes: The Spymasters Podcast 📱 Follow Antonia Senior on X: @tonisenior. @spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Description:
In this explosive episode of The Spymasters Podcast, journalist and host Antonia Senior sits down with legendary investigative reporter and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tim Weiner to discuss his gripping new book, The Mission: The CIA and the 21st Century. From the darkest days of the War on Terror to the chaotic aftermath of 9/11, Weiner unpacks the CIA's transformation—and failures—in the modern era.

We delve deep into the CIA’s use of torture, the ethics of enhanced interrogation, and the long shadow of Guantanamo Bay. Weiner exposes the battles between intelligence and policy, the resurgence of Russia, and the ongoing crises within the American intelligence community.

We ask what does a a second Trump presidency mean for the CIA, for global intelligence alliances, and for democracy itself?

This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in espionage, covert operations, national security, and the real story behind the CIA’s role in shaping the 21st century.

Keywords:
CIA, Tim Weiner, The Mission, War on Terror, 9/11, torture, enhanced interrogation, Guantanamo Bay, intelligence failure, covert operations, Trump CIA, Trump 2024, American intelligence, NSA, FBI, drone strikes, national security, espionage podcast, Antonia Senior, The Spymasters Podcast, intelligence agencies, deep state, CIA torture program, counterterrorism, CIA history, CIA Trump, CIA Biden, spy podcast, CIA secrets, Black Sites, CIA coverups

Links:
📘 Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/9ot0xvR
🎧 Subscribe for more episodes: The Spymasters Podcast
📱 Follow Antonia Senior on X: @tonisenior. @spymasterspod


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]]> 2504 The Spy Who Knew Too Much: Vasili Mitrokhin and the KGB's Secret History, with Gordon Corera 🎧 Spymasters — The Spy Who Knew Too Much: Vasily Mitrokin and the KGB's Secret History What happens when the keeper of secrets decides to tell the truth? This episode uncovers the extraordinary story of Vasili Mitrokhin — the KGB archivist who risked everything to smuggle out the Soviet Union’s deepest intelligence secrets. From a disillusioned believer in communism to one of the West’s most valuable defectors, Mitrokin’s journey is a Cold War thriller rooted in truth. Antonia Senior talks to journalist and author Gordon Corera We explore: Mitrokin’s quiet rebellion inside the KGB archive How the Prague Spring shattered his faith in the Soviet system The years-long process of secretly copying and hiding thousands of classified documents His dramatic defection — and the West’s initial skepticism The long-term impact of the Mitrokin Archive on our understanding of Cold War espionage 🔍 Based on A Spy in the Archive by Gordon Corera 📘 Get the book here Vasily Mitrokin was a senior KGB archivist who became deeply disillusioned with Soviet ideology. Over more than a decade, he secretly copied thousands of classified files detailing Soviet espionage around the world. His work offers unparalleled insights into KGB operations, agent networks, and Cold War strategies. The defection was logistically and emotionally complex, hampered by the sheer volume of documents. Western intelligence agencies were at first hesitant to believe him. The Mitrokin Archive has transformed the study of Cold War intelligence. 00:00 — Introduction to The Spy in the Archive 02:10 — Mitrokin's Early Life and Ideological Journey 05:04 — Inside the KGB: Belief Turns to Doubt 11:02 — Years in the Archives: The Birth of a Secret Mission 18:37 — From Archivist to Whistleblower 20:30 — The Cost of Telling the Truth 25:10 — Smuggling Out a Secret Empire 28:16 — Facing the Doubters in the West 29:40 — Missed Warnings and Intelligence Oversights 32:01 — The Persistence of the Czechists 34:23 — Opening the Vault: What the Archive Revealed 39:12 — Justice Delayed: Legal and Political Fallout 42:53 — Can We Trust the Archive? 45:40 — Legacy, Lessons, and the Future of Spycraft 48:25 — Outro Vasily Mitrokin, KGB, Cold War, espionage, intelligence, defection, Soviet Union, Prague Spring, archives, whistleblower, Gordon Corera, MI6, CIA, Western intelligence, Mitrokin Archive, communism, secrets, spycraft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 03 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior 🎧 Spymasters — The Spy Who Knew Too Much: Vasily Mitrokin and the KGB's Secret History What happens when the keeper of secrets decides to tell the truth? This episode uncovers the extraordinary story of Vasili Mitrokhin — the KGB archivist who risked everything to smuggle out the Soviet Union’s deepest intelligence secrets. From a disillusioned believer in communism to one of the West’s most valuable defectors, Mitrokin’s journey is a Cold War thriller rooted in truth. Antonia Senior talks to journalist and author Gordon Corera We explore: Mitrokin’s quiet rebellion inside the KGB archive How the Prague Spring shattered his faith in the Soviet system The years-long process of secretly copying and hiding thousands of classified documents His dramatic defection — and the West’s initial skepticism The long-term impact of the Mitrokin Archive on our understanding of Cold War espionage 🔍 Based on A Spy in the Archive by Gordon Corera 📘 Get the book here Vasily Mitrokin was a senior KGB archivist who became deeply disillusioned with Soviet ideology. Over more than a decade, he secretly copied thousands of classified files detailing Soviet espionage around the world. His work offers unparalleled insights into KGB operations, agent networks, and Cold War strategies. The defection was logistically and emotionally complex, hampered by the sheer volume of documents. Western intelligence agencies were at first hesitant to believe him. The Mitrokin Archive has transformed the study of Cold War intelligence. 00:00 — Introduction to The Spy in the Archive 02:10 — Mitrokin's Early Life and Ideological Journey 05:04 — Inside the KGB: Belief Turns to Doubt 11:02 — Years in the Archives: The Birth of a Secret Mission 18:37 — From Archivist to Whistleblower 20:30 — The Cost of Telling the Truth 25:10 — Smuggling Out a Secret Empire 28:16 — Facing the Doubters in the West 29:40 — Missed Warnings and Intelligence Oversights 32:01 — The Persistence of the Czechists 34:23 — Opening the Vault: What the Archive Revealed 39:12 — Justice Delayed: Legal and Political Fallout 42:53 — Can We Trust the Archive? 45:40 — Legacy, Lessons, and the Future of Spycraft 48:25 — Outro Vasily Mitrokin, KGB, Cold War, espionage, intelligence, defection, Soviet Union, Prague Spring, archives, whistleblower, Gordon Corera, MI6, CIA, Western intelligence, Mitrokin Archive, communism, secrets, spycraft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 🎧 Spymasters — The Spy Who Knew Too Much: Vasily Mitrokin and the KGB's Secret History

What happens when the keeper of secrets decides to tell the truth?
This episode uncovers the extraordinary story of Vasili Mitrokhin — the KGB archivist who risked everything to smuggle out the Soviet Union’s deepest intelligence secrets. From a disillusioned believer in communism to one of the West’s most valuable defectors, Mitrokin’s journey is a Cold War thriller rooted in truth. Antonia Senior talks to journalist and author Gordon Corera

We explore:

  • Mitrokin’s quiet rebellion inside the KGB archive

  • How the Prague Spring shattered his faith in the Soviet system

  • The years-long process of secretly copying and hiding thousands of classified documents

  • His dramatic defection — and the West’s initial skepticism

  • The long-term impact of the Mitrokin Archive on our understanding of Cold War espionage

🔍 Based on A Spy in the Archive by Gordon Corera
📘 Get the book here

  • Vasily Mitrokin was a senior KGB archivist who became deeply disillusioned with Soviet ideology.

  • Over more than a decade, he secretly copied thousands of classified files detailing Soviet espionage around the world.

  • His work offers unparalleled insights into KGB operations, agent networks, and Cold War strategies.

  • The defection was logistically and emotionally complex, hampered by the sheer volume of documents.

  • Western intelligence agencies were at first hesitant to believe him.

  • The Mitrokin Archive has transformed the study of Cold War intelligence.

00:00 — Introduction to The Spy in the Archive
02:10 — Mitrokin's Early Life and Ideological Journey
05:04 — Inside the KGB: Belief Turns to Doubt
11:02 — Years in the Archives: The Birth of a Secret Mission
18:37 — From Archivist to Whistleblower
20:30 — The Cost of Telling the Truth
25:10 — Smuggling Out a Secret Empire
28:16 — Facing the Doubters in the West
29:40 — Missed Warnings and Intelligence Oversights
32:01 — The Persistence of the Czechists
34:23 — Opening the Vault: What the Archive Revealed
39:12 — Justice Delayed: Legal and Political Fallout
42:53 — Can We Trust the Archive?
45:40 — Legacy, Lessons, and the Future of Spycraft
48:25 — Outro

Vasily Mitrokin, KGB, Cold War, espionage, intelligence, defection, Soviet Union, Prague Spring, archives, whistleblower, Gordon Corera, MI6, CIA, Western intelligence, Mitrokin Archive, communism, secrets, spycraft


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]]> 3063 The Poet's Game: writing a bestselling spy thriller, with Paul Vidich In this episode, Antonia Senior dives deep into Paul Vidich’s gripping spy novel The Poet’s Game. We unpack the central theme of trust in espionage, the moral ambiguity faced by CIA agents, and how contemporary political tensions shape the narrative. We also explore how Vidich portrays psychological depth, ideological conflict, and the literary influences that define modern spy fiction. Topics Discussed: Trust and betrayal between handlers and assets The CIA director’s discovery of compromising material on the president How politics and ideology shape spy operations Psychological depth of characters like Alex Matthews The renaissance of spy fiction in today’s world Perfect for fans of: John le Carré • Charles Cummings David McCloskey • Political thrillers • CIA novels 00:00 – Introduction to *The Poet's Game* 04:00 – Trust and Relationships in Espionage 06:42 – The Complexity of Intelligence Work 10:00 – Moral Ambiguity in Spy Fiction 12:33 – Contemporary Setting and Political Context 15:33 – Character Development and Psychological Depth 18:04 – The Role of Ideology in Espionage 20:57 – The Poet’s Network and Literary Influences 24:06 – The Future of Alex Matthews 26:32 – The Renaissance of Spy Fiction 29:38 – Influences and Responsibilities of Spy Novelists Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode, Antonia Senior dives deep into Paul Vidich’s gripping spy novel The Poet’s Game. We unpack the central theme of trust in espionage, the moral ambiguity faced by CIA agents, and how contemporary political tensions shape the narrative. We also explore how Vidich portrays psychological depth, ideological conflict, and the literary influences that define modern spy fiction. Topics Discussed: Trust and betrayal between handlers and assets The CIA director’s discovery of compromising material on the president How politics and ideology shape spy operations Psychological depth of characters like Alex Matthews The renaissance of spy fiction in today’s world Perfect for fans of: John le Carré • Charles Cummings David McCloskey • Political thrillers • CIA novels 00:00 – Introduction to *The Poet's Game* 04:00 – Trust and Relationships in Espionage 06:42 – The Complexity of Intelligence Work 10:00 – Moral Ambiguity in Spy Fiction 12:33 – Contemporary Setting and Political Context 15:33 – Character Development and Psychological Depth 18:04 – The Role of Ideology in Espionage 20:57 – The Poet’s Network and Literary Influences 24:06 – The Future of Alex Matthews 26:32 – The Renaissance of Spy Fiction 29:38 – Influences and Responsibilities of Spy Novelists Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Antonia Senior dives deep into Paul Vidich’s gripping spy novel The Poet’s Game. We unpack the central theme of trust in espionage, the moral ambiguity faced by CIA agents, and how contemporary political tensions shape the narrative.
We also explore how Vidich portrays psychological depth, ideological conflict, and the literary influences that define modern spy fiction.

Topics Discussed:

  • Trust and betrayal between handlers and assets

  • The CIA director’s discovery of compromising material on the president

  • How politics and ideology shape spy operations

  • Psychological depth of characters like Alex Matthews

  • The renaissance of spy fiction in today’s world

Perfect for fans of:
John le Carré • Charles Cummings David McCloskey • Political thrillers • CIA novels

00:00 – Introduction to *The Poet's Game*

04:00 – Trust and Relationships in Espionage

06:42 – The Complexity of Intelligence Work

10:00 – Moral Ambiguity in Spy Fiction

12:33 – Contemporary Setting and Political Context

15:33 – Character Development and Psychological Depth

18:04 – The Role of Ideology in Espionage

20:57 – The Poet’s Network and Literary Influences

24:06 – The Future of Alex Matthews

26:32 – The Renaissance of Spy Fiction

29:38 – Influences and Responsibilities of Spy Novelists

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2721 no Clara Vine: an actress and a spy. An interview with novelist Jane Thynne. 🎙️ Spymasters Podcast – Unveiling Clara Vine: A Journey Through Nazi Germany Guest: Jane ThynneHost: Antonia SeniorGenre: Historical Fiction, EspionageKeywords: Clara Vine, Jane Thynne, espionage, Nazi Germany, historical fiction, Hedy Lamarr, WWII, women in history, literature, spy novels In this episode, host Antonia Senior interviews acclaimed author Jane Thynne, creator of the Clara Vine series. The conversation delves into the life of Clara—an Anglo-German actress and secret intelligence agent—navigating the perilous world of Nazi Germany. Thynne reveals how her novels shed light on the elite women surrounding Hitler, the moral ambiguity of espionage, and the cultural undercurrents of the 1930s, including astrology and occultism. She also shares how real historical figures like Hedy Lamarr inspire her work and what’s next for Clara beyond 1942. Jane Thynne's Clara Vine novels are being reissued in new hardcover and digital editions. Clara Vine is a fictional Anglo-German actress caught in the rising tide of fascism. The books reveal the secretive world of Nazi wives and women close to power. Thynne conducted deep research using memoirs, archives, and primary sources. Clara's journey reflects the moral and political complexity of WWII espionage. Hedy Lamarr features in the latest novel, tying in real-life brilliance with fiction. Thynne emphasizes the ethical duty of historical fiction to truthfully represent history. The rise of fascism in the 1930s resonates strongly with modern global politics. Astrology had surprising importance within Nazi leadership circles. Clara’s story will extend beyond 1942 in future novels. "It's such a joy to be here actually." "Clara Vine is an Anglo-German actress." "Clara has a double secret." 00:00 – The Return of Clara Vine02:22 – Exploring the Rise of Fascism04:35 – Espionage and the World of VIP Women08:08 – The Lives of Nazi Wives11:56 – Contradictions in the Nazi Regime14:46 – Clara's Evolution Over Time16:27 – Introducing Hedy Lamarr21:03 – The Responsibility of Historical Fiction25:08 – Echoes of the 1930s in Today’s World27:37 – Astrology and the Occult in Nazi Germany31:44 – Future Adventures of Clara Vine33:11 – Outro (SPYMASTERS_THEME.wav) 📝 Episode Summary🔑 Key Takeaways🔊 Sound Bites📖 Chapters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 22 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior 🎙️ Spymasters Podcast – Unveiling Clara Vine: A Journey Through Nazi Germany Guest: Jane ThynneHost: Antonia SeniorGenre: Historical Fiction, EspionageKeywords: Clara Vine, Jane Thynne, espionage, Nazi Germany, historical fiction, Hedy Lamarr, WWII, women in history, literature, spy novels In this episode, host Antonia Senior interviews acclaimed author Jane Thynne, creator of the Clara Vine series. The conversation delves into the life of Clara—an Anglo-German actress and secret intelligence agent—navigating the perilous world of Nazi Germany. Thynne reveals how her novels shed light on the elite women surrounding Hitler, the moral ambiguity of espionage, and the cultural undercurrents of the 1930s, including astrology and occultism. She also shares how real historical figures like Hedy Lamarr inspire her work and what’s next for Clara beyond 1942. Jane Thynne's Clara Vine novels are being reissued in new hardcover and digital editions. Clara Vine is a fictional Anglo-German actress caught in the rising tide of fascism. The books reveal the secretive world of Nazi wives and women close to power. Thynne conducted deep research using memoirs, archives, and primary sources. Clara's journey reflects the moral and political complexity of WWII espionage. Hedy Lamarr features in the latest novel, tying in real-life brilliance with fiction. Thynne emphasizes the ethical duty of historical fiction to truthfully represent history. The rise of fascism in the 1930s resonates strongly with modern global politics. Astrology had surprising importance within Nazi leadership circles. Clara’s story will extend beyond 1942 in future novels. "It's such a joy to be here actually." "Clara Vine is an Anglo-German actress." "Clara has a double secret." 00:00 – The Return of Clara Vine02:22 – Exploring the Rise of Fascism04:35 – Espionage and the World of VIP Women08:08 – The Lives of Nazi Wives11:56 – Contradictions in the Nazi Regime14:46 – Clara's Evolution Over Time16:27 – Introducing Hedy Lamarr21:03 – The Responsibility of Historical Fiction25:08 – Echoes of the 1930s in Today’s World27:37 – Astrology and the Occult in Nazi Germany31:44 – Future Adventures of Clara Vine33:11 – Outro (SPYMASTERS_THEME.wav) 📝 Episode Summary🔑 Key Takeaways🔊 Sound Bites📖 Chapters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 🎙️ Spymasters Podcast – Unveiling Clara Vine: A Journey Through Nazi Germany

Guest: Jane Thynne
Host: Antonia Senior
Genre: Historical Fiction, Espionage
Keywords: Clara Vine, Jane Thynne, espionage, Nazi Germany, historical fiction, Hedy Lamarr, WWII, women in history, literature, spy novels

In this episode, host Antonia Senior interviews acclaimed author Jane Thynne, creator of the Clara Vine series. The conversation delves into the life of Clara—an Anglo-German actress and secret intelligence agent—navigating the perilous world of Nazi Germany. Thynne reveals how her novels shed light on the elite women surrounding Hitler, the moral ambiguity of espionage, and the cultural undercurrents of the 1930s, including astrology and occultism. She also shares how real historical figures like Hedy Lamarr inspire her work and what’s next for Clara beyond 1942.

  • Jane Thynne's Clara Vine novels are being reissued in new hardcover and digital editions.

  • Clara Vine is a fictional Anglo-German actress caught in the rising tide of fascism.

  • The books reveal the secretive world of Nazi wives and women close to power.

  • Thynne conducted deep research using memoirs, archives, and primary sources.

  • Clara's journey reflects the moral and political complexity of WWII espionage.

  • Hedy Lamarr features in the latest novel, tying in real-life brilliance with fiction.

  • Thynne emphasizes the ethical duty of historical fiction to truthfully represent history.

  • The rise of fascism in the 1930s resonates strongly with modern global politics.

  • Astrology had surprising importance within Nazi leadership circles.

  • Clara’s story will extend beyond 1942 in future novels.

  • "It's such a joy to be here actually."

  • "Clara Vine is an Anglo-German actress."

  • "Clara has a double secret."

00:00 – The Return of Clara Vine
02:22 – Exploring the Rise of Fascism
04:35 – Espionage and the World of VIP Women
08:08 – The Lives of Nazi Wives
11:56 – Contradictions in the Nazi Regime
14:46 – Clara's Evolution Over Time
16:27 – Introducing Hedy Lamarr
21:03 – The Responsibility of Historical Fiction
25:08 – Echoes of the 1930s in Today’s World
27:37 – Astrology and the Occult in Nazi Germany
31:44 – Future Adventures of Clara Vine
33:11 – Outro (SPYMASTERS_THEME.wav)

📝 Episode Summary🔑 Key Takeaways🔊 Sound Bites📖 Chapters

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]]> 2137 Spying on Hitler: The Spy and the Devil with Tim Willasey-Wilsey Tim Willasey-Wilsey comes on Spymasters to talk about the life and espionage career of Baron Bill de Ropp, a spy who infiltrated the Nazi Party during the rise of Adolf Hitler. The discussion covers his early life, his motivations for espionage, his complex relationships with key figures in the Nazi regime, and the challenges he faced as a spy. The conversation also delves into the historical context of the Baltic Germans, the dynamics of British intelligence during the interwar period, and the implications of de Ropp's reports on the perception of Nazi Germany within the British government. Bill de Ropp was a key figure in MI6's early espionage efforts. His linguistic skills allowed him to blend into various societies. de Ropp's loyalty shifted from Germany to Britain during WWI. He played a significant role in monitoring the Nazi Party's rise. His relationship with Alfred Rosenberg was pivotal for intelligence gathering. His first meeting with Hitler was fraught with tension. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/ixv4x6i Keywords: Baron Bill de Ropp, MI6, Nazi Party, espionage, intelligence, history, World War II, Lithuania, Hitler, British intelligence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 08 May 2025 05:01:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Tim Willasey-Wilsey comes on Spymasters to talk about the life and espionage career of Baron Bill de Ropp, a spy who infiltrated the Nazi Party during the rise of Adolf Hitler. The discussion covers his early life, his motivations for espionage, his complex relationships with key figures in the Nazi regime, and the challenges he faced as a spy. The conversation also delves into the historical context of the Baltic Germans, the dynamics of British intelligence during the interwar period, and the implications of de Ropp's reports on the perception of Nazi Germany within the British government. Bill de Ropp was a key figure in MI6's early espionage efforts. His linguistic skills allowed him to blend into various societies. de Ropp's loyalty shifted from Germany to Britain during WWI. He played a significant role in monitoring the Nazi Party's rise. His relationship with Alfred Rosenberg was pivotal for intelligence gathering. His first meeting with Hitler was fraught with tension. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/ixv4x6i Keywords: Baron Bill de Ropp, MI6, Nazi Party, espionage, intelligence, history, World War II, Lithuania, Hitler, British intelligence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Tim Willasey-Wilsey comes on Spymasters to talk about the life and espionage career of Baron Bill de Ropp, a spy who infiltrated the Nazi Party during the rise of Adolf Hitler. The discussion covers his early life, his motivations for espionage, his complex relationships with key figures in the Nazi regime, and the challenges he faced as a spy. The conversation also delves into the historical context of the Baltic Germans, the dynamics of British intelligence during the interwar period, and the implications of de Ropp's reports on the perception of Nazi Germany within the British government.

  • Bill de Ropp was a key figure in MI6's early espionage efforts.
  • His linguistic skills allowed him to blend into various societies.
  • de Ropp's loyalty shifted from Germany to Britain during WWI.
  • He played a significant role in monitoring the Nazi Party's rise.
  • His relationship with Alfred Rosenberg was pivotal for intelligence gathering.
  • His first meeting with Hitler was fraught with tension.

Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/ixv4x6i

Keywords: Baron Bill de Ropp, MI6, Nazi Party, espionage, intelligence, history, World War II, Lithuania, Hitler, British intelligence

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3935 Crooks and Spies in WW2 London, with Mark Ellis In this episode of the SpyMasters podcast, host Antonia Senior interviews thriller writer Mark Ellis, who discusses his journey into writing, the historical context of his novels set in wartime London, and the intricate plots involving crime and espionage. Ellis shares insights into his research methods, the importance of historical accuracy, and the character development of Frank Merlin, his protagonist. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of progressive views in a historical setting and concludes with Ellis recommending his favourite spy novels. keywords Mark Ellis, thriller writer, espionage, crime fiction, historical accuracy, wartime London, Frank Merlin, spy books, murder mystery, gangsters takeaways Mark Ellis transitioned to writing later in life. His novels are set in historically accurate wartime London. Ellis emphasizes the importance of storytelling over excessive detail. Crime rates surged during World War II in London. The character Frank Merlin reflects progressive views on race and sexuality. Ellis's research includes diaries and historical accounts. Espionage themes allow exploration of political issues in his books. Ellis enjoys reading and recommends various spy novels. He believes in creating complex plots with multiple subplots. The conversation highlights the rich backdrop of wartime London for crime fiction. But the book: https://amzn.eu/d/53eVGn7 Follow Mark Ellis: https://markellisauthor.com/; @markellis15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 24 Apr 2025 07:21:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of the SpyMasters podcast, host Antonia Senior interviews thriller writer Mark Ellis, who discusses his journey into writing, the historical context of his novels set in wartime London, and the intricate plots involving crime and espionage. Ellis shares insights into his research methods, the importance of historical accuracy, and the character development of Frank Merlin, his protagonist. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of progressive views in a historical setting and concludes with Ellis recommending his favourite spy novels. keywords Mark Ellis, thriller writer, espionage, crime fiction, historical accuracy, wartime London, Frank Merlin, spy books, murder mystery, gangsters takeaways Mark Ellis transitioned to writing later in life. His novels are set in historically accurate wartime London. Ellis emphasizes the importance of storytelling over excessive detail. Crime rates surged during World War II in London. The character Frank Merlin reflects progressive views on race and sexuality. Ellis's research includes diaries and historical accounts. Espionage themes allow exploration of political issues in his books. Ellis enjoys reading and recommends various spy novels. He believes in creating complex plots with multiple subplots. The conversation highlights the rich backdrop of wartime London for crime fiction. But the book: https://amzn.eu/d/53eVGn7 Follow Mark Ellis: https://markellisauthor.com/; @markellis15 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the SpyMasters podcast, host Antonia Senior interviews thriller writer Mark Ellis, who discusses his journey into writing, the historical context of his novels set in wartime London, and the intricate plots involving crime and espionage. Ellis shares insights into his research methods, the importance of historical accuracy, and the character development of Frank Merlin, his protagonist. The conversation also touches on the portrayal of progressive views in a historical setting and concludes with Ellis recommending his favourite spy novels.


keywords

Mark Ellis, thriller writer, espionage, crime fiction, historical accuracy, wartime London, Frank Merlin, spy books, murder mystery, gangsters


takeaways

  • Mark Ellis transitioned to writing later in life.
  • His novels are set in historically accurate wartime London.
  • Ellis emphasizes the importance of storytelling over excessive detail.
  • Crime rates surged during World War II in London.
  • The character Frank Merlin reflects progressive views on race and sexuality.
  • Ellis's research includes diaries and historical accounts.
  • Espionage themes allow exploration of political issues in his books.
  • Ellis enjoys reading and recommends various spy novels.
  • He believes in creating complex plots with multiple subplots.
  • The conversation highlights the rich backdrop of wartime London for crime fiction.


But the book: https://amzn.eu/d/53eVGn7

Follow Mark Ellis: https://markellisauthor.com/; @markellis15

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2100 The Son Who Wasn't - an incredible true story of espionage and betrayal. https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Antonia Senior talks to David Gardner, journalist and author about A Spy in the Family, the book he co-authored with fellow journalist Paul Henderson. BUY THE BOOK: https://amzn.eu/d/5yzY71E keywords espionage, spy stories, Czech spy, betrayal, identity, resilience, historical narrative, true crime, family, Cold War summary An Incredible True Story of Espionage and Betrayal, A Spy in the Family, is the first book to reveal the full, astonishing story of ‘Václav Jelínek’, aka Erwin van Haarlem, using previously unseen documents from the UK, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic A fascinating tale of how the authors helped Johanna, now 99, find out the truth about the man who pretended to be her son. It all starts in a courtroom, in 1989, when Johanna Von Haarlem confronted the man who had spent ten years pretending to be the son that she was brutally forced to give away during the war. Sound Bites "She was sent away to have the baby." "He was a trained spy after all." "He died a couple of years ago." Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of a Spy Story 06:45 Johanna's Heartbreaking Journey 12:55 The Spy's Double Life 16:29 The Reunion and Its Consequences 28:41 The Shocking Truth Revealed 31:14 The Search for the Real Irwin 36:51 ending.mp3 37:03 SPYMASTERS_THEME.wav Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 10 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Antonia Senior talks to David Gardner, journalist and author about A Spy in the Family, the book he co-authored with fellow journalist Paul Henderson. BUY THE BOOK: https://amzn.eu/d/5yzY71E keywords espionage, spy stories, Czech spy, betrayal, identity, resilience, historical narrative, true crime, family, Cold War summary An Incredible True Story of Espionage and Betrayal, A Spy in the Family, is the first book to reveal the full, astonishing story of ‘Václav Jelínek’, aka Erwin van Haarlem, using previously unseen documents from the UK, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic A fascinating tale of how the authors helped Johanna, now 99, find out the truth about the man who pretended to be her son. It all starts in a courtroom, in 1989, when Johanna Von Haarlem confronted the man who had spent ten years pretending to be the son that she was brutally forced to give away during the war. Sound Bites "She was sent away to have the baby." "He was a trained spy after all." "He died a couple of years ago." Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of a Spy Story 06:45 Johanna's Heartbreaking Journey 12:55 The Spy's Double Life 16:29 The Reunion and Its Consequences 28:41 The Shocking Truth Revealed 31:14 The Search for the Real Irwin 36:51 ending.mp3 37:03 SPYMASTERS_THEME.wav Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Antonia Senior talks to David Gardner, journalist and author about A Spy in the Family, the book he co-authored with fellow journalist Paul Henderson.

BUY THE BOOK: https://amzn.eu/d/5yzY71E

keywords

espionage, spy stories, Czech spy, betrayal, identity, resilience, historical narrative, true crime, family, Cold War

summary

An Incredible True Story of Espionage and Betrayal, A Spy in the Family, is the first book to reveal the full, astonishing story of ‘Václav Jelínek’, aka Erwin van Haarlem, using previously unseen documents from the UK, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic

A fascinating tale of how the authors helped Johanna, now 99, find out the truth about the man who pretended to be her son.

It all starts in a courtroom, in 1989, when Johanna Von Haarlem confronted the man who had spent ten years pretending to be the son that she was brutally forced to give away during the war.


Sound Bites

  • "She was sent away to have the baby."
  • "He was a trained spy after all."
  • "He died a couple of years ago."

Chapters

00:00

The Genesis of a Spy Story

06:45

Johanna's Heartbreaking Journey

12:55

The Spy's Double Life

16:29

The Reunion and Its Consequences

28:41

The Shocking Truth Revealed

31:14

The Search for the Real Irwin

36:51

ending.mp3

37:03

SPYMASTERS_THEME.wav

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]]> 2378 The CIA Book Club, with Charlie English Summary: In this episode of The Spymasters Podcast, host Antonia Senior is joined by journalist and author Charlie English to discuss his latest book, The CIA Book Club. They dive into the incredible Cold War operation where the CIA secretly distributed banned books behind the Iron Curtain, undermining Soviet censorship and ideological control. Charlie shares gripping stories from his research, the broader impact of literature as a weapon, and how the written word shaped Cold War intelligence battles. Topics Covered: How the CIA used books to fight the Cold War The role of underground literature in Poland and beyond Soviet censorship and ideological control Real-life espionage stories behind intelligence operations The intersection of journalism, history, and spycraft Tags: #SpymastersPodcast #CIA #ColdWar #Espionage #CharlieEnglish #BannedBooks #IronCurtain #IntelligenceHistory #SpyBooks #SecretOperations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Summary: In this episode of The Spymasters Podcast, host Antonia Senior is joined by journalist and author Charlie English to discuss his latest book, The CIA Book Club. They dive into the incredible Cold War operation where the CIA secretly distributed banned books behind the Iron Curtain, undermining Soviet censorship and ideological control. Charlie shares gripping stories from his research, the broader impact of literature as a weapon, and how the written word shaped Cold War intelligence battles. Topics Covered: How the CIA used books to fight the Cold War The role of underground literature in Poland and beyond Soviet censorship and ideological control Real-life espionage stories behind intelligence operations The intersection of journalism, history, and spycraft Tags: #SpymastersPodcast #CIA #ColdWar #Espionage #CharlieEnglish #BannedBooks #IronCurtain #IntelligenceHistory #SpyBooks #SecretOperations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Summary:

In this episode of The Spymasters Podcast, host Antonia Senior is joined by journalist and author Charlie English to discuss his latest book, The CIA Book Club. They dive into the incredible Cold War operation where the CIA secretly distributed banned books behind the Iron Curtain, undermining Soviet censorship and ideological control. Charlie shares gripping stories from his research, the broader impact of literature as a weapon, and how the written word shaped Cold War intelligence battles.

Topics Covered:

  • How the CIA used books to fight the Cold War
  • The role of underground literature in Poland and beyond
  • Soviet censorship and ideological control
  • Real-life espionage stories behind intelligence operations
  • The intersection of journalism, history, and spycraft

Tags:

#SpymastersPodcast #CIA #ColdWar #Espionage #CharlieEnglish #BannedBooks #IronCurtain #IntelligenceHistory #SpyBooks #SecretOperations

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]]> 2928 Simon Scarrow on A Death in Berlin Simon Scarrow, the bestselling novelist, talks to Antonia Senior about his new novel A Death in Berlin. Set in Nazi Germany, this is the third in his series about detective Horst Schenke, an investigator with the Kripo unit. A man has been murdered, and Berlin is flooded with fake ration cards. How does Schenke deal with being a good man within a terrible regime? Simon and Antonia talk about living under the Nazis, about modern parallels and about the art of historical fiction. Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/cQw2kAv Follow Simon: https://www.simonscarrow.co.uk/ More on the podcast: https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ on X we're @Spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:19:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Simon Scarrow, the bestselling novelist, talks to Antonia Senior about his new novel A Death in Berlin. Set in Nazi Germany, this is the third in his series about detective Horst Schenke, an investigator with the Kripo unit. A man has been murdered, and Berlin is flooded with fake ration cards. How does Schenke deal with being a good man within a terrible regime? Simon and Antonia talk about living under the Nazis, about modern parallels and about the art of historical fiction. Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/cQw2kAv Follow Simon: https://www.simonscarrow.co.uk/ More on the podcast: https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ on X we're @Spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Simon Scarrow, the bestselling novelist, talks to Antonia Senior about his new novel A Death in Berlin. Set in Nazi Germany, this is the third in his series about detective Horst Schenke, an investigator with the Kripo unit. A man has been murdered, and Berlin is flooded with fake ration cards. How does Schenke deal with being a good man within a terrible regime?

Simon and Antonia talk about living under the Nazis, about modern parallels and about the art of historical fiction.


Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/cQw2kAv

Follow Simon: https://www.simonscarrow.co.uk/


More on the podcast: https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ on X we're @Spymasterspod


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]]> 2303 Trump and our Intelligence Alliance, with Michael Smith Antonia Senior talks to Michael Smith, author of the Real Special Relationship, about the new world order and its impact on the US-UK intelligence alliance. Michael is a journalist and author of a number of books on spies and intelligence. He is a former member of the board of Bletchley Park. Antonia and Michael explore the dynamics of intelligence sharing between the UK and the US, witth historical context, trust issues, and the impact of political leadership on intelligence operations. They look at the future of intelligence cooperation amidst global challenges, particularly in the grey zone of warfare and the role of NATO in maintaining security. Buy Michael's book here: https://amzn.eu/d/5Aqm2eu Follow Michael here: https://www.michaelsmithauthor.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Antonia Senior talks to Michael Smith, author of the Real Special Relationship, about the new world order and its impact on the US-UK intelligence alliance. Michael is a journalist and author of a number of books on spies and intelligence. He is a former member of the board of Bletchley Park. Antonia and Michael explore the dynamics of intelligence sharing between the UK and the US, witth historical context, trust issues, and the impact of political leadership on intelligence operations. They look at the future of intelligence cooperation amidst global challenges, particularly in the grey zone of warfare and the role of NATO in maintaining security. Buy Michael's book here: https://amzn.eu/d/5Aqm2eu Follow Michael here: https://www.michaelsmithauthor.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Antonia Senior talks to Michael Smith, author of the Real Special Relationship, about the new world order and its impact on the US-UK intelligence alliance. Michael is a journalist and author of a number of books on spies and intelligence. He is a former member of the board of Bletchley Park.


Antonia and Michael explore the dynamics of intelligence sharing between the UK and the US, witth historical context, trust issues, and the impact of political leadership on intelligence operations. They look at the future of intelligence cooperation amidst global challenges, particularly in the grey zone of warfare and the role of NATO in maintaining security.


Buy Michael's book here: https://amzn.eu/d/5Aqm2eu

Follow Michael here: https://www.michaelsmithauthor.com/

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]]> 2766 no The Oligarch's Daughter, with Joseph Finder https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior interviews bestselling novelist Joseph Finder about his latest thriller, 'The Oligarch's Daughter.' The conversation delves into the book's premise, character dynamics, and the intricate themes of wealth, trust, and the blurred lines between capitalism and intelligence in Russia. Finder shares insights into his writing process, the challenges of creating relatable characters in extraordinary situations, and the cultural nuances that inform his storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior interviews bestselling novelist Joseph Finder about his latest thriller, 'The Oligarch's Daughter.' The conversation delves into the book's premise, character dynamics, and the intricate themes of wealth, trust, and the blurred lines between capitalism and intelligence in Russia. Finder shares insights into his writing process, the challenges of creating relatable characters in extraordinary situations, and the cultural nuances that inform his storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior interviews bestselling novelist Joseph Finder about his latest thriller, 'The Oligarch's Daughter.' The conversation delves into the book's premise, character dynamics, and the intricate themes of wealth, trust, and the blurred lines between capitalism and intelligence in Russia. Finder shares insights into his writing process, the challenges of creating relatable characters in extraordinary situations, and the cultural nuances that inform his storytelling.

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]]> 2262 The Seventh Floor, with David McCloskey Writer and journalist Antonia Senior interviews bestselling author David McCloskey about his latest novel, 'The Seventh Floor.' The conversation delves into the intricacies of espionage, the brutal realities of interrogation, and the complex relationships between characters in the world of intelligence. McCloskey shares insights from his experience as a former CIA analyst, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in the intelligence community. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/36LWTuM David McCloskey, The Seventh Floor, CIA, espionage, spy novels, mole hunt, interrogation, character dynamics, Russian intelligence, friendship in espionage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 30 Jan 2025 08:27:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Writer and journalist Antonia Senior interviews bestselling author David McCloskey about his latest novel, 'The Seventh Floor.' The conversation delves into the intricacies of espionage, the brutal realities of interrogation, and the complex relationships between characters in the world of intelligence. McCloskey shares insights from his experience as a former CIA analyst, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in the intelligence community. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/36LWTuM David McCloskey, The Seventh Floor, CIA, espionage, spy novels, mole hunt, interrogation, character dynamics, Russian intelligence, friendship in espionage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Writer and journalist Antonia Senior interviews bestselling author David McCloskey about his latest novel, 'The Seventh Floor.' The conversation delves into the intricacies of espionage, the brutal realities of interrogation, and the complex relationships between characters in the world of intelligence.


McCloskey shares insights from his experience as a former CIA analyst, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in the intelligence community.


Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/36LWTuM


David McCloskey, The Seventh Floor, CIA, espionage, spy novels, mole hunt, interrogation, character dynamics, Russian intelligence, friendship in espionage

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]]> 2542 Notes on a Drowning, with Anna Sharpe https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior interviews Anna Sharpe. about her new book, 'Notes on a Drowning.' Sharpe is a pseudonym for the award winning novelist Anna Mazzola. The conversation explores the book's themes of political intrigue, legal drama, and the murky world of espionage. Mazzola discusses her transition from historical fiction to contemporary writing, the influences behind her work, and the social commentary woven throughout her narrative. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced in the criminal justice system and the allure of espionage in literature, particularly in the context of modern spy craft. Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/0kzWqeH Read more about Anna's legal work at the Centre for Women's Justice: https://www.centreforwomensjustice.org.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:55:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior interviews Anna Sharpe. about her new book, 'Notes on a Drowning.' Sharpe is a pseudonym for the award winning novelist Anna Mazzola. The conversation explores the book's themes of political intrigue, legal drama, and the murky world of espionage. Mazzola discusses her transition from historical fiction to contemporary writing, the influences behind her work, and the social commentary woven throughout her narrative. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced in the criminal justice system and the allure of espionage in literature, particularly in the context of modern spy craft. Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/0kzWqeH Read more about Anna's legal work at the Centre for Women's Justice: https://www.centreforwomensjustice.org.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior interviews Anna Sharpe. about her new book, 'Notes on a Drowning.' Sharpe is a pseudonym for the award winning novelist Anna Mazzola. The conversation explores the book's themes of political intrigue, legal drama, and the murky world of espionage. Mazzola discusses her transition from historical fiction to contemporary writing, the influences behind her work, and the social commentary woven throughout her narrative. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced in the criminal justice system and the allure of espionage in literature, particularly in the context of modern spy craft.


Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/0kzWqeH

Read more about Anna's legal work at the Centre for Women's Justice: https://www.centreforwomensjustice.org.uk/


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]]> 2113 William Boyd on writing Gabriel's Moon Join Oliver Webb-Carter as he talks to William Boyd, the best-selling novelist, about his new book Gabriel's Moon. Gabriel Dax is a young man in sixties London who becomes drawn into the murky world of espionage. William and Oliver talk about why literary writers are drawn to writing spy novels. They talk about James Bond, and Graham Greene and the art of writing. Buy the book here. Follow William Boyd here. Thank you for listening to Spymasters. Don't forget to give us a follow and tell your friends, so we can keep bringing you the best authors in the business talking about spies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Join Oliver Webb-Carter as he talks to William Boyd, the best-selling novelist, about his new book Gabriel's Moon. Gabriel Dax is a young man in sixties London who becomes drawn into the murky world of espionage. William and Oliver talk about why literary writers are drawn to writing spy novels. They talk about James Bond, and Graham Greene and the art of writing. Buy the book here. Follow William Boyd here. Thank you for listening to Spymasters. Don't forget to give us a follow and tell your friends, so we can keep bringing you the best authors in the business talking about spies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Join Oliver Webb-Carter as he talks to William Boyd, the best-selling novelist, about his new book Gabriel's Moon. Gabriel Dax is a young man in sixties London who becomes drawn into the murky world of espionage. William and Oliver talk about why literary writers are drawn to writing spy novels. They talk about James Bond, and Graham Greene and the art of writing.


Buy the book here.

Follow William Boyd here.


Thank you for listening to Spymasters. Don't forget to give us a follow and tell your friends, so we can keep bringing you the best authors in the business talking about spies.

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]]> 2935 Spymasters Books of the Year 2024 The inaugural Books of the Year from the Spymasters Podcast. Join your host Antonia Senior as she talks to three special guests about their books of the year. Oliver Webb-Carter is the Editor of Aspects of History, and the host of our sister podcast, the Aspects of History podcast. https://aspectsofhistory.com/ Paul Burke is the host of the brilliant Crimetimefm podcast, and is writing an encyclopedia of spy fiction, due out in 2025. https://www.crimetime.co.uk/crimetime-fm-the-crime-fiction-interview-podcast/ Thomas Waugh is a writer of contemporary spy thrillers, including the Daniel Ambler series https://www.a's mazon.co.uk/stores/Thomas-Waugh/author/B001HPRLFY?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true The books we discuss on this chat include Ben Macintyre's The Siege Henry Hemming's Four Shots in the Night IS Berry's The Peacock and the Sparrow David McCloskey's Moscow X Tim Tate's To Catch a Spy Nigel West's Classified Henry Porter's The Enigma Girl Merle Negate's Honour Among Spies Mick Heron's The Secret Hours William Boyd's Gabriel's Moon Jane Thynne's Midnight in Vienna Alex Gerlis: Every Spy a Traitor The conversation covers a range of themes, including character-driven narratives, historical contexts, and the evolution of intelligence writing. Each guest presents their selections, providing insights into the authors' styles and the significance of their works in the genre. In this engaging conversation, the panel delvesinto the intricate world of espionage, exploring the ideological divides between American and Communist perspectives, the moral dilemmas faced by spies, and the complexities of British intelligence secrecy. The discussion also highlights the evolution of spy fiction, particularly in relation to real historical events, and examines modern trends in the genre, culminating in a review of notable spy books. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior The inaugural Books of the Year from the Spymasters Podcast. Join your host Antonia Senior as she talks to three special guests about their books of the year. Oliver Webb-Carter is the Editor of Aspects of History, and the host of our sister podcast, the Aspects of History podcast. https://aspectsofhistory.com/ Paul Burke is the host of the brilliant Crimetimefm podcast, and is writing an encyclopedia of spy fiction, due out in 2025. https://www.crimetime.co.uk/crimetime-fm-the-crime-fiction-interview-podcast/ Thomas Waugh is a writer of contemporary spy thrillers, including the Daniel Ambler series https://www.a's mazon.co.uk/stores/Thomas-Waugh/author/B001HPRLFY?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true The books we discuss on this chat include Ben Macintyre's The Siege Henry Hemming's Four Shots in the Night IS Berry's The Peacock and the Sparrow David McCloskey's Moscow X Tim Tate's To Catch a Spy Nigel West's Classified Henry Porter's The Enigma Girl Merle Negate's Honour Among Spies Mick Heron's The Secret Hours William Boyd's Gabriel's Moon Jane Thynne's Midnight in Vienna Alex Gerlis: Every Spy a Traitor The conversation covers a range of themes, including character-driven narratives, historical contexts, and the evolution of intelligence writing. Each guest presents their selections, providing insights into the authors' styles and the significance of their works in the genre. In this engaging conversation, the panel delvesinto the intricate world of espionage, exploring the ideological divides between American and Communist perspectives, the moral dilemmas faced by spies, and the complexities of British intelligence secrecy. The discussion also highlights the evolution of spy fiction, particularly in relation to real historical events, and examines modern trends in the genre, culminating in a review of notable spy books. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices The inaugural Books of the Year from the Spymasters Podcast. Join your host Antonia Senior as she talks to three special guests about their books of the year.

Oliver Webb-Carter is the Editor of Aspects of History, and the host of our sister podcast, the Aspects of History podcast. https://aspectsofhistory.com/

Paul Burke is the host of the brilliant Crimetimefm podcast, and is writing an encyclopedia of spy fiction, due out in 2025. https://www.crimetime.co.uk/crimetime-fm-the-crime-fiction-interview-podcast/

Thomas Waugh is a writer of contemporary spy thrillers, including the Daniel Ambler series https://www.a's mazon.co.uk/stores/Thomas-Waugh/author/B001HPRLFY?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true


The books we discuss on this chat include

Ben Macintyre's The Siege

Henry Hemming's Four Shots in the Night

IS Berry's The Peacock and the Sparrow

David McCloskey's Moscow X

Tim Tate's To Catch a Spy

Nigel West's Classified

Henry Porter's The Enigma Girl

Merle Negate's Honour Among Spies

Mick Heron's The Secret Hours

William Boyd's Gabriel's Moon

Jane Thynne's Midnight in Vienna

Alex Gerlis: Every Spy a Traitor


The conversation covers a range of themes, including character-driven narratives, historical contexts, and the evolution of intelligence writing. Each guest presents their selections, providing insights into the authors' styles and the significance of their works in the genre. In this engaging conversation, the panel delvesinto the intricate world of espionage, exploring the ideological divides between American and Communist perspectives, the moral dilemmas faced by spies, and the complexities of British intelligence secrecy. The discussion also highlights the evolution of spy fiction, particularly in relation to real historical events, and examines modern trends in the genre, culminating in a review of notable spy books.



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]]> 3931 Trump, Foreign Policy and Intelligence, with Michael Smith https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Michael Smith, intelligence expert, talks to Oliver Webb-Carter, editor of Aspects of History, about Trump, Foreign Policy and Intelligence. Michael talks about how the re-election of Trump will effect the special relationship between British and American intelligence services. Oliver and Michael discuss the prospects for the Middle East, Ukraine and more, under the new Trump administration. Michael is is a British author who specializes in spies and espionage. He is also a former member of the board of the Bletchley Park Trust. Michael has written 16 books, and his most recent is The Real Special Relationship, The True Story of How the British and US Secret Services Work. Buy the book here Follow Michael here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 21 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Michael Smith, intelligence expert, talks to Oliver Webb-Carter, editor of Aspects of History, about Trump, Foreign Policy and Intelligence. Michael talks about how the re-election of Trump will effect the special relationship between British and American intelligence services. Oliver and Michael discuss the prospects for the Middle East, Ukraine and more, under the new Trump administration. Michael is is a British author who specializes in spies and espionage. He is also a former member of the board of the Bletchley Park Trust. Michael has written 16 books, and his most recent is The Real Special Relationship, The True Story of How the British and US Secret Services Work. Buy the book here Follow Michael here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Michael Smith, intelligence expert, talks to Oliver Webb-Carter, editor of Aspects of History, about Trump, Foreign Policy and Intelligence.


Michael talks about how the re-election of Trump will effect the special relationship between British and American intelligence services. Oliver and Michael discuss the prospects for the Middle East, Ukraine and more, under the new Trump administration.


Michael is is a British author who specializes in spies and espionage. He is also a former member of the board of the Bletchley Park Trust. Michael has written 16 books, and his most recent is The Real Special Relationship, The True Story of How the British and US Secret Services Work.

Buy the book here

Follow Michael here

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]]> 2754 Putin's Spooks. Inside the FSB, with Dr Kevin Riehle Kevin Riehle is the author of The Russian FSB, A Concise History of the Federal Security Service. Dr Riehle spent 30 years working for the US Government in various intelligence roles before switching to academia. The Russian FSB is the first English history book to trace the rise of Putin's Security Service. We talk about Putin, corruption and succession. What place does the FSB have in Russian society? How does it install fear? What continuity is there with its famed and feared predecessor, the KGB? Buy the book here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 07 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Kevin Riehle is the author of The Russian FSB, A Concise History of the Federal Security Service. Dr Riehle spent 30 years working for the US Government in various intelligence roles before switching to academia. The Russian FSB is the first English history book to trace the rise of Putin's Security Service. We talk about Putin, corruption and succession. What place does the FSB have in Russian society? How does it install fear? What continuity is there with its famed and feared predecessor, the KGB? Buy the book here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Kevin Riehle is the author of The Russian FSB, A Concise History of the Federal Security Service. Dr Riehle spent 30 years working for the US Government in various intelligence roles before switching to academia.


The Russian FSB is the first English history book to trace the rise of Putin's Security Service. We talk about Putin, corruption and succession. What place does the FSB have in Russian society? How does it install fear? What continuity is there with its famed and feared predecessor, the KGB?

Buy the book here.

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]]> 3729 From Spy to Writer, with IS Berry https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Antonia Senior talks to IS Berry about her debut novel The Peacock and the Sparrow. It has garnered rave reviews, and has won the Edgar Award for best first novel. It's set in Bahrain during the Arab Spring, and follows the misadventures of disillusioned CIA officer Shane Collins. IS Berry was in the CIA for six years, and she writes with thrilling authenticity about life as a spy. we talk about her leap from spy to writer, about her influenced, and the toll that espionage can take on the soul. Buy the book here Follow IS Berry: https://isberry.net/ Follow IS Berry on X: @isberryauthor Follow spymasters on X: @spymasterspod Follow Antonia: @tonisenior Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 24 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Antonia Senior talks to IS Berry about her debut novel The Peacock and the Sparrow. It has garnered rave reviews, and has won the Edgar Award for best first novel. It's set in Bahrain during the Arab Spring, and follows the misadventures of disillusioned CIA officer Shane Collins. IS Berry was in the CIA for six years, and she writes with thrilling authenticity about life as a spy. we talk about her leap from spy to writer, about her influenced, and the toll that espionage can take on the soul. Buy the book here Follow IS Berry: https://isberry.net/ Follow IS Berry on X: @isberryauthor Follow spymasters on X: @spymasterspod Follow Antonia: @tonisenior Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Antonia Senior talks to IS Berry about her debut novel The Peacock and the Sparrow. It has garnered rave reviews, and has won the Edgar Award for best first novel. It's set in Bahrain during the Arab Spring, and follows the misadventures of disillusioned CIA officer Shane Collins.

IS Berry was in the CIA for six years, and she writes with thrilling authenticity about life as a spy. we talk about her leap from spy to writer, about her influenced, and the toll that espionage can take on the soul.

Buy the book here

Follow IS Berry: https://isberry.net/

Follow IS Berry on X: @isberryauthor

Follow spymasters on X: @spymasterspod

Follow Antonia: @tonisenior

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]]> 2690 Spies, Istanbul and the 1930s, with Alec Marsh https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior talks to Alec Marsh, author of the Drabble and Harris series of historical thrillers. The talk ranges from Istanbul, to the peculiar atmosphere of the 1930s, espionage and beyond. Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/eoCm7PZ Follow Alec Marsh: https://www.alecmarsh.co.uk/ on X: @alecmarsh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 10 Oct 2024 10:24:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior After the Flood - a Drabble and Harris Mystery In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior talks to Alec Marsh, author of the Drabble and Harris series of historical thrillers. The talk ranges from Istanbul, to the peculiar atmosphere of the 1930s, espionage and beyond. Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/eoCm7PZ Follow Alec Marsh: https://www.alecmarsh.co.uk/ on X: @alecmarsh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode of the Spymasters podcast, Antonia Senior talks to Alec Marsh, author of the Drabble and Harris series of historical thrillers. The talk ranges from Istanbul, to the peculiar atmosphere of the 1930s, espionage and beyond.


Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/eoCm7PZ

Follow Alec Marsh: https://www.alecmarsh.co.uk/ on X: @alecmarsh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2375 To Catch a Spy. The Spycatcher Affair, with Tim Tate https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ The SpyMasters podcasts interviews all the best writers about spying: fact and fiction, historical and contemporary. In this episode, Antonia Senior talks to the brilliant journalist, writer and documentary maker Tim Tate about the Spycatcher Affair. We talk about the culture of secrecy at MI5, about Thatcher's involvement, about Peter Wright, the molecatcher turned whistleblower. Buy the book here. Follow Tim here Find Spymasters on X @spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Sep 2024 08:10:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior How the Spycatcher Affair brought MI5 in from the cold The SpyMasters podcasts interviews all the best writers about spying: fact and fiction, historical and contemporary. In this episode, Antonia Senior talks to the brilliant journalist, writer and documentary maker Tim Tate about the Spycatcher Affair. We talk about the culture of secrecy at MI5, about Thatcher's involvement, about Peter Wright, the molecatcher turned whistleblower. Buy the book here. Follow Tim here Find Spymasters on X @spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices The SpyMasters podcasts interviews all the best writers about spying: fact and fiction, historical and contemporary.


In this episode, Antonia Senior talks to the brilliant journalist, writer and documentary maker Tim Tate about the Spycatcher Affair. We talk about the culture of secrecy at MI5, about Thatcher's involvement, about Peter Wright, the molecatcher turned whistleblower.


Buy the book here.

Follow Tim here

Find Spymasters on X @spymasterspod


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3895 Midnight in Vienna, with Jane Thynne https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Antonia Senior talks to acclaimed novelist Jane Thynne about her new book Midnight in Vienna. Set in London and Vienna in 1938 it follows a young unemployed English tutor called Stella Fry and a disgraced MI5 watcher called Harry Fox, as they unite to investigate the murder of a celebrated detective novelist. We talk Nazis, the parallels between the 1930s and the present day, and, of course spies. Buy the book here. Follow Jane here. Follow Spymasters on X at @spymasterspod Follow Antonia Senior on X @tonisenior Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:24:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Antonia Senior talks to acclaimed novelist Jane Thynne about her new book Midnight in Vienna. Set in London and Vienna in 1938 it follows a young unemployed English tutor called Stella Fry and a disgraced MI5 watcher called Harry Fox, as they unite to investigate the murder of a celebrated detective novelist. We talk Nazis, the parallels between the 1930s and the present day, and, of course spies. Buy the book here. Follow Jane here. Follow Spymasters on X at @spymasterspod Follow Antonia Senior on X @tonisenior Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Antonia Senior talks to acclaimed novelist Jane Thynne about her new book Midnight in Vienna. Set in London and Vienna in 1938 it follows a young unemployed English tutor called Stella Fry and a disgraced MI5 watcher called Harry Fox, as they unite to investigate the murder of a celebrated detective novelist.


We talk Nazis, the parallels between the 1930s and the present day, and, of course spies.


Buy the book here.

Follow Jane here.

Follow Spymasters on X at @spymasterspod

Follow Antonia Senior on X @tonisenior

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3204 Spycraft. Tricks and tools of the dangerous trade from Elizabeth 1 to the Restoration. With Nadine Akkerman and Pete Langman Antonia Senior interviews Nadine Akkerman and Pete Langman about their fascinating new book Spycraft. What did it mean to be a spy in Early Modern England? What tips and tricks of the trade were employed against England's enemies? And who was the mysterious 'Q' of the Elizabethan spy trade? We talk secret ink, cyphers, and much more Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/jj62Dzm Follow the authors on x: @elegantfowl @Misswalsingham Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Antonia Senior interviews Nadine Akkerman and Pete Langman about their fascinating new book Spycraft. What did it mean to be a spy in Early Modern England? What tips and tricks of the trade were employed against England's enemies? And who was the mysterious 'Q' of the Elizabethan spy trade? We talk secret ink, cyphers, and much more Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/jj62Dzm Follow the authors on x: @elegantfowl @Misswalsingham Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Antonia Senior interviews Nadine Akkerman and Pete Langman about their fascinating new book Spycraft. What did it mean to be a spy in Early Modern England? What tips and tricks of the trade were employed against England's enemies?


And who was the mysterious 'Q' of the Elizabethan spy trade?


We talk secret ink, cyphers, and much more


Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/jj62Dzm

Follow the authors on x: @elegantfowl @Misswalsingham

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]]> 2998 Honour Among Spies, with Merle Nygate Spymasters meets Merle Nygate, the author of Honour Among Spies. The second in Merle's books about Eli Amiram, Mossad's top spy runner, it was a Times thriller of the month. Eli is now chief of Mossad's London operation. He needs an audacious coup to cement his position. Merle and your host, Antonia Senior talk fiction, Mossad and the challenges to writing. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/iZGaR5b Follow Merle: @MerleNygate https://merlenygate.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 Aug 2024 07:40:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Spymasters meets Merle Nygate, the author of Honour Among Spies. The second in Merle's books about Eli Amiram, Mossad's top spy runner, it was a Times thriller of the month. Eli is now chief of Mossad's London operation. He needs an audacious coup to cement his position. Merle and your host, Antonia Senior talk fiction, Mossad and the challenges to writing. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/iZGaR5b Follow Merle: @MerleNygate https://merlenygate.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Spymasters meets Merle Nygate, the author of Honour Among Spies. The second in Merle's books about Eli Amiram, Mossad's top spy runner, it was a Times thriller of the month. Eli is now chief of Mossad's London operation. He needs an audacious coup to cement his position.


Merle and your host, Antonia Senior talk fiction, Mossad and the challenges to writing.


Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/iZGaR5b

Follow Merle: @MerleNygate https://merlenygate.com/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2066 The CIA. An Imperial History. With Hugh Wilford https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Hugh Wilford joins SpyMasters to talk about his brilliant new book: The CIA, An Imperial History. Hugh is Professor of United States History at California State University, and a leading expert on the history of the CIA. His new book is a groundbreaking study of the history of the world's most famous intelligence agency. The book places the history of the CIA into a global context, in which the Cold War is a clash of empires. We talk about the founders of the CIA, the rise of covert action, and the Agency's unique role in American history. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/0hpxkVpP Let us know what you think on X: @spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 01 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Hugh Wilford joins SpyMasters to talk about his brilliant new book: The CIA, An Imperial History. Hugh is Professor of United States History at California State University, and a leading expert on the history of the CIA. His new book is a groundbreaking study of the history of the world's most famous intelligence agency. The book places the history of the CIA into a global context, in which the Cold War is a clash of empires. We talk about the founders of the CIA, the rise of covert action, and the Agency's unique role in American history. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/0hpxkVpP Let us know what you think on X: @spymasterspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hugh Wilford joins SpyMasters to talk about his brilliant new book: The CIA, An Imperial History. Hugh is Professor of United States History at California State University, and a leading expert on the history of the CIA.


His new book is a groundbreaking study of the history of the world's most famous intelligence agency. The book places the history of the CIA into a global context, in which the Cold War is a clash of empires.


We talk about the founders of the CIA, the rise of covert action, and the Agency's unique role in American history.


Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/0hpxkVpP

Let us know what you think on X: @spymasterspod



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3487 Read spies; Watch spies. With Oliver Webb-Carter, Editor, Aspects of History. Oliver Webb-Carter, the editor of Aspects of History, picks his top 5 books and his top 3 films about espionage. Some left-field options here from Oliver! Let us know what you think on X @spymasters We talk about the new SpyMasters anthology of top spy writing. And Ollie's picks: RISE and Kill First, Ronan Bergman. Buy. Operation Chiffon, Peter Taylor. Buy The Sympathiser, Viet Thanh Nguyen Buy Goldfinger, Ian Fleming. Buy One Day in September, Simon Reeve. Buy Films: Zero Days Living Daylights The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 18 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Oliver Webb-Carter, the editor of Aspects of History, picks his top 5 books and his top 3 films about espionage. Some left-field options here from Oliver! Let us know what you think on X @spymasters We talk about the new SpyMasters anthology of top spy writing. And Ollie's picks: RISE and Kill First, Ronan Bergman. Buy. Operation Chiffon, Peter Taylor. Buy The Sympathiser, Viet Thanh Nguyen Buy Goldfinger, Ian Fleming. Buy One Day in September, Simon Reeve. Buy Films: Zero Days Living Daylights The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Oliver Webb-Carter, the editor of Aspects of History, picks his top 5 books and his top 3 films about espionage. Some left-field options here from Oliver! Let us know what you think on X @spymasters


We talk about the new SpyMasters anthology of top spy writing.


And Ollie's picks:

RISE and Kill First, Ronan Bergman. Buy.

Operation Chiffon, Peter Taylor. Buy

The Sympathiser, Viet Thanh Nguyen Buy

Goldfinger, Ian Fleming. Buy

One Day in September, Simon Reeve. Buy


Films:

Zero Days

Living Daylights

The Spy Who Came in from the Cold.



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]]> 2935 Intelligence and the Holocaust, with Roger Moorhouse In this episode, we talk to Roger Moorhouse, the acclaimed historian of Central and Eastern Europe. Roger's new book, The Forgers, is the fascinating story of how a group of Polish diplomats sought to save Jewish victims of the Holocaust by issuing false passports. Roger's book also covers the subject of espionage and the holocaust, and how the brave agents of Polish intelligence sought to bring news of the horrific genocide to the outside world. This is the fascinating subject of this week's episode. https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/01ZnlVLV Follow Roger on X: @Roger_Moorhouse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 04 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior How Polish intelligence helped to inform a disbelieving world about the Holocaust In this episode, we talk to Roger Moorhouse, the acclaimed historian of Central and Eastern Europe. Roger's new book, The Forgers, is the fascinating story of how a group of Polish diplomats sought to save Jewish victims of the Holocaust by issuing false passports. Roger's book also covers the subject of espionage and the holocaust, and how the brave agents of Polish intelligence sought to bring news of the horrific genocide to the outside world. This is the fascinating subject of this week's episode. https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/01ZnlVLV Follow Roger on X: @Roger_Moorhouse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, we talk to Roger Moorhouse, the acclaimed historian of Central and Eastern Europe. Roger's new book, The Forgers, is the fascinating story of how a group of Polish diplomats sought to save Jewish victims of the Holocaust by issuing false passports.

Roger's book also covers the subject of espionage and the holocaust, and how the brave agents of Polish intelligence sought to bring news of the horrific genocide to the outside world. This is the fascinating subject of this week's episode.

https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/

Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/01ZnlVLV

Follow Roger on X: @Roger_Moorhouse


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]]> 3842 Every Spy a Traitor, with Alex Gerlis https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Top Spy novelist Alex gerlis joins Antonia Senior to talk about his new book, Every Spy a Traitor. The first in a new series, it follows the adventures of two British men who end up working for the NVKD in the run up to WW2. We talk about the 1930s, the mindset of spies, and the perils of intricate, multi-book plots. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/fJMM8dx More on Alex: https://alexgerlis.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 20 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Top Spy novelist Alex gerlis joins Antonia Senior to talk about his new book, Every Spy a Traitor. The first in a new series, it follows the adventures of two British men who end up working for the NVKD in the run up to WW2. We talk about the 1930s, the mindset of spies, and the perils of intricate, multi-book plots. Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/fJMM8dx More on Alex: https://alexgerlis.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Top Spy novelist Alex gerlis joins Antonia Senior to talk about his new book, Every Spy a Traitor. The first in a new series, it follows the adventures of two British men who end up working for the NVKD in the run up to WW2.

We talk about the 1930s, the mindset of spies, and the perils of intricate, multi-book plots.

Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/fJMM8dx

More on Alex: https://alexgerlis.co.uk/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2320 Writing Spy Fiction, with Thomas Waugh Top spy novelist Thomas Waugh talks to Antonia Senior about his trilogy featuring the reluctant spy Daniel Ambler. We talk Putin, oligarchs, publishing and more..... Buy End Game here: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 06 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Top spy novelist Thomas Waugh talks to Antonia Senior about his trilogy featuring the reluctant spy Daniel Ambler. We talk Putin, oligarchs, publishing and more..... Buy End Game here: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Top spy novelist Thomas Waugh talks to Antonia Senior about his trilogy featuring the reluctant spy Daniel Ambler. We talk Putin, oligarchs, publishing and more.....

Buy End Game here:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2079 SPIES: The Brave New World, with Calder Walton https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ In the second of an epic two-part series about the espionage wars between East and West, top intelligence historian Calder Walton talks Putin, disinformation and the decline of the Soviet Union. We talk about how Putin, the former KGB officer, turned his former service into a private mafia army. We turn to the threat from China, whose intelligence gathering operation against the West is on a scale never seen before. Buy Calder's book here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 23 May 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior The intelligence wars between East and West since the collapse of the Soviet Union. In the second of an epic two-part series about the espionage wars between East and West, top intelligence historian Calder Walton talks Putin, disinformation and the decline of the Soviet Union. We talk about how Putin, the former KGB officer, turned his former service into a private mafia army. We turn to the threat from China, whose intelligence gathering operation against the West is on a scale never seen before. Buy Calder's book here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In the second of an epic two-part series about the espionage wars between East and West, top intelligence historian Calder Walton talks Putin, disinformation and the decline of the Soviet Union. We talk about how Putin, the former KGB officer, turned his former service into a private mafia army. We turn to the threat from China, whose intelligence gathering operation against the West is on a scale never seen before.

Buy Calder's book here.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2452 SPIES: The epic intelligence war between East and West, with Calder Walton https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ The first of two episodes with Dr Calder Walton. This one looks at the development of the intelligence war between the West and the Soviet Union from 1917, follows the story through the fulcrum period of the Second World War and pushes on into the intense espionage games of the Cold War. Based at Harvard's Kennedy Business School, Calder Walton is one of the world's leading experts on intelligence and national security. We talk about Marx, the Great Illegals and the Cambridge Five. We talk about a US administration which was riddled with spies. How did intelligence affect the Cold War? How crucial was Oleg Gordievsky? Next time, we will be talking about espionage, Russia and the West, beyond the Cold War. The conversation is an insight into Calder's brilliant, bestselling book. Just out in paperback, SPIES: The epic intelligence war between East and West, is a masterful and comprehensive look at the incredible story of Soviet and Western espionage. The West, Calder argues, has a long term Russia problem. Christopher Andrew called it 'a masterpiece'. Buy Calder's book: https://amzn.eu/d/08N5KXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 09 May 2024 05:10:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior The first of two episodes with Dr Calder Walton. This one looks at the development of the intelligence war between the West and the Soviet Union from 1917, follows the story through the fulcrum period of the Second World War and pushes on into the intense espionage games of the Cold War. Based at Harvard's Kennedy Business School, Calder Walton is one of the world's leading experts on intelligence and national security. We talk about Marx, the Great Illegals and the Cambridge Five. We talk about a US administration which was riddled with spies. How did intelligence affect the Cold War? How crucial was Oleg Gordievsky? Next time, we will be talking about espionage, Russia and the West, beyond the Cold War. The conversation is an insight into Calder's brilliant, bestselling book. Just out in paperback, SPIES: The epic intelligence war between East and West, is a masterful and comprehensive look at the incredible story of Soviet and Western espionage. The West, Calder argues, has a long term Russia problem. Christopher Andrew called it 'a masterpiece'. Buy Calder's book: https://amzn.eu/d/08N5KXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices The first of two episodes with Dr Calder Walton. This one looks at the development of the intelligence war between the West and the Soviet Union from 1917, follows the story through the fulcrum period of the Second World War and pushes on into the intense espionage games of the Cold War.

Based at Harvard's Kennedy Business School, Calder Walton is one of the world's leading experts on intelligence and national security.

We talk about Marx, the Great Illegals and the Cambridge Five. We talk about a US administration which was riddled with spies. How did intelligence affect the Cold War? How crucial was Oleg Gordievsky?

Next time, we will be talking about espionage, Russia and the West, beyond the Cold War.

The conversation is an insight into Calder's brilliant, bestselling book. Just out in paperback, SPIES: The epic intelligence war between East and West, is a masterful and comprehensive look at the incredible story of Soviet and Western espionage. The West, Calder argues, has a long term Russia problem. Christopher Andrew called it 'a masterpiece'.

Buy Calder's book: https://amzn.eu/d/08N5KXb


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3123 The Cuban Missile Crisis, with Michael Smith https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 25 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior How the special relationship between US and UK intelligence services helped avert nuclear war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2987 Classified! With Nigel West What was it like to meet Anthony Blunt? How did the British Security Service try to stop Nigel West uncovering its secrets? And what qualities do you need to spend your career delving into the murky, shifting waters of intelligence? Join Antonia Senior as she quizzes Nigel West about a lifetime writing about intelligence, and his brilliant memoir: Classified!: The Adventures of a Molehunter. Buy the book here. https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 11 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Acclaimed intelligence historian Nigel West talks about a lifetime as a Molehunter. What was it like to meet Anthony Blunt? How did the British Security Service try to stop Nigel West uncovering its secrets? And what qualities do you need to spend your career delving into the murky, shifting waters of intelligence? Join Antonia Senior as she quizzes Nigel West about a lifetime writing about intelligence, and his brilliant memoir: Classified!: The Adventures of a Molehunter. Buy the book here. https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices What was it like to meet Anthony Blunt? How did the British Security Service try to stop Nigel West uncovering its secrets? And what qualities do you need to spend your career delving into the murky, shifting waters of intelligence?

Join Antonia Senior as she quizzes Nigel West about a lifetime writing about intelligence, and his brilliant memoir: Classified!: The Adventures of a Molehunter.

Buy the book here.

https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3157 Roman Spies with Peter Tonkin https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ How did August revolutionise Roman intelligence? How connected was Caesar? What intelligence failures dogged the Roman republic? All these questions answered and more by top novelist, Peter Tonkin. Buy the the Caesar's Spies' omnibus here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Wed, 27 Mar 2024 22:43:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Spies, scouts and Caesar: intelligence in the ancient world. How did August revolutionise Roman intelligence? How connected was Caesar? What intelligence failures dogged the Roman republic? All these questions answered and more by top novelist, Peter Tonkin. Buy the the Caesar's Spies' omnibus here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices How did August revolutionise Roman intelligence? How connected was Caesar? What intelligence failures dogged the Roman republic?

All these questions answered and more by top novelist, Peter Tonkin.

Buy the the Caesar's Spies' omnibus here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2090 Alchemy: Spies, magic and the Elizabethan world. With SJ Parris https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Was SJ Parris's protagonist, Giordano Bruno, really a spy? What was his relationship with top Elizabethan spymaster Francis Walsingham? To buy Alchemy, click here. For more on SJ Parris, the pseudonym of writer and journalist Stephanie Merritt, click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:43:00 -0000 full Antonia Senior Bestselling novelist SJ Parris joins us to talk about writing fiction on spies and murder in the Elizabethan world. Was SJ Parris's protagonist, Giordano Bruno, really a spy? What was his relationship with top Elizabethan spymaster Francis Walsingham? To buy Alchemy, click here. For more on SJ Parris, the pseudonym of writer and journalist Stephanie Merritt, click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Was SJ Parris's protagonist, Giordano Bruno, really a spy? What was his relationship with top Elizabethan spymaster Francis Walsingham?

To buy Alchemy, click here.

For more on SJ Parris, the pseudonym of writer and journalist Stephanie Merritt, click here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2950 Conflict and Military Intelligence with General David Petraeus https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Former Director of the CIA, General David Petraeus, joins to talk about his book, Conflict, and the evolution of military intelligence. We talk about Iraq, Putin, Weapons of Mass destruction and AI. General Petraeus Links: Conflict: A Military History of the Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine. Spymaster links: SpyMasterPod on X: @spymasterspod Spymasters Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0000 full 1 3 Antonia Senior Former Director of the CIA, General David Petraeus, joins to talk about his book, Conflict, and the evolution of military intelligence. We talk about Iraq, Putin, Weapons of Mass destruction and AI. General Petraeus Links: Conflict: A Military History of the Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine. Spymaster links: SpyMasterPod on X: @spymasterspod Spymasters Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former Director of the CIA, General David Petraeus, joins to talk about his book, Conflict, and the evolution of military intelligence. We talk about Iraq, Putin, Weapons of Mass destruction and AI.

General Petraeus Links:

Conflict: A Military History of the Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine.

Spymaster links:

SpyMasterPod on X: @spymasterspod

Spymasters Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3080 no Edith Cavell: Nurse, Spy, Heroine. With Dr Helen Fry https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ Dr Helen Fry, bestselling intelligence historian, joins us to talk about Edith Cavell, the famous World War One nurse and spy. Was she an intelligence agent for the British? What happened to Edith? We discuss the remarkable courage of a true heroine, and the wider story of women's role in intelligence. Dr Helen Fry's links: https://www.helen-fry.com/ Buy Women in Intelligence, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0000 Edith Cavell: Nurse, Spy, Heroine. With Dr Helen Fry full 1 2 Antonia Senior Dr Helen Fry joins us to talk about Edith Cavell and the story of women in intelligence. Dr Helen Fry, bestselling intelligence historian, joins us to talk about Edith Cavell, the famous World War One nurse and spy. Was she an intelligence agent for the British? What happened to Edith? We discuss the remarkable courage of a true heroine, and the wider story of women's role in intelligence. Dr Helen Fry's links: https://www.helen-fry.com/ Buy Women in Intelligence, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Helen Fry, bestselling intelligence historian, joins us to talk about Edith Cavell, the famous World War One nurse and spy. Was she an intelligence agent for the British? What happened to Edith? We discuss the remarkable courage of a true heroine, and the wider story of women's role in intelligence.

Dr Helen Fry's links: https://www.helen-fry.com/

Buy Women in Intelligence, here.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2740 Moscow X with David McCloskey https://aspectsofhistory.com/?post_type=podcasts&p=24220&preview=true Former CIA analyst turned bestselling writer David McCloskey joins to talk about his new novel. We talk about storytelling, the nature of modern espionage and how David made the leap from the CIA to novelist. David McCloskey Links Moscow X Damascus Station David on X Antonia Senior Links Antonia on X Email Antonia: spymasters@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 01 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0000 Moscow X with David McCloskey full 1 1 Antonia Senior Former CIA analyst turned bestselling writer David McCloskey joins to talk about his new novel. We talk about storytelling, the nature of modern espionage and how David made the leap from the CIA to novelist. David McCloskey Links Moscow X Damascus Station David on X Antonia Senior Links Antonia on X Email Antonia: spymasters@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former CIA analyst turned bestselling writer David McCloskey joins to talk about his new novel. We talk about storytelling, the nature of modern espionage and how David made the leap from the CIA to novelist.

David McCloskey Links

Moscow X

Damascus Station

David on X

Antonia Senior Links

Antonia on X

Email Antonia: spymasters@aspectsofhistory.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2940 Introducing....The SpyMasters Podcast https://aspectsofhistory.com/spy-masters-podcasts/ The podcast on espionage that brings you in from the cold. Episode One released Feb 1st with ex CIA office and bestselling novelist David McCloskey, author of Damascus Station and Moscow X. SpyMasters is a new podcast from the team at Aspects of History. Every fortnight we will cover a story from the shadow lands of espionage. Fact and fiction, historical and contemporary, we will be talking to the best writers, established and emerging talents alike, about their books and worlds of spies and intelligence. Early episodes include Francis Walsingham’s spying monk with S.J. Parris, the spy networks which uncovered the holocaust with Roger Moorhouse, and the incredible story of Edith Cavell, uncovered in the archives by acclaimed historian, Helen Fry. The new podcast is hosted by journalist, writer and Aspects of History board member, Antonia Senior. Antonia studied intelligence history under Christopher Andrew at Cambridge University, and hoped to get the tap on the shoulder. It never came. Instead, Antonia became an award-winning journalist and author of several novels. She is currently writing a book on the Cambridge Five spy ring, due for publication in 2025. Antonia can be found on X @Tonisenior We have no intention of keeping SpyMasters a closely guarded secret. Do please follow us on X @SpyMastersPod and spread the word. We will be grateful for any and all support. Should you be an author, with a relevant new or backlist title, interested in appearing on the podcast do get in touch at history@aspectsofhistory.com Please understand that we will not be able to oblige all requests. Thank you, and good night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Tue, 30 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0000 Introducing....The SpyMasters Podcast trailer 1 Antonia Senior The podcast on espionage that brings you in from the cold. Episode One released Feb 1st with ex CIA office and bestselling novelist David McCloskey, author of Damascus Station and Moscow X. SpyMasters is a new podcast from the team at Aspects of History. Every fortnight we will cover a story from the shadow lands of espionage. Fact and fiction, historical and contemporary, we will be talking to the best writers, established and emerging talents alike, about their books and worlds of spies and intelligence. Early episodes include Francis Walsingham’s spying monk with S.J. Parris, the spy networks which uncovered the holocaust with Roger Moorhouse, and the incredible story of Edith Cavell, uncovered in the archives by acclaimed historian, Helen Fry. The new podcast is hosted by journalist, writer and Aspects of History board member, Antonia Senior. Antonia studied intelligence history under Christopher Andrew at Cambridge University, and hoped to get the tap on the shoulder. It never came. Instead, Antonia became an award-winning journalist and author of several novels. She is currently writing a book on the Cambridge Five spy ring, due for publication in 2025. Antonia can be found on X @Tonisenior We have no intention of keeping SpyMasters a closely guarded secret. Do please follow us on X @SpyMastersPod and spread the word. We will be grateful for any and all support. Should you be an author, with a relevant new or backlist title, interested in appearing on the podcast do get in touch at history@aspectsofhistory.com Please understand that we will not be able to oblige all requests. Thank you, and good night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices The podcast on espionage that brings you in from the cold. Episode One released Feb 1st with ex CIA office and bestselling novelist David McCloskey, author of Damascus Station and Moscow X.

SpyMasters is a new podcast from the team at Aspects of History. Every fortnight we will cover a story from the shadow lands of espionage. Fact and fiction, historical and contemporary, we will be talking to the best writers, established and emerging talents alike, about their books and worlds of spies and intelligence.

Early episodes include Francis Walsingham’s spying monk with S.J. Parris, the spy networks which uncovered the holocaust with Roger Moorhouse, and the incredible story of Edith Cavell, uncovered in the archives by acclaimed historian, Helen Fry.

The new podcast is hosted by journalist, writer and Aspects of History board member, Antonia Senior. Antonia studied intelligence history under Christopher Andrew at Cambridge University, and hoped to get the tap on the shoulder. It never came. Instead, Antonia became an award-winning journalist and author of several novels. She is currently writing a book on the Cambridge Five spy ring, due for publication in 2025.

Antonia can be found on X @Tonisenior

We have no intention of keeping SpyMasters a closely guarded secret. Do please follow us on X @SpyMastersPod and spread the word. We will be grateful for any and all support. Should you be an author, with a relevant new or backlist title, interested in appearing on the podcast do get in touch at history@aspectsofhistory.com

Please understand that we will not be able to oblige all requests.

Thank you, and good night.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 150 no