FROM GOODREADS: Spycatcher: The Candid Autobiography of a Senior Intelligence Officer is a memoir written by Peter Wright, former MI5 officer and Assistant Director, and co-author Paul Greengrass. Wright drew on his own experiences and research into the history of the British intelligence community. Published first in Australia, the book was banned in England (but not Scotland) due to its allegations about government policy and incidents. These efforts ensured the book’s notoriety, and it earned considerable profit for Wright.
Spy Catcher by Peter Wright – A Book Review
Spy Catcher: The Candid Autobiography of a Senior Intelligence Officer is a memoir written by Peter Wright, former MI5 officer and Assistant Director, and co-author Paul Greengrass. The book was first published in Australia in 1987 and later banned in England (but not Scotland) due to its allegations about government policy and incidents.
The book is a memoir of Wright’s experiences as an MI5 officer and his research into the history of the British intelligence community. It contains allegations about government policy and incidents, including the allegation that Roger Hollis, former head of MI5, was a Soviet spy. The book has been described as “a mixture of autobiography, exposé of MI5, and history of British intelligence”.
I found Spy Catcher to be an engaging and thought-provoking read. Wright’s writing style is clear and concise, making it easy to follow his narrative. His personal anecdotes and insights into the inner workings of MI5 are fascinating.
The book’s allegations about government policy and incidents are certainly controversial, but I appreciated Wright’s willingness to speak out about what he saw as institutional failings. His research into the history of the British intelligence community is also impressive.
One potential weakness of the book is that it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction at times. Some of Wright’s allegations have been disputed by other sources, and it can be hard to know what to believe.
Overall, I would recommend Spy Catcher to anyone interested in the history of espionage or British intelligence. It’s a well-written and informative memoir that sheds light on an often secretive world.
In conclusion, Spy Catcher: The Candid Autobiography of a Senior Intelligence Officer is a fascinating read that offers unique insights into the world of MI5. While some of its allegations are controversial, it’s an important book that raises important questions about government policy and institutional failings.
My Goodreads Review:
Spy Catcher: The Candid Autobiography of a Senior Intelligence Officer by Peter WrightMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
MI5 at its finest! The book offers a unique insider’s perspective on the intelligence operations of the Cold War era and the author’s relentless pursuit of Soviet spies. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the secret world of intelligence, filled with intriguing revelations and a deep sense of duty to protect one’s nation.
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