Spymaster by Helen Fry (Tantor Audio) 5 Stars

Publication date 30/11/21 Audio time 10 hrs 39 mins Book 360 Pages

I would like to thank the author, publishers and Netgalley for allowing me to pick and read this book for review. If you are doing my reading challenge on Facebook Ladyreading365's reading challenge this book will fit in the following prompts #1 #4 #10 #11 #16 #20 #23 #29 #40

Synopsis

The dramatic story of a man who stood at the center of British intelligence operations, the ultimate spymaster of World War Two: Thomas Kendrick Thomas Kendrick (1881–1972) was central to the British Secret Service from its beginnings through to the Second World War. Under the guise of "British Passport Officer," he ran spy networks across Europe, facilitated the escape of Austrian Jews, and later went on to set up the "M Room," a listening operation which elicited information of the same significance and scope as Bletchley Park. Yet the work of Kendrick, and its full significance, remains largely unknown. Helen Fry draws on extensive original research to tell the story of this remarkable British intelligence officer. Kendrick’s life sheds light on the development of MI6 itself—he was one of the few men to serve Britain across three wars, two of which while working for the British Secret Service. Fry explores the private and public sides of Kendrick, revealing him to be the epitome of the "English gent"—easily able to charm those around him and scrupulously secretive.

My Review

Wow this book was amazing. I could not put it down, its definitely a really good page turning book full of atmosphere and so thrilling, with exciting information. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator was perfect for this novel and very engaging. He really made learning about history enthralling. This book is so well written and you can tell it has been well researched and that the author has extensive knowledge in this area of history. The flow of the writing was perfect leading to a thoroughly fascinating read. I learnt so much from reading this book. Its easy of the reading and understanding of the information held within its pages made me take in the information more readily. I would go as far as saying its one of the best history books I have read in a long time. The book held a lightness about it as there was no unnecessary facts or overload of facts and information. I really do recommend this book to every WWII reader out there. I will definitely be looking out for more of this authors works on netgalley. So much praise goes out to the author and publishers for bringing this magnificent and fact full portrayal of spies during the second World War.