Double Cross: The True Story of the D-Day Spies by Ben Macintyre details the British response to Nazi spies sent by the German Abwehr intelligence service and efforts to turn those spies into double agents. The key endeavor chronicled in the book involves British efforts to trick the Germans into believing the 1944 D-Day Invasion would take place in Pas de Calais rather than Normandy Beach in a feat known as Operation Fortitude.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Informative

Gritty

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.2

17,766 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Double Cross by Ben Macintyre receives commendation for its meticulous research and gripping narrative about WWII espionage. Readers appreciate its vivid character portrayals and the tension-filled depiction of deception. Critiques note occasional pacing issues and an overload of details that may overwhelm some readers. Overall, it’s a riveting recount for history enthusiasts.

Who Should Read Double Cross?

Fans of espionage and World War II history will relish Ben Macintyre’s Double Cross. Readers who enjoyed Agent Zigzag or Erik Larson’s The Splendid and the Vile will appreciate the intricate spy narratives and rich historical context. With its blend of thrilling suspense and meticulous research, it captivates history buffs and spy aficionados alike.

4.2

17,766 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Double Cross highlights the critical role played by MI5's Twenty Committee during World War II, wherein they were responsible for running double agents to mislead the Axis powers.

The book delves into the eccentric personalities involved in the deception, including a Peruvian playboy, an anti-Nazi German, and a Serbian businessman, all of whom became double agents.

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Ben Macintyre uses a wealth of previously classified material to bring to life espionage and counter-intelligence operations that were crucial to the success of the D-Day invasion.

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Book Details

Pages

416

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre

Horror & Suspense

•

Biography

Period

World War II

Setting