True Spies Debriefs: David McCloskey On His Life After Espionage

Published in 1911, 'Under Western Eyes' is a literary historical fiction novel that delves into the complexities of Russian politics and the moral struggles of its protagonist, Kyrilo Sidorovitch Razumov. The story begins in St. Petersburg where Razumov, a quiet and conscientious student, is forced to hide Victor Haldin, a revolutionary who has just assassinated a government official. Razumov's decision to betray Haldin leads him into a web of espionage and moral conflict. The novel explores themes of betrayal, revolution, and the impact of autocracy on ordinary people, all through the eyes of an English narrator who reflects on the events from Geneva. Conrad's work is often seen as a thematic response to Dostoevsky's 'Crime and Punishment' and is praised for its deep exploration of human psychology and political turmoil.

Damascus Station is a gritty and realistic espionage novel written by former CIA analyst David McCloskey. The story takes place in the midst of the Syrian Civil War and follows CIA case officer Sam Joseph, who is tasked with recruiting Mariam Haddad, a disaffected government official. Despite breaking protocol by falling in love with Mariam, Sam must navigate the complex and dangerous landscape of Syria, where paranoia, corruption, and civil war are rampant. The novel incorporates real-life events and detailed descriptions of spy craft, providing a nuanced portrayal of the characters and the geopolitical context. It explores themes of espionage, love, loyalty, and betrayal, set against the backdrop of one of the most challenging CIA assignments.