Spybrary Spy Podcast

Welcome to Spybrary, a podcast for spy book enthusiasts. In episode 215, I had the pleasure of hosting special guest Oliver Webb Carter, a historian and the founder of Aspects of History, a magazine, podcast, and website dedicated to history and historical fiction. Dead Drop 5 is our espionage version of Desert Island Discs, except in our case, the guest is asked which five favourite spy novels he/she wants stashed in a dead drop during an undercover mission behind the Iron Curtain. Join fellow Spy Book Enthusiasts in our Spybrary Online Community 

Welcome back to Spybrary, the ultimate podcast for spy books, spy movies, and spy TV series. In today's 'intel' episode, we share more about an upcoming Sandbaggers fan-organized virtual event featuring Roy Marsden (Neil Burnside.) Paul Hodges of the Sandbaggers Facebook community shares 'that The Sandbaggers Facebook Group will be hosting our first global event, named “Sandbagger Two”, to commemorate the 45th Anniversary of the initial UK broadcast of The Sandbaggers. It will be a virtual voice+presentation event held via Zoom on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 11am EDT, 8am PDT, 4pm BST, etc. for 120 minutes. Besides a robust agenda, I am so excited to share the news that Roy Marsden and Greg Rucka will be the keynote speakers at Sandbagger Two. More information is available at our Facebook Group which can be found by searching Facebook for The Sandbaggers Yorkshire Television 1978-1980. I hope to see you at Sandbagger Two. We asked Paul what fans can expect, what was Roy Marsden's reaction to being invited, and why Paul thinks the spy TV show has maintained such a loyal following after all these years.

Lights, camera, intrigue! Join the Spybrary Spies and Books Podcast panel as we shine a spotlight on "The Deadly Affair." Uncover the hidden gems, character nuances, and unexpected twists in this underrated film adaptation of John le Carre's work based on his debut novel Call for the Dead.  Following our full debriefing of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy we are tackling The Deadly Affair starring James Mason. We are joined by Jeff Quest of the Le Carre Cast, Double O Section's Matthew Bradford, and Spybrary commentator Martin Reynolds. That and more in this episode of the Spybrary Spy Podcast. Join the Spybrary Community today!

In today's episode, we are diving into the world of espionage books with an interview featuring a remarkable debut novelist, ex-CIA officer I.S. Berry. Her book, "The Peacock and the Sparrow," has been causing quite a stir in the Spybrary community. Without a doubt, The Peacock and the Sparrow is the best spy novel published in 2023 that I have read. I.S. Berry, a former CIA officer, brings a unique perspective to the genre. In this gritty and realistic spy thriller set against the backdrop of the Arab Spring, Berry explores the complexities of a CIA spy stationed in Bahrain. The story delves into his involvement in the conflict and a passionate romance with an artist. Join the Spybrary Community  

Spybrary's Man in Station L (Northern Sector) author Andy Onyx slipped us this brush pass review of the David Callan books penned by James Mitchell. Welcome back to Spybrary, the ultimate podcast for spy books. In today's episode, we dive into the thrilling world of Callan, the antihero of espionage. Get ready tohear more about this iconic character as we explore the gripping Callan Books. Join our host, Andy Onyx, as he gives is his take on the shadowy world of David Callan, a former soldier with a troubled past and a knack for killing. From his time in prison to his recruitment into the enigmatic Section organization, Callan's story is one of grit, suspense, and moral dilemmas. We'll delve into the mind of author James Mitchell, the creative genius behind Callan, and discover how his vision of a gritty and bored 1970s Britain influenced the series and novels. From the memorable characters like Lonely and Hunter to the intense cat-and-mouse games between spies, there's plenty to dissect. What do you think of the Callan books and the Callan TV series? Come and share your views will fellow spy fans in our free, online community for spy book enthusiasts This is Spybrary, and today we're diving headfirst into the world of Callan, the antihero of espionage! Let's get started. Check out Tim Shipman's best spy writers, all 125 of them and ranked!

On this episode of Spybrary the Spy Podcast, host Shane Whaley sits down with guest Michael Smith, an intelligence historian and author of The Real Special Relationship: The True Story of How the British and US Secret Services Work Together. Michael Smith delves into the origins of the special relationship between the UK and the US, focusing on their collaboration in code-breaking during World War II and the subsequent intelligence sharing during the Cold War. The book covers key figures, such as Winston Churchill, Ian Fleming, Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, Kim Philby, and Edward Snowden. Drawing on his personal experience in British military intelligence, Michael Smith provides a behind-the-scenes look at the close collaboration and alignment of intelligence that drives decision-making in both nations. The episode delves into various anecdotes and stories, including the recovery of a Soviet jet from a lake in West Berlin. Join Shane Whaley and Michael Smith as they explore the fascinating world of UK and US secret services and their unique relationship. Join the Spybrary Community today!

Former Special Advisor to British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, David Clark, reveals his 5 best spy books, taking us on a thrilling journey through the espionage world. From Communist-controlled East Berlin to captivating spy narratives, get ready for gripping page-turners and recommendations that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with William Maz, author of the Bill Hefflin Spy Thriller Series, which is set in Bucharest, Romania. In our conversation, we explore the plotlines of Maz's books and the historical backdrop of Romania during and after the communist regime. Join us as we unravel the secrets of this fascinating setting. Read it? Want to read it? Share more in our online community for spy book fans.

In this episode of the Spybrary Spy Book Podcast, it's Dead Drop 5, and guest James Bond Bondologist Matthew Dewhurst-Grice reveals his five best James Bond novels. These are the James Bond books that he has asked his handler to stash in a dead drop behind the Iron Curtain He shares how he first discovered the James Bond books and discusses his appreciation for Ian Fleming's work. The conversation covers topics such as the historical significance of the original James Bond books, the controversy surrounding the "sensitization" of some Bond editions, and the potential for new audiences to discover and appreciate the James Bond books. Spybrary host Shane Whaley also asks Matthew about his experience attending the premiere of the James Bond film, No Time to Die at the Royal Albert Hall London. What did you think of Matthew's choices? Come and tell us in our online Spybrary community!

Author Stephen England finds himself embedded deep in Communist-controlled East Berlin, and has asked his handler to leave him 5 of his favorite spy books at the Dead Drop location in Friedrichshain Park. Join us on the Spy Book Podcast, Spybrary, and discover the thrilling world of spy novels in our exclusive series, 'Dead Drop 5'. Spy Books and Dead Drops...what is this series exactly? This riveting series is a crowd favorite, but be warned, your bank balance may take a hit based on these spy book recommendations. In these episodes, our brave podcast uests are dispatched on a clandestine mission behind the Iron Curtain, where danger lurks at every shadowy corner. But fear not, they won't embark on this perilous journey unequipped. Our intrepid agents can request five spy novels to be stashed in the East Berlin dead drop. But that's not all. Beyond these spy books, our guests are granted a selection of diverse items, each carefully curated to make their stay in East Berlin more manageable, perhaps even a touch more comfortable. Join host Shane Whaley as he interviews author Stephen England about his upcoming mission to East Berlin and the five books he would like to take. They discuss the importance of well-written prose in spy novels and Stephen's book choices, including "Private Wars" by Greg Rucka and "The Agent Runner" by Simon Conway. Get ready to dive into 'Dead Drop 5', only on Spybrary, but be warned, this series could seriously damage your bank account! Stephen England's 5 Spy Books You Need to Read for a Thrilling Adventure   Are you a fan of spy novels that transport you to different times and places? Do you appreciate well-written prose that captures the madness of the spy business? Look no further than these five spy book recommendations from author Stephen England. First on the list is Private Wars by Greg Rucka, a novel set in Central Asia with skillfully crafted prose. Next is The Agent Runner by Simon Conway, a masterful portrayal of the dirty bomb plot and the madness of the spy business. Stephen also recommends Appointment in Tehran by James Stejskal for its gripping plot and characters. Pick up Night Heron by Adam Brookes for a gritty look at espionage. This novel is praised for its realistic portrayal of China and its compelling characters. Finally, Security Detail by Matt Cricchio offers a nuanced exploration of the conflict in Afghanistan and the people caught up in it. Whether you're a fan of modern world terror novels or prefer a cold war spy historical setting, these spy novels are sure to provide a thrilling adventure. So grab a copy and prepare to be transported to the murky world of intelligence, espionage and skullduggery! Links and Resources Mentioned on this episode with Andy Onyx on the Spybrary Spy Podcast Stephen England Author Website The Spybrary Online Community - by spy book fans for spy fans.