Spying and the Crown
The Secret Relationship Between British Intelligence and the Royals
Richard J Aldrich author Rory Cormac author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Atlantic Books
Published:6th Oct '22
Should be back in stock very soon
This book explores the hidden relationship between the monarchy and intelligence services, revealing the influence of royals in espionage throughout history, particularly in Spying and the Crown.
For the first time, Spying and the Crown delves into the intricate and often secretive relationship between the British monarchy and the intelligence services. Authors Richard J. Aldrich and Rory Cormac take readers on a captivating journey from the reign of Queen Victoria to the tragic death of Princess Diana, revealing how the British secret services emerged in response to threats against the monarchy. This exploration is not merely historical; it highlights the personal connections between senior spies, the aristocracy, and the royal family that shaped the operations of these clandestine organizations.
The narrative is enriched by original research and newly uncovered evidence, which paints a vivid picture of the monarchy's influence in a world often shrouded in secrecy. Spying and the Crown challenges conventional perceptions, showcasing the ways in which the royals have played pivotal roles behind the scenes, often directing the course of espionage activities. The authors present a compelling case that the monarchy remains an active player in the intelligence landscape, influencing decisions that impact national security and international relations.
Overall, Spying and the Crown is not only a fascinating account of royal espionage but also a testament to the enduring power and relevance of the monarchy in modern Britain. It invites readers to reconsider the implications of royal involvement in intelligence and the historical context that has shaped this unique partnership.
This monumental book is really a history of the British secret services, focusing on the fascinating moments when this intersects with royal history... Authoritative and highly readable... As every page of this book attests, the royals have always been involved in secretly directing the affairs not just of this country but of many others. -- Ben Macintyre * The Times, 'Book of the Week' *
Bizarre and disturbing episodes are revealed in this excellent history of the royal family's relationship with espionage... Richard Aldrich and Rory Cormac's fascinating history argues that modern intelligence evolved out of efforts to prevent Queen Victoria being assassinated... Through unbelievably thorough research - all of it fully referenced for grateful future scholars - they have compiled something comprehensive and compelling. * Guardian *
A fascinating history of royal espionage... The book, which stretches back to Elizabeth I and her spymaster Sir Francis Walsingham, has something of interest on pretty much every page. -- Rowland White * Sunday Times *
Gripping * Daily Mail, 'Books of the Year' *
Authoritative and gripping. * Observer *
Their mastery of a subject that is extensive both chronologically and in its geographical scope is assured and impressive... An intriguing alternative narrative of British royal history. -- Matthew Dennison * Sunday Telegraph *
Aldrich and Cormac have written an important book. Packed with new material and fresh insights, it offers an original way of looking at royal history. It's also a very good read. -- Jane Ridley * Literary Review *
[A] thorough and informed survey of how matters of high state have really worked - and work. -- Alan Judd * Spectator *
Intricate, ingenious and determined... Intelligent, fair-minded and a pleasure to read. * Times Literary Supplement *
A valuable and unmissable read. -- Alexander Larman * The Chap *
Outstanding research that shines a light into the very darkest corners of the British establishment. Filled with royal revelations - our monarchs are viewed through an entirely new lens - as keepers of the secrets and even as spy chiefs. Were Victoria and Elizabeth II more like 007's mysterious "M"? This is the royals as we have never seen them before and each story is supported with startling new evidence. -- Kate Vigurs, author of Mission France, on The Secret Royals
ISBN: 9781786499141
Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 41mm
Weight: 555g
736 pages
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