Is On Her Majesty's Secret Service Fleming's Best James Bond Novel Yet?
Release Date: 12/12/2024
The Second Traitor with Alex Gerlis
Spybrary Spy Podcast
In this episode of Spybrary, host Shane Whaley interviews author about his latest novel, , book 2 in the spy series which is set against the backdrop of World War II and the early Cold War. They discuss the complexities of writing historical fiction, the importance of research, and the intricate character dynamics within the story. Gerlis shares insights into the historical events that inspired his work, including Operation Sea Lion, the Invasion Warning, Sub-Committee and the role of German intelligence (Abwehr). The conversation also touches on the balance between action and intrigue in...
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Spy Movie Perfection? Breaking Down Three Days of the Condor
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Dive into Three Days of the Condor with Spybrary. CIA conspiracies, moped escapes, and one of the best assassins in spy cinema. Redford stars in this slow-burn, cerebral classic that still resonates today. Join 4000 other spy fans, chatting spy movies, books and TV. Welcome to another edition of Section F on Spybrary, where spy film enthusiasts gather to dissect classic espionage cinema. In Episode 270, Shane is joined by Michael, Jonathan, and debut guest Pierce to delve deep into Three Days of the Condor (1975), directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Robert Redford. Episode...
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Is You Only Live Twice, Ian Fleming's Worst Bond Book Ever?
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Prepare to experience Ian Fleming's James Bond novels as if reading them for the first time in the year of publication, as we embark on this 007 James Bond literary adventure together. In this time‑travel special, the Spybrary crew—Shane, David Craggs, Andy Onyx, and Ian Douglas—journey back to 1964 to dissect Ian Fleming’s latest novel, You Only Live Twice. They kick off by setting the scene: Bond mania is reaching fever pitch, with spy fiction booming, thanks to Ian Fleming, the Bond films are on a roll, and Fleming reported to be in very ill-heath. As the conversation delves into...
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He Stole the KGB’s Secrets For Years! With Gordon Corera
Spybrary Spy Podcast
makes his Spybrary debut in this riveting episode of the Spybrary podcast. Host Shane Whaley welcomes the former BBC security correspondent, espionage historian and host of podcast, Gordon Corera to discuss his latest book, . The Cold War might be over, but its shadows stretch far into the present. What if one of the Soviet Union’s most overlooked insiders — a quiet KGB archivist — decided to turn against the very institution he once served? How did he smuggle a mountain of secrets out from under Moscow’s nose? And why did the CIA turn him away, only for MI6 to uncover what may...
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Inside the Int. Spy Museum: Shane & Joe’s Espionage Adventure
Spybrary Spy Podcast
In this special episode of Spybrary, Shane is joined by fellow spy fan Joe Modzelewski for an in-depth International Spy Museum review. Recorded after their recent visit to the museum in Washington D.C., this episode is packed with honest reflections, surprising discoveries, and plenty of spy geekery. From Virginia Hall’s heroic story to rare artifacts like the Enigma machine and a section of the Berlin Tunnel, Shane and Joe cover it all—including the museum’s interactive spy games, an exhibit on intelligence analysis, and the must-see “Bond in Motion” car display. Whether you're a...
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The Poet's Game - A Spy in Moscow with Author Paul Vidich
Spybrary Spy Podcast
On this episode of Spybrary, I welcome back one of today's finest spy fiction authors, . We're diving into his gripping new novel, , a contemporary espionage thriller rooted in the tense geopolitics of modern-day Russia and the United States. Paul joins me to unpack the creative process, real-life inspirations, and the deeply personal conflicts faced by his latest protagonist, Alex Matthews. We explore how Paul's personal family connections to the intelligence world have shaped his storytelling, and what drives him to keep revisiting the morally complex world of spies. From constructing...
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Breaking John le Carré news: George Smiley Returns: New Novel Announced, Plus The Spy Who Came in From the Cold Heads to West End
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Fans of George Smiley, John le Carré’s legendary spymaster, have reason to celebrate. In a rare double coup for the espionage world, Nick Harkaway—le Carré’s son—has announced The Taper Man, a new Smiley novel arriving in 2026, while The Spy Who Came in From the Cold will receive its first-ever stage adaptation in the West End this autumn. The announcement marks a major return of the “Circus,” le Carré’s iconic fictionalised British intelligence service, and the literary rebirth of one of spy fiction’s most enduring characters. Join - the ultimate community for spy...
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Secrets, Spies, and Espionage with The London Spy
Spybrary Spy Podcast
In this fascinating episode of Spybrary, host Shane Whaley takes us to the espionage heart of London with expert London Spy Tours guide David Harry, also known as From real-life Cold War betrayals to Bond-worthy locations and hidden relics, David shares captivating insights from his acclaimed Westminster and St. James's London spy tours. This episode is a treasure trove for spy fiction lovers and espionage history buffs alike. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 🕵️♂️ The Origins of the London Spy Tours: David's began accidentally—inspired by a 1700s book, The London Spy, and his...
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Michael Idov on Spy Fiction, OSINT, and Writing The Collaborators
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Michael Idov, author of The Collaborators, joins Spybrary to discuss the spy novel everyone in our community is raving about. In this in-depth conversation, Michael shares how his Soviet upbringing, real-world intelligence events like the Ryanair Belarus 'hijacking' incident and Moscow taxi hacker chaos, and his love for British espionage fiction shaped his gripping debut spy novel. We also dive into his work on Deutschland 83, Deutschland 89, his admiration for OSINT warriors like Bellingcat, and his love letter to cities like Riga, Berlin, and London. 🎧 Topics include: Real-world...
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What Does a Real Spy Read? Valerie Plame’s Favorite Spy Books
Spybrary Spy Podcast
Ever wonder what spy books former CIA spy Valerie Plame can't put down? Today on Spybrary, host Shane Whaley is joined by none other than —former CIA covert operative, bestselling author, and an iconic voice in the world of intelligence and espionage. For over a decade, Valerie Plame served on the front lines of national security, operating undercover in some of the world’s most complex and volatile environments. Her CIA career—and the controversial public outing that ended it—has been the subject of headlines, books, and a major Hollywood film '' Now, Valerie Plame joins us for...
info_outlineWelcome to our book club episode on On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Ian Fleming's eleventh James Bond novel and one of the most pivotal in the series. Spybrary host Shane Whaley introduces this James Bond Book club episode from the steps of the College of Arms in London, a location that plays a significant role in the story as Bond takes on a unique undercover mission.
On Her Majesty's Secret Service is the book where Bond faces his arch-nemesis Blofeld, but it’s also where we see a rare, deeply emotional side to 007 as he falls in love with the enigmatic Tracy di Vicenzo. Packed with high-stakes action, breathtaking Alpine settings, and a story that forever changes the Bond mythos, it’s a classic that deserves a closer look. Let’s dive in
Is On Her Majesty's Secret Service, Ian Fleming's best James Bond novel yet?
Join our host, Shane Whaley, as we dive deep into the world of espionage literature featuring the latest updates on Ian Fleming's newest masterpiece, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Alongside guests David Craggs, Andy Onyx, and Hildebrand Group's Ian Douglas, we explore the narrative and character developments that showcase Fleming’s storytelling prowess.
On Her Majesty's Secret Service Book Club Takeaways
Ian Fleming’s Masterpiece?: Discover how Fleming has returned to form with On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The book is praised for its emotional depth and rich character development, marking it as one of his best James Bond books.
Bond's Personal Evolution: Hear our guests discuss the transformation of James Bond's character in this latest installment. Fleming adds layers to Bond, exploring his humanity and personal relationships, bringing a fresh perspective to the renowned spy.
Thrilling Scenes and Cinematic Flair: From high-stakes chases and avalanche escapes to the climactic showdown at Piz Gloria, the book's vivid and cinematic qualities promise an exhilarating read that could seamlessly transition onto the big screen.
M at Home and at Christmas: Hear why none of the James Bond Book Club Members fancy a Yuletide gathering at M's home.
And Much More!
Don't miss out on this compelling discussion and join the conversation with the Spybrary community online. Dive into the latest episode and get a front-row seat at the James Bond Book Club.
In this episode, host Shane Whaley and guests David Craggs, author Andy Onyx, and Hildebrand's Ian Douglas dive deep into Ian Fleming's eleventh James Bond book On Her Majesty Secret Service (1963) as if they are in the year of publication.