The Greatest Traitor cover art

The Greatest Traitor

The Secret Lives of Agent George Blake

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The Greatest Traitor

By: Roger Hermiston
Narrated by: Michael Tudor Barnes
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About this listen

On 3 May 1961, after a trial conducted largely in secret, a man named George Blake was sentenced to an unprecedented 42 years in jail. By his own confession he was a Soviet spy, but the reasons for such a severe punishment were never revealed.

To the public, Blake was simply the greatest traitor of the Cold War. Yet his story touches not only the depths of treachery, but also the heights of heroism.

Drawing on hitherto unpublished records from his trial, new revelations about his dramatic jailbreak from Wormwood Scrubs, and original interviews with former spies, friends and the man himself this audiobook sheds new light on this most complex of characters and presents a fascinating shadow history of the Cold War.

©2013 Roger Hermiston (P)2013 Soundings Espionage Politicians Politics & Activism True Crime Exciting Soviet Union Imperialism Cold War

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All stars
Most relevant
Blake undoubtedly caused deaths of many agents. His words "to betray you have to belong" cast an interesting perspective to whether he was a traitor to Britain or a foreign agent all along. Was his sentence too long or the others too short, my mind falls to the later. it was not a game, it caused death and misery so if you lose you should oat a penalty.

Interesting historical perspective well read

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The story is a good one and I felt it was improved by a very good narration. As a biography, I felt it lacked a bit of punch, especially in the early stages, but it did improve as it progressed and ended in quite an interesting manner. I especially enjoyed it very much starting from the time when Blake was outed as a foreign agent.
Overall it is an interesting and entertaining book.

Great narration

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Having just listened to books about the Portland spy ring and Philby, this book captured the end of that era of British based traitors. I thought the background elements and context around Blake's activities gave a balanced view of a complex character and his life and times. I enjoyed Michael Tudor-Barnes rendition, my one criticism is of editing, twice "manhunt" became "manhood" and the Old Bailey was transposed in to the "Old Vic". Otherwise a thoroughly enjoyable rendition of a complex story. Thankyou.

The context of Blake's betrayals based on his life story.

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I absolutely loved this book, very well researched and written. The vocal performance was great he was captivating and refreshingly didn't fall into the trap of using almost racist voices. It is so good so good I'm writing my first review.

amazing

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Clear and concise an enjoyable listen.
I found the account fascinating.
Will look out for anything else by Roger.

Very Informative

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