The best 11 Intelligence books

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What's Churchill's Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare about?

Churchill's Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare by Giles Milton tells the thrilling true story of a group of British scientists and soldiers who were tasked with creating innovative and unconventional weapons to fight against the Nazis during World War II. From explosive rats to silent submachine guns, this book uncovers the secret history of the ungentlemanly warfare that helped turn the tide of the war.

Who should read Churchill's Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare?

  • History enthusiasts who are interested in World War II and the unconventional tactics used by the Allies

  • Readers who enjoy stories of courage, ingenuity, and espionage

  • Those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the individuals and events that shaped the outcome of the war


2
Intelligence Books: Gideon's Spies by Gordon Thomas

Gideon's Spies

Gordon Thomas

What's Gideon's Spies about?

Gideon's Spies is a gripping account of the history and inner workings of Israel's intelligence agency, the Mossad. Written by renowned investigative journalist Gordon Thomas, this book takes readers on a journey through the agency's most daring missions and its pivotal role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. From high-stakes espionage to covert operations, Gideon's Spies offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of international intelligence and the individuals who risk everything to protect their country.

Who should read Gideon's Spies?

  • Readers who are interested in espionage and intelligence operations

  • Individuals who want to gain insights into the inner workings of the Mossad

  • History enthusiasts who are curious about the role of intelligence agencies in shaping world events


3
Intelligence Books: Intelligence in War by John Keegan

Intelligence in War

John Keegan

What's Intelligence in War about?

Intelligence in War by John Keegan explores the role of intelligence in military conflicts throughout history. Keegan delves into the strategies and tactics used by various nations and their intelligence agencies, shedding light on the successes and failures that have shaped the outcome of wars. From ancient battles to modern warfare, this book offers a fascinating analysis of the vital role intelligence plays in the art of war.

Who should read Intelligence in War?

  • Readers who are interested in the role of intelligence in military history

  • Those who want to gain a deeper understanding of how intelligence can impact the outcome of wars

  • People who enjoy thought-provoking and well-researched non-fiction books


4
Intelligence Books: Mossad by Michael Bar-Zohar

Mossad

Michael Bar-Zohar

What's Mossad about?

Mossad by Michael Bar-Zohar is a gripping account of the Israeli intelligence agency's covert operations. Through interviews and extensive research, the author delves into the agency's history, its most daring missions, and the individuals who carry them out. From assassinations to espionage, this book offers a fascinating look into the shadowy world of international intelligence.

Who should read Mossad?

  • Readers interested in espionage and intelligence operations

  • Individuals curious about the inner workings of the Mossad

  • History enthusiasts seeking to understand the role of intelligence agencies in shaping global events


5
Intelligence Books: Playing to the Edge by Michael V. Hayden

Playing to the Edge

Michael V. Hayden

What's Playing to the Edge about?

Playing to the Edge is a gripping memoir by Michael V. Hayden, the former director of the CIA and NSA. In this book, Hayden provides a unique insider's perspective on the world of intelligence and national security. He discusses the challenges, controversies, and ethical dilemmas faced by intelligence agencies in the post-9/11 era, offering valuable insights into the complexities of modern warfare and the delicate balance between security and privacy.

Who should read Playing to the Edge?

  • Readers who are interested in the inner workings of the U.S. intelligence community

  • Individuals who want to gain a deeper understanding of national security and counterterrorism efforts

  • People who enjoy memoirs and firsthand accounts from high-ranking government officials


6
Intelligence Books: The Art of Intelligence by Henry A. Crumpton

The Art of Intelligence

Henry A. Crumpton

What's The Art of Intelligence about?

The Art of Intelligence by Henry A. Crumpton delves into the world of espionage and counterterrorism. Drawing from his own experiences as a former CIA officer, Crumpton provides insights into the challenges and strategies involved in gathering intelligence and combating global threats. This book offers a fascinating look at the inner workings of intelligence operations and the critical role they play in national security.

Who should read The Art of Intelligence?

  • Individuals interested in the world of intelligence and espionage

  • Professionals working in national security or law enforcement

  • Readers who enjoy non-fiction books that offer insights into global affairs


7
Intelligence Books: The Assault on Intelligence by Michael V. Hayden

The Assault on Intelligence

Michael V. Hayden

What's The Assault on Intelligence about?

The Assault on Intelligence by Michael V. Hayden delves into the challenges facing the intelligence community in the modern era. With a critical examination of the political and societal factors influencing intelligence operations, Hayden offers insights into how we can protect and uphold the value of intelligence in an increasingly complex and unpredictable world.

Who should read The Assault on Intelligence?

  • Readers who are interested in the intersection of politics and intelligence

  • Individuals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the intelligence community

  • Those who are concerned about the impact of misinformation and disinformation on society


8
Intelligence Books: The Triple Agent by Joby Warrick

The Triple Agent

Joby Warrick

What's The Triple Agent about?

The Triple Agent by Joby Warrick is a gripping account of the true story of an al-Qaeda informant who turned out to be a double agent working for the terrorist organization. Warrick delves into the complexities of espionage and the dangerous game of deception, shedding light on the devastating consequences of betrayal in the world of counterterrorism.

Who should read The Triple Agent?

  • Readers interested in espionage and counterterrorism

  • Those curious about the complexities of human intelligence gathering

  • Individuals who want to understand the challenges and risks faced by undercover agents


9
Intelligence Books: The Whole Truth by David Baldacci

The Whole Truth

David Baldacci

What's The Whole Truth about?

The Whole Truth is a gripping thriller by David Baldacci that delves into the world of international espionage and political manipulation. When a shadowy group threatens to unleash a global catastrophe, intelligence agent Shaw must uncover the truth and stop them at any cost. Packed with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Whole Truth?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful and fast-paced thrillers

  • Those interested in exploring the dark side of political and corporate power

  • Individuals who appreciate complex and morally ambiguous characters


10
Intelligence Books: All the Shah's Men by Stephen Kinzer

All the Shah's Men

Stephen Kinzer

What's All the Shah's Men about?

All the Shah's Men by Stephen Kinzer is a gripping account of the 1953 coup in Iran that overthrew Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh and reinstated the Shah. Through extensive research and interviews, Kinzer unveils the covert operations and political maneuvering that led to this pivotal moment in history, and examines its far-reaching consequences for Iran and the world.

Who should read All the Shah's Men?

  • Readers interested in the history of Iran and its relationship with the West
  • Those curious about the role of the CIA in foreign affairs
  • Individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of Middle Eastern politics

11
Intelligence Books: The Way of the Knife by Mark Mazzetti

The Way of the Knife

Mark Mazzetti
The CIA, a Secret Army, and a War at the Ends of the Earth

What's The Way of the Knife about?

This book delves into the secret history of the CIA and America's covert wars, revealing how the agency has transformed into a paramilitary organization. It explores the blurred lines between espionage and military operations, and the consequences of this shift in the fight against terrorism. Mazzetti provides a gripping account of the shadowy world of modern warfare and its implications for global security.

Who should read The Way of the Knife?

  • Readers looking to gain insights into the world of espionage and its impact on modern geopolitics
  • Individuals interested in understanding the role of covert operations in shaping global events
  • Those seeking a well-researched and balanced exploration of the US intelligence community

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 FAQs 

What's the best Intelligence book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Churchill's Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare as the ultimate read on Intelligence.

What are the Top 10 Intelligence books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Churchill's Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare by Giles Milton
  • Gideon's Spies by Gordon Thomas
  • Intelligence in War by John Keegan
  • Mossad by Michael Bar-Zohar
  • Playing to the Edge by Michael V. Hayden
  • The Art of Intelligence by Henry A. Crumpton
  • The Assault on Intelligence by Michael V. Hayden
  • The Triple Agent by Joby Warrick
  • The Whole Truth by David Baldacci
  • All the Shah's Men by Stephen Kinzer

Who are the top Intelligence book authors?

When it comes to Intelligence, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Giles Milton
  • Gordon Thomas
  • John Keegan
  • Michael Bar-Zohar
  • Michael V. Hayden