My Family and Other Spies

This book is simply stunning. It might be the best non-fiction book I’ve ever read about post-war SIS, and Alistair’s unique (an overused word, but in this sense, entirely justified) perspective allows him to draw back the curtain on one of the most secretive organisations in the world, in a way that nobody else has done, or could do. The story of JBW is picaresque, intriguing, dramatic and a window onto the frontlines of World War II and Cold War spying, offering insights I have never before seen on the printed page. It’s also a moving personal story about a son’s attempt to understand his father, and very funny in an understated, British way. This is a book that everyone interested in British Intelligence will devour, shaking their heads in disbelief at the extraordinary stories as they do so

Charles Beaumont

My Family and Other Spies is a remarkable insight into British intelligence in the Cold War, eloquently told through the unlikely but compelling medium of a family memoir and with all the intrigue and suspense of a truly gripping espionage novel

Alex Gerlis, bestselling author of Agent in Berlin and Every Spy A Traitor

A compelling personal journey to uncover the truth and an intimate view into one of Britain’s most secretive organisations

Helen Fry, author of Spymaster and MI9

A very English Mr and Mrs Smith… makes a fabulous romp… it’s a tale elegantly told

Observer

The intriguing story of how the author peels back the cloak of mystery surrounding his father, a member of the Secret Intelligence Service – that’s MI6 to you and I. A very good book … strongly recommended

Robert Lyman

An intriguing memoir

London Standard

[A] fabulous romp of a book, part John le Carré and part Ealing comedy

Sunday Times