Ever wonder what spy novels a real-life Special Forces and CIA operative can't put down?
Former Special Forces & CIA Officer James Stejskal reveals his top five spy thrillers on Spybrary's Dead Drop 5.

The Dead Drop 5 is back! In this much-requested Spybrary feature, our guest is embedded behind the Iron Curtain and can request five spy books, a gadget, luxury items and more from their handler.

Today’s guest is James Stejskal, a former U.S. Army Special Forces and CIA operative, turned military historian and author. James spent 35 years operating in high-stakes locations across Africa, Europe, the Balkans, and the Near and Far East. Now an accomplished writer, he’s best known for his Cold War thriller series, The Snake Eater Chronicles, and the highly regarded non-fiction book Special Forces Berlin: Clandestine Cold War Operations of the U.S. Army's Elite (1956–1990).

In this episode, James shares his five essential spy reads—spy thrillers that influenced him and shaped his view on espionage fiction.

James Spy Book Picks can be found at www.spybrary.com/256

🔎 "Most mole hunts end in an unsatisfying fashion…" – David McCloskey

Former CIA analyst-turned-bestselling spy novelist and The Rest is Classified Podcast Host David McCloskey returns to Spybrary for an illuminating conversation with journalist and espionage fan The Sunday Times' Chief Political Commentator Tim Shipman.

From Langley’s shadowy corridors to the gator-infested wilds of Florida, McCloskey’s latest thriller, The Seventh Floor, delivers a modern-day mole hunt infused with betrayal, thrills and intrigue.

They discuss McCloskey's journey from a promising debut author to an international expert on espionage, his new podcast 'The Rest Is Classified', and his reflections on the Syrian conflict. The conversation delves into the psychological dynamics of regime change, the challenges of writing fiction versus non-fiction, and the development of McCloskey's protagonist, Artemis Proctor, in his latest book 'The Seventh Floor'.

Welcome 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.

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.