The Spy and the Devil
07 May 2026Imprint: Blink Publishing
Synopsis
In the world of espionage, where the accounts of renowned spies often dominate the narrative, this is a rare gem - an untold story of a completely unknown spy. Baron William de Ropp, a Baltic German aristocrat, wasn't just any ordinary spy; he was MI6's top secret agent in Nazi Germany from 1931 to 1939, managing to escape Berlin just before war broke out. This unsung hero had direct access to Adolf Hitler and an inside track on the Nazi regime. His reports, shrouded in secrecy, had the power to shape British policy toward Germany in a pivotal period of history.
The Spy and the Devil is a riveting tale of espionage, intrigue, and the untold impact of one man's secret mission on the course of history. A journey into the shadows of Nazi Germany, where a forgotten British spy worked tirelessly to avert catastrophe, and discover the secrets that history almost left behind.
The Spy and the Devil is a riveting tale of espionage, intrigue, and the untold impact of one man's secret mission on the course of history. A journey into the shadows of Nazi Germany, where a forgotten British spy worked tirelessly to avert catastrophe, and discover the secrets that history almost left behind.
Details
07 May 2026
9781789468717Imprint: Blink Publishing
Reviews
The story of Baron de Ropp, who worked as a British agent for SIS/MI6 during the turbulent period between the world wars, shines a light into corners that have hitherto remained in shadow... In telling this hitherto unknown story of a man of amazing audacity and tenacity, Tim Wilsey adds greatly to our knowledge and understanding of the workings of British intelligence at a time of supreme challenge.
Fascinating new Cold War history which reads like a spy novel.
Kerbaj tells Lyalin's story in a compelling new book. He pitches the spy's defection as the saviour of a British secret service which had been rocked by scandal and failure, was riddled with paranoia, and was heavily reliant on the US for its intelligence.
A fascinating account of an ambiguous time of history.
