Oxford-born writer's 'unknown' spy thriller shortlisted for Waterstones award
A best-selling author has described the spy in his latest book as "unlike any I have come across before".
TL;DR
- Ben Macintyre's book "Redwood" features an "unknown spy" named Vladimir Kuzichkin, a Russian intelligence officer who spied for Britain.
- Kuzichkin's motivation was a personal sexual secret that, if revealed, would have ruined his life.
- He provided MI6 with information about a Soviet plot to overthrow the Iranian government, which Macintyre believes could have led to nuclear war.
- The book suggests this spy's actions averted nuclear Armageddon and had unintended consequences, including reinforcing the Iranian regime.
- "Redwood" has been shortlisted for the 2026 Waterstones Book of the Year award.