Book Review: ‘Redwood,’ Ben Macintyre
Martin Dewhirst reviews Ben Macintyre's latest work, Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extraordinary Spy. The publication details the Cold War espionage activities of Vladimir Kuzichkin, a top Soviet officer in Iran who turned to British intelligence under the codename Redwood following personal struggles after the Islamic revolution.
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- ✓ Martin Dewhirst reviewed Ben Macintyre's book Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extraordinary Spy.
- ✓ The book details the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin.
What changed
Reviewer Martin Dewhirst evaluated the monograph, describing it as an almost unputdownable work.
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Martin Dewhirst Reviews Ben Macintyre Book Redwood
Martin Dewhirst reviews Ben Macintyre's latest work, Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extraordinary Spy. The publication details the Cold War espionage activities of Vladimir Kuzichkin, a top Soviet officer in Iran who turned to British intelligence under the codename Redwood following personal struggles after the Islamic revolution.
Why it matters
Ben Macintyre writes extensively on intelligence history and Cold War operations. The latest volume examines how Kuzichkin aided Western intelligence efforts starting in 1981 to prevent the Cold War from turning hot.
What is confirmed
- Martin Dewhirst reviewed Ben Macintyre's book Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extraordinary Spy.
- The book details the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin.
What to watch next
- Additional critical reviews and reader responses to the book
- Further analysis of Vladimir Kuzichkin's espionage career by historians
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.newstatesman.com — Why a potato latke is my way to fight antisemitism
- www.rightsinrussia.org — Martin Dewhirst reviews 'Redwood: The Untold Story of the ...
- rightsinrussia.substack.com — Book Reviews - Rights in Russia
- michaeldecter.substack.com — Two Remarkable Books and their Launches - by Michael Decter
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Ben Macintyre Explores Cold War Espionage in Redwood
Historian Ben Macintyre details the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin in his latest book, Redwood, which bears the full title Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extraordinary Spy. Kuzichkin operated as a top Soviet officer in Iran following the Islamic revolution before offering his services to British intelligence under the codename Redwood. Reviewers highlight how personal struggles pushed the KGB major to turn against his home country and help stop the Cold War from turning hot starting in 1981.
Why it matters
Ben Macintyre's exploration of Vladimir Kuzichkin adds to the historical record of Cold War intelligence operations and defection. The narrative centers on a high-stakes turning point in 1981 when a senior Soviet operative shifted allegiances to MI6. The book examines the personal motivations that drove the KGB major to change sides.
What is confirmed
- Ben Macintyre authored Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extraordinary Spy.
- The book details events beginning in 1981 regarding Cold War espionage.
What to watch next
- Additional review coverage or award announcements for Ben Macintyre's book
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (5)
- thelagosreview.ng — Barnes & Noble announces 16 finalists for 2026 Book of the Year - The Lagos Review
- www.kirkusreviews.com — Barnes and Noble Shares Book of the Year Finalists | Kirkus Reviews
- article.wn.com — Redwood - WorldNews
- www.bubbleblabber.com — Review: Wildwood
- civilianreader.com — New Books (September-October) | Civilian Reader
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Ben Macintyre Details KGB Defector in Redwood
Historian Ben Macintyre explores the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin in his latest book, Redwood. Kuzichkin served as a top Soviet officer in Iran following the Islamic revolution before offering his services to British intelligence. Reviewers highlight how personal struggles played a role in pushing the KGB major to work for MI6 under the codename Redwood. The true story details how the Soviet agent wound up turning against his home country and helping stop the Cold War from turning hot.
Why it matters
Kuzichkin operated as a Soviet intelligence asset in Iran after initiating contact with British diplomat Nicholas Barrington on October 1, 1981. The book sheds light on the recruitment of informants and the unconventional personal factors that drove high-level defections during the Cold War. Macintyre is recognized as a best-selling historian and columnist who focuses on extraordinary espionage tales.
What is confirmed
- In 1981, KGB Major Vladimir Kuzichkin was the top Soviet officer in Iran.
- Vladimir Kuzichkin operated under the codename Redwood after offering his services to British intelligence.
- Ben Macintyre authored the book Redwood about the Cold War espionage case.
Still unconfirmed
- Personal difficulties and struggles with erectile dysfunction directly pushed Vladimir Kuzichkin into the arms of MI6.
What to watch next
- Further reviews and public commentary on the book Redwood
- Additional historical disclosures regarding Cold War defections in Iran
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (8)
- www.nytimes.com — The New York Times - Breaking News, US News, World News and Videos
- www.hindustantimes.com — How erectile dysfunction led a KGB spy into the arms of MI6
- fennecandfriends.com — Review | Redwood by Ben Macintyre — FENNEC
- www.lawfaremedia.org — The Week That Was | Lawfare
- www.rnz.co.nz — Redwood: The KGB agent who helped stop the Cold War ... - RNZ
- politicalwire.com — Redwood - Political Wire
- www.abc.net.au — Ben Macintyre on Cold War spies in Iran - ABC listen
- wreidcrisplestina.substack.com — Spies, imaginary friends & our amazing, aging brains.
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Ben Macintyre Chronicles Cold War Defection in Redwood
Ben Macintyre's published work 'Redwood' details the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin, a KGB major who defected to the United Kingdom. Kuzichkin operated under the codename Redwood after initiating contact with British diplomat Nicholas Barrington in Tehran on October 1, 1981, offering his services as an intelligence asset. The narrative examines Kuzichkin's productivity as a spy while connecting his decision to betray the Soviet Union to personal difficulties. Published books are written works of substantial length that can be distributed in various formats including electronic books and audiobooks.
Why it matters
Literary works take many forms from traditional printed paper bound in covers to modern electronic formats like ebooks and audiobooks. Non-fiction books provide content intended as factual truth, offering detailed examinations of historical events such as Cold War espionage operations. Understanding the mechanics of book publishing provides context for how historical accounts reach the public.
What is confirmed
- A book is a written work of substantial length created by one or more authors.
- Books can be distributed in various formats including electronic books and audiobooks.
Still unconfirmed
- Vladimir Kuzichkin approached British minister Nicholas Barrington in Tehran on October 1, 1981, to offer his services.
- Kuzichkin's betrayal of the KGB was linked to personal issues.
What to watch next
- Additional critical reviews of Ben Macintyre's book Redwood
- Sales figures and distribution milestones for the publication
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (2)
- play.google.com — Google Play Books
- en.wikipedia.org — Book - Wikipedia
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Ben Macintyre's 'Redwood' book explores KGB major's espionage
Ben Macintyre's book 'Redwood' chronicles the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin, a KGB major who defected to the UK. Kuzichkin, known as Redwood, approached British minister Nicholas Barrington in Tehran on 1 October 1981 to offer his services. The narrative explores Kuzichkin's role as a productive spy and links his betrayal to personal issues.
Why it matters
The book sheds light on Kuzichkin's defection and its implications for the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Macintyre has promoted the work in media appearances, including an interview on CNN's The Amanpour Hour.
What is confirmed
- Ben Macintyre's book 'Redwood' chronicles the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin.
- Kuzichkin approached British minister Nicholas Barrington in Tehran on 1 October 1981.
- The narrative explores Kuzichkin's role as a productive spy and links his betrayal to personal issues.
Still unconfirmed
- The use of Viagra is linked to Kuzichkin's betrayal of the Soviet Union.
What to watch next
- Ben Macintyre's discussion at the Winchester Books Festival
- Further reviews of 'Redwood' from multiple sources
- Any additional media appearances by Ben Macintyre to promote 'Redwood'
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (8)
- books.google.com — Google Books: Find, Preview, and Read Books Online.
- openlibrary.org — Welcome to Open Library | Open Library
- en.wikipedia.org — Book - Wikipedia
- www.barnesandnoble.com — Online Bookstore: Books, NOOK ebooks, Music, Movies & Toys
- www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk — Ben Macintyre to discuss new Redwood book in Winchester
- compliancepodcastnetwork.net — Redwood by Ben Macintyre Archives - Compliance Podcast Network
- www.bookishelf.com — Ben Macintyre Books: All Reviews in Reading Order | The ...
- www.irishtimes.com — Book Reviews - The Irish Times
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Ben Macintyre details KGB defector Vladimir Kuzichkin in 'Redwood'
Author Ben Macintyre's book 'Redwood' chronicles the Cold War espionage of Vladimir Kuzichkin, a KGB major who defected to the United Kingdom. Kuzichkin, known by the alias Redwood, approached British minister Nicholas Barrington in Tehran on 1 October 1981 to offer his services. Macintyre has recently promoted the work in media appearances, including an interview on CNN's The Amanpour Hour. The narrative explores Kuzichkin's role as a productive spy and links his betrayal of the Soviet Union to personal issues involving erectile dysfunction and the use of Viagra.
Why it matters
The account reveals the mechanics of Cold War intelligence gathering and the vulnerabilities of high-ranking Soviet officials. It highlights how personal crises can lead to strategic security breaches. The story remains a focal point for critics analyzing espionage literature.
What is confirmed
- Vladimir Kuzichkin was a KGB major who defected to Britain.
- Kuzichkin used the alias Redwood.
- The book 'Redwood' was written by Ben Macintyre.
Still unconfirmed
- Vladimir Kuzichkin was 6ft 4in tall.
- Kuzichkin approached minister Nicholas Barrington in Tehran on 1 October 1981.
- Kuzichkin's defection was linked to erectile dysfunction and the use of Viagra.
What to watch next
- Further interviews with Ben Macintyre regarding the source of his intelligence
- Critical reviews from major literary prizes or nonfiction lists
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (12)
- www.theguardian.com — Patrick Radden Keefe’s bestseller London Falling shortlisted for Baillie Gifford prize | Books
- theweek.com — The writer who found the divine in nature | The Week
- lithub.com — Literary Hub » September’s Best Reviewed Nonfiction
- www.kirkusreviews.com — October 1, 2026
- www.thetablet.co.uk — Smoke and mirrors
- www.irishtimes.com — Roddy Doyle returns to Barrytown
- www.wpl.ca — Books & Audiobooks | Waterloo Public Library
- www.newstalkzb.co.nz — "Classic Jodi": Jodi Picoult delves into complex relationships, trauma and tragedy in 'Hollow Bones'
- thespinoff.co.nz — A life rewritten: Charlotte Grimshaw’s memoir The Mirror Book, reviewed | The Spinoff
- thespinoff.co.nz — Exclusive: book reviews don’t pay much | The Spinoff
- focus-press.com — Book Reviews: ‘Exit Party’ and ‘Redwood’ Reviewed
- transcripts.cnn.com — Interview with Chief of Staff of Former Vice President Mike Pence, Marc Short; Interview with Bestselling....
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Ben Macintyre's 'Redwood' tells KGB double agent's story
Ben Macintyre's book 'Redwood' recounts the true story of KGB major Vladimir Kuzichkin, who betrayed the Soviet Union and provided critical intelligence to the UK and US. Kuzichkin's defection is linked to personal struggles with erectile dysfunction and the use of Viagra. The book is described as an 'enjoyable caper' filled with twists and an 'untold story of the cold war's most extraordinary spy'.
Why it matters
The defection occurred as Western powers feared the Soviet Union might exert influence over post-revolution Iran. Iran's position in the 'axis of evil' has been a concern since the 1978 Islamic revolution. The book sheds light on a significant event in the Cold War.
What is confirmed
- Ben Macintyre's book 'Redwood' is about KGB major Vladimir Kuzichkin.
- Kuzichkin betrayed the Soviet Union and provided intelligence to the UK and US.
- The book is described as an 'enjoyable caper' filled with twists.
- Kuzichkin's defection is linked to personal struggles with erectile dysfunction and Viagra use.
Still unconfirmed
- The Pahlavi dynasty replaced the Qajar dynasty in 1925 after a 1921 coup d'état backed by Britain.
What to watch next
- Further reviews and ratings of 'Redwood' by Ben Macintyre
- More information on Vladimir Kuzichkin's life after defection
- Analysis of the impact of Kuzichkin's defection on Cold War politics
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- theweek.com — Redwood by Ben Macintyre: an ‘enjoyable caper’ filled with ...
- www.irishtimes.com — Redwood by Ben Macintyre: World-altering conversations in a ...
- www.theglobeandmail.com — The Globe and Mail Bestsellers for the week of Sept. 26 - The Globe and Mail
- www.nbr.co.nz — Double trouble: KGB defector’s legacy of terrorism
- theweek.com — Book reviews: ‘Exit Party’ and ‘Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War’s Most Extraordinary Sp....
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Ben Macintyre discusses double agent narrative in Redwood
British author Ben Macintyre has released Redwood, an account of a Russian double agent who operated within Iran. The narrative details how KGB major Vladimir Kuzichkin provided critical intelligence to the United Kingdom and United States. Macintyre links Kuzichkin's decision to betray the Soviet Union to personal struggles with erectile dysfunction and the use of Viagra. The defection occurred as Western powers feared the Soviet Union might exert influence over post-revolution Iran in a manner similar to its actions in Afghanistan.
Why it matters
The intelligence gathered by Kuzichkin helped the West foil a Communist plot. This operation took place during a period of high geopolitical tension regarding Iranian stability. Macintyre is recognized as an expert in documenting espionage history.
What is confirmed
- Ben Macintyre wrote a book titled Redwood about a Russian double agent in Iran.
- KGB major Vladimir Kuzichkin defected to British intelligence.
- Kuzichkin provided intelligence to the United States and Britain.
What to watch next
- Further interviews with Ben Macintyre regarding specific intelligence uncovered by Kuzichkin
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.klcc.org — British author Ben Macintyre talks about his latest book, 'Redwood'
- www.theguardian.com — From Beabadoobee to 70 Up: the week in rave reviews
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Ben Macintyre's Redwood Details KGB Defection in Revolutionary Iran
KGB major Vladimir Kuzichkin defected to British intelligence during the early days of post-revolution Iran, providing the United States and Britain with critical insights into Soviet operations. Ben Macintyre's book Redwood describes how Kuzichkin's decision to become a double agent occurred while the West feared Iran might fall under Soviet influence, similar to Afghanistan. The account links the agent's betrayal of the Soviet Union and the foiling of a Communist plot to his personal struggles with erectile dysfunction and the use of Viagra.
Why it matters
The defection occurred at a height of the Cold War when Soviet intentions in the Middle East were a primary security concern. Macintyre is a known author of espionage bestsellers including Operation Mincemeat and The Spy and the Traitor.
What is confirmed
- Vladimir Kuzichkin was a KGB major who became a double agent for the British.
- Kuzichkin provided intelligence to Britain and the United States regarding Soviet operations in Iran.
- Ben Macintyre authored the book Redwood, published by Viking for $40.
Still unconfirmed
- Kuzichkin's use of Viagra and erectile dysfunction led him to betray the Soviet Union.
- The agent's actions foiled a Communist plot.
What to watch next
- Release of official intelligence documents corroborating Kuzichkin's specific contributions
- Further reviews from historians regarding the impact of the defection on Middle East geopolitics
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.ksfr.org — 09/15/2026 Forum Plus - Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War’s Most Extraordinary Spy
- observer.co.uk — Redwood, the spy who sold out the Soviets
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Ben Macintyre book Redwood details KGB defection in Iran
Ben Macintyre's book Redwood describes how a KGB major's erectile dysfunction and use of Viagra potentially altered Middle East geopolitics. The narrative follows the Soviet agent and his MI6 handler during the Iranian Revolution. Published by Viking for $40, the account suggests the agent's personal struggles led him to betray the Soviet Union and foil a Communist plot. Reviews describe the work as a true account of one of the Cold War's most extraordinary spies.
Why it matters
The story explores the intersection of personal health and international espionage during the Cold War. It focuses on the specific risks and ethical dilemmas faced by defectors in revolutionary Iran.
Still unconfirmed
- An associate stated that Howard knew what to do.
- The story takes place in revolutionary Iran.
- The book is titled Redwood: The Untold Story of the Cold War's Most Extra-ordinary Spy.
- The book is published by Viking and costs $40.
What to watch next
- Confirmation of the defector's full identity beyond the name Howard
- Further analysis of the specific Communist plot mentioned in the narrative
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.theguardian.com — Redwood by Ben Macintyre review – a superbly wrought tale of cold war defection
- www.nzherald.co.nz — Going rogue: A Cold War tale that’s better than fiction
- www.irishnews.com — 5 new books to read this week
- www.yahoo.com — 'A masterclass in the ethics of espionage'
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Ben Macintyre's 'Redwood' Examines KGB Defector and Cold War Secrets
Ben Macintyre's book 'Redwood' details the life of a KGB defector whose actions allegedly prevented a world war. The narrative focuses on how a Russian spy's personal struggles with a bedroom affliction and the use of 'Viagra' led him to betray the Soviet Union. Multiple reports describe the defector as one of history's most audacious, suggesting that his personal secrets were the catalyst for foiling a Communist plot and shifting the trajectory of the Cold War.
Why it matters
The Cold War was characterized by deep intelligence penetration and high-stakes defections. This account highlights the intersection of personal vulnerability and national security. It illustrates how individual human failings can impact global geopolitical stability.
Still unconfirmed
- A KGB spy's use of 'Viagra' led him to betray his country.
- A Russian spy's bedroom affliction shifted the Cold War.
- The defector in 'Redwood' prevented a world war.
- A sexual secret foiled a Communist plot.
What to watch next
- Release of official intelligence archives regarding the 'Redwood' defector.
- Further critical reviews of the book's historical accuracy.
confidence 60%Sources used for this update (8)
- The New York Times — The Sexual Secret That Foiled a Communist Plot
- The Washington Post — Opinion | How one Russian spy’s bedroom affliction shifted the Cold War
- The Times — The spy who betrayed his country for his sex life
- The Independent — The spy who betrayed his country for ‘Viagra’
- The Telegraph — The KGB spy who stopped the Soviets – and prevented a world war
- The Spectator — Double jeopardy: the story of history’s most audacious KGB defector
- WSJ — ‘Redwood’ Review: Intoxicated by Spycraft
- milfordlive.com — History Book Festival Returns to Lewes for 10th Anniversary in September
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