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The Accidental Spy

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The Accidental Spy

By: Sean O'Driscoll
Narrated by: Gerry O'Brien
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About this listen

The gripping real story of the ordinary American man who found himself at the centre of a deadly terrorist organisation - and working for both MI5 and the FBI.

A bored trucker from New York took a holiday to Ireland with his new girlfriend and brought down the IRA.

Just a quick Google search reveals the level of interest across Britain, Ireland and the US into exactly how this ordinary blue collar worker found himself at the centre of an espionage ring.

David Rupert, a complete outsider with no connection to Ireland, rose to the very top of the Real IRA, all while working for the FBI and British intelligence. But the story is really about just how a bored, frustrated New York trucking manager becomes one of Britain’s most valued spies, brings down the entire IRA structure and makes $10 million in the process.

Along the way he finds himself in the most extraordinary and terrifying situations - is involved in major terrorist operations, sets up an Iraqi sting operation and is organising US arms shipments with a man being trained to kill the then British Prime Minister, Tony Blair.

©2019 Sean O'Driscoll (P)2019 Mirror Books
Espionage Politicians Politics & Activism True Crime Middle East Exciting Scary Iran New York

Critic reviews

"I hope I have done justice to David's complex personality and the most extraordinary story I have come across in 20 years of journalism. I hope it answers many unanswered questions and raises some uncomfortable questions for security forces in the US, Ireland and the UK. Most of all, I hope it helps explain the combination of injury, rage and ego that fuels international terrorism and the quiet patience it takes to bring it to an end." (Sean O'Driscoll, journalist and Northern Irish correspondent for The Times)

All stars
Most relevant
An amazing story which is very well written. Taught me so much about the differences between the various IRA factions which for years has been completely baffling to me. A book that everyone remotely interested in the subject should read - thank goodness attitudes (particularly American ones) have changed over time. It's really not nice to blow people up, whoever you are and whatever you believe is right.

What a fantastic book

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great story, amazing this actually happened. well read. a must for any one Interested in the history of the troubles.

great story, amazing this actually happened

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interesting how the wrong place at the right time leads to a 10 million dollar payday

insightful

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You can skip the first 3 chapters or so as these are just scene setting, and you will still get a feel of what a remarkable true story this is. One that will stay with you for a very long time!

Slow burner but a remarkable story with sticking w

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Superb from start to finish! An easy listen. One that I'd recommend if you want to understand the complexity of the IRA.

This would make an amazing film!

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