A review by jack_the_sipper
The Devil's Chessboard: Allen Dulles, the CIA, and the Rise of America's Secret Government by David Talbot

dark informative reflective sad medium-paced

4.75

Even though it is slightly speculative at times, this book is a tour-de-force of historical writing. David Talbot has managed to provide unparalleled insight into the man who can be described as the "Father of American Intelligence" and his long, dark reign at the CIA and its national security apparatus predecessors. By doing this, Talbot has also compiled a rich early history of how America's spycraft operations came into being during WW2, and the vast machine of multiple agencies they spawned in subsequent years.

That being said, the biggest plus about the book for me was the meticulous care with which sources have been compiled and listed by Talbot. That in itself is another treasure trove worth delving deep into for those who are so inclined.