The book progresses chronologically, beginning with the Revolutionary War and moving through pivotal periods like the Civil War, the World Wars, and the Cold War. It highlights the ethical complexities and lasting impacts of spies and their actions, offering a comprehensive overview of U.S. military intelligence history.
The book uniquely focuses on the direct influence of espionage on military operations, moving beyond sensationalized accounts to examine how spies shaped battles and wars. It draws upon declassified documents, personal accounts, and military records to present a comprehensive and engaging analysis of American intelligence gathering.