Triple Cross: How Bin Laden's Master Spy Penetrated the CIA, the Green Berets, and the FBI--And Why Patrick Fitzgerald Failed to Stop Him : Book Review

"Triple Cross" by Peter Lance is an incredibly gripping true crime book that delves deep into the fascinating life and crimes of Ali Mohamed, an Egyptian-born triple agent who managed to infiltrate not only the CIA and FBI but also multiple terrorist organizations. Lance's meticulous research uncovers the complex web of deception and manipulation that allowed Mohamed to operate undetected as a trusted insider for over a decade.

One of the most compelling aspects of this book is how Lance sheds light on Mohamed's early life, his radicalization, and his eventual recruitment by the CIA. Through extensive investigation, Lance explores the questionable decisions made by intelligence agencies during this time period and brings attention to the systemic failures that enabled someone like Mohamed to carry out his dangerous activities unnoticed.

Lance's attention to detail is truly impressive. He paints a vivid and comprehensive picture of Mohamed's double life, skillfully weaving together interviews, court transcripts, and declassified documents. The book reads like a fast-paced thriller, keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

What sets "Triple Cross" apart is its ability to put Mohamed's actions into a broader geopolitical context. Lance takes the time to analyze the rise of Al Qaeda and the events leading up to the tragic 9/11 attacks. He delves into the failure of interagency communication and exposes the bureaucratic infighting that hindered effective counterterrorism efforts, ultimately leading to the devastating events of 9/11.

Overall, "Triple Cross" is a thought-provoking and impeccably researched book that lays bare the flaws within our intelligence agencies and raises important questions about national security and counterterrorism efforts. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate world of espionage and the intricate intersection of terrorism and intelligence.

What are readers saying?

"Triple Cross" by Peter Lance is a highly acclaimed and meticulously researched book that delves into the events leading up to the tragic 9/11 terrorist attacks. Readers have been overwhelmingly positive in their response to Lance's work, praising his thorough investigation and detailed analysis of the individuals involved. They commend his ability to present complex information in a clear and compelling manner, making the book accessible to both experts and casual readers. Lance's extensive knowledge of the subject matter is also highly regarded, as it provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate web of connections between the terrorists, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services.

The narrative style of "Triple Cross" is widely lauded for its engaging and suspenseful nature. Lance's talent for building tension throughout the book keeps readers eagerly turning the pages, yearning to uncover the next piece of the puzzle. It is often described as a captivating and addictive read that becomes difficult to put down once started.

One crucial aspect that readers appreciate is "Triple Cross" shedding light on the failures and shortcomings of the U.S. intelligence community before 9/11. Lance critically examines missed opportunities, interagency rivalries, and complex bureaucratic processes, offering readers a deeper understanding of the systemic issues that hindered preventative measures. This perspective encourages readers to critically engage with the events leading up to the attacks.

However, some readers mention that the abundance of information and the numerous interconnected individuals and organizations can be overwhelming. They suggest taking breaks during the reading process to fully digest the content, especially for readers less familiar with the subject matter.

Ultimately, "Triple Cross" by Peter Lance is highly recommended for its exhaustive research, engaging narrative, and critical analysis of the intelligence community's failings. It appeals to readers seeking a better understanding of the complexities behind the 9/11 attacks and the national security landscape during that period.

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