King of Spies: The Dark Reign of America's Spymaster in Korea

"King of Spies" is a story of a poor Florida boy who served in the Air Force in Korea and became a key spy master during the Korean War. Much of what is known of Donald Nichols is from his own accounts, much of which is b.s. and self-promotion. Nonetheless, it apparently was true that he did have a personal relationship with the South Korean President, and did have valuable connections during the Korean War which enabled him to bring useful intelligence to the U.S. forces fighting against the North Koreans and Chinese troops. His actions were effective, but highly questionable. He also was an unlikeable character. During the war, he may well have profited from his position and black market dealings, allowing him to leave the service show more quite well off financially. However, his retirement was marred by his sexual abuse of several teen-aged boys, and he ended up being treated for mental problems. show less

This is an interesting biography of Donald Nichols, who started life with a seventh grade education and rose to become an Air Force major, advisor to high-ranking Korean officials, and a spymaster who contributed to the success of the defense of South Korea during the Korean War. He was also a witness to mass executions and a convicted pedophile. Harden tells the story of this complex character who was both a hero and a criminal in a matter-of-fact way; the story of Nichols's life is so strange that is the best way to tell it.

Great Educational book about the Korean War and a flawed US Air force officer that was the right person at the right time.

There are occasionally instances, in history, when an unusual individual can provide service better then any of those around them. These individuals are often flawed misfits in everyday life but are the type of person that is needed in times of great peril. This book is about one of them.