"COREY PEARSON- CIA SPYMASTER" Series- Take a Journey of Espionage & Intrigue!

                                                                             

CIA Spymaster Corey Pearson strategizing with his elite team.

Welcome to the world of Corey Pearson, CIA Spymaster! If you're a fan of high-stakes espionage and covert operations, you've come to the right place. My new spy thriller series, Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster, follows Corey and his elite CIA counterintelligence team as they dive deep into the shadows of global intrigue.

Start your journey with Mission of Vengeance, the second book in the series, available now on Amazon. It’s a pulse-pounding ride that will have you hooked from the first page. And the best part? You can dive into the rest of the series in any order. The first novel, Penumbra Database, is being revamped to reflect the rapidly changing world of intelligence, while The Shadow War is coming soon. I'm currently writing Assassin, the fourth book in the series.

So, what are you waiting for? Get to know Corey Pearson now with Mission of Vengeance, and prepare yourself for the rest of the adventure.

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Get 'Mission of Vengeance' now! Corey faces off against Russian assassins in a web of international espionage, setting the stage for electrifying adventures to come. Get ready for an adrenaline-packed ride! 

Why FBI Background Checks Are Non-Negotiable for Presidential Appointees

 

Safeguarding Democracy: Why FBI Vetting is Essential for Trust, Security, and Ethical Leadership in Government.

     When it comes to appointing high-level officials to government positions, thorough vetting is not just a tradition—it’s a safeguard for national security. Yet, in the run-up to a potential new Trump administration, whispers of circumventing FBI background checks in favor of private firms have sparked controversy. This debate underscores why FBI-led background checks remain a cornerstone of trust in governance.

     For decades, the FBI has been the go-to agency for background investigations, especially for positions involving national security. Their expertise, access to comprehensive criminal databases, and proven protocols ensure a level of scrutiny that private firms simply can’t match.   Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin put it bluntly: “The notion that we’re going to eliminate FBI background checks...is to ignore a body of experience in Congress and law that suggests that’s the height of irresponsibility.”

     While private firms might expedite the process, the risk of conflicts of interest looms large. Private investigators could lack impartiality, especially when hired directly by a nominee’s political allies. The integrity of the vetting process matters more than speed—after all, trust in these individuals translates to trust in the institutions they lead.

     Trump’s previous administration offered cautionary tales about the perils of inadequate vetting. Michael Flynn, his first National Security Advisor, resigned after it was revealed he misled senior officials about his communications with the Russian ambassador. FBI investigations exposed undisclosed foreign payments and ties, vulnerabilities that posed significant national security risks.

     Similarly, Ryan Zinke, Trump’s Secretary of the Interior, faced ethics probes into misuse of travel funds and conflicts of interest, ultimately resigning in disgrace. These cases underscore why rigorous FBI background checks are non-negotiable for appointees entrusted with the nation’s well-being. Yet, reports suggest Trump’s transition team is considering bypassing FBI checks to streamline confirmations. This shortcut could open the door to unchecked ethical lapses or even worse, compromised national security.

     Some of Trump’s appointees have already raised eyebrows. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz is among the most contentious, dogged by allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use. While a federal sex trafficking probe against him ended without charges, the House Ethics Committee continued to examine his conduct. Then there’s Pete Hegseth, a nominee for Secretary of Defense, who has faced accusations ranging from sexual assault settlements to affiliations with extremist symbols. Even Tulsi Gabbard, a pick for Director of National Intelligence, has faced scrutiny for her secretive meeting with Syrian President Bashar Assad in 2017, raising concerns about her alignment with U.S. foreign policy objectives. These controversies illustrate why it’s essential to have a rigorous, unbiased system to scrutinize nominees—especially for positions tied to national security.

     Candidates for top positions, like Secretary of Defense or Attorney General, undergo a thorough process starting with the federal SF-86 form. This document delves into every corner of a candidate’s past: where they’ve lived, their employment history, foreign travel, financial dealings, and more. The goal is to uncover any vulnerabilities or red flags that could jeopardize their ability to serve effectively. This methodical approach ensures that nominees are not only qualified but also trustworthy. Skipping these steps, as Trump’s team reportedly proposed, jeopardizes this vetting’s depth and transparency.

     In my spy thriller novel Mission of Vengeance, CIA Spymaster Corey Pearson faces off against a corrupt U.S. ambassador compromised by former Russian KGB agents. The ambassador’s unchecked power leads to a deadly plot that endangers America’s presence in the Caribbean. While a fictional tale, it highlights the real-world stakes of inadequate vetting. If those entrusted with safeguarding democracy can be compromised, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you’re intrigued by the intersection of espionage and geopolitics, I invite you to explore Mission of Vengeance. It underscores why thorough background checks aren’t just bureaucratic hurdles—they’re essential safeguards for national security.

     Background checks led by the FBI are a proven method of ensuring integrity in government appointments. In a world fraught with geopolitical tensions and domestic challenges, the need for trust in our leaders has never been greater. As history has shown, cutting corners in vetting high-level officials is not just irresponsible—it’s dangerous. The stakes are too high to compromise on this essential process. 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and the author of the "Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster" spy thriller series. Check out his latest spy thriller, Misson of Vengeance

Cat Island, Bahamas: A Spy Thriller’s Paradise and Your Next Getaway

 

Unveiling Cat Island: A Hidden Gem with a Touch of Spy Intrigue

     I love sharing fascinating locations that serve as the backdrop for my spy thriller series, and Cat Island, Bahamas, is one of my favorites. This hidden gem, far removed from the tourist crowds of Nassau or Freeport, offers a serene escape into a world of unspoiled beaches, lush landscapes, and timeless tranquility. Its beauty isn’t just skin deep—Cat Island is steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and the kind of warmth from its people that makes every visit unforgettable.

     When you wander through Cat Island, it’s impossible not to get caught up in its perfect mix of adventure and laid-back charm. Take The Hermitage on Mount Alvernia, for instance—it’s a spot you just can’t skip. Sitting on the highest point in the Bahamas, this historic monastery crowns a 206-foot limestone hill, giving you jaw-dropping views of the island, its rolling green hills, and the endless stretch of turquoise sea. There’s a stillness there that seems to capture the very soul of Cat Island, making it the perfect place to pause, soak in the scenery, and reflect on its fascinating history.

     And then there’s the music. You can’t talk about Cat Island without mentioning Rake N' Scrape, the traditional Bahamian sound that practically pulses through the island. Played on saws, goatskin drums, and accordions, it’s music that’s alive with energy and joy. It’s also deeply personal here, thanks to Pamela Poitier, daughter of the iconic actor Sidney Poitier. Pamela has made it her mission to keep this vibrant tradition thriving, hosting festivals and performances where the community comes together to celebrate. Join in, and you might find yourself tapping along to the infectious beat, maybe even meeting Pamela herself. Her passion for Cat Island’s culture is contagious, and it’s easy to see why she’s such a big part of the island’s story.

     If you’re looking to soak up the local vibe, Da Smoke Pot is the place to be. This cozy little beachfront bar and restaurant feels like the heartbeat of Cat Island. The food? Pure Bahamian goodness. Conch fritters, grilled lobster, and a lineup of fresh, flavorful dishes that taste like the island itself. The atmosphere? Chill and welcoming, with live music that makes it impossible not to smile as you kick back with a plate of something delicious and chat with fellow travelers.

     It’s easy to picture yourself there, soaking it all in—just like Corey Pearson, the sharp-eyed CIA spymaster from Mission of Vengeance. In the novel, Da Smoke Pot isn’t just a spot for good eats; it’s a critical hub where Corey and his elite CIA team gather to piece together their plan to stop a looming terrorist attack. The laid-back setting hides the tension bubbling just below the surface, making it the perfect cover.

     Not far from Da Smoke Pot, you’ll find another slice of paradise in Fountain Bay Resort. This serene retreat nails the balance between adventure and relaxation. The pristine beaches and sparkling waters are straight out of a postcard, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or even just a slow stroll along the shore. The resort’s restaurant serves up Caribbean cuisine with ingredients so fresh you’ll think they plucked them from the sea that morning. And, they probably did!

     For fans of Mission of Vengeance, Fountain Bay Resort is more than a vacation spot—it’s a key location in the story. Corey Pearson goes undercover there, blending into the tranquil surroundings while keeping a sharp eye out for a deadly threat. The resort’s peaceful beauty contrasts with the high-stakes tension of Corey’s mission, giving the scene an edge that lingers long after you’ve turned the page.

     For those who crave a closer connection to nature, the mangrove marshes of Bonefish Creek are calling your name. Paddling through these winding waterways feels like stepping into another world—one teeming with life. Beneath the glassy surface, stingrays glide like silent shadows, while turtles pop their heads up as if to say hello. It’s the kind of peaceful, awe-inspiring experience that stays with you long after you leave.

     In Mission of Vengeance, Corey Pearson takes to these same mangroves under the cover of being a marine biologist. But this isn’t just a relaxing paddle for him—it’s a high-stakes mission. As he weaves through the shaded creeks, scanning for clues to stop a looming attack, the story captures both the natural beauty and the edge-of-your-seat tension that defines Cat Island.

     There’s a magic to Cat Island that’s hard to put into words. It’s a place where time slows, letting you breathe in its beauty, immerse yourself in its culture, and discover its hidden treasures. For fans of Mission of Vengeance, visiting Cat Island is like stepping into the pages of the novel—walking the same paths as Corey Pearson through mangroves, along secluded beaches, and into vibrant local hangouts.

     Whether it’s the island’s rich history, lively music, or untouched landscapes that draw you in, Cat Island offers an experience that’s equal parts tranquil and thrilling. And who knows—while exploring this Bahamian paradise, you might just find yourself wrapped up in an adventure that feels straight out of a spy thriller. 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and the author of the "Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster" spy thriller series.

The Shadowy Legacy of Former KGB Agents in Modern Espionage

 

From Cold War Shadows to Cyber Frontlines: The Unseen Power of Former KGB Operatives in Modern Geopolitics

     

     Espionage didn’t end with the Cold War. If anything, it’s more alive now than ever—and a heck of a lot more dangerous. At the heart of it all are former KGB operatives, the same shadowy players who used to form the backbone of the Soviet Union’s intelligence machine. The USSR may have crumbled over thirty years ago, but these operatives didn’t just fade into obscurity. They adapted. They evolved. And today, they’re using their skills in cyber warfare, disinformation, and geopolitical manipulation to push Russia’s agenda in ways that would make their old bosses proud.

     When the KGB officially shut down in 1991, its agents didn’t exactly line up at the unemployment office. A lot of them moved into Russia’s new intelligence agencies, like the FSB and SVR. Others slid seamlessly into the private sector, where they’ve made careers out of using their expertise in surveillance, manipulation, and strategy to quietly serve Russian interests around the globe.

     Take Sergey Tretyakov, for instance. He was a high-ranking KGB colonel who eventually defected to the United States in the early 2000s. Before that, he was neck-deep in funneling millions into disinformation campaigns aimed squarely at Western democracies. Tretyakov passed away a few years back, but the secrets he spilled painted a clear picture of just how these former operatives operate.

     Then there’s Igor Girkin, another name you won’t find on any welcome mat. Girkin, a former FSB officer, played a major role in Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the ongoing chaos in Eastern Ukraine. He’s not just a soldier; he’s a master of propaganda. Girkin’s playbook—combining brute military tactics with psychological and disinformation warfare—has become a blueprint for destabilizing regions all over Europe.

     These two are just the tip of the iceberg. The old KGB guard didn’t disappear. They’re still out there, sharpening their tools and pulling strings from the shadows. And as the world catches up to the reality of what they’re doing, one thing’s clear: the Cold War may be over, but the game of espionage never really ended. It just got more sophisticated.

     Modern espionage isn’t about trench coats, briefcases, and dead drops anymore. These days, it’s all about algorithms, social media, and a whole lot of digital skullduggery. And those former KGB operatives? They didn’t miss a beat. They’ve adapted to this new battlefield, slipping seamlessly into Russia’s state-backed hacking groups like Fancy Bear (APT28) and Cozy Bear (APT29).

     These groups are the masterminds behind some of the boldest cyberattacks in recent memory. We’re talking about meddling in U.S. elections, breaching European government systems, and generally stirring up chaos wherever they can. But the real kicker? It’s not just about stealing data or crashing systems.

     Take the disinformation campaigns that have rocked several European countries in recent years. Those weren’t some random troll jobs. They were carefully crafted operations, designed by experts in psychological manipulation. The goal was clear: divide people, create mistrust, and chip away at the foundations of democracy. They plant seeds of doubt and watch as the cracks in society widen. And the worst part? It works.

     In the Mission of Vengeance spy thriller novel, this very theme comes to life. The story features a secretive network of former KGB agents operating out of a sprawling estate in the Dominican Republic. The estate serves as a hub for a disinformation campaign targeting U.S. influence in the Caribbean—a scenario inspired by real-life operations.

     The fictional mansion is more than just a façade; it’s a symbol of how Cold War tactics have morphed into digital-age warfare. From their secluded Caribbean retreat, these KGB operatives deploy a sophisticated hacking operation designed to destabilize the United States’ relationships with its allies in the region. The parallels between this fictional plotline and real-world espionage are striking, and it raises the question: how much of this is fiction, and how much is a glimpse into the hidden world of modern-day spymasters?

     Why should you care about the activities of former KGB agents? Because their actions have real consequences for the world we live in. These operatives, many now working under the guise of "private consultants" or within state-sponsored cyber units, are actively reshaping the geopolitical landscape, undermining democracies, and eroding trust in public institutions.

     For those intrigued by the shadowy world of espionage, stories like Mission of Vengeance offer not only entertainment but also a window into the tactics and strategies that define modern-day intelligence wars. These tales are grounded in reality, reflecting the very real threats posed by operatives who once served the Soviet state and now answer to the Kremlin.

     The KGB’s legacy isn’t gathering dust in history books—it’s right here, staring us in the face, splashed across today’s headlines. Their methods may have evolved, their tools upgraded for the digital age, but their mission? It’s as chilling as ever: manipulate, destabilize, dominate. Every new revelation about their covert operations reminds us that the shadow war never ended. It just got more insidious, weaving itself into the fabric of our democracies, quietly ripping at the seams.

     Take Sergey Tretyakov and Igor Girkin. These two are just the tip of the iceberg. Tretyakov, before defecting to the U.S., was an architect of disinformation campaigns that fueled division across the West. Girkin? He’s the poster child for hybrid warfare—part battlefield tactician, part propaganda machine. He’s shown how the old playbook of the Cold War has been rewritten for today, more subtle and far-reaching than ever before.

     And if these are the names we know, just imagine how many more are out there, lurking in the shadows, quietly pulling the strings. The KGB may be gone in name, but its operatives—and their agenda—are alive and well.

     And then, there’s Vladimir Putin—a former KGB operative himself—who has ascended to wield immense power and influence. His ambition to destabilize America and restore the former Soviet Union isn’t just rhetoric; it’s a blueprint for reshaping the global order. As he plays his game of geopolitical chess, one has to wonder: how many of the thousands of former KGB spies are still active, still lurking in the shadows, still executing plans to undermine Western democracies?

     For those who peer into this hidden world, spy thrillers offer more than entertainment—they are a window into a reality where truth is often stranger than fiction. As the boundaries between past and present, history and modernity, continue to blur, one question looms: how much of this is unfolding before our very eyes, and how much is yet to come? The answer, perhaps, is darker than we dare imagine. 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and the author of the "Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster" spy thriller series.

Spy Games Underwater: The Russian Spy Ship 'Yantar' Targets the World’s Critical Infrastructure

Deep-Sea Espionage: Russia's 'Yantar' and its mini-subs target critical undersea cables, where the line between surveillance and sabotage blurs

     

     The Russian spy ship Yantar is no run-of-the-mill vessel. Sure, it’s officially stamped as a “research ship,” but let’s not kid ourselves—it’s got capabilities that send shivers down the spines of intelligence agencies everywhere. Operated by Russia’s shadowy Main Directorate of Underwater Research (GUGI), it has been cruising the seas since 2015, armed with advanced submersibles that can dive down a mind-blowing 6,000 meters. That’s deep enough to mess with the undersea cables carrying 95% of the world’s internet traffic. Translation? It could spy on or straight-up disrupt the backbone of modern communication.

     This ship isn’t just a nosy neighbor; it’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Picture it loitering off Ireland’s coast, right near transatlantic cables that keep the modern world spinning. Every email you send, every call across the ocean, every bank transfer made—it all flows through those cables. The Yantar lurking nearby is no coincidence, and NATO’s been watching it like a hawk as it skulks through hotspots like the English Channel, setting off alarm bells in intel circles.

     It doesn’t take a leap of imagination to see the potential dangers. Those submersible mini-subs onboard the Yantar are quiet, precise, and designed for operations that ordinary ships can’t handle. They can tap into cables to gather information, sabotage critical connections, or even retrieve sensitive equipment from the ocean floor. This kind of capability gives the ship an outsized role in an increasingly tense undersea chess game, where nations quietly jockey for control of the ocean’s hidden highways.

     In my spy thriller, Mission of Vengeance, CIA spymaster Corey Pearson faces the Yantar’s shadowy potential firsthand. In the novel, Corey fears that the Yantar will deploy its advanced mini-subs to extract a group of Russian assassins and former KGB operatives hiding aboard a corrupt Russian oligarch’s yacht in the Dominican Republic. The CIA is racing against the clock, fully aware that the Yantar could covertly retrieve the fugitives and whisk them back to Moscow before they can be intercepted. It’s a tense, high-stakes scenario, and one that highlights the very real and dangerous capabilities of this shadowy Russian vessel.

     What makes the Yantar so fascinating—and so dangerous—is how it straddles the line between fiction and reality. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Undersea cables are the backbone of the modern world. Take them out, and internet traffic slows to a crawl, financial systems collapse, and life as we know it grinds to a halt. Just the sight of the Yantar near these vital lifelines is enough to send chills down the spines of intelligence agencies everywhere.

     But it’s not just the cables at risk. The Yantar’s mini-subs aren’t just for deep-sea exploration—they’re built for covert ops. Picture it plucking sensitive military tech off the ocean floor or quietly mapping out critical infrastructure for future sabotage. These aren’t wild scenarios; they’re legitimate fears that have NATO and its allies tracking the ship’s every move.

     The fight for control of the ocean’s hidden highways is heating up. Nations are scrambling to secure their underwater assets while racing to outpace threats like the Yantar. For Corey Pearson and his CIA team—as well as real-world intelligence operatives—it’s always a high-stakes game to stay ahead of the competition.

     The Yantar is more than just a ship. It’s a symbol of the stealthy, relentless power struggle happening beneath the waves. Whether you’re reading about it in a spy thriller or watching it unfold in real-world geopolitics, one thing’s clear: some of the most critical battles are fought in the shadows—and sometimes, deep underwater. 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and the author of the "Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster" spy thriller series. Check out his latest spy thriller, Misson of Vengeance 

The Kremlin’s Candidate? Tulsi Gabbard’s Controversial Nomination Sparks Fears

Is Tulsi Gabbard the Leader U.S. Intelligence Needs—or a Risk It Can’t Afford? 

     Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination to head up the U.S. intelligence community has hit Washington like a thunderclap. People are talking, and not in a good way. A former congresswoman and Army National Guard vet, Gabbard has always been a lightning rod for controversy. But now? Now she’s at the center of a storm that’s got intelligence pros wondering whose side she’s really on, especially when you factor in her track record with Russia.

     Here’s the thing about Gabbard: she’s made a name for herself by calling out U.S. foreign interventions. That plays well with a lot of folks who’ve had enough of endless wars. Fair enough. But dig a little deeper, and her anti-war rhetoric starts to sound eerily like something out of Moscow’s playbook.

     Case in point: her approach to Syria. When most of the West was condemning Bashar al-Assad for the atrocities his regime was committing, Gabbard took a very different route. In 2017, she didn’t just hold back criticism—she flew to Damascus and sat down with the man himself. Bashar al-Assad, the dictator Russia has bent over backward to keep in power.

     That meeting didn’t just raise eyebrows; it set off alarms. Her colleagues were stunned, and some were outright furious. To them, it looked like she was giving a brutal dictator exactly what he wanted: legitimacy. And it wasn’t just a momentary lapse in judgment. It made people ask the hard question: whose narrative was she really advancing? Because from where many were sitting, it didn’t look like America’s. 

MISSION OF VENGEANCE: Take a journey of espionage and intrigue with Corey Pearson, CIA Spymaster. Danger, deception, and high-stakes missions await. Dive into the action now!

      Then there’s the curious love affair Russian state media seems to have with Tulsi Gabbard. Outlets like RT and Sputnik—basically megaphones for Kremlin propaganda—couldn’t get enough of her during the 2020 presidential campaign. They didn’t just report on her; they rolled out the red carpet, highlighting her every critique of U.S. foreign policy.

     Coincidence? Not likely. Intelligence experts saw it as part of a calculated move by Moscow to stoke divisions within the U.S. Whether Gabbard intended it or not, her words became ammunition for a foreign power eager to weaken American unity.

     And it didn’t stop there. When Hillary Clinton suggested Gabbard might be Russia’s favorite political player, it set off a media firestorm. Sure, there’s no hard proof tying Gabbard directly to Moscow, but the pattern is hard to ignore. Take her stance on Ukraine: she’s been vocal about her skepticism toward U.S. military aid. At a time when Ukraine is battling for survival against Russian aggression, that skepticism lands squarely in Putin’s favor. To U.S. intelligence, this isn’t just another policy debate—it’s a big, flashing red light.

     Now, with Gabbard poised to lead the U.S. intelligence community, those flashing lights have turned into blaring sirens. The CIA and other agencies are on the front lines of countering adversaries like Russia, and the idea of having someone in charge whose past rhetoric aligns—intentionally or not—with Kremlin goals is unsettling, to say the least. For intelligence officers who depend on trust and mission clarity, Gabbard’s appointment raises a chilling question: will their efforts be supported or undermined from the very top?

     The stakes couldn’t be higher. This isn’t just about Gabbard’s controversial past or her polarizing views. It’s about the delicate balance of trust and leadership that keeps America’s intelligence machinery running. And right now, with Gabbard stepping into this role, that balance feels like it’s on shaky ground.

 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and the author of the "Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster" spy thriller series. Check out his latest spy thriller, Misson of Vengeance.

Secrets Up Their Sleeves: How the CIA Turned Magic Into Spycraft

 

Secrets, Spies, and Sleight of Hand: The CIA’s Bizarre Partnership with a Magician

     In 1953, the CIA did something so offbeat you’d think it belonged in a Vegas nightclub—they hired a magician. And not just any magician, but the legendary John Mulholland, a master illusionist known for pulling rabbits out of hats and making entire showgirls disappear. Why? Because in the shadowy depths of the Cold War, the CIA was determined to teach its agents a few tricks of the magical trade. The agency needed to equip its spies with a skill set that was less Jason Bourne and more David Copperfield, for the same reason we all need a good backup plan: sometimes, a little trickery goes a long way.

     This wasn’t just any sleight-of-hand guide for rookies. The CIA created a manual packed with Houdini-like techniques, full of tips on how to secretly swap microfilm, pass pills, and disappear into thin air without so much as leaving a suspicious footprint. Dubbed The Official CIA Manual of Trickery and Deception, this little tome transformed spooks into certified illusionists, ready to work their magic under pressure. They learned to slip a pill into an enemy’s drink with more finesse than a Las Vegas bartender and to pick a pocket with the ease of a street magician.

     Now, you might wonder how a man who spent his life doing magic shows ended up partnering with America’s top spies. It’s a fair question, but remember, the CIA was in the business of misdirection. To win the Cold War, they needed a bag of tricks that would make even Bond blush. John Mulholland wasn’t just there to give card tricks to the recruits. His role in the MKULTRA program—yes, the same MKULTRA that dabbled in mind control and paranormal psychology—was to teach agents how to blend into a crowd, pass secret messages, and manipulate their surroundings without being seen. And much like CIA operative Corey Pearson in the spy thriller Mission of Vengeance, who had assets trained to slip a drug into an assassin’s drink without being noticed, these agents needed to become real-life escape artists.

     One of Mulholland’s finest tips was a technique he charmingly called “dropsies.” The trick was simple: an agent would intentionally drop an object to distract a target. It’s the sort of thing we all do by accident, but Mulholland taught CIA operatives to use it for more strategic purposes. Take, for example, CIA operative Jim Warjovy, who used “dropsies” to pass secret information in East Berlin. In the middle of a tense exchange with a Soviet agent, he dropped a coin on the floor. While the Soviet’s gaze was down, Warjovy quickly passed a microfilm to his contact. This sleight-of-hand technique, perfected under Mulholland’s guidance, allowed operatives to pass messages, documents, and tiny objects right under the noses of their adversaries—subtle, quick, and invisible, just like any seasoned magician would do on stage.

     And then there were Mulholland’s more theatrical tricks, inspired by Houdini himself. Ever heard of the old “disappearing box” act? Mulholland suggested a way for CIA agents to shuttle people and secrets out of Eastern Europe by turning getaway vehicles into magical boxes. Picture a stage magician’s disappearing act but on wheels. When agents needed to smuggle someone out of East Germany, they used Mulholland’s tactics to create getaway vehicles that concealed agents like props on a stage. It was misdirection at its finest.

     Then came 1973, when Mulholland’s magic manual was supposedly destroyed, like an untraceable vanishing act. But in 2007, retired CIA officer Robert Wallace and spy historian Keith Melton made a discovery worthy of any thriller novel. During a routine dust-up of Cold War archives, they unearthed Mulholland’s original files, dusty but intact, containing tricks the CIA thought had been incinerated for good. They compiled these rediscovered secrets into a book, The Official CIA Manual of Trickery and Deception, now available for anyone interested in learning how to slip a pill into a drink or pull off a covert sleight of hand.

     It’s worth noting that Mulholland’s guide included more than just passing pills and dropping coins. He trained agents in everything from disguise to subtle hand signals. Former Deputy CIA Director John McLaughlin put it best when he said, “Magic and espionage are kindred spirits.” After all, it’s easy to see the similarities: both spies and magicians rely on creating illusions and reading their audience to stay one step ahead. If you’ve ever pulled off a good lie in front of your boss, you can appreciate Mulholland’s genius.

     And if you think this sounds suspiciously similar to a scene from Mission of Vengeance, you’d be right. In fact, that’s exactly what CIA spymaster Corey Pearson does when he employs his own sleight-of-hand-trained operatives in a crowded Dominican disco. Here’s a snippet:

It happened quickly. CIA spymaster Corey Pearson let his plan unfold. The two Dominican Republic ladies, actually low-level CIA assets, walked down Dr. Rosen Street onto Calle Pedro Clisante and passed Whistle Blower, whose table was next to the sidewalk. One toted the luxurious Haumea handbag that the Russian KGB defector Yury Bocharov bought for her at the Blue Mall in Santo Domingo. It hung low and was opened. Whistle Blower was well trained in the art of sleight of hand. She furtively dropped a small  package into it, while simultaneously lifting a forkful of her trifle to her mouth.

   The packet contained a vial of some sort and a Bluetooth microphone disguised as a ballpoint pen. Minutes later, Corey walked at a fast pace across the street and entered the disco, then strolled to the men’s room. The noise and lights engulfed the senses; no one would remember seeing him.

   He swung open the restroom door, then placed a rubber door stopper under it so no one could enter. The killer was peeing up a storm into the urinal. The Furosemide diuretic that the girls imperceptibly slipped into his drink worked quickly.

     When you think about it, espionage and magic do share a strange common ground. Mulholland taught the CIA that if you can make an enemy agent look the other way, even for a second, you can do just about anything right under their nose. And as Corey Pearson proved, whether it’s in the Cold War or a steamy disco in the Dominican Republic, a good sleight of hand can be the difference between life and death.

     So, the next time someone fumbles a coin in front of you or tries to slip something in your drink, remember: it could be an accident, or it could just be a CIA agent taking Mulholland’s magic lessons for a spin. Either way, it’s safe to say John Mulholland would be proud. 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and the author of the "Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster" spy thriller series.