Surprise, Kill, Vanish

In Surprise, Kill, Vanish, Pulitzer Prize finalist Annie Jacobsen explores the hidden world of the CIA's Special Activities Division, a secretive unit responsible for covert operations that span sabotage, subversion, and assassination. With unprecedented access to the experiences of 42 individuals who have worked in this realm, Jacobsen reveals the complexities and moral ambiguities of paramilitary work. Combining deep historical research with gripping narratives, the book presents a detailed look at how these operations intertwine with American foreign policy, leaving readers to ponder whether such actions are a strategic strength or a moral liability for the nation.