The book by the famous historian and writer Theodor Gladkov is dedicated to the life and work of one of the most secret Soviet intelligence officers. Alexander Korotkov illegally carried out difficult tasks in Europe, led the work against Nazi Germany on the eve and during the war. Later, the activities of domestic intelligence services in East Germany were subordinate to him. The book is based on declassified documents, meetings of the author with eyewitnesses of the event. The hero of the book was in the thick of the struggle of the special services, almost died during Stalin’s terror on the eve of the war, and was an active participant in the confrontation between the former allies during the cold peace of the fifties. Before reaching old age, Alexander Korotkov enjoyed great respect from the aces of Soviet intelligence, forcing them to reckon with themselves the ruthless People's Commissar Beria and opponents from enemy services.