This work investigates the psychological and sociological motivations behind treasonous acts committed by British citizens during and after World War II. Dame Rebecca West, a renowned journalist and novelist, utilizes her extensive experience in courtroom reporting to analyze the intersection of personal identity and national loyalty. She argues that the transition from ideologically motivated wartime traitors to professional Cold War spies represents a significant shift in the nature of political subversion.

Critics and historians frequently cite this work as a definitive study on the nature of political betrayal and the complexities of national identity. Readers often note the dense, analytical prose style that reflects West's background in literary journalism.