"McKay takes readers through history, from Julius Caesar’s coded communiqués to the Nazis’ formidable Enigma code, giving historical context about the codes’ necessities, with details about how they were both created and broken. For history buffs and puzzle meisters, [the book] will doubtless prove endlessly intriguing."

– Booklist

“McKay traces the increasingly sophisticated use and decryption of coded texts to wage and win wars, to woo lovers, and to conceal esoteric or scientific knowledge throughout the centuries. Each of the book’s entries paints a picture of how a particular cypher was invented, used, or broken and the personalities behind these codes. An accessible history of decryption with elements that will appeal to casual history buffs and solvers of word puzzles.”

– Library Journal

“The Hidden History of Code-Breaking is a worthwhile introduction to the world of codes and ciphers that offers a glimpse into the fascinating realm of encryption and how codes have been used throughout history.” 

– Science

Praise for The Secret Life of Codebreakers

“A portrait of one of the most remarkable brain factories the world has ever seen.” 
 

 

– Max Hastings, journalist and author, former editor-in-chief of the Daily Telegraph

"An eloquent tribute to a quite remarkable group of men and women, whose like we will not see again."
 

– Mail On Sunday

“A stunning plunge into the social and political complexities surrounding the men and women who broke the Enigma code. A gripping read.”

– Chester Nez and Judith Schiess Avila, authors of Code Talker

“Re-create[s] the unique atmosphere of this extraordinary place… remarkable.”

– Daily Telegraph (London)

“This very readable and competent book captures well the extraordinary atmosphere of eccentrics working hard together in almost complete secrecy.”

– The Guardian

"McKay takes readers through history, from Julius Caesar’s coded communiqués to the Nazis’ formidable Enigma code, giving historical context about the codes’ necessities, with details about how they were both created and broken. For history buffs and puzzle meisters, [the book] will doubtless prove endlessly intriguing."

– Booklist

“McKay traces the increasingly sophisticated use and decryption of coded texts to wage and win wars, to woo lovers, and to conceal esoteric or scientific knowledge throughout the centuries. Each of the book’s entries paints a picture of how a particular cypher was invented, used, or broken and the personalities behind these codes. An accessible history of decryption with elements that will appeal to casual history buffs and solvers of word puzzles.”

– Library Journal