The Eagle Scout Picture: A World War II Espionage Thriller
In 2025, we remember events from World War II. Between December 16, 1944, and January 25, 1945, the Ardennes Offensive, what Americans call the Battle of the Bulge, was Germany’s last big effort in World War II. It led to Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 1945. Almost all who fought the war are gone now, but the stories of the Greatest Generation need to live on in our collective memories.
I grew up listening to the war stories of my older brothers and uncles. When I discovered an untold story, I felt compelled to share it. That’s why I have released The Eagle Scout Picture, a WWII spy thriller, at this time. “Lest we forget” the sacrifices of the men and the women who supported them. This novel is based on actual events. Read about them in the book’s description below.
Explore the World War II Espionage Thriller
“No American could survive the ruthless fascist police state,” they said. But one young spy tried.
The Eagle Scout Picture
By Gary Kidney
In The Eagle Scout Picture, Gary Kidney crafts a gripping tale of courage, deception, and resilience. Woven with historical precision and heart-pounding twists, this World War II espionage thriller unveils the dark realities of war and the sacrifices made in the name of liberty.
A farm boy. A deadly mission. A world on the brink of war.
The mission of 17-year-old Eagle Scout Fred Brown is to infiltrate the Third Reich as Zelly Zellner, earn the trust of the SS, and report their darkest secrets back to the Allies. But in a world where loyalty is tested at every turn, Zelly faces impossible choices. A single misstep could cost him everything—including his soul.
From the icy heights of the Brenner Pass to the gilded halls of Berlin, The Eagle Scout Picture is a heart-pounding journey of courage and survival. Caught between a regime he despises and a mission that demands unthinkable sacrifices, Zelly must navigate a labyrinth of betrayal, secrets, and moral dilemmas.
From shadowy train car meetings to high-stakes encounters with Gestapo officers, he must maintain his cover or face a chilling fate. As he grapples with loyalty, morality, and his identity, he discovers that being a spy is far more than survival – it’s about the fight for justice in a world consumed by tyranny.
Can a single spy make a difference in the war? Or will the cost of survival shatter the boy who just wanted to serve his country?
Perfect for fans of Ken Follett’s Eye of the Needle and Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See, this gripping WWII espionage thriller will leave you breathless.
Don’t miss this unforgettable tale of bravery and deception during one of history’s darkest times. Available now in print and eBook
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Praise for The Eagle Scout Picture
From the City of Books: The Eagle Scout Picture is an absolute must-read. Gary Kidney delivers an unforgettable WWII espionage thriller that is as thought-provoking as it is exhilarating. A stunning blend of historical accuracy, relentless tension, and deeply human storytelling, this novel will stay with you long after the final page. Final Verdict: ★★★★★ (5/5). Read the complete review.
From an Amazon Reader; ★★★★★ (5/5)Very accurate and researched thriller. Kidney sculpts a tight and believable fiction from the basics of a real teen aged American spy in wwII Germany!
It is so amazing that he was even there, let alone the dangers and conflicting orders of his government backers from both the USA and Germany!
I can’t wait for the sequel I know will follow back into the days after the end of the war for this real life hero!
From an Amazon Reader: ★★★★★ (5/5) This historical story is not only riveting and keeps the reader interested, but has also been very well researched by the author for accurate descriptions of places, historical players, and events. By visiting many of the places in the plot, the author gives an accurate presentation that places the reader back in time in the middle of the story. Well done.
From a Canadian Amazon Reader: ★★★★★ (5/5) Absolutely epic book. The writing is great and the story is truly a roller coaster ride that brings you right into those rooms in those times, feeling the fear along with the characters. Very very good
From an Amazon Reader: ★★★★★ (5/5) Well done! Very compelling. I had trouble finding a place to stop…. Did not want to put it down.
Well written.
From Atticus: The Eagle Scout Picture by Gary Kidney is an engrossing World War II espionage thriller that grips the reader from the first page and doesn’t let go. It’s not just a story about espionage, but also about the human cost of war and the impact it has on those who fight in the shadows, questioning the moral lines between duty and survival. Read the complete review.
From an Amazon Reader; ★★★★★ (5/5) Best Ever! I have been an avid reader of WWII, spy and historical novels for many years. This story blew me away! All I could say after finishing “The Eagle Scout Picture” was….. WOW!
From an Amazon reader: ★★★★★ (5/5) Emotional and Intellectually Involving … An Exciting and Fantastic Read. Just when you thought all had been written about the horrors of WWII comes Kidney’s exciting and heartfelt story of an American farm boy recruited as a German spy and the adventures that follow. Never a dull moment. Filled with the intrigue and excitement of our best espionage thrillers this novel delivers. Not only for fans of WWII epics this is a story for all. A must read. My highest recommendations.
From an Amazon Reader: ★★★★★ (5/5) This book was very enjoyable, a great story and much research was done to make it historically accurate. My book club chose this for our book last month and everyone in the club thought it was wonderful.
Awards and Recognition for The Eagle Scout Picture
Winner of The Bookfest Spring 2025 contest in the categories of Espionage Thriler and Spies & Espionage Mystery.
