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A review by lee_anne
The Odessa File by Frederick Forsyth
5.0
Forsyth always gives a brilliantly detailed, skilfully woven read and this is probably amongst my favourite books of all time, not just by him.
As a book written much closer to the end of the war than we are now, it gives a very interesting insight into peoples attitudes in Germany then. The general feeling seems much different to how things are now, where tons of books are still being released and most people are horrified; the book paints a picture of a populace who just want to forget, who are embarrassed about this episode of history, and ashamed of their lack of action 20 years ago; they have seen so many horrific accounts coming out and they struggle to equate how they saw things happening with what was really going on. It’s an attitude of “it’s done now, what good is taking up the past”, and this is why Miller, the protagonist, has such an issue finding valuable help when he comes into possession of Tauber’s diary.
The thriller type narrative combined with the historical detail, the personal mission, and the interesting asides (the tank!) are trademark Forsyth at his absolute best, and that’s why I’ve read this book so many times. The diary lends another level to the story, making it personal for the reader as well as Miller, as it truly is atrocious reading, and again elevates this book above many others.
If you’ve never read a Forsyth novel, this one or The Day of the Jackal (perhaps his most famous work?) are the two to start with. Enjoy! And perhaps put aside a weekend to dedicate to his wonderful storytelling!
As a book written much closer to the end of the war than we are now, it gives a very interesting insight into peoples attitudes in Germany then. The general feeling seems much different to how things are now, where tons of books are still being released and most people are horrified; the book paints a picture of a populace who just want to forget, who are embarrassed about this episode of history, and ashamed of their lack of action 20 years ago; they have seen so many horrific accounts coming out and they struggle to equate how they saw things happening with what was really going on. It’s an attitude of “it’s done now, what good is taking up the past”, and this is why Miller, the protagonist, has such an issue finding valuable help when he comes into possession of Tauber’s diary.
The thriller type narrative combined with the historical detail, the personal mission, and the interesting asides (the tank!) are trademark Forsyth at his absolute best, and that’s why I’ve read this book so many times. The diary lends another level to the story, making it personal for the reader as well as Miller, as it truly is atrocious reading, and again elevates this book above many others.
If you’ve never read a Forsyth novel, this one or The Day of the Jackal (perhaps his most famous work?) are the two to start with. Enjoy! And perhaps put aside a weekend to dedicate to his wonderful storytelling!