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Originally Posted by CRussel
The opening plot on de Gaulle's life is based on historical fact, and the many details around the OAS and French security forces read as both believable and accurate to this monoglot, English-speaking Canadian. And what makes this book so compelling for me is that level of detail. I was totally engrossed and sucked in, and was never quite sure as I was reading it exactly how much was based on historical fact, and how much completely made up.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by treadlightly
The police procedural part was well done and I liked the transfer of the case from character to character. So many novels have only one "hero" solve an important case which is implausible.
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I really enjoyed this book for these main reasons as well. It was a page-turner for me even if I did expect the outcome. I think it held up to the test of time to still be a captivating read. I thought it was refreshing to read a thriller based on past historical events that wasn't the typical WW2 or Cold War setting. I've always loved thrillers, but I'm also getting a little tired of various contemporary series re-hashing the same current events and being subtle variants of the same themes with the same types of heroes. I didn't know much about this period of French history and found that interesting as well.
From what I investigated about the author, he's known for his detailed technical style based on factual research, which must be an application of his skills acquired as a journalist. I felt it was more in the category of a "smart" thriller than simple "mind-candy" fun. I like to read both types depending on my mood. I'm definitely interested to read more of his books.