THE GHOST by Robert Harris
Robert Harris takes a potentially dull subject, the writing of a Prime Minister's memoirs, and makes it fascinating. That folks, is not an easy thing to do. It takes skill and talent and Harris demonstrates he possesses both. His new book THE GHOST, which concerns this subject, is one that invites the readers in with a few well-placed words and then bangs them over the head with the intensity of the story.
The focus of the story is "the ghost" or more specifically "the ghostwriter." He is hired to polish up the memoirs of Adam Lang, a former British Prime Minister. The first draft was written by Mike McAra but he is now inconveniently dead. "The ghost" is hired to take his place.
Lang is ensconced in an estate on Martha's Vineyard. With him is his assistant named Amelia, and his wife named Ruth. There is other staff about but the two women are involved in a duel for Lang's heart and mind. Being the wife, Ruth has the better shot, but being the possible mistress Amelia is more timely.
"The Ghost" hits it off with Lang but as he works with him he becomes more and more aware there are certain mysteries about the man that he can't unravel. There is also a feeling of danger that surrounds those who surround him. "The ghost" finds himself questioning what all the secrecy is concerning the memoirs and if by learning of Lang's past, the ghost has put his future in jeopardy.
The sense of danger rises with every page turned and the tension surrounding "the ghost" and everyone he encounters is heightened to a fever pitch. Finally in the last few pages everything is revealed and then the twist of an ending is added. This ending makes the entire book better just because it is so perfect for the story.
Harris knows how to build suspense in a story and how to keep secrets hidden until the last moments. You never see his twists coming and when they arrive they are completely logical. That is the primary reason this book is so enjoyable.
If you like mysteries then this is one book you have to read. It has a plot that delves into the politics of today and the outcomes of tomorrow. It is a book that will challenge your intelligence yet appeal to your basic entertainment requirements.
Adam Lang sounds a lot like Tony Blair but the way the story unfolds is purely fictional. And what great fiction it is. Hooray for Harris and his excellently written book.
THE GHOST is published by Simon and Schuster. It contains 335 pages and sells for $26.00.