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It is Syria in 1970, three years after the Six Days War. Michael Howell was utterly apolitical and genetically programmed for survival, a Levantine of mixed origin who possessed profitable business enterprises throughout the Middle East and an Italian mistress as his office manager. Life was sweet for Michael Howell until, one night in Damascus, he discovered that his factories had become the clandestine operations base of the Palestine Action Force, a fanatical terrorist organization dead-set on destroying Israel. Suddenly, Howell is caught in the middle with nowhere to run. Eric Ambler is the recipient of four Gold Dagger Awards and one Silver. In 1975, he was named Grand Master by the Mystery Writers of America.
A businessman finds his livelihood compromised when he discovers his factories are being used as a staging ground for a radical militant group. Michael Howell, a man of mixed heritage who prioritizes personal survival over political allegiance, suddenly finds his comfortable life in 1970s Syria shattered. When he realizes the Palestine Action Force has co-opted his business operations for their own violent agenda, he is forced into a dangerous game of survival. The narrative follows his desperate attempts to navigate the conflicting interests of intelligence agencies and terrorists while maintaining his own safety in a volatile geopolitical climate.
This novel is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the political thriller genre, showcasing the author's ability to weave intricate plots with historical realism. Readers often highlight the protagonist's unique position as a neutral party caught between powerful, opposing forces as a standout element of the narrative. The book is frequently praised for its authentic atmosphere and the meticulous detail with which the author constructs the political tensions of the Middle East. It remains a significant work in the author's bibliography, reflecting his mastery of suspense and character-driven intrigue.
Page Count:
224
Publication Date:
1972-01-01
Publisher:
Fontana
ISBN-10:
0006132596
ISBN-13:
9780006132592
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