Book review: Munich
I must admit that while parts of the book were enthralling and fun to read, the novel was, on the whole, rather difficult to plough through.
Author: Robert Harris
Reviewed by: Samantha Keogh
Review made possible by: Penguin Random House South Africa
Reading the Goodreads synopses of this book, Munich soundings like an intriguing read, full of tense moments and interesting asides
The reality, however, is not quite as exciting.
The book begins in September 1938 with Hitler determined to start a war.
On the other side of the English Channel, British prime minister Neville Chamberlain is desperate to preserve peace and avert war.
The two must travel to Munich to discuss the issues.
Embroiled in the plot of this book are two young men, once friends at Oxford, have secrets they must protect.
Hugh Legat, one of Chamberlain’s private secretaries, and Paul Hartmann, a German diplomat and member of the anti-Hitler resistance, haven’t seen one another in six years and will have to decide where their loyalties lie as the future of Europe hangs in the balance.
Harris, an ex-journalist, is best known for his books of historical fiction detailing the events of World War II so more intrigue and excitement would definitely not have gone amiss.
I must admit that while parts of the book were enthralling and fun to read, the novel was, on the whole, rather difficult to plough through.
Unless you are a fan of Harris’ work, I wouldn’t suggest this as your first foray into his writing.
