This phrase refers to Frederick Forsyth’s 1971 thriller novel, a fictionalized account of the French OAS’s attempt to assassinate Charles de Gaulle. The work offers a detailed, albeit fictional, look into the intricate planning and execution of a high-stakes political assassination plot. It popularized the thriller genre and serves as a case study in suspenseful storytelling, influencing subsequent works in the genre.
The novel’s significance lies in its gripping narrative and meticulous research, offering readers a plausible glimpse into the world of espionage and political intrigue. Its release coincided with a period of heightened political tension, further amplifying its impact. The book’s success cemented Forsyth’s reputation as a master of the thriller and contributed to a surge in popularity of the genre. The novels detailed portrayal of surveillance techniques and counter-terrorism operations provides a historical perspective on these practices in the early 1970s.