Reviewed by Barbara Simpson Feb 19th '09.
After hearing a previous review of this novel on the Book Club, I was undecided whether to try it but I did and I am very glad.
The Ghost of the title is a ghost writer who actually physically writes the memoirs of famous people. So, it transpires that 'biographies' written by the rich and famous are more often than not the work of an anonymous writer based on interviews.
The hero of the novel is commissioned to collaborate with the ex-British prime minister, Adam Lang, and travels to Marthas's Vineyard (an upmarket resort frequented by the likes of the Kennedys) in the USA to begin work. The previous ghost-writer has died in mysterious circumstances and there is great urgency to complete the work.
Adam Lang is a charismatic figure with an equally compelling wife (guess who?) and the story that unfolds is absolutely riveting, bringing in collaboration with the US Government particularly in regard to the War on Terror, the darker doings of the CIA and the influence of the obscenely rich in all political life.
The pace of the story is fast, the tension mounts rapidly and the whole story is beautifully structured, holding the readers rapt attention until the very last page.
I found it a totally satisfying read, very exciting and, above all, only too believable.
If you like political thrillers don't miss it.
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