The Ghost

A Novel

Hardcover, 352 pages

English language

Published Oct. 23, 2007 by Simon & Schuster.

ISBN:
978-1-4165-5181-2
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(1 review)

Dashing, captivating Adam Lang was Britain's longest serving—and most controversial—prime minister of the last half century, whose career ended in tatters after he sided with America in an unpopular war on terror. Now, after stepping down in disgrace, Lang is hiding out in wintry Martha's Vineyard to finish his much sought-after, potentially explosive memoir, for which he accepted one of history's largest cash advances. But the project runs aground when his ghostwriter suddenly and mysteriously disappears and later washes up, dead, on the island's deserted shore.

Enter Lang's new ghostwriter—cynical, mercenary, and quick with a line of deadpan humor. Accustomed to working with fading rock stars and minor celebrities, he jumps at the chance to be the new ghost of Adam Lang's memoirs, especially as it means a big payday. At once he flies to Lang's remote location in America to finish the book in the seclusion of a luxurious …

6 editions

Review of 'The Ghost' on 'Goodreads'

The story of a ghostwriter and one particular memoir, that of a former Prime Minister of Great Britain. I read the novel without considering the historical allegory, and enjoyed it. It was also made into a movie, which I have not seen.

Early on the two names Rhinehart (publisher and owner of the estate) and Rycart (disgruntled former cabinet aide) refused to keep place in my short term memory, which was irritating. Other than that, the story was well done, and the ending in particular was quite memorable.

Having now read more on wikipedia, I am intrigued, and should discuss with my anglophilic friends just how close this was to the true situation. I also look forward to watching the film, retitled "The Ghost Writer".

Subjects

  • Political
  • Thrillers
  • Mystery & Thrillers
  • Fiction / Thrillers
  • General
  • Fiction
  • Fiction - General
  • Ex-prime ministers
  • Ghostwriters
  • Great Britain
  • War on Terrorism, 2001-