Where Eagles Dare

Alistair MacLean

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'Where Eagles Dare' by Alistair MacLean is a World War II thriller that follows a team of British Special Forces commandos on a daring mission to rescue a captured American general from a Nazi stronghold in the mountains of Germany. The plot is filled with action, suspense, espionage, and intricate twists and turns. MacLean's writing style is described as riveting, fast-paced, and enthralling, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its sense of urgency and adventure.

The book is praised for its exciting storyline, intelligent plot, and believable depiction of wartime espionage. Readers appreciate the non-stop action, clever dialogues between characters, and the well-crafted suspense that keeps them engaged throughout the novel. MacLean's portrayal of the characters, particularly the British and American operatives, is commended for adding depth to the story and making it a thrilling read for fans of the spy thriller genre.

Characters:

The characters are largely one-dimensional, characterized more by their actions than by any substantial development or complexity.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward and action-oriented, though often criticized for being cumbersome and lacking depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a World War II mission to rescue a general, featuring elements of espionage, action, and deception, with familiar themes and outcomes.

Setting:

The setting is in the perilous environment of WWII Bavaria, centered on a Nazi fortress that heightens the story's tension and stakes.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and engaging, marked by a steady build-up of action and urgency, though at times it sacrifices realism.

The vibrating clangour from the four great piston engines set teeth on edge and made an intolerable assault on cringing ear-drums. The decibel-level, Smith calculated, must have been about that found ...

Notes:

Alistair MacLean wrote both the novel and the screenplay for the film adaptation of Where Eagles Dare.

The book features a team of British commandos and an American OSS agent parachuting into Nazi-occupied territory during World War II.

The main mission is to rescue a captured American general before he can reveal strategic plans for D-Day.

The fortress, Schloss Adler, is depicted as nearly impregnable and accessible only by a cable car.

The story is filled with unexpected twists, double agents, and surprises that keep the reader engaged.

Many reviewers suggest that the film version of Where Eagles Dare, starring Richard Burton and Clint Eastwood, outshines the book.

The characters in the book are described as lacking depth compared to their film counterparts.

MacLean's writing style in this book has been criticized for being somewhat stale and lacking excitement in action scenes.

Despite its flaws, Where Eagles Dare is considered a classic example of a fast-paced wartime adventure.

The book is often remembered fondly by readers who grew up enjoying thrillers and adventure stories.

From The Publisher:

The classic World War II thriller from the acclaimed master of action and suspense.

Winter 1943, and US General Carnaby has been captured by the Nazis. He is being held in a fortress high in the Bavarian Alps. headquarters of the German Secret Service, and in his head are plans for the invasion of Normandy.

A special team of British commandos, a US Army ranger and a female secret agent is hurriedly assembled. Their mission: parachute into the area, break in to the alpine Castle, and rescue General Carnaby before the Germans can interrogate him.

But unknown to all, there is another mission, and someone in the group is a traitor…

Ratings (6)

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Loved It (1)
Liked It (1)
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Reader Stats (11):

Read It (6)
Want To Read (5)

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