The Increment
David Ignatius, Body of Lies author and journalist for the Washington Post, has once again combined his foreign affairs expertise with his talent for fiction in The Increment. Out today from W.W. Norton, The Increment is the story of CIA chief Harry Pappas, who takes matters into his own hands after learning of Iran’s continued nuclear arms program. Pappas’ son was killed in Iraq, and he’s determined to deal with the threat before the administration launches another unnecessary war. While the Bush administration Cwouldn’t appreciate the book and its allusions to a government full of warmongers, critics have been largely positive, their only complaint being predictability in the plot and Pappas’ characterization. The film industry also sees potential, with Jerry Bruckheimer and Disney teaming up to bring the story to the big screen. If you’ve enjoyed Ignatius’ past novels (or their film adaptations), The Increment is sure to keep you up reading past your bedtime.
To learn more about Ignatius’ inspiration for the book (which started with a visit to Iran in 2006), check out his NPR interview.
What the critics are saying:
“While the realistic story lines build to a somewhat predictable ending, this remains a page-turner of the highest order.” - Publishers Weekly
“Ignatius floods his latest book with highlights of technology while exploring the dark heart of human betrayal with menacing ambiguity.” – Barbara Conaty, Library Journal (starred review)
“When The Increment is operating undercover in Iran, the book flies. Then Ignatius cuts to world-weary Pappas and you long to start skimming.” – Jennifer Reese, Entertainment Weekly
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