The Odessa File by Frederick Forsyth

Why read the book?

In Frederick Forsyth’s thrilling historical thriller, The Odessa File, set in 1963, young German journalist Peter Miller finds a diary belonging to a Holocaust survivor. It reveals the horrific crimes of a sadistic Nazi SS officer, Eduard Roschmann, who vanished after the war.

Fuelled by a personal grudge, Miller sets out to find Roschmann, leading to the discovery of ODESSA, a secret organisation that protects former Nazis and plans to arm Egypt against Israel. With the help of Israeli agents and German resistance fighters, Miller infiltrates a dangerous network and risks everything in a heart-pounding chase across Germany and Austria. Forsyth’s meticulous research, based on real-life post-war Nazi hunts, weaves a gripping tale of justice and revenge.

Favourite quote

The past is never dead—it lies in wait, ready to strike those who think they’ve escaped it.

What I Loved

The Odessa File is a gripping and authentic thriller that takes readers on a wild ride. It’s based on real people like Eduard Roschmann and the mysterious city of Odessa, and it’s filled with a tightly plotted story. Peter Miller’s relentless pursuit of the truth is driven by personal stakes, making him a relatable hero. The shadowy Nazi network adds a sense of menace that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The 1960s European settings, from the gritty streets of Hamburg to the grand hotels of Vienna, immerse you in a world of lingering post-war scars. Forsyth’s skill in blending historical detail with heart-pounding suspense creates a thriller that’s both emotionally resonant and intellectually gripping.

Key Takeaway

In the quest for justice, we must be brave and clever enough to face the past that refuses to be forgotten.