The Embassy House

by Nicholas Proffitt

Book Overview

While working for the CIA in Vietnam in early 1970, Special Forces Captain Jake Gulliver is caught in the crossfire between duty and conscience This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0553051288
• ISBN13: 9780553051285
• Release Date: May 1986
• Publisher: Bantam Books
• Length: 399 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.

Customer Reviews

I couldn't put it down

I was very moved by Nicholas Proffitt's novel about espionage in the Vietnam War. What was so intense for me was the CIA's involvement in foreign governments and what a role our government played in the shaping of the war and how the Vietnamese govt's related to their own people. The novel is heartbreaking, excellently written, and had me gripped for a day and a half. I am surprised this was never made into a movie but think it has some commentary for our world today.

Very enjoyable reading.

Most books, as well as movies, have not yet figured out exactly what to say about the Vietnam war. While I'm not sure that this one has all the answers it was by far the most enjoyable fiction to come out of that conflict that I have come across. The story of the American "Gulliver" and his Vietnamese counterpart (and counterpoint) had me searching the used book stores in desperation after my brother lost my copy. Luckily I was recently successfull and I want to tell everyone what a very fine novel this is.

A Virtual Powerhouse...

The most complex work Proffitt ever conceived on paper. And what a tour-de-force! I've had the pleasure to read Nick's other two books, which show a constant level of sophistication, character and story wise. The Embassy House is on a higher stratum by itself. You're introduced to the main character as he struggles to define himself against a backdrop of covert intelligence operations in vietnam. One of the many things that make this book special are the supporting characters. Almost each and every one of them is fully realized, whether American or Vietnamese. Another special thing are the relationships that develop across the pages. Reading through you can never feel comfortable relating to any of the characters. It is as if the author deliberately put up a wall between you, the reader, and the characters. This works so well for this book since these walls themselves exist between the characters. Gradually the pace of the war picks up pace and what unfolds is a powerful story weaved together by a highly regarded journalist and author. Do yourself a favor and pick up a used copy. The last I've heard, Nick has lost passion for writing after his third novel. Sad news for anyone who was looking forward for future works.