Hail to the Chief By: Randall Garrett (1927-1987)
Hail to the Chief by Randall Garrett is a remarkable political thriller that takes readers on an exciting journey through a fictionalized version of present-day America. The story follows James Ashton, an ambitious and cunning politician who is determined to become the next President of the United States. Garrett's writing style is captivating, with vivid descriptions that make the settings and characters come to life. The author seamlessly combines elements of mystery, suspense, and political intrigue, creating a fast-paced narrative that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the complex and well-developed characters. James Ashton, the protagonist, is a fascinating and multi-dimensional character. His transformation from a seemingly idealistic candidate to a power-hungry, morally compromised politician is both believable and thought-provoking. The supporting characters, including Ashton's campaign team and his opponent, exhibit depth and add layers of complexity to the story. Moreover, Hail to the Chief offers readers a glimpse into the inner workings of American politics, shedding light on the strategies, manipulations, and sacrifices politicians make to achieve their goals. The author's extensive knowledge of political systems is evident and adds authenticity to the narrative. Garrett's exploration of ethical dilemmas faced by those in power is another thought-provoking aspect of the novel. By presenting difficult choices and questionable actions, he encourages readers to reflect on the compromises politicians make and raises pertinent questions about the blurred lines between power and morality. While Hail to the Chief is an engaging and gripping read, it does have moments where the plot becomes slightly convoluted. The intricate web of conspiracies and betrayals may occasionally leave readers feeling overwhelmed or needing to retrace their steps to fully grasp the narrative. In conclusion, Hail to the Chief is an exceptional political thriller that navigates the murky waters of ambition, power, and morality. Randall Garrett's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre. First Page: [Illustration] HAIL TO THE CHIEF BY SAM AND JANET ARGO A great politician need not be a statesman ... but it is inherently futile to be a great statesman, and no politician. Except, of course, for a miracle ... The tumult in Convention Hall was a hurricane of sound that lashed at a sea of human beings that surged and eddied around the broad floor. Men and women, delegates and spectators, aged party wheelhorses and youngsters who would vote for the first time that November, all lost their identities to merge with that swirling tide. Over their heads, like agitated bits of flotsam, pennants fluttered and placards rose and dipped. Beneath their feet, discarded metal buttons that bore the names of two or three "favorite sons" and those that had touted the only serious contender against the party's new candidate were trodden flat. None of them had ever really had a chance. The buttons that were now pinned on every lapel said: "Blast 'em With Cannon!" or "Cannon Can Do!" The placards and the box shaped signs, with a trifle more dignity, said: WIN WITH CANNON and CANNON FOR PRESIDENT and simply JAMES H... Continue reading book >>

Hail to the Chief By: Randall Garrett (1927-1987)

Hail to the Chief by Randall Garrett is a remarkable political thriller that takes readers on an exciting journey through a fictionalized version of present-day America. The story follows James Ashton, an ambitious and cunning politician who is determined to become the next President of the United States.

Garrett's writing style is captivating, with vivid descriptions that make the settings and characters come to life. The author seamlessly combines elements of mystery, suspense, and political intrigue, creating a fast-paced narrative that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the complex and well-developed characters. James Ashton, the protagonist, is a fascinating and multi-dimensional character. His transformation from a seemingly idealistic candidate to a power-hungry, morally compromised politician is both believable and thought-provoking. The supporting characters, including Ashton's campaign team and his opponent, exhibit depth and add layers of complexity to the story.

Moreover, Hail to the Chief offers readers a glimpse into the inner workings of American politics, shedding light on the strategies, manipulations, and sacrifices politicians make to achieve their goals. The author's extensive knowledge of political systems is evident and adds authenticity to the narrative.

Garrett's exploration of ethical dilemmas faced by those in power is another thought-provoking aspect of the novel. By presenting difficult choices and questionable actions, he encourages readers to reflect on the compromises politicians make and raises pertinent questions about the blurred lines between power and morality.

While Hail to the Chief is an engaging and gripping read, it does have moments where the plot becomes slightly convoluted. The intricate web of conspiracies and betrayals may occasionally leave readers feeling overwhelmed or needing to retrace their steps to fully grasp the narrative.

In conclusion, Hail to the Chief is an exceptional political thriller that navigates the murky waters of ambition, power, and morality. Randall Garrett's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre.

First Page:

[Illustration]

HAIL TO THE CHIEF

BY SAM AND JANET ARGO A great politician need not be a statesman ... but it is inherently futile to be a great statesman, and no politician. Except, of course, for a miracle ...

The tumult in Convention Hall was a hurricane of sound that lashed at a sea of human beings that surged and eddied around the broad floor. Men and women, delegates and spectators, aged party wheelhorses and youngsters who would vote for the first time that November, all lost their identities to merge with that swirling tide. Over their heads, like agitated bits of flotsam, pennants fluttered and placards rose and dipped. Beneath their feet, discarded metal buttons that bore the names of two or three "favorite sons" and those that had touted the only serious contender against the party's new candidate were trodden flat. None of them had ever really had a chance.

The buttons that were now pinned on every lapel said: "Blast 'em With Cannon!" or "Cannon Can Do!" The placards and the box shaped signs, with a trifle more dignity, said: WIN WITH CANNON and CANNON FOR PRESIDENT and simply JAMES H... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Science

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