The Parsifal Mosaic

Robert Ludlum

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'The Parsifal Mosaic' by Robert Ludlum follows the story of a U.S. spy named Michael Havelock who witnesses the death of his partner and lover, Jenna Karas, only to later spot her alive in Europe. This discovery sets off a thrilling chase as Havelock tries to unravel the mystery behind Jenna's supposed death and her true allegiance, all while being pursued by assassins from both the U.S. and Russia. The novel is described as a spy thriller filled with treachery, espionage, and a complex web of deception, all masterfully woven by Ludlum's storytelling.

The plot of 'The Parsifal Mosaic' is praised for its fast-paced narrative, intricate character development, and the high-stakes world of espionage it portrays. Readers appreciate the suspenseful elements, the unexpected twists, and the emotional depth of the main character, Michael Havelock. Despite some criticisms about the length and complexity of the story, the book is lauded for its engaging plot, vivid descriptions, and the way Ludlum keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout the novel.

Characters:

Characters are well-developed with nuanced backgrounds, though some readers find them challenging to relate to.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by a quick pace and intricate narrative, effectively drawing readers into the espionage themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative unfolds through a complex web of espionage involving a double agent, Jenna Karas, and the efforts of Michael Havelock to save her, while unraveling a deeper conspiracy.

Setting:

The novel is set across various notable European locations, enhancing the sense of international intrigue.

Pacing:

While typically fast-paced and engaging, the story includes moments of prolonged exposition.

Notes:

The story begins on the beaches of Costa Brava and quickly moves through various Western European countries.

The central character is Jenna Karas, linked to the Soviet KGB and being pursued by the CIA.

Michael Havelock is a retired policeman caught in a web of espionage and intrigue surrounding Jenna.

Havelock struggles with personal feelings and professional duties as he tries to protect Jenna.

The book includes elements of romance alongside the spy narrative.

There are numerous typographical and grammatical errors reported in the Kindle version of the book.

Many readers find the plot intricate and fast-paced, with some comparing it to a movie.

The book was published in 1982, before the widespread use of personal computers and the internet.

Some readers have mixed feelings, describing it as overly complicated or not as gripping as other Ludlum novels like The Bourne Identity.

Overall, the story maintains suspense and keeps readers guessing until the end.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings may include violence, references to betrayal and espionage-related trauma, and potential psychological distress.

Has Romance?

There are romantic elements present, particularly in the relationships between Michael Havelock and Jenna Karas, adding complexity to the espionage narrative.

From The Publisher:

Michael Havelock's world died on a moonlit beach on the Costa Brava as he watched his partner and lover, double agent Jenna Karas, efficiently gunned down by his own agency. There's nothing left for him but to quit the game, get out. Then, in one frantic moment on a crowded railroad platform in Rome, Havelock sees Jenna. Racing around the globe in search of his beautiful betrayer, Havelock is now marked for death by both U.S. and Russian assassins, trapped in a massive mosaic of treachery created by a top-level mole with the world in his fist: Parsifal.

Praise for Robert Ludlum and The Parsifal Mosaic

"[Robert] Ludlum's narrative imagination is a force of nature." - The New York Times

"As fast-paced and absorbing as any he's written." - Newsday

"The suspense never lets up." - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

"A crackling good yarn." -Los Angeles Times Book Review

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