Running Dog

by Don DeLillo
Running Dog cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Thriller/Suspense
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Technical
  • ID: 2364
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780330315463
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 1992-01-01
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Running Dog,' a woman reporter and a staff assistant to an American senator stumble upon a dark secret that connects the present to the horrors of Nazi Germany. Their discovery of an erotic film shot in Hitler's bunker sets off a chain of events that plunges them into a world of espionage and betrayal. As they dig deeper, they uncover a web of lies and deceit that threatens their lives and the stability of their nation. The story blends historical intrigue with contemporary suspense, creating a tense and thrilling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. /n/nThe book delves into the psychological and political ramifications of uncovering such a sensitive and explosive secret. The characters' personal and professional lives are put at risk as they navigate a dangerous landscape filled with powerful enemies. The author masterfully weaves together elements of history, politics, and suspense to create a compelling and thought-provoking read that explores the enduring impact of the past on the present.

Reviews
Bloodymurder · 2016-08-05
mixed 2.50

The book is admired for its wit and skillful presentation, but it is not particularly enjoyable. It is clear that the book is not intended to be a straightforward read.

The reviewer appreciates the clever writing and technical skill evident in the book, but they didn't find it enjoyable. They acknowledge that the book is intentionally complex and not meant to be a light read. The reviewer's perspective highlights the book's strengths in style and execution, even if the content itself is challenging.

Quick quotes

    I can't say I particularly enjoyed this book, while admiring the wit and skill with which it is undeniably presented.

    Clearly not intended to be a straightforward read.

    It's a book that demands attention and engagement, but it's not one that I found particularly satisfying.

John Pistelli · John Pistelli · 2015-07-01
positive 4.00

The book is a stripped-down thriller filled with wry paranoia, alternating between multiple characters' viewpoints as they compete for a film.

John Pistelli describes 'Running Dog' as a fast-paced thriller that captures the paranoia of the 1970s. The shifting perspectives among the characters add depth and intrigue to the story. Pistelli finds the book engaging and well-crafted, with a narrative that keeps the reader hooked.

Quick quotes

    Running Dog is a stripped-down 1970s thriller of wry paranoia.

    It alternates between several characters' viewpoints as they compete to acquire a film.

    The narrative pace is swift and the prose is sharp, making for a compelling read.

Reddit - DonDeLillo · 1978-01-01
good 3.50

The book is a fun and quick read, offering a riff on the espionage/spy thriller genre, and it's not a waste of time.

The Reddit discussion highlights 'Running Dog' as an exciting and intriguing read. Participants in the thread appreciate the book's fast pace and its clever take on the spy thriller genre. They find it enjoyable and worth the time, noting that it shares elements with DeLillo's later works.

Quick quotes

    Running Dog is both a fun read, quick paced and a riff on the espionage/spy thriller.

    You can see where elements of it crop up again in Libra.

    Certainly not a waste of time.

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