Harlot's Ghost

by Norman Mailer
Harlot's Ghost cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 9402
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-24
  • ISBN: 9781588365897
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2007-01-23
  • Reviews: 3

Harlot's Ghost by Norman Mailer is a sweeping epic that delves into the world of the CIA through the eyes of Harry Hubbard, a spy whose journey is intertwined with historical events like the Bay of Pigs, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the Kennedy assassination. The novel is praised for its unprecedented scope and Mailer's consummate skill in blending fact and fiction, creating a rich and riveting narrative that stands as a testament to his literary prowess. Featuring a cast of unforgettable characters, both real and imagined, Harlot's Ghost is a panoramic achievement that has been compared to the works of Tolstoy, Melville, and Balzac. The novel is not just a spy thriller but a deep exploration of the secrets of American society and the personal demons that haunt its protagonist. Mailer's elegant writing and the electric tension he creates make this a compelling read that transports readers to a world of intrigue and historical significance.

Reviews
Six Foot Turkey Blog · 2018-03-25
disappointing 2.00

The novel lacks depth in insight and characterization, making it feel unfinished. The reviewer finds it disappointing and not particularly engaging.

The reviewer expresses disappointment with the novel, stating that it feels like it hasn't truly begun. They criticize the lack of meaningful insight and characterization, which makes the narrative feel thin and unfulfilling. The reviewer finds the novel to be a missed opportunity, as it fails to deliver the depth and complexity one might expect from such a lengthy work.

Quick quotes

    The novel has yet to get started.

    This is not a novel, you may have gathered, particularly dense with insight and characterization.

    Meaningful insight is lacking, making the narrative feel thin and unfulfilling.

The New York Times · 1998-05-10
compelling 4.00

The novel excels in evoking action and suspense, particularly in a clandestine operation against Cuba. The reviewer praises Mailer's ability to create vivid and engaging scenes.

The reviewer highlights Mailer's skill in depicting straightforward action, such as a covert nocturnal operation against Cuba, which is described as a gem any novelist could be proud of. They appreciate the richness and tempo of the novel's opening, which sets the stage for a vast and intricate narrative. The reviewer finds the novel compelling and well-crafted, with a strong sense of historical and personal drama.

Quick quotes

    Good as Mailer is at evoking straightforward action -- a clandestine nocturnal operation by sea and land against Cuba is a gem any novelist could be proud of.

    The novel promises private lives and public history played out on a vast scale.

    Its opening has the tempo and richness demanded by its length and the complexity of its themes.

Los Angeles Times · 1991-09-29
captivating 4.00

The opening of the novel is captivating with its mix of ghosts, guns, and sex. The reviewer finds the front end of the book irresistible and engaging.

The reviewer is drawn in by the novel's opening, which they describe as irresistible. The mix of ghosts, guns, and sex creates a compelling and intriguing start to the story. They appreciate the vivid and engaging nature of the opening chapters, which set a strong foundation for the narrative. The reviewer finds the novel to be a captivating read, particularly in its early stages.

Quick quotes

    Like the front end of so many of Mailer's books, the opening of 'Harlot's Ghost' is irresistible.

    There are ghosts and guns and sex, a risky sea voyage, and a sense of impending doom.

    The opening chapters are vivid and engaging, setting a strong foundation for the narrative.

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