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Francis Urquhart #1
House of Cards
The #1 bestselling novel that inspired the hit Netflix series
A dark tale of greed, corruption, and unquenchable ambition, House of Cards reveals that no matter the country, politics, intrigue and passion reign in the corridors of power.
Francis Urquhart has his hand on every secret in politics—and is willing to betray them all to become prime minister. Mattie Storin is a tenacious young reporter who has a knack for finding the real stories hidden behind the spin. When she stumbles upon a scandalous web of intrigue and financial corruption at the very highest levels, she vows to reveal the truth. But to do so she must battle her own demons and risk everything, even her life.
House of Cards is a classic political thriller reinvented for a new generation.
"This blood and thunder tale, lifelike and thoroughly cynical, certainly carries the ring of authenticity....a great triumph." — The Independent
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1492606618
391 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1989
998 people are currently reading
10759 people want to read
About the author
Michael Dobbs
101 books371 followersMichael Dobbs was born on the same day, in the same hour as Prince Charles in 1948.
He is the son of nurseryman Eric and his wife Eileen Dobbs and was educated at Hertford Grammar School and Christ Church, Oxford University. After graduating in 1971 he moved to the United States.
In the USA he attended the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts, which he funded by a job as feature writer for the Boston Globe, where he worked as an editorial assistant and political feature writer from 1971 to 1975.
He graduated in 1975 with an M.A., M.A.L.D., and PhD in nuclear defence studies. His doctoral thesis was published as SALT on the Dragon's Tail. In 2007 he returned to Tufts where he gave the Alumni Salutation.
After gaining his PhD he returned to England and began working in London for the Conservative Party. He was an advisor to the then leader of the Opposition, Margaret Thatcher, from 1977 to 1979 and from 1979 to 1981 he was a Conservative MP speechwriter.
He served as a Government Special Advisor from 1981 to 1986 and he survived the Brighton Bombing in 1984 at the Conservative Party Conference. He was the Conservative Party Chief of Staff from 1986 to 1987.
He was considered a masterful political operator and was called "Westminster’s baby-faced hit man", by The Guardian in 1987. In the John Major government, he served as Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party from 1994 to 1995, after which he retired from politics.
Outside of politics, he worked at Saatchi & Saatchi as Deputy Advertising Chairman from 1983 to 1986 and was Director of Worldwide Corporate Communications at the company from 1987 to 1988. He became Deputy Chairman, working directly under Maurice Saatchi from 1988 to 1991.
From 1991 to 1998 he was a columnist for The Mail on Sunday and also wrote column for the Daily Express. From 1998 to 2001 he hosted the current affairs program Despatch Box on BBC television and has also been a radio presenter.
Nowadays he is best known as the bestselling author of 17 novels (up to 2010), such as 'The Turning Point', about Winston Churchill and Guy Burgess, and 'A Family Affair', about the last days of Margaret Thatcher in Downing Street, and also a number of non-fiction works.
His writing career began in 1989 with the publication of 'House of Cards', the first in what would become a trilogy of political thrillers with Francis Urquhart as the central character. 'House of Cards' was followed by 'To Play the King' in 1992 and 'The Final Cut' in 1994.
Each of the three novels was adapted by the BBC into a miniseries and, with Ian Richardson playiing a starring role, the trilogy received a combined 14 BAFTA nominations and two BAFTA wins and was voted the 84th Best British Show in History.
His 2004 novel 'Winston’s War' was shortlisted for the Channel 4 Political Book of the Year Award. He was the winner of the Benjamin Franklin Award for best historical novel in 2008 and in 2001 was shortlisted for the C4 Political Novel of the Year. He has also been a judge of the Whitbread Book of the Year Award and lectures at dozens of literary and fundraising events each year.
Anthony Howard of The Times said “Dobbs is following in a respectable tradition. Shakespeare, Walter Scott, even Tolstoy, all used historical events as the framework for their writings. And, unlike some of their distinguished works, Dobbs's novel is, in fact, astonishingly historically accurate."
He is now a full time writer and divides his time between London and Wiltshire, where he says that he lives near a church and a pub! He is married with four children.
Gerry Wolstenholme
October 2010
He is sometimes confused with American author Michael Dobbs, who is a distant relative of his and also an author of historical books (e.g. "Saboteurs - The Nazi Raid on America").
He is the son of nurseryman Eric and his wife Eileen Dobbs and was educated at Hertford Grammar School and Christ Church, Oxford University. After graduating in 1971 he moved to the United States.
In the USA he attended the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts, which he funded by a job as feature writer for the Boston Globe, where he worked as an editorial assistant and political feature writer from 1971 to 1975.
He graduated in 1975 with an M.A., M.A.L.D., and PhD in nuclear defence studies. His doctoral thesis was published as SALT on the Dragon's Tail. In 2007 he returned to Tufts where he gave the Alumni Salutation.
After gaining his PhD he returned to England and began working in London for the Conservative Party. He was an advisor to the then leader of the Opposition, Margaret Thatcher, from 1977 to 1979 and from 1979 to 1981 he was a Conservative MP speechwriter.
He served as a Government Special Advisor from 1981 to 1986 and he survived the Brighton Bombing in 1984 at the Conservative Party Conference. He was the Conservative Party Chief of Staff from 1986 to 1987.
He was considered a masterful political operator and was called "Westminster’s baby-faced hit man", by The Guardian in 1987. In the John Major government, he served as Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party from 1994 to 1995, after which he retired from politics.
Outside of politics, he worked at Saatchi & Saatchi as Deputy Advertising Chairman from 1983 to 1986 and was Director of Worldwide Corporate Communications at the company from 1987 to 1988. He became Deputy Chairman, working directly under Maurice Saatchi from 1988 to 1991.
From 1991 to 1998 he was a columnist for The Mail on Sunday and also wrote column for the Daily Express. From 1998 to 2001 he hosted the current affairs program Despatch Box on BBC television and has also been a radio presenter.
Nowadays he is best known as the bestselling author of 17 novels (up to 2010), such as 'The Turning Point', about Winston Churchill and Guy Burgess, and 'A Family Affair', about the last days of Margaret Thatcher in Downing Street, and also a number of non-fiction works.
His writing career began in 1989 with the publication of 'House of Cards', the first in what would become a trilogy of political thrillers with Francis Urquhart as the central character. 'House of Cards' was followed by 'To Play the King' in 1992 and 'The Final Cut' in 1994.
Each of the three novels was adapted by the BBC into a miniseries and, with Ian Richardson playiing a starring role, the trilogy received a combined 14 BAFTA nominations and two BAFTA wins and was voted the 84th Best British Show in History.
His 2004 novel 'Winston’s War' was shortlisted for the Channel 4 Political Book of the Year Award. He was the winner of the Benjamin Franklin Award for best historical novel in 2008 and in 2001 was shortlisted for the C4 Political Novel of the Year. He has also been a judge of the Whitbread Book of the Year Award and lectures at dozens of literary and fundraising events each year.
Anthony Howard of The Times said “Dobbs is following in a respectable tradition. Shakespeare, Walter Scott, even Tolstoy, all used historical events as the framework for their writings. And, unlike some of their distinguished works, Dobbs's novel is, in fact, astonishingly historically accurate."
He is now a full time writer and divides his time between London and Wiltshire, where he says that he lives near a church and a pub! He is married with four children.
Gerry Wolstenholme
October 2010
He is sometimes confused with American author Michael Dobbs, who is a distant relative of his and also an author of historical books (e.g. "Saboteurs - The Nazi Raid on America").
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 774 reviews
September 10, 2014
This is a political thriller of the first rank. Even after having seen House of Cards on TV (the American version) this book was still a fascinating read. I could hear Kevin Spacey's brilliantly evil voice in many of the written lines. The use of the press to twist and distort political events and perceptions is well portrayed and utterly frightening, especially as we see the Koch brothers and Fox News seeking to do the same thing in America now. People are often ill-informed and naive, in the book and in life.
June 19, 2025
Хареса ми, но книгата е напълно засенчена от феноменалния втори сериал направен по нея в САЩ. Кевин Спейси е гениален в ролята на Франк Ъндърууд. След като го махнаха от сериала, загубих интерес и не го догледах.
Американците са взели сравнително блудкавия и овехтял към днешна дата политически трилър на Майкъл Добс и са го вдигнали на много високо ниво - истинско удоволствие бе за мен да проследя похода на пренебрегнатия "Камшик" към най-високия пост в САЩ.
Правят впечатление и доизградените силни образи на съпругата му и негов партньор Клеър, както и този на журналистката Зоуи Барнс.
Политическите системи на Обединеното кралство и САЩ всъщност силно си приличат и този факт много ме учуди - не предполагах, че това е така. От друга страна си е съвсем логично.
Безпощадната политическа игра не е за всеки и винаги има цена, която трябва да се плати. Но най-добре е друг да покрие масрафа, нали?
В сравнение обаче с политическата мърсотия и бъркотия в България, героите на Добс ми изглеждат пълни аматьори…
Моята оценка - 3,5*.
Цитат:
"В Библията не се споменава никъде, че трябва да прощаваме на приятелите си!"
P.S. Имам втората част от трилогията, но май няма да я прочета.
Изненадан съм неприятно и от това, колко много хора всъщност никога не са чели "Шумът на върбите" от Кенет Греъм - една наистина велика книга.
Американците са взели сравнително блудкавия и овехтял към днешна дата политически трилър на Майкъл Добс и са го вдигнали на много високо ниво - истинско удоволствие бе за мен да проследя похода на пренебрегнатия "Камшик" към най-високия пост в САЩ.
Правят впечатление и доизградените силни образи на съпругата му и негов партньор Клеър, както и този на журналистката Зоуи Барнс.
Политическите системи на Обединеното кралство и САЩ всъщност силно си приличат и този факт много ме учуди - не предполагах, че това е така. От друга страна си е съвсем логично.
Безпощадната политическа игра не е за всеки и винаги има цена, която трябва да се плати. Но най-добре е друг да покрие масрафа, нали?
В сравнение обаче с политическата мърсотия и бъркотия в България, героите на Добс ми изглеждат пълни аматьори…
Моята оценка - 3,5*.
Цитат:
"В Библията не се споменава никъде, че трябва да прощаваме на приятелите си!"
P.S. Имам втората част от трилогията, но май няма да я прочета.
Изненадан съм неприятно и от това, колко много хора всъщност никога не са чели "Шумът на върбите" от Кенет Греъм - една наистина велика книга.
December 10, 2022
Definitely a potboiler rather than anything more sophisticated and the 1989 setting feels old fashioned, especially in the representation of women. BUT, what's fascinating is that a story that was originally penned, according to the afterword, as a sort of two fingers up to Maggie Thatcher whose Chief of Staff Michael Dobbs was, and which was published in 1989, a year before Thatcher was forced to resign by her own party, feels so current again in 2022.
Once again we have blue on blue attacks with... count them... not one, not two, not three but the last four Tory PMs forced out (Cameron, May, Johnson, Truss... still counting on Sunak...). Only the high stink of cronyism, corruption, back-handers, fraud, greed, lies and sheer vileness of the Tory Party in current political life is way beyond the worst that Dobbs imagined.
The plot and characters are fluff but the inside information on the workings of the Party is fascinating to anyone who is a political junkie like me; as is the hand-in-glove workings of the press baron-cum-kingmaker. In view of what we have lived through in the last handful of years including the endless leadership contests, this book feels almost innocent in comparison with real life.
Once again we have blue on blue attacks with... count them... not one, not two, not three but the last four Tory PMs forced out (Cameron, May, Johnson, Truss... still counting on Sunak...). Only the high stink of cronyism, corruption, back-handers, fraud, greed, lies and sheer vileness of the Tory Party in current political life is way beyond the worst that Dobbs imagined.
The plot and characters are fluff but the inside information on the workings of the Party is fascinating to anyone who is a political junkie like me; as is the hand-in-glove workings of the press baron-cum-kingmaker. In view of what we have lived through in the last handful of years including the endless leadership contests, this book feels almost innocent in comparison with real life.
February 7, 2017
It's a good read, but maybe not a great read. If we were allowed half stars it'd be three and a half. More than three for the intriguing concept. But.
I think it may even be one of those rare occasions when the TV adaptation has something the book lacks. I think it's down to Francis Urquhart himself. Ian Richardson made him so believable and so intensely bad....
I'm undecided whether or not to do books two and three.
I think it may even be one of those rare occasions when the TV adaptation has something the book lacks. I think it's down to Francis Urquhart himself. Ian Richardson made him so believable and so intensely bad....
I'm undecided whether or not to do books two and three.
December 30, 2020
This is a first novel on political intrigue as well as a kind-of murder mystery. Much more than any insights on the nature of power, and more than the machinations in a modern-day Florentine Court, this novel owes its worth to Francis Urquhart. A character who is clearly larger than the story being told, following the fine tradition of great Machiavellian villains with just enough complexity to be interesting.
Can't wait to read the next two.
Can't wait to read the next two.
May 19, 2020
House of Cards is a solid power driven political thriller, well documented, and peppered with humour.
(Rating: 3.5 rounded up)
In his first political thriller, at the heart of the political scene in the ‘90s, Lord Dobbs likens politics to a game of cards: Shuffle - Cut - Hand.
The book starts with a flurry of characters, setting the scene for general election night the UK. Henry Collinridge, The Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative Party, wins the Party their fourth term by a sliver, leaving the opposition in a stronger position than ever.
Francis Urquhart, Chief Whip for the Conservative Party, knows every dirty little secret of his MPs. When the Party wins the general elections by a whimsical margin, Urquhart urges Collinridge to reshuffle, and move him to a more prominent position. But the PM turns down his proposal, leaving 61 year old Urquhart working in the shadows, humiliated and irate.
His anger fuels a plan to bring down the Prime Minister. With a wealth of confidential information at his disposal, no qualms about using it, and the complete trust of Collinridge, Urquhart is a powerful and dangerous man.
He gets drawn to the bright, young, and attractive Mattie Storin, political correspondent for the Chronicle (the Conservative newspaper). In a bid to advance her career, and defying the unwritten ground rules of Westminster, she establishes direct contact with Francis Urquhart. Despite this breech, they come to a conspiratorial agreement: Urquhart provides her with information on lobby terms, and she fast becomes one of the best political correspondents of her time. Well, we might think that, but Urquhart couldn’t possibly comment.
Will their professional agreement survive what increasingly resembles a consensual affair? And will she manage to ‘climb the ladder’ in a predominantly male line of work?
In this page turner, Michael Dobbs draws on his personal experience and detailed knowledge of politics and journalism. He describes the political scene and media coverage with stark realism, and a generous sprinkling of dry humour.
Politics (or “poly-ticks” as the author suggests) isn’t my favourite subject and yet this book got me hooked. By the time I had read the first third of the House of Cards, I knew I would want to get my hands on the trilogy as a whole.
Insightful, cynical, and dark as night, House of Cards makes for a good thriller, with well-rounded characters, and kept me on edge right to its treacherous finale.
House of Cards is an efficient, well paced thriller, with a balanced blend of fun, and sordidness, and an interesting set of characters.
PS about the revised edition: the book cover sports a “revised edition” subtitle. The author states certain changes have been made since the original edition, but the storyline remains unchanged. This new edition contains multiple punctuation/spelling mistakes and my rating does not reflect this.
(Rating: 3.5 rounded up)
In his first political thriller, at the heart of the political scene in the ‘90s, Lord Dobbs likens politics to a game of cards: Shuffle - Cut - Hand.
The book starts with a flurry of characters, setting the scene for general election night the UK. Henry Collinridge, The Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative Party, wins the Party their fourth term by a sliver, leaving the opposition in a stronger position than ever.
Francis Urquhart, Chief Whip for the Conservative Party, knows every dirty little secret of his MPs. When the Party wins the general elections by a whimsical margin, Urquhart urges Collinridge to reshuffle, and move him to a more prominent position. But the PM turns down his proposal, leaving 61 year old Urquhart working in the shadows, humiliated and irate.
His anger fuels a plan to bring down the Prime Minister. With a wealth of confidential information at his disposal, no qualms about using it, and the complete trust of Collinridge, Urquhart is a powerful and dangerous man.
He gets drawn to the bright, young, and attractive Mattie Storin, political correspondent for the Chronicle (the Conservative newspaper). In a bid to advance her career, and defying the unwritten ground rules of Westminster, she establishes direct contact with Francis Urquhart. Despite this breech, they come to a conspiratorial agreement: Urquhart provides her with information on lobby terms, and she fast becomes one of the best political correspondents of her time. Well, we might think that, but Urquhart couldn’t possibly comment.
Will their professional agreement survive what increasingly resembles a consensual affair? And will she manage to ‘climb the ladder’ in a predominantly male line of work?
In this page turner, Michael Dobbs draws on his personal experience and detailed knowledge of politics and journalism. He describes the political scene and media coverage with stark realism, and a generous sprinkling of dry humour.
Politics (or “poly-ticks” as the author suggests) isn’t my favourite subject and yet this book got me hooked. By the time I had read the first third of the House of Cards, I knew I would want to get my hands on the trilogy as a whole.
Insightful, cynical, and dark as night, House of Cards makes for a good thriller, with well-rounded characters, and kept me on edge right to its treacherous finale.
House of Cards is an efficient, well paced thriller, with a balanced blend of fun, and sordidness, and an interesting set of characters.
PS about the revised edition: the book cover sports a “revised edition” subtitle. The author states certain changes have been made since the original edition, but the storyline remains unchanged. This new edition contains multiple punctuation/spelling mistakes and my rating does not reflect this.
January 25, 2025
A magnificent book!
Every word is in the proper place, every sentence and every motto are waiting to be read, nothing is out of place, even the final, which looks unfair but respects the logic of the story.
House of Cards' purpose is not necessarily to entertain, but to open our eyes to the political world and its misery. Mission accomplished...
Every word is in the proper place, every sentence and every motto are waiting to be read, nothing is out of place, even the final, which looks unfair but respects the logic of the story.
House of Cards' purpose is not necessarily to entertain, but to open our eyes to the political world and its misery. Mission accomplished...
June 24, 2020
The author of this book served as Margaret Thatcher's Chief of Staff,and later had a falling out with her.He was thus well qualified to write a novel of political intrigue and backstabbing.
It is the story of Francis Urquhart,Chief Whip of the Conservative Party and his cunning plan to become Prime Minister of the UK.He uses any means to eliminate his political rivals,but a young female reporter gets on his trail.
The book would become popular enough to become a trilogy and be adapted as a BBC TV series in 1990.
In 2013,it would also become the inspiration for the thrilling Netflix series,House of Cards.That series took excitement to a whole new level and made the original look rather tame by comparison.
The series was going great guns before the Kevin Spacey scandal.It was very disappointing for me to read reports of its possible cancellation.
It is the story of Francis Urquhart,Chief Whip of the Conservative Party and his cunning plan to become Prime Minister of the UK.He uses any means to eliminate his political rivals,but a young female reporter gets on his trail.
The book would become popular enough to become a trilogy and be adapted as a BBC TV series in 1990.
In 2013,it would also become the inspiration for the thrilling Netflix series,House of Cards.That series took excitement to a whole new level and made the original look rather tame by comparison.
The series was going great guns before the Kevin Spacey scandal.It was very disappointing for me to read reports of its possible cancellation.
August 9, 2016
"Por su propia naturaleza, la ambición necesita víctimas"
Este libro fue concebido con una premisa simple: como deshacerse de un primer ministro. Si bien esto puede realizarse de muchas maneras,y muchas veces ni siquiera que alguien alevosamente mueva los hilos, aquí esto es tejido en pro de satisfacer la ambición y vengar el resentimiento de un miembro del partido, A.K.A. nuestro protagonista, FrankUnderwood Urquhart.
"La política requiere sacrificios. El sacrificio de los demás, por supuesto. No importa qué pueda conseguir un hombre sacrificándose por su país, siempre se saca mayor provecho dejando que otros lo hagan primero. Elegir el momento adecuado, como dice siempre mi esposa, lo es todo.
Si bien en el inicio Frank se me figuró un personaje en cierto modo débil, de hecho supongo que la idea del autor era esa demostrar que en la política hasta los individuos más reprimidos son capaces de acciones terribles, pasadas unas páginas notamos como el personaje despliega toda su inventiva con el fin de hundir al primer ministro electo, no obstante no se puede decir que el personaje sea fuerte, más bien su furia lo lleva a iniciar un plan que después, tal como el ha dicho, no puede controlar y que continúa entramando hasta el final más por la necesidad de evitar que él mismo se hunda conforme la historia avanza.
"La política dejaba una estela de dolor y familias atormentadas a su paso"
El resto de los personajes estan tremendamente desdibujados pudiendo destacar únicamente Mattie, quien tiene cierto protagonismo dado que es aliada y enemiga de Frank. Si bien es descrita como una mujer lista, intuitiva y joven estos atributos pocas veces salen a la luz, dado que la mayoría del tiempo pelea por sobresalir gracias a historias arriesgadas, y verdaderas, pero su forma de manejarse es más impulsiva que reflexiva, jugándole esto en contra la mayor parte del tiempo.
"Los políticos se parecen mucho a los escritores avejentados y las mujeres ancianas. La fase más peligrosa en sus vidastienen lugar cuando ya no se contentan con el respeto de los amigos y exigen la adulación de un público"
No puedo decir que la trama sea una joya, pero la manera en que se maneja es bastante funcional y logra que, conforme los planes de Urquhart van cumpliendo los objetivos, la historia entretenga y honestamente entres en el deseo de que descubran a Frank y al mismo tiempo de que no lo hagan. Toda la putrefacción que puede haber en el mundo de la política esta depositada en Frank pero, esta versión del personajeque de hecho es la original no siento que logre sostener por si mismo la historia.
Este libro fue concebido con una premisa simple: como deshacerse de un primer ministro. Si bien esto puede realizarse de muchas maneras,y muchas veces ni siquiera que alguien alevosamente mueva los hilos, aquí esto es tejido en pro de satisfacer la ambición y vengar el resentimiento de un miembro del partido, A.K.A. nuestro protagonista, Frank
"La política requiere sacrificios. El sacrificio de los demás, por supuesto. No importa qué pueda conseguir un hombre sacrificándose por su país, siempre se saca mayor provecho dejando que otros lo hagan primero. Elegir el momento adecuado, como dice siempre mi esposa, lo es todo.
Si bien en el inicio Frank se me figuró un personaje en cierto modo débil, de hecho supongo que la idea del autor era esa demostrar que en la política hasta los individuos más reprimidos son capaces de acciones terribles, pasadas unas páginas notamos como el personaje despliega toda su inventiva con el fin de hundir al primer ministro electo, no obstante no se puede decir que el personaje sea fuerte, más bien su furia lo lleva a iniciar un plan que después, tal como el ha dicho, no puede controlar y que continúa entramando hasta el final más por la necesidad de evitar que él mismo se hunda conforme la historia avanza.
"La política dejaba una estela de dolor y familias atormentadas a su paso"
El resto de los personajes estan tremendamente desdibujados pudiendo destacar únicamente Mattie, quien tiene cierto protagonismo dado que es aliada y enemiga de Frank. Si bien es descrita como una mujer lista, intuitiva y joven estos atributos pocas veces salen a la luz, dado que la mayoría del tiempo pelea por sobresalir gracias a historias arriesgadas, y verdaderas, pero su forma de manejarse es más impulsiva que reflexiva, jugándole esto en contra la mayor parte del tiempo.
"Los políticos se parecen mucho a los escritores avejentados y las mujeres ancianas. La fase más peligrosa en sus vidastienen lugar cuando ya no se contentan con el respeto de los amigos y exigen la adulación de un público"
No puedo decir que la trama sea una joya, pero la manera en que se maneja es bastante funcional y logra que, conforme los planes de Urquhart van cumpliendo los objetivos, la historia entretenga y honestamente entres en el deseo de que descubran a Frank y al mismo tiempo de que no lo hagan. Toda la putrefacción que puede haber en el mundo de la política esta depositada en Frank pero, esta versión del personaje
April 9, 2013
This opening book of the trilogy lays the groundwork for what looks to be a sensational British political series, centred on one Member of Parliament and his addiction to power, no matter the cost. The book opens after the latest general election, as cabinet posts are being mulled over, and certain people, sure to be getting something are left out in the dark. Cue the beginning of the end for those holding the reins of power. Any reader of this genre may see some of the Jeffrey Archer influences in the book, especially in FIRST AMONG EQUALS, though in this case it is one man seeking power, not a handful. The reader will also see the lengths to which a report will go to obtain the scoop of her lifetime and how she will handle the world of man-dominated reporters. In what can only be described as a true ascent to power of both characters, Dobbs sets the scene for some explosive action in the books that follow and will surely have readers on the edge of their seats.
I can admit an addiction to the Netflix-based Americanisation of this novel and how intriguing it was. I have yet to see the BBC series and will once the trilogy is complete. That said, the two different forms of government (parliamentary versus presidential) is not the only means by which this book and that series differ. The intrinsic nature of the British parliamentary system is a perfect backdrop for the book and will certainly come to play an even greater role and the second and third books present more information and drama. I can only hope that the books pull me in as Ralph Reed’s trilogy did, based on a US election and subsequent ascent to power. Anyone with a passion for politics (and especially a love of the parliamentary system) will thoroughly enjoy this political drama. Dobbs is to be applauded for his work and I cannot wait to see what he has in store next.
Kudos Mr. Dobbs… you have the golden touch. Keep it up and dazzle us readers some more!
I can admit an addiction to the Netflix-based Americanisation of this novel and how intriguing it was. I have yet to see the BBC series and will once the trilogy is complete. That said, the two different forms of government (parliamentary versus presidential) is not the only means by which this book and that series differ. The intrinsic nature of the British parliamentary system is a perfect backdrop for the book and will certainly come to play an even greater role and the second and third books present more information and drama. I can only hope that the books pull me in as Ralph Reed’s trilogy did, based on a US election and subsequent ascent to power. Anyone with a passion for politics (and especially a love of the parliamentary system) will thoroughly enjoy this political drama. Dobbs is to be applauded for his work and I cannot wait to see what he has in store next.
Kudos Mr. Dobbs… you have the golden touch. Keep it up and dazzle us readers some more!
September 10, 2021
Къща от карти води нагоре във висините на държавата. По пътя се стъпва и върху някалко трупа ...
Ясно е, че нашумя след американския сериал, но всъщност това е за добрата стара Великобритания. Просто моделът на политическите борби може лесно да се пренесе на кое да е място по света - от лордовете в камарата, до новоизлюпени първенюта в млади демокрации - приомите са сходни, ако не еднакви.
Да, малко сега звучи клиширан образът на младата репортерка с щедрото деколте, но пък е толкова деведесетарски, че не можем да съдим Добс за това.
Образът на Ъркарт е гениален и не пренадлежи само на едно време. Страшно сполучлив е и този на падналия министър-председател. Както и целият път на пропадането му.
Политически трилър е скучно - помислете пак.
Радва ме също, че чувството за хумор на Добс съвсем не се ограничава до английско. То е тънко и универсално.
Заключение: Една модерна класика, която не е за изпускане.
Ясно е, че нашумя след американския сериал, но всъщност това е за добрата стара Великобритания. Просто моделът на политическите борби може лесно да се пренесе на кое да е място по света - от лордовете в камарата, до новоизлюпени първенюта в млади демокрации - приомите са сходни, ако не еднакви.
Да, малко сега звучи клиширан образът на младата репортерка с щедрото деколте, но пък е толкова деведесетарски, че не можем да съдим Добс за това.
Образът на Ъркарт е гениален и не пренадлежи само на едно време. Страшно сполучлив е и този на падналия министър-председател. Както и целият път на пропадането му.
Политически трилър е скучно - помислете пак.
Радва ме също, че чувството за хумор на Добс съвсем не се ограничава до английско. То е тънко и универсално.
Заключение: Една модерна класика, която не е за изпускане.
October 16, 2021
Read this book in 2011, and its the 1st volume of the great Francis Urquhart trilogy.
This book is mainly, as you might suggest, about Francis Urquhart, Chief Whip, and who has his hands on every secret an willing to betray them all to become Prime Minister himself.
Also a very important figure in this book is the journalist, Mattie Storin, a young tenacious political correspondent.
She will become intrigued when faced by the biggest challenge in her life when she stumbles on a scandalous web of intrigue, blackmail and financial corruption at the highest levels, and possibly murder.
Determined to come up with the truth, she must risk everything, even her own life, in her effort to publish the revelations to the public.
What is follow is a thrilling story of political ambition, where life and death know no bounds, and in this political environment everything will be settled and ruled by man of power and greed.
Highly recommended, for this is a tremendous begin of a great trilogy, and that's why I like to call this first episode: "A Brilliant Start Of Trilogy"!
This book is mainly, as you might suggest, about Francis Urquhart, Chief Whip, and who has his hands on every secret an willing to betray them all to become Prime Minister himself.
Also a very important figure in this book is the journalist, Mattie Storin, a young tenacious political correspondent.
She will become intrigued when faced by the biggest challenge in her life when she stumbles on a scandalous web of intrigue, blackmail and financial corruption at the highest levels, and possibly murder.
Determined to come up with the truth, she must risk everything, even her own life, in her effort to publish the revelations to the public.
What is follow is a thrilling story of political ambition, where life and death know no bounds, and in this political environment everything will be settled and ruled by man of power and greed.
Highly recommended, for this is a tremendous begin of a great trilogy, and that's why I like to call this first episode: "A Brilliant Start Of Trilogy"!
February 26, 2016
Todella viihdyttävä poliittinen valtapeli, jossa ei keinoja kaihdeta päämäärien saavuttamiseksi.
Sanon nyt suoraan, että jos ei ole lainkaan kiinnostunut politiikasta (tai lähinnä siitä suljettujen ovien takaisesta, yleisöltä salassa pidetystä touhusta) niin tämä kirja ei ole sinulle. Mutta jos haluat päästä sisään Britannian parlamenttiin ja päästä lukemaan asiantuntemuksella kirjoitettua tekstiä niin kyllä, lue tämä.
Jännää miten aloitettuani tämän kirjan en yhtään osannut nähdä Kevin Spaceytä Francis Urquhartina (tai Frank Underwoodina kuten tv-sarjassa hänen nimensä on), mutta kun olen nyt about kahdeksan jaksoa sarjaa katsonut en osaa nähdä enää muuta kuin Spaceyn kasvot.
Erittäin nokkela teos. Neljä tähteä!
Sanon nyt suoraan, että jos ei ole lainkaan kiinnostunut politiikasta (tai lähinnä siitä suljettujen ovien takaisesta, yleisöltä salassa pidetystä touhusta) niin tämä kirja ei ole sinulle. Mutta jos haluat päästä sisään Britannian parlamenttiin ja päästä lukemaan asiantuntemuksella kirjoitettua tekstiä niin kyllä, lue tämä.
Jännää miten aloitettuani tämän kirjan en yhtään osannut nähdä Kevin Spaceytä Francis Urquhartina (tai Frank Underwoodina kuten tv-sarjassa hänen nimensä on), mutta kun olen nyt about kahdeksan jaksoa sarjaa katsonut en osaa nähdä enää muuta kuin Spaceyn kasvot.
Erittäin nokkela teos. Neljä tähteä!
September 8, 2018
“Politics requires sacrifice. The sacrifice of others, of course.”
If you are looking for the most sensational political thriller.. look no further! I had high expectations for Michael Dobbs' "House of Cards" after becoming addicted to the American Netflix version and I must say, I was not disappointed. I thought it would be hard to beat the series starring the brilliant Kevin Spacey... but beaten to a pulp it was!
I had heard of the BBC mini-series based on these books before but never got around to watching them, it was only after discovering the American version that I decided to give the books a try. Being British and highly interested in politics I'm surprised I didn't discover these sooner.
Francis Urquhart is the Chief Whip for the British government. For those who don't know British politics overly well he is responsible for knowing everything (and I mean everything) about all the government's Member's of Parliament including cabinet ministers. Although this role is vital to the newly elected Prime Minister, Henry Collingridge, it is a background role and doesn't come with the glamour of a more senior minister.
Is Urquhart happy with his role? Maybe. Does he have higher ambitions? Absolutely!
It is with these ambitions that I found myself questioning my own moral judgement. Collingridge isn't a bad man but is by no means a strong man either! Should this go against him? After all, he holds the most powerful political office in the country. It is with this I found myself internally cheering for Urquhart.. even with suspense novels you can see the which outcome is likely to occur.
The way in which Urquhart goes along his business is almost beyond belief, with the ruthlessness of an African dictator but the subtlety of a KGB spy... Not bad for a 62 year old MP. Urquhart does however catch the attention of Mattie Storin, a political reporter for The Chronicle, not least because he welcomes the attention.
Scandal, defeat, triumph and greed all feature in this book and makes it the thriller and namesake it deserves to be. Even if you don't overly follow politics you will get enjoyment out of this book, the background is explained without needing vast knowledge... For those of you who do follow politics, this is a must read!! The historical background mixed with the political fiction is outstanding.
The best thing.... There are two more books in the series!
If you are looking for the most sensational political thriller.. look no further! I had high expectations for Michael Dobbs' "House of Cards" after becoming addicted to the American Netflix version and I must say, I was not disappointed. I thought it would be hard to beat the series starring the brilliant Kevin Spacey... but beaten to a pulp it was!
I had heard of the BBC mini-series based on these books before but never got around to watching them, it was only after discovering the American version that I decided to give the books a try. Being British and highly interested in politics I'm surprised I didn't discover these sooner.
Francis Urquhart is the Chief Whip for the British government. For those who don't know British politics overly well he is responsible for knowing everything (and I mean everything) about all the government's Member's of Parliament including cabinet ministers. Although this role is vital to the newly elected Prime Minister, Henry Collingridge, it is a background role and doesn't come with the glamour of a more senior minister.
Is Urquhart happy with his role? Maybe. Does he have higher ambitions? Absolutely!
It is with these ambitions that I found myself questioning my own moral judgement. Collingridge isn't a bad man but is by no means a strong man either! Should this go against him? After all, he holds the most powerful political office in the country. It is with this I found myself internally cheering for Urquhart.. even with suspense novels you can see the which outcome is likely to occur.
The way in which Urquhart goes along his business is almost beyond belief, with the ruthlessness of an African dictator but the subtlety of a KGB spy... Not bad for a 62 year old MP. Urquhart does however catch the attention of Mattie Storin, a political reporter for The Chronicle, not least because he welcomes the attention.
Scandal, defeat, triumph and greed all feature in this book and makes it the thriller and namesake it deserves to be. Even if you don't overly follow politics you will get enjoyment out of this book, the background is explained without needing vast knowledge... For those of you who do follow politics, this is a must read!! The historical background mixed with the political fiction is outstanding.
The best thing.... There are two more books in the series!
March 21, 2014
http://bookreviewsbyme2.wordpress.com...
I will start right out by saying that while I have seen advertisements for the show "House of Cards", I have never actually seen the show. This is an honest review of the book, not a comparison between the book and the show. Now that is out of the way, let's talk about the book.
I found this book to be extremely dull and uneventful. I definitely do not believe that this book should be classified as mystery/thriller, more like plain literary fiction.
The plot is slow from the start. While there are some interesting parts dealing in political sabotage, there isn't much excitement throughout the entire story. The story is slow moving, dealing more in the interactions of characters than in any excitement or action. While I am normally a fan of strong character-driven plots, that style just didn't work for this book.
The characters in this book were part of the reason why I felt that the character-driven plot didn't work. All of the characters in this book seemed incredibly unlikable and difficult to relate to. Even the characters that it seemed like the reader was supposed to like, weren't easy to like and were much easier to dislike. I found all the characters acted in an extremely superficial and fake manner, making them difficult to enjoy and believe in.
The writing in this book was also insufferable. The author writes in a manner that, while seemingly sophisticated, is confusing and challenging to follow. I had a hard time keeping everything straight in this book- who all the characters were, who had done what, etc. Normally I don't have a problem following even the most confusing of story-lines, but this book posed a serious challenge to me. I also found that the author wasn't very descriptive; he writes in a manner that is almost too straightforward and factual for a fiction book.
The final issue that I had with this book is the understanding of politics. I live in the United States and while I feel that I have a solid grasp on the way our political system works, the political system of England is another matter entirely. This book is completely about the government, so if you don't have a solid political understanding, this book is a challenge to follow and read.
Honestly, I had been hoping that after reading this book I would want to watch and enjoy the show. In reality, after reading this book I will definitely not be watching the show for fear that it will be as bad as the book.
I received this book for review purposes via NetGalley.
I will start right out by saying that while I have seen advertisements for the show "House of Cards", I have never actually seen the show. This is an honest review of the book, not a comparison between the book and the show. Now that is out of the way, let's talk about the book.
I found this book to be extremely dull and uneventful. I definitely do not believe that this book should be classified as mystery/thriller, more like plain literary fiction.
The plot is slow from the start. While there are some interesting parts dealing in political sabotage, there isn't much excitement throughout the entire story. The story is slow moving, dealing more in the interactions of characters than in any excitement or action. While I am normally a fan of strong character-driven plots, that style just didn't work for this book.
The characters in this book were part of the reason why I felt that the character-driven plot didn't work. All of the characters in this book seemed incredibly unlikable and difficult to relate to. Even the characters that it seemed like the reader was supposed to like, weren't easy to like and were much easier to dislike. I found all the characters acted in an extremely superficial and fake manner, making them difficult to enjoy and believe in.
The writing in this book was also insufferable. The author writes in a manner that, while seemingly sophisticated, is confusing and challenging to follow. I had a hard time keeping everything straight in this book- who all the characters were, who had done what, etc. Normally I don't have a problem following even the most confusing of story-lines, but this book posed a serious challenge to me. I also found that the author wasn't very descriptive; he writes in a manner that is almost too straightforward and factual for a fiction book.
The final issue that I had with this book is the understanding of politics. I live in the United States and while I feel that I have a solid grasp on the way our political system works, the political system of England is another matter entirely. This book is completely about the government, so if you don't have a solid political understanding, this book is a challenge to follow and read.
Honestly, I had been hoping that after reading this book I would want to watch and enjoy the show. In reality, after reading this book I will definitely not be watching the show for fear that it will be as bad as the book.
I received this book for review purposes via NetGalley.
May 18, 2022
*sucks in a sharp breath*
😳Well damn this was good.
💠Like...........I did not understand half of the political references because I am Indian and know NOTHING about US politics , but I understood this as much as I understood the HOC Netflix series.
💠If you have time on your hands, then I suggest you read this because Idk why this isin't popular because it has suspense and its dark and its runs very parallel to Stephen King. Maybe even better than some of SK's works.(Do not kill me for saying that)
💠Which is better? Series? Or books?
I'd say.......... the series is better IF you've seen the series first and THEN try to read the book.
But if you haven't watched the series yet, I'd STRONGLY recommend reading the books first THEN moving to the T.V Show. Because then you'll be able to see that what an outstanding job Kevin Spacey did in portraying Francis Urqhart.
💠This is a cliffhanger, the books has two more parts. What the TV Series covered in two seasons , this book covered in 1 book.
😳Well damn this was good.
💠Like...........I did not understand half of the political references because I am Indian and know NOTHING about US politics , but I understood this as much as I understood the HOC Netflix series.
💠If you have time on your hands, then I suggest you read this because Idk why this isin't popular because it has suspense and its dark and its runs very parallel to Stephen King. Maybe even better than some of SK's works.(Do not kill me for saying that)
💠Which is better? Series? Or books?
I'd say.......... the series is better IF you've seen the series first and THEN try to read the book.
But if you haven't watched the series yet, I'd STRONGLY recommend reading the books first THEN moving to the T.V Show. Because then you'll be able to see that what an outstanding job Kevin Spacey did in portraying Francis Urqhart.
💠This is a cliffhanger, the books has two more parts. What the TV Series covered in two seasons , this book covered in 1 book.
February 26, 2017
3.8/5 stars
Politics require sacrifice. The sacrifice of others, of course
So...
This is gonna be an interesting review. And probably as complex as that book and my feelings while reading it. I wouldn't say political thrillers are my cup of tea. I was never really interested in politics and how a country should be handled but 1) I was in mood for something corrupted and 2) my brother (who by the way is into politics) asked me to read it and tell him my opinion. I still don't know how I feel about it anyways. Did I like some things? Oh yes. Did I dislike some others? Obviously. Let's do it!
The writing style was rich but also simple. It was changing from poetic to tough very quickly, along with the mood of the characters and totally matched the shade of the book and the plot. It was a big thumbs up for me and especially the quotes in the start of every chapter made me get even more excited for what was going to happen. The plot twists were absolutely mind blowing and the way everyone was falling under Urquhart's feet for the sake of power was making me more eager to turn the pages one by one, devouring the book bit by bit. Too bad most of the characters had very bad surprises upon their way.
What was a big thumbs down for me, though, was the characters. Let me tell you. The way they were built, full of secrets and dark desires, was perfect for a political thriller. The thing is, though, that due to their behavior and want to fulfill their purposes without to care for the rest made me hate them all. I found myself indifferent even for the characters that were supposed to be liked. Francis was probably the character I hated the most, although he is an amazing protagonist for a book like that. I just feel annoyed when I cannot connect with the characters at all, since they play a very important role to my opinion about a book and I was actually sad there was not a single character to like. I did love to hate a lot of them though. Mostly Francis but also Benjamin and some more. The way they were moving the strings of their puppets to lead themselves to their ultimate purpose was both frightening AND fascinating.
Another let down was the way women were treated. I liked the fact that one of the main characters was a strong woman that was willing to uncover a ground breaking mystery but other than that, I could see a lot of sexist vibes and that disturbed me.
Overall, it's a nice book for fans of the kind. If you want to read a political thriller with lots of twists and utterly messed up and corrupted characters, I totally suggest it. If you'd like something with characters you'll root for...Well, I suggest you'd try something else
~Mary
Politics require sacrifice. The sacrifice of others, of course
So...
This is gonna be an interesting review. And probably as complex as that book and my feelings while reading it. I wouldn't say political thrillers are my cup of tea. I was never really interested in politics and how a country should be handled but 1) I was in mood for something corrupted and 2) my brother (who by the way is into politics) asked me to read it and tell him my opinion. I still don't know how I feel about it anyways. Did I like some things? Oh yes. Did I dislike some others? Obviously. Let's do it!
The writing style was rich but also simple. It was changing from poetic to tough very quickly, along with the mood of the characters and totally matched the shade of the book and the plot. It was a big thumbs up for me and especially the quotes in the start of every chapter made me get even more excited for what was going to happen. The plot twists were absolutely mind blowing and the way everyone was falling under Urquhart's feet for the sake of power was making me more eager to turn the pages one by one, devouring the book bit by bit. Too bad most of the characters had very bad surprises upon their way.
What was a big thumbs down for me, though, was the characters. Let me tell you. The way they were built, full of secrets and dark desires, was perfect for a political thriller. The thing is, though, that due to their behavior and want to fulfill their purposes without to care for the rest made me hate them all. I found myself indifferent even for the characters that were supposed to be liked. Francis was probably the character I hated the most, although he is an amazing protagonist for a book like that. I just feel annoyed when I cannot connect with the characters at all, since they play a very important role to my opinion about a book and I was actually sad there was not a single character to like. I did love to hate a lot of them though. Mostly Francis but also Benjamin and some more. The way they were moving the strings of their puppets to lead themselves to their ultimate purpose was both frightening AND fascinating.
Another let down was the way women were treated. I liked the fact that one of the main characters was a strong woman that was willing to uncover a ground breaking mystery but other than that, I could see a lot of sexist vibes and that disturbed me.
Overall, it's a nice book for fans of the kind. If you want to read a political thriller with lots of twists and utterly messed up and corrupted characters, I totally suggest it. If you'd like something with characters you'll root for...Well, I suggest you'd try something else
~Mary
August 14, 2015
Empecé a leer este libro, como seguro muchos otros, por la serie de Netflix. Increíble; increíble también la interpretación de Kevin Spacey, e increíbles también los IWC que con tanta elegancia porta el tío. Y hasta aquí las menciones a la serie.
Este libro no está basado en la política estadounidense sino en la política británica. Michael Dobbs lo escribió, de hecho, cuando dejó de ser jefe de gabinete de Margaret Thatcher; cabe pensar cómo trataría a sus compañeros la Dama de Hierro, para que el pobre tuviera tanta rabia acumulada para pasársele por la cabeza esta historia.
Dobbs recoge en este libro lo peor de la política en la figura de Francis Urquhart. La trama es similar a la que todos hemos podido ver en la serie, con la salvedad del escenario, del cambio de política y del pensamiento y humor inglés del autor de la novela; lo que hace que pese haber visto la serie de Netflix puedas disfrutar también del libro.
Urquhart es tremendamente bueno en lo que hace; es el típico político con el que puedes disfrutar viendo cómo se maneja entre el nido de ratas de forman tanto él como el resto de políticos, nido del cual tiene que ser el peor para que el resto le tengan el respeto que precisa si no quiere ser acribillado por cualquiera de sus «colegas»; es el prototipo perfecto de político que bajo ningún concepto querrías que gobernara en tu país o ciudad… pero a la vez, por todo lo anteriormente expuesto, es quien más posibilidades tiene de ser elegido. Porque no dudará un instante en llevarse por delante a quien haga falta con tal de hacer realidad sus aspiraciones.
El inicio es un poco lento, y puede llegar a parecer incluso que nos enfrentamos a una lectura tediosa, pero conforme Urquhart empieza a «soltarse» las cosas van sucediendo una tras otra y siempre quieres saber cuál será su próximo paso, por lo que al final logra enganchar y terminar el libro muy rápido.
La historia da miedo, porque plasma de forma evidente lo que el ser humano es capaz de hacer por pura ambición, aunque esto es sólo ficción; lo que da realmente miedo es la política de verdad, últimamente cada vez más; lo que se hace público será una cuarta parte de lo que en realidad ocurra, y ya es bastante desagradable, por lo que teniendo en cuenta la profesión real del señor Dobbs y algunos políticos a los que conocemos cuyos egos y ansias de poder son más grandes que ellos mismos…
Este libro no está basado en la política estadounidense sino en la política británica. Michael Dobbs lo escribió, de hecho, cuando dejó de ser jefe de gabinete de Margaret Thatcher; cabe pensar cómo trataría a sus compañeros la Dama de Hierro, para que el pobre tuviera tanta rabia acumulada para pasársele por la cabeza esta historia.
Dobbs recoge en este libro lo peor de la política en la figura de Francis Urquhart. La trama es similar a la que todos hemos podido ver en la serie, con la salvedad del escenario, del cambio de política y del pensamiento y humor inglés del autor de la novela; lo que hace que pese haber visto la serie de Netflix puedas disfrutar también del libro.
Urquhart es tremendamente bueno en lo que hace; es el típico político con el que puedes disfrutar viendo cómo se maneja entre el nido de ratas de forman tanto él como el resto de políticos, nido del cual tiene que ser el peor para que el resto le tengan el respeto que precisa si no quiere ser acribillado por cualquiera de sus «colegas»; es el prototipo perfecto de político que bajo ningún concepto querrías que gobernara en tu país o ciudad… pero a la vez, por todo lo anteriormente expuesto, es quien más posibilidades tiene de ser elegido. Porque no dudará un instante en llevarse por delante a quien haga falta con tal de hacer realidad sus aspiraciones.
El inicio es un poco lento, y puede llegar a parecer incluso que nos enfrentamos a una lectura tediosa, pero conforme Urquhart empieza a «soltarse» las cosas van sucediendo una tras otra y siempre quieres saber cuál será su próximo paso, por lo que al final logra enganchar y terminar el libro muy rápido.
La historia da miedo, porque plasma de forma evidente lo que el ser humano es capaz de hacer por pura ambición, aunque esto es sólo ficción; lo que da realmente miedo es la política de verdad, últimamente cada vez más; lo que se hace público será una cuarta parte de lo que en realidad ocurra, y ya es bastante desagradable, por lo que teniendo en cuenta la profesión real del señor Dobbs y algunos políticos a los que conocemos cuyos egos y ansias de poder son más grandes que ellos mismos…
April 23, 2020
Francis Urquhart is not a unique character. Literature is rife with men and women who have discarded every single code of morality to find their way to the top of the pile. What does make Francis interesting is in how he embodies all that is rotten about mainstream politics and its obsession with power. Francis is all eloquence, charm and reason on the outside and a soul as dark as pitch on the inside. His machinations in and around Downing Street while vying for the position of the PM is what the book is all about.
The ethics that Francis follows can be summed up pretty crisply as :
Politics requires sacrifice. The sacrifice of others, of course.
This is pretty much what he does all through the book when he does not hesitate even for a fraction of a second before he throws people and entire careers under the bus. But all of this after intricate planning and detailed thought. The way in which he uses the power of the press in bringing about outcomes that he wants is pretty much a precursor of how politics and media work in tandem these days. Francis does get to the seat of power by the time the novel ends but what the reader gets to know is the cost of that journey in dead bodies, ruined careers and destroyed relationships.
The story is by no means unique but the treatment of Francis’s character makes all the difference. Recommended !
P.S : Considering how influential the Netflix and BBC shows were, I did not want to let them interfere with my experience of the book and hence have not made any mention of either here.
The ethics that Francis follows can be summed up pretty crisply as :
Politics requires sacrifice. The sacrifice of others, of course.
This is pretty much what he does all through the book when he does not hesitate even for a fraction of a second before he throws people and entire careers under the bus. But all of this after intricate planning and detailed thought. The way in which he uses the power of the press in bringing about outcomes that he wants is pretty much a precursor of how politics and media work in tandem these days. Francis does get to the seat of power by the time the novel ends but what the reader gets to know is the cost of that journey in dead bodies, ruined careers and destroyed relationships.
The story is by no means unique but the treatment of Francis’s character makes all the difference. Recommended !
P.S : Considering how influential the Netflix and BBC shows were, I did not want to let them interfere with my experience of the book and hence have not made any mention of either here.
February 13, 2016
Novela precursora de la famosa serie de TV, aunque la novela se sitúa en el Parlamento Británico, y la serie, en la Casa Blanca americana. Pero es igual, porque en definitiva el relato describe las corruptelas políticas por alcanzar el poder, y eso es algo innato de cualquier país, ya sea EEUU o Mozambique. Lamentablemente, aún no he podido ver ninguna temporada de la famosa serie, por lo que, ciñéndome al libro, diré que me ha resultado muy realista y bien descrito. Se publicó originalmente en 1989, pero su sátira política y social sobre los entresijos del Partido Conservador Británico siguen estando hoy igual de vigentes que en los años en que se lanzó el libro. De hecho su autor perteneció al círculo íntimo de la esfera política de Margaret Thatcher, de la que salió escaldado, y eso se nota a lo largo de toda la narración.
Para mí ha sido una lectura muy “instructiva”, y la recomiendo a cualquiera que esté interesado en este tipo de thrillers políticos. La historia de Francis Urquhart es la historia actual de cualquier miembro de un partido político con ambiciones, y poco sentido ético para conseguirlas.
Para mí ha sido una lectura muy “instructiva”, y la recomiendo a cualquiera que esté interesado en este tipo de thrillers políticos. La historia de Francis Urquhart es la historia actual de cualquier miembro de un partido político con ambiciones, y poco sentido ético para conseguirlas.
May 26, 2015
I've long been a fan of the original BBC series based on this book and have always meant to read it, so with my son nagging me to hurry up and watch the new US series I thought it was time to finally get around to reading the book that started it all.
Very glad I did. Well worth the read. Also makes me appreciate the full extent of what Andrew Davies so cleverly did with the original series. Love it!!
Am now eagerly awaiting the next two books in the trilogy :).
December 30, 2016
YOU might think:
- this book is rather tedious and dull
- without much description or characterization
- it doesn't flow well or have much emotion behind it
- it might have been better had it stuck with "FU"'s narrative voice from beginning to end
- the BBC series with Ian Richardson smirking and winking into the camera is far superior
But I couldn't possibly comment!
October 30, 2017
Ένα συναρπαστικό πολιτικό θρίλερ! Δεν θα απογοητεύσει κανέναν.
December 10, 2012
Basis for the BBC trilogy. I didn’t like it half as much. You don’t have the voice that the script, & Ian Richardson, gave to the evil PM. Lots of the better plot points were added in the script, too—like the reporter & the evil pol becoming lovers. Not to mention the ending. Still … an interesting look at how a work can change from one medium to another. I liked it enough to probably read the rest of the trilogy. [Although I'll note here, almost a year later, that I haven't bothered to track 'em down]
It reminded me a lot of the pre-Watergate Washington novels I read when I was a kid, like Advise and Consent or The President's Plane Is Missing.
Some quotes:
“But that’s all bloody Horlicks, Frankie, and you know it.”
“…You can’t hide away in journalism—investigating, exposing, pulling other people’s worlds apart in search of the truth—unless you are willing to face those people afterward and live with their pain.”
“That’s not fair…” she protested.
“Is it? I hope so for your sake, because if you can’t accept the fact that your work may cause a lot of innocent people great hurt, then you’ll never be a good journalist. Look for the truth, Mattie, by all means, but only if you’re willing to recognize and share the pain it may cause. If you think it’s enough just to float like a butterfly from one story to another, never hanging around long enough to see the damage that your version of the truth might inflict on other people, how the devil can you put any real value on your work? It’s your job to criticize self-important politicians, but how dare you criticize the commitment of others if you are afraid to commit yourself? You say you are afraid of commitment. But commitment is what it is all about, Mattie. You can’t run away from it for ever!”
…where all the best parliamentary secrets are stored to away Judgment Day, or some other parliamentary emergency.
It reminded me a lot of the pre-Watergate Washington novels I read when I was a kid, like Advise and Consent or The President's Plane Is Missing.
Some quotes:
“But that’s all bloody Horlicks, Frankie, and you know it.”
“…You can’t hide away in journalism—investigating, exposing, pulling other people’s worlds apart in search of the truth—unless you are willing to face those people afterward and live with their pain.”
“That’s not fair…” she protested.
“Is it? I hope so for your sake, because if you can’t accept the fact that your work may cause a lot of innocent people great hurt, then you’ll never be a good journalist. Look for the truth, Mattie, by all means, but only if you’re willing to recognize and share the pain it may cause. If you think it’s enough just to float like a butterfly from one story to another, never hanging around long enough to see the damage that your version of the truth might inflict on other people, how the devil can you put any real value on your work? It’s your job to criticize self-important politicians, but how dare you criticize the commitment of others if you are afraid to commit yourself? You say you are afraid of commitment. But commitment is what it is all about, Mattie. You can’t run away from it for ever!”
…where all the best parliamentary secrets are stored to away Judgment Day, or some other parliamentary emergency.
July 17, 2014
After sitting down and watching the adaptations of this novel on Netflix with Kevin Spacey in the lead role, I was hooked. I decided to read the original novels, and I was fascinated at how the character of Francis Urquhart came about. Set in the late 80's, FU is the Chief Whip for the majority party, and after the Prime Minister manages to hang onto his job, FU is expecting a sweet plum of a Cabinet position to fall into his lap. But he is passed over and FU vows a bloody revenge on the Prime Minister -- and this novel reveals the convoluted tail of ambition, power and sheer wickedness. If you've only seen the Netflix series (and if you haven't, you should) rest assured that this won't ruin anything. I found it to be an intriguing intersection with the series, and only whetted my appetite to read the rest of the series, and hoped that there will be a third season on Netflix to come. Four and a half stars, and very much recommended.
For the longer review, please go here:
http://www.bubblews.com/news/4557088-...
For the longer review, please go here:
http://www.bubblews.com/news/4557088-...
May 28, 2020
BAGNO Z KART
Tę książkę kupiłam w antykwariacie. Na siedemdziesiątej stronie znalazłam zakładkę. Pierwszy nabywca nie miał widać cierpliwości, aby dotrwać do końca i postanowił odchudzić biblioteczkę. Doskonale to rozumiem. Jeżeli ktoś liczył na to, że dostanie powieść na miarę genialnego, amerykańskiego serialu pod tym samym tytułem, to po tych kilkudziesięciu stronach musiał mocno się rozczarować.
Początek bardzo się wlecze. Autor drobiazgowo opisuje procedurę wyborów w Wielkiej Brytanii, przedstawia nam kilka równorzędnych postaci, więc zupełnie nie wiadomo, z kim trzymać. Dość późno dowiadujemy się, o co tak naprawdę głównemu bohaterowi chodzi i dopiero wtedy ta historia zaczyna wciągać.
Akcja powieści dzieje się w Wielkiej Brytanii, a serialu w Stanach Zjednoczonych. Brytyjski system polityczny różni się od amerykańskiego mniej więcej tak, jak system polski od tych dwóch razem wziętych. Na szczęście, mechanizmy rządzące działaniami polityków wszędzie są takie same; zawsze są zwycięzcy i pokonani. Dlatego Amerykanom tak świetnie udało się zaadaptować tę książkę do swoich realiów.
Michael Dobbs dobrze wie o czym pisze. Politykę zna na wylot, przez wiele lat był szefem kancelarii premier Margaret Thatcher. Rozżalony po utracie stanowiska, postanowił w osobliwy sposób wziąć odwet za niesprawiedliwe potraktowanie – napisał książkę. „Nie myślałem, żeby to opublikować” – zwierzył się w posłowiu – „dla mnie była to tylko mała, prywatna terapia”. Aż by się chciało, żeby któryś z polskich polityków odkrył w sobie talent pisarski, bo na naszym poletku powodów do „osobistych terapii” wiele by się uzbierało.
Zarówno książka, jak i serial uświadamiają nam, że polityka to bagno, w którym rozgrywa się bezpardonowa walka o władzę i ochronę własnych interesów, a wszystkie chwyty są dozwolone. Nic nowego, powiecie. Jasne, ale zakładam, być może naiwnie, że ten tekst przeczytają również ludzie młodzi, tacy którzy jeszcze wierzą, że to władza powinna służyć społeczeństwu, a nie odwrotnie, i że głosujemy na polityków dlatego, żeby w naszym imieniu zrobili dla kraju coś dobrego. Nic z tych rzeczy, drodzy młodzi przyjaciele. Przeczytajcie tę książkę, albo lepiej zobaczcie serial, i to wystarczy, żebyście pozbyli się wszelkich złudzeń. Kiedyś trzeba stracić dziewictwo.
Serial ma jedną, zasadniczą przewagę nad książką. Kevin Spacey w roli Francisa Underwooda od razu rzuca na nas swój wszeteczny urok. Doskonale wiemy, że jest diabłem wcielonym, ale mimo wszystko idziemy za nim jak w dym i pozwalamy się uwieść. Zupełnie nie można tego powiedzieć o Franku Urquhartcie, bohaterze powieści. Scenarzyści serialu wykonali kawał dobrej roboty, aby z antybohatera stworzyć postać, której można kibicować, i przez to serial ma o wiele większą siłę rażenia.
Dla fanów serialu, ta książka będzie tylko ciekawostką. Jeśli ktoś chce przybliżyć sobie, jak działa brytyjski system parlamentarny, powinien być zadowolony. Jednak, jeżeli jeszcze, jakimś cudem, nie widzieliście serialu, to biegiem marsz, nadrabiać zaległości. To naprawdę jest pozycja obowiązkowa.
https://www.czytacz.pl/2020/05/michae...
Tę książkę kupiłam w antykwariacie. Na siedemdziesiątej stronie znalazłam zakładkę. Pierwszy nabywca nie miał widać cierpliwości, aby dotrwać do końca i postanowił odchudzić biblioteczkę. Doskonale to rozumiem. Jeżeli ktoś liczył na to, że dostanie powieść na miarę genialnego, amerykańskiego serialu pod tym samym tytułem, to po tych kilkudziesięciu stronach musiał mocno się rozczarować.
Początek bardzo się wlecze. Autor drobiazgowo opisuje procedurę wyborów w Wielkiej Brytanii, przedstawia nam kilka równorzędnych postaci, więc zupełnie nie wiadomo, z kim trzymać. Dość późno dowiadujemy się, o co tak naprawdę głównemu bohaterowi chodzi i dopiero wtedy ta historia zaczyna wciągać.
Akcja powieści dzieje się w Wielkiej Brytanii, a serialu w Stanach Zjednoczonych. Brytyjski system polityczny różni się od amerykańskiego mniej więcej tak, jak system polski od tych dwóch razem wziętych. Na szczęście, mechanizmy rządzące działaniami polityków wszędzie są takie same; zawsze są zwycięzcy i pokonani. Dlatego Amerykanom tak świetnie udało się zaadaptować tę książkę do swoich realiów.
Michael Dobbs dobrze wie o czym pisze. Politykę zna na wylot, przez wiele lat był szefem kancelarii premier Margaret Thatcher. Rozżalony po utracie stanowiska, postanowił w osobliwy sposób wziąć odwet za niesprawiedliwe potraktowanie – napisał książkę. „Nie myślałem, żeby to opublikować” – zwierzył się w posłowiu – „dla mnie była to tylko mała, prywatna terapia”. Aż by się chciało, żeby któryś z polskich polityków odkrył w sobie talent pisarski, bo na naszym poletku powodów do „osobistych terapii” wiele by się uzbierało.
Zarówno książka, jak i serial uświadamiają nam, że polityka to bagno, w którym rozgrywa się bezpardonowa walka o władzę i ochronę własnych interesów, a wszystkie chwyty są dozwolone. Nic nowego, powiecie. Jasne, ale zakładam, być może naiwnie, że ten tekst przeczytają również ludzie młodzi, tacy którzy jeszcze wierzą, że to władza powinna służyć społeczeństwu, a nie odwrotnie, i że głosujemy na polityków dlatego, żeby w naszym imieniu zrobili dla kraju coś dobrego. Nic z tych rzeczy, drodzy młodzi przyjaciele. Przeczytajcie tę książkę, albo lepiej zobaczcie serial, i to wystarczy, żebyście pozbyli się wszelkich złudzeń. Kiedyś trzeba stracić dziewictwo.
Serial ma jedną, zasadniczą przewagę nad książką. Kevin Spacey w roli Francisa Underwooda od razu rzuca na nas swój wszeteczny urok. Doskonale wiemy, że jest diabłem wcielonym, ale mimo wszystko idziemy za nim jak w dym i pozwalamy się uwieść. Zupełnie nie można tego powiedzieć o Franku Urquhartcie, bohaterze powieści. Scenarzyści serialu wykonali kawał dobrej roboty, aby z antybohatera stworzyć postać, której można kibicować, i przez to serial ma o wiele większą siłę rażenia.
Dla fanów serialu, ta książka będzie tylko ciekawostką. Jeśli ktoś chce przybliżyć sobie, jak działa brytyjski system parlamentarny, powinien być zadowolony. Jednak, jeżeli jeszcze, jakimś cudem, nie widzieliście serialu, to biegiem marsz, nadrabiać zaległości. To naprawdę jest pozycja obowiązkowa.
https://www.czytacz.pl/2020/05/michae...
January 12, 2022
Ενώ το μισο το είχα λατρέψει στην συνεχεια άρχισα να αμφισβητώ την ροη των γεγονότων και η υπερβολή σιγα σιγα εξαφάνιζε το ρεαλισμό. κλασσικά κλισέ τύπου η αλήθεια θα λάμψει και νικάει προβάλουν σαν μόνη θέση και στάση του συγγραφέα , και ένας πρωταγωνιστής ο οποίος δίκαια γέννησε τον χαρακτήρα του spacey στην σειρα , σίγουρα αδίστακτος και το καλύτερο κομματι του βιβλίου .
July 5, 2018
Към края ми стана доста по-интересна, но като цяло Играта на тронове в Британския парламент ми беше твърде суховата..
May 6, 2016
Ho deciso di leggere questo libro dopo essermi appassionato alla serie televisiva e aver scoperto che in origine le vicende non si svolgevano in America (e nel presente) quanto in Inghilterra, e ormai un bel po’ di anni fa.
Il cambio di location ovviamente imponeva un’enorme quantità di modifiche: il sistema elettorale, il ruolo aspirato, i finanziatori, le politiche… tutto diverso.
Ho scoperto così la storia di Francis Urquhart, chief whip dei conservatori.
Una storia per certi versi simile a quella di Frank Underwood (ambizione, assenza di scrupoli, certi punti in comune nelle vicende dei due) ma per altri parecchio diversa.
Francis, rispetto a Frank, è meno geniale, meno forte.
Si sente profondamente ferito quando, dopo le elezioni, non ottiene il ruolo cui aspirava e quasi si umilia con il Primo Ministro.
E anche quando mette in moto le macchinazioni che porteranno alla sua caduta, lo fa per vendicarsi di quell’umiliazione. Stupendosi di esserci riuscito.
Non è che quando i giochi sono ormai fatti, che finalmente capisce cosa ha realmente ottenuto e decide di puntare al vertice.
E’ molto diversa anche la moglie, Mortima, rispetto alla Claire della tv.
Mortima ha interessi personali ma non è una donna in carriera con le sue attività da mandare avanti, si piega alle necessità del marito ma non è sua pari in tutto, eccessi compresi.
Sopratutto, è diverso il nemico, l’avversario da abbattere.
Il Presidente Americano è appena stato eletto, è saldissimo al potere e serviranno due stagioni a un Frank Underwood deciso e privo di morale a spodestarlo.
Il Primo Ministro invece è una figura debole e quasi paterna, proposta anni addietro come successore della Tatcher per allontanare il partito dalla figura intransigente e forte di lei. Un Primo Ministro più accondiscendente e pacifico, che però giunto al record del suo terzo mandato ha una maggioranza risicata e governa un partito in sommossa dopo i risultati deludenti delle elezioni appena vinte.
La ragnatela di eventi che Francis metterà in moto per sfiduciare il Primo Ministro prima e farsi eleggere poi è degna della serie tv, tra ricatti impliciti ed espliciti, truffe, contraffazioni e rilascio di informazioni riservate.
E anche qui ci saranno un paio di vittime immolate sull’altare del potere. Pure qui si tratterà di una persona affetta da dipendenze delle quali Francis approfitterà biecamente, e di una giovane giornalista che avrà instaurato un rapporto con lui (benché in questo caso lei si dichiareri addirittura innamorata del politico).
Insomma, la trama è avvincente e più rapida che non nella serie televisiva.
La storia è ottima, e questo pur conoscendo la serie e quindi sapendo bene o male cosa sarebbe dovuto succedere.
Ottima anche la scrittura, all’inizio abbiamo poi una metafora del potere politico con la falena e le lampade che ritengo splendida.
Gli unici difetti che ho trovato nel libro sono che Francis appare meno dirompente, come personaggio, rispetto a Frank Underwood (ma questo può essere dovuto alla diversità del media utilizzato e all’interpretazione magistrale di Kevin Spacey), e il fatto che nei primi capitoli l’attenzione si sposta da un personaggio all’altro come a darci un quadro generale della situazione prima di partire con la trama vera e propria, generando però un po’ di confusione.
Un’ottima lettura politica, fornitaci da uno scrittore che prima di questo libro aveva vissuto una situazione simile a quella sperimentata da Francis all’inizio della storia, essendo stato sotto la Tatcher quando cominciava a scricchiolare, non reggendo più la pressione politica. Fatto che lo portò a chiedersi, al momento di cominciare a scrivere un libro, come si sarebbe potuto togliere di mezzo un Primo Ministro ormai a fine corsa e indebolito, prima che distruggesse il partito…
Il cambio di location ovviamente imponeva un’enorme quantità di modifiche: il sistema elettorale, il ruolo aspirato, i finanziatori, le politiche… tutto diverso.
Ho scoperto così la storia di Francis Urquhart, chief whip dei conservatori.
Una storia per certi versi simile a quella di Frank Underwood (ambizione, assenza di scrupoli, certi punti in comune nelle vicende dei due) ma per altri parecchio diversa.
Francis, rispetto a Frank, è meno geniale, meno forte.
Si sente profondamente ferito quando, dopo le elezioni, non ottiene il ruolo cui aspirava e quasi si umilia con il Primo Ministro.
E anche quando mette in moto le macchinazioni che porteranno alla sua caduta, lo fa per vendicarsi di quell’umiliazione. Stupendosi di esserci riuscito.
Non è che quando i giochi sono ormai fatti, che finalmente capisce cosa ha realmente ottenuto e decide di puntare al vertice.
E’ molto diversa anche la moglie, Mortima, rispetto alla Claire della tv.
Mortima ha interessi personali ma non è una donna in carriera con le sue attività da mandare avanti, si piega alle necessità del marito ma non è sua pari in tutto, eccessi compresi.
Sopratutto, è diverso il nemico, l’avversario da abbattere.
Il Presidente Americano è appena stato eletto, è saldissimo al potere e serviranno due stagioni a un Frank Underwood deciso e privo di morale a spodestarlo.
Il Primo Ministro invece è una figura debole e quasi paterna, proposta anni addietro come successore della Tatcher per allontanare il partito dalla figura intransigente e forte di lei. Un Primo Ministro più accondiscendente e pacifico, che però giunto al record del suo terzo mandato ha una maggioranza risicata e governa un partito in sommossa dopo i risultati deludenti delle elezioni appena vinte.
La ragnatela di eventi che Francis metterà in moto per sfiduciare il Primo Ministro prima e farsi eleggere poi è degna della serie tv, tra ricatti impliciti ed espliciti, truffe, contraffazioni e rilascio di informazioni riservate.
E anche qui ci saranno un paio di vittime immolate sull’altare del potere. Pure qui si tratterà di una persona affetta da dipendenze delle quali Francis approfitterà biecamente, e di una giovane giornalista che avrà instaurato un rapporto con lui (benché in questo caso lei si dichiareri addirittura innamorata del politico).
Insomma, la trama è avvincente e più rapida che non nella serie televisiva.
La storia è ottima, e questo pur conoscendo la serie e quindi sapendo bene o male cosa sarebbe dovuto succedere.
Ottima anche la scrittura, all’inizio abbiamo poi una metafora del potere politico con la falena e le lampade che ritengo splendida.
Gli unici difetti che ho trovato nel libro sono che Francis appare meno dirompente, come personaggio, rispetto a Frank Underwood (ma questo può essere dovuto alla diversità del media utilizzato e all’interpretazione magistrale di Kevin Spacey), e il fatto che nei primi capitoli l’attenzione si sposta da un personaggio all’altro come a darci un quadro generale della situazione prima di partire con la trama vera e propria, generando però un po’ di confusione.
Un’ottima lettura politica, fornitaci da uno scrittore che prima di questo libro aveva vissuto una situazione simile a quella sperimentata da Francis all’inizio della storia, essendo stato sotto la Tatcher quando cominciava a scricchiolare, non reggendo più la pressione politica. Fatto che lo portò a chiedersi, al momento di cominciare a scrivere un libro, come si sarebbe potuto togliere di mezzo un Primo Ministro ormai a fine corsa e indebolito, prima che distruggesse il partito…
August 28, 2023
"House of Cards" by Michael Dobbs is a riveting political thriller that delves into the dark and manipulative world of British politics. The story follows Francis Urquhart, a cunning and ruthless Chief Whip, as he navigates the corridors of power, using his intelligence and charisma to manipulate and maneuver his way to the top. As Urquhart sets his sights on the Prime Minister's position, readers are taken on a roller-coaster ride of power plays, betrayals, and unexpected alliances. Dobbs's intricate plot and sharp character development create an immersive experience that sheds light on the unscrupulous tactics often employed behind the scenes in the pursuit of political supremacy.
Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and Machiavellian maneuvering, "House of Cards" is not only a gripping narrative but also a commentary on the moral compromises inherent in the pursuit of power. Urquhart's Machiavellian actions force readers to confront uncomfortable questions about the lengths some are willing to go to achieve their ambitions. The novel's exploration of the interplay between personal ambition and public responsibility provides a thought-provoking lens through which to examine the dynamics of political systems and the fragility of trust in those who hold positions of authority. In a world where allegiances can shift in an instant and principles can be sacrificed for gain, "House of Cards" presents a cautionary tale that resonates beyond its pages.
Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and Machiavellian maneuvering, "House of Cards" is not only a gripping narrative but also a commentary on the moral compromises inherent in the pursuit of power. Urquhart's Machiavellian actions force readers to confront uncomfortable questions about the lengths some are willing to go to achieve their ambitions. The novel's exploration of the interplay between personal ambition and public responsibility provides a thought-provoking lens through which to examine the dynamics of political systems and the fragility of trust in those who hold positions of authority. In a world where allegiances can shift in an instant and principles can be sacrificed for gain, "House of Cards" presents a cautionary tale that resonates beyond its pages.
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