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The Odessa File
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Book Reviews (2025) > Book Review: The Odessa File

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Eric Schatz | 525 comments Mod
“Peoples are not evil; only individuals are evil … guilt is individual, like salvation.”

Classic Frederick Forsyth novel, with his typically meticulous reporting and attention to back stories. Highlights the importance to bear witness.

The story is based on the secret organization - “Odessa” - formed for SS officers to escape at the tail end of WWII, and the real hunt for former SS Eduard Roschmann. A suspenseful, captivating story of the "state within the state". A disturbing read, especially in the context of today’s political environment.

If written today, readers would be tempted to classify as "true crime" since much of the storyline and characters are based on real people. Since its been more than 50 years since published (1972) and approaching 90 years from the events of WWII, it will soon be historical fiction.

4.5 stars rounded down.


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