Operation Napoleon Book Summary

by Arnaldur Indriðason, Victoria Cribb (Translator)88

TL;DR

Operation Napoleon is a gripping international thriller exploring a World War II conspiracy that stretches from Iceland to South America, centering on a fateful plane crash and the quest for truth by a determined sister.

What is Operation Napoleon about

Operation Napoleon, written by Arnaldur Indriðason, intertwines history with fiction, revolving around the mysterious 1945 crash of a German bomber on the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland. The plot unfolds in two timelines: the immediate aftermath of the crash, where a German officer disappears into the icy expanse with a crucial briefcase, and 1999, as the U.S. Army undertakes secretive operations to recover the plane. Kristin, the sister of one of the young Icelanders entangled in the operation, embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth behind her brother’s fate and the dark secrets of Operation Napoleon, a conspiracy aimed at rescuing high-ranking Nazis. This thrilling tale combines elements of suspense, adventure, and historical intrigue.

Operation Napoleon 6 Key Takeaways

The German bomber crash.

In 1945, a German bomber crashes on the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland, marking the beginning of a complex narrative that weaves together past and present.

The disappearance of the German officer.

One of the senior German officers attempts to navigate to safety, handcuffed to a briefcase containing crucial secrets, but mysteriously vanishes into the blizzard.

The U.S. Army's secret operation in 1999.

Decades later, the U.S. Army secretly seeks to recover the downed aircraft from the glacier, igniting a series of perilous events.

Kristin's quest for the truth.

As her brother is implicated in the dangerous recovery operation, Kristin becomes determined to uncover the truth, leading her into a perilous investigation.

The unfolding conspiracy.

Kristin's search reveals a wider conspiracy involving influential Americans, aiming to spirit away high-ranking Nazis, including Hitler, as the war draws to a close.

The journey to Argentina.

Kristin's pursuit of answers ultimately leads her to a remote island off Argentina, where she confronts the shadows of the past.

Top Operation Napoleon Quotes

  • In the end, truth is all that matters, and the search for it can lead us to the most unexpected places.
  • History is not just what happened; it is what we choose to remember.
  • Some secrets are buried in the snow, waiting to be unearthed.

Who should read Operation Napoleon?

Operation Napoleon is perfect for readers who enjoy gripping historical thrillers interwoven with mysteries. Fans of suspense, adventure, and international intrigue will find this novel an engaging read, as it not only entertains but also provokes thought about the legacy of war and the pursuit of truth.

About the Author

Arnaldur Indriðason, an acclaimed Icelandic author, is best known for his Reykjavík Murder Mystery series, which has garnered numerous awards, including the CWA Gold Dagger. His works often delve into Iceland's dark past and explore complex human emotions. Indriðason's masterful storytelling and atmospheric settings have made him a prominent figure in contemporary crime fiction, captivating readers worldwide.

Operation Napoleon Best Reviews

  • Indriðason crafts a riveting tale that deftly combines history with thrilling fiction, creating a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue. – The International Reviewer
  • Operation Napoleon offers a compelling exploration of the lengths to which people will go to uncover the truth, set against the chilling backdrop of Iceland's icy landscapes. – The Historical Fiction Society

Operation Napoleon FAQs

Is Operation Napoleon based on a true story?

While Operation Napoleon is a fictional thriller, it draws inspiration from real historical events surrounding World War II and the mysteries of hidden Nazi secrets.

What are they looking for in Operation Napoleon?

The characters in Operation Napoleon are embroiled in a conspiracy related to a downed German World War II airplane, seeking to uncover its secrets and the truth behind a mysterious operation.