Absolute Power (novel)

Absolute Power is a 1996 political thriller novel by American author David Baldacci. The plot revolves around a professional thief, Luther Whitney, who witnesses a murder involving the President of the United States during a break-in.

Synopsis:

Luther Whitney, a seasoned burglar, attempts to rob the opulent mansion of Walter Sullivan in Virginia. While hiding, he observes a violent encounter between the President, Alan Richmond, and Sullivan's wife, Christy. Christy is killed during the altercation, which is partially orchestrated by the President's Chief of Staff, Gloria Russell, and Secret Service agents. Whitney manages to escape with evidence of the crime, placing him in grave danger from the President and his powerful allies, who are determined to silence him. The novel follows Whitney's efforts to survive, expose the truth, and bring the perpetrators to justice, facing relentless pursuit and corruption at the highest levels of government.

Characters:

• Luther Whitney: A professional thief and protagonist of the novel.
• Alan Richmond: The President of the United States, implicated in the murder of Christy Sullivan.
• Gloria Russell: The President's ruthless Chief of Staff, involved in the cover-up.
• Seth Frank: A detective investigating the murder, initially skeptical of Whitney's claims.
• Walter Sullivan: A wealthy businessman and the husband of the murder victim.
• Christy Sullivan: The victim of the murder.

Themes:

• Abuse of Power: The novel explores the corrupting influence of power and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their positions.
• Political Intrigue: It delves into the dark underbelly of Washington D.C. and the dangerous world of political maneuvering.
• Justice vs. Corruption: The story highlights the struggle between seeking justice and the pervasive nature of corruption within the government.
• Redemption: Whitney's actions can be interpreted as a path towards redemption, seeking to right the wrongs he witnesses.

Adaptations:

The novel was adapted into a 1997 film of the same name, directed by and starring Clint Eastwood.