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310 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1986
"Brothers" is a novel by William Goldman, published in 1986. It is a sequel to his earlier work, "Marathon Man," and continues the story of protagonist Thomas "Babe" Levy. Here's a detailed summary of the novel:
Plot Summary:
The novel begins several years after the events of "Marathon Man." Thomas "Babe" Levy, a former graduate student and marathon runner, is now a professor at Columbia University, trying to rebuild his life after the traumatic events that involved his brother Doc's murder and his own encounter with the Nazi war criminal, Dr. Christian Szell.
New Threats and Old Enemies:
Babe’s life is once again thrown into chaos when a new conspiracy emerges. It becomes evident that Babe's troubles are far from over as he gets drawn back into a world of espionage and danger. This time, the threat is even more personal and deadly, involving his family's dark past and secret government operations.
Introduction of Scylla:
A significant part of the novel focuses on Babe's brother, Scylla (Doc's twin brother), who was previously thought to be dead. Scylla is revealed to be alive and a highly skilled assassin working for a covert government agency. Scylla’s survival and covert operations add a new layer of complexity and danger to the story.
The Nemesis – Janeway:
The antagonist of the novel is Janeway, a ruthless and intelligent enemy who has his own secret agenda. Janeway's character is multi-faceted, making him a formidable opponent for both Babe and Scylla. His actions and motivations drive much of the novel's tension and conflict.
Interwoven Storylines:
Goldman skillfully interweaves multiple storylines involving Babe’s attempts to uncover the truth about his family's past, Scylla’s covert missions, and Janeway’s manipulations. The narrative shifts between these perspectives, creating a suspenseful and engaging plot that keeps the reader guessing.
Climactic Confrontation:
The novel builds up to a climactic confrontation where Babe and Scylla must join forces to stop Janeway's plans. Their relationship is strained and complex, marked by years of separation, differing philosophies, and unresolved family issues. Despite this, their shared goal of survival and justice brings them together.
Themes:
Conclusion:
"Brothers" ends on a note of resolution for Babe and Scylla, but also leaves room for the uncertainty and dangers that continue to lurk in their world. The novel concludes with the idea that while some battles are won, the fight against hidden threats and personal demons is ongoing.
Goldman's "Brothers" is a gripping thriller that expands on the themes and characters introduced in "Marathon Man." It combines elements of espionage, psychological drama, and intense action, making it a compelling read for fans of suspense and complex character-driven stories.