A political thriller set against the backdrop of a tumultuous American election, 'Preserve and Protect' by Allen Drury exploded onto the literary scene in 1968. Coming at a time of profound national unrest, with the Vietnam War raging and domestic divisions deepening, the novel offered readers a dramatic and often cynical glimpse into the corridors of power. As the fourth installment in Drury's acclaimed 'Advise and Consent' series, it capitalized on an established readership eager for more of his intricate political machinations. Its immediate popularity underscored a public fascination with Washington D.C.'s hidden battles, turning the book into a significant cultural touchstone for understanding the era's anxieties and political climate, cementing its status as a major bestseller in a year defined by dramatic events.
What it is
'Preserve and Protect' plunges readers into the heart of a chaotic American presidential election following the sudden death of the incumbent President, Harley Hudson. The narrative centers on a contentious political convention where Vice President Orrin Knox vies for the nomination against a backdrop of backroom deals, ideological clashes, and personal vendettas. Drury masterfully weaves multiple plotlines, exploring the cutthroat ambition of politicians, the maneuvering of party factions, and the often-cynical influence of the media. Key characters, including the ambitious Senator Lafe Smith and the idealistic Senator Anderson, grapple with moral dilemmas and political expediency, reflecting the complex, often morally ambiguous landscape of national politics. The novel's strength lies in its ability to dramatize the intense pressures and high stakes involved in selecting a nation's leader.
How it came to be
Allen Drury, a former journalist with extensive experience covering the U.S. Senate, drew heavily on his insider knowledge of Washington D.C. for 'Preserve and Protect.' This novel followed his Pulitzer Prize-winning 'Advise and Consent' (1959) and its sequels, benefiting from a well-established universe and characters. Drury's inspiration stemmed from his desire to explore the raw, often brutal realities of presidential politics, particularly the intricate and often manipulative process of a national convention. While specific challenges during the writing of this particular installment are less documented than his first blockbuster, Drury was known for his meticulous research and detailed character development, crafting narratives that felt authentically rooted in the political arena. Doubleday, his established publisher, likely saw immense potential in another Drury political thriller, facilitating a smooth publishing process given his track record.
How many it sold
'Preserve and Protect' proved to be another commercial success for Allen Drury, reinforcing his reputation as a master of the political thriller genre. It achieved significant bestseller status, ranking as the Publishers Weekly #6 Bestselling Novel of 1968. This achievement placed it among the year's most widely read books, indicating substantial print runs and strong consumer demand. While exact sales figures can be elusive for historical titles, its top-ten ranking suggests sales easily in the hundreds of thousands of copies, likely exceeding half a million. Its popularity was fueled by bookstore sales and potentially book club selections, reaching a broad American audience. Although specific awards for this installment are not widely noted, its consistent presence on bestseller lists was a testament to its widespread appeal and commercial triumph in a competitive market.
Why it resonated
The novel resonated deeply with a 1968 American audience grappling with a period of intense social and political upheaval. The Vietnam War, civil rights movements, and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy had shattered public trust and fueled widespread cynicism about government. 'Preserve and Protect' offered a fictionalized, yet eerily familiar, exploration of political infighting, ambition, and moral compromise within the highest echelons of power. Readers were drawn to Drury's unflinching portrayal of Washington's machinations, seeing reflections of their own disillusionment and concern for the nation's future. Its fast-paced narrative and complex characters provided both an escape and a lens through which to process the turbulent realities of the era, capturing the public's mood for political drama and insight.
Impact today
While 'Preserve and Protect' may not possess the singular iconic status of its predecessor, 'Advise and Consent,' it remains a significant entry in Allen Drury's celebrated political series and a noteworthy example of the 1960s political thriller. It solidified Drury's influence on the genre, demonstrating how complex character development and insider political drama could captivate a mass audience. The novel, like the entire series, contributed to establishing a template for subsequent political fiction, emphasizing realism and high-stakes maneuvering. Although it hasn't received modern film or theater adaptations, its continued availability in print and its presence in discussions of classic American political literature attest to its enduring relevance. It offers contemporary readers a valuable historical snapshot of American political anxieties and narrative styles from a pivotal decade.
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