I'm sorry, but this book was a laugher when it was written, and it's a laugher now. Improbable premise, shallow detail and predictable finish. It's even funnier now in the light of history, and a good reason why fictional characters should be.. FICTIONAL. Archer has no concept of American politics.

"The day of the jackall". Forsyth's story about a plot to kill De Gaulle is much more frightening. Archers' book is OK, but not on the same level. "Shall we tell the President" is perfect on alonghaul flight, or a long winternight.

Originally this book was written with Sen. Edward Kennedy being the President, it was written in 1977 when the possibility was still there. Later Archer reworked the book to fit an existing character. I have yet to find the book as written with Kennedy as the President. This is a short little read (compared to the long novels of K&A and the Prodigal Daughter) that is well worth it. Taken on its own it is a great spy novel. FBI Agent Mark Andrews has just six days to locate a would-be assassin, and he's feeling the heat. Shall We Tell the President is a fast passed book that leaves the reader wanting more.

While Jeffrey Archer's previous 2 books, "Kane & Abel," and "The Prodigal Daughter," are are romance, politics, business, and a blend of history, with creativity, "Shall We Tell the President," is a blend of politics and law enforcement on a level that most of us probably haven't considered is possible.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, because Mr. Archer, being a master at his craft, created so many word pictures that you become part of the story.

Watching Senate hearings, as a result of reading this book, I have more questions in mind.

There are many surprizes, especially in the last 50 pages. And there are some speeches in this story that provide the readers with a great deal to think about, in terms of homeland security.

It's a fast read -- not too heavy, yet this book will stretch your mind, as a good book should.

Sequentially, this book seems to follow Kane and Abel and The Prodigal Daughter. However, it is more a thriller rather than drama as in the other two books. The President is now in danger of being assassinated and things must be done fast. The narrative is pacy and never tedious. Archer's gift of plot and fluent writing keep us turning the pages once again.