Flying High

Flying High follows Blackford Oakes, a CIA operative during the 1950s Cold War era, as he undertakes a new mission involving East Germany. After completing training at Yale, Oakes must navigate political intrigue between the CIA, British Intelligence, and Soviet forces. The novel features historical figures like President Eisenhower and key players in international espionage circles of the time. The narrative moves between Washington D.C., London, and various locations behind the Iron Curtain as Oakes works to complete his assignment. The plot combines elements of spy craft, political maneuvering, and personal relationships against the backdrop of heightened Cold War tensions. Historical events and figures are woven into the fictional narrative, creating a detailed snapshot of the era's geopolitical landscape. Buckley's novel examines themes of loyalty, duty, and the moral complexities faced by intelligence operatives during a pivotal period in American history. The story raises questions about the boundaries between national security and individual conscience.

Readers found this political thriller entertaining but not as strong as Buckley's other works. The novel's depiction of Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign resonated with politically-minded readers who lived through that era. Liked: - Technical accuracy about aviation and political campaigns - Inside glimpse of 1960s conservative movement - Fast-paced plot in second half - Authentic portrayal of Goldwater Disliked: - Slow start and uneven pacing - Too much technical detail about planes - Political discussions overshadow story - Characters lack depth One reader noted: "Buckley nails the campaign dynamics but gets lost in aircraft specifications." Another commented: "More a political time capsule than a thriller." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (24 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.5/5 (12 ratings) The book appeals most to readers interested in 1960s conservative politics or aviation details rather than those seeking pure entertainment.

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🔷 Though Flying High focuses on Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign, William F. Buckley Jr. maintained a complex relationship with Goldwater, sometimes criticizing his positions while supporting his conservative principles. 🔷 The book was published in 2008, making it one of Buckley's final works before his death that same year. He wrote it while battling the effects of diabetes and emphysema. 🔷 Barry Goldwater's campaign slogan "In your heart, you know he's right" was famously countered by his opponents with "In your guts, you know he's nuts" - a pivotal moment discussed in the book. 🔷 William F. Buckley Jr. founded National Review magazine in 1955 and hosted the influential TV show "Firing Line" for 33 years, making him uniquely positioned to chronicle the rise of modern American conservatism. 🔷 The 1964 presidential election, which is central to the book's narrative, saw one of the largest electoral defeats in U.S. history, with Goldwater winning only six states against Lyndon B. Johnson.