Preserve and Protect

Preserve and Protect follows the political turmoil that ensues after a U.S. President dies in a suspicious plane crash. The novel centers on the battle for presidential succession and party nomination between Secretary of State Orrin Knox and California Governor Ted Jason. The story takes place against a backdrop of Cold War tensions and domestic political maneuvering within the Majority Party. The political stakes intensify as Knox and Jason navigate party politics, personal ambitions, and national security concerns during their campaigns. The narrative culminates in a dramatic confrontation at a political convention, leaving readers with an open-ended conclusion. This ending sets up two alternate sequel novels that explore different possible outcomes of the events. The novel examines themes of power, democracy, and political responsibility in American governance. Through its portrayal of political machinations and succession crisis, the book raises questions about leadership and national stability during times of uncertainty.

Readers note this is one of the darker entries in Drury's political series, with more complex plotting than previous books. The cliffhanger ending generates strong reactions. Readers praise: - The realism of political maneuvering and backroom deals - Character development, particularly Ted Jason's arc - The building tension throughout the narrative Common criticisms: - Pacing issues in the first third - Too many subplots that don't fully connect - Some find it hard to follow without reading previous books Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (137 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (28 reviews) One reader on Goodreads notes: "The political intrigue feels more relevant today than when it was written." Several Amazon reviewers mention frustration with the ending, with one calling it "a cheap trick to sell the next book." Multiple reviews suggest reading the series in order, as this book relies heavily on prior character relationships.

Seven Days in May by Fletcher Knebel The plot centers on a military conspiracy to overthrow the U.S. President during a period of Cold War tensions and constitutional crisis.

The Best Man by Gore Vidal A political drama that unfolds during a presidential nomination contest between candidates with opposing ideologies and personal conflicts.

The Man by Irving Wallace The story follows the succession crisis and political upheaval when an African American unexpectedly becomes President through constitutional processes.

Executive Orders by Tom Clancy The narrative details the challenges faced by a newly elevated President after a catastrophic attack eliminates most of the government leadership.

Echo House by Ward Just The book traces three generations of a political family through Washington's power corridors and party machinery.

🔸 The novel is part of a six-book series that began with "Advise and Consent" (1959), which spent 102 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list. 🔸 Author Allen Drury worked as a Senate correspondent for United Press International, giving him insider knowledge of Washington politics that he used to craft his novels. 🔸 "Preserve and Protect" (1968) was written during the height of the Cold War, reflecting real-world tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. 🔸 The book's plot involving a presidential succession crisis was particularly relevant as it was published just five years after President Kennedy's assassination. 🔸 The novel features two alternate endings, published in separate subsequent books: "Come Nineveh, Come Tyre" and "The Promise of Joy" (both 1973), allowing readers to choose their preferred conclusion.