Precipice by Robert Harris (2024): A Review

Title: Precipice

Author: Robert Harris

Publication Year: 2024

Pages: 464

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genre: Historical fiction, War fiction, thriller

Source: Audiobook @storytel.tr

Opening Sentence: LATE ONE THURSDAY morning at the beginning of July 1914, a young woman with dark wet hair strode long-legged from the Serpentine in Hyde Park along Oxford Street towards Marylebone.

"Precipice" by Robert Harris tells the story of Venetia Stanley and her relationship with UK Prime Minister H. H. Asquith. This historical fiction, inspired by real events, kept me hooked—especially in the final chapters, when I was eager to see how Venetia would handle everything.

Most World War books I’ve read focus on soldiers or civilians in battle. This was my first time seeing the story from politicians’ perspectives, and it made me feel frustrated with how they handled the situation. I enjoyed the mix of romance, espionage, war, and suspense. What stood out most was how real events shaped everything.

I’m not here to judge personal relationships—what matters is how public figures handle responsibilities. As a prime minister, your private life affects the nation. Maybe the affair helped Asquith cope in dark times, but it’s shocking to imagine secret telegrams and codes left in public places or sent by normal mail to your lover. I wonder: if he’d been more attentive during war & cabinet meetings instead of writing or reading love letter, could World War I’s length or at least some part’s of it have changed?

Venetia Stanley, the main character, stood out to me. She’s strong, logical, and often seems to be the only one eventually thinking about the greater good over personal interest.

A police officer investigating the case is the novel’s highlight. His involvement and handling of twists—especially at the end—are impressive, making him as strong a character as Venetia.

And then there’s Churchill! I’ll admit I don’t know much about him from a historical or political perspective, but in the novel, he’s shown as someone who seems to love war and excitement, no matter the consequences. It makes you wonder again: if these powerful figures had acted differently, would the war’s outcome have changed?

That’s what I love about historical fiction—it makes you rethink the past. You wonder if different choices by powerful figures could have changed history. Did their decisions alter the course? Why do a handful of leaders shape millions’ futures? I also questioned why Germany’s army was so strong while the UK struggled, and why France couldn’t hold out longer in either war. It really makes you think about power. I appreciate the novel for prompting these questions while entertaining me!