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Penguin Random House South Africa

Categories: Classics, Fiction, International Fiction, Adult, New Releases
ISBN: 9780241799918
Published: March 2026
Imprint: Penguin Classics
Page Extent: 160
Format: Paperback
RRP 275.00

Operation Heartbreak

Duff Cooper

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Paperback

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About the book

'Not a word is wasted in this gem of a 1950 novel, inspired by the secret wartime plan' The Times
A moving reimagining of the man at the heart of Operation Mincemeat

William Maryngton has just one dream: to fight for his country, as his late father did. Devoted and honourable, he knows no fear - yet somehow, he always misses the battle; too young for the First World War, too old for the Second. Operation Heartbreak follows Willie's life, through youthful idealism, love affairs and disappointed hopes, until, finally, he gets the chance to make a difference. Duff Cooper's bittersweet novel, inspired by the real events of Operation Mincemeat, is a poignant tale of dreams of glory, and what it means to be true.
'Supremely moving ......

About the Author

Duff Cooper

Duff Cooper

Alfred Duff Cooper was a statesman, diplomat and author. Born in 1890, he won the DSO as a second lieutenant in the First World War, and entered Parliament in 1923. His life was devoted to politics until 1938 when, as First Lord of the Admiralty, he resigned in protest at the Munich Agreement. Called back to office by Churchill in 1940, his wartime career culminated in his appointment as ambassador to France. Shortly before his death he was made 1st Viscount Norwich. Among his best-known books are Talleyrand, Operation Heartbreak and his autobiography, Old Men Forget. He died in 1954.

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