SOLVED. Failed assassination attempt on dictator resulting in man going on the run in Europe. Results in him being trapped underground. [s]

[Bob]

I read this book in 1990 while at school and it was a text given out in literacy. Not sure when it was written. Story is all about a man who attempts to assassinate an unnamed dictator but it is clearly Hitler. He fails and is then chased by soldiers across Europe resulting in him being hidden underground. I am sure there is a scene where he uses part of an animal to make a crossbow and another where he almost drowns and is covered in mud. Please help this has driven me mad for 20 years!

[Kathy]

This is Rogue Male by Geoffrey Household. It was filmed in 1941 as Man Hunt.

[Kate]

Bob, was Kathy's suggestion your book?

[Bob]

I ordered the book, it arrived and a couple of days ago I finished reading it. I am so pleased to say it was the book I was searching for and even better it was good, i mean very good. As I get older I find my mind plays tricks and I remember things better than what they actually were, this was the opposite. I enjoyed this book so much and can not believe how many other books and films it has clearly influenced over the years.

I owe Kathy so much, she is clearly a genius and has gone into my top ten greatest people ever.

[Kathy]

Wow! Bob, you've just made my day!