The Last King Of Scotland

A Chilling Tale of Power, Deception, and Moral Compromise

The Last King of Scotland (1999) by Giles Foden, published by Faber and Faber, is a gripping blend of historical fact and literary fiction set in 1970s Uganda during the brutal reign of dictator Idi Amin. Through the eyes of a young Scottish doctor, this acclaimed novel offers a haunting exploration of complicity, colonial legacy, and the allure of unchecked power.

One Man’s Journey Into the Heart of Darkness

Nicholas Garrigan arrives in Uganda seeking adventure and purpose, but what begins as an idealistic posting quickly spirals into a nightmare. Drawn into Amin’s inner circle, Garrigan becomes the dictator’s personal physician—and reluctant confidant. As atrocities mount and paranoia deepens, Garrigan finds himself trapped in a dangerous web where survival may come at the cost of his conscience.

Critically Acclaimed, Darkly Compelling

Winner of the Whitbread First Novel Award, The Last King of Scotland masterfully blends political thriller and psychological drama. Foden’s taut prose and vivid historical insight create a story that is as unsettling as it is unforgettable. Ideal for readers of Graham Greene, John le Carré, or historical fiction that confronts the dark underbelly of power.