The famous novel about three Nazi generals and a brutal wartime sex crime--and the inspiration for the 1967 film. When a Polish prostitute is murdered in 1942, the suspects come down to three German generals. But nothing happens. Then, in 1944, when the trio gathers again, another killing occurs. However, a coup against Hitler halts the investigations. Then, in 1956, a third slaying takes place-and it's clear that this time, the murderer must be caught.