A superb collection of suspense and thriller stories by Frederick Forsyth, first published in 2001. Unlike Forsyth's full-length espionage novels, this volume contains five novellas and short stories, each showcasing his trademark realism, meticulous research, and ingenious plotting.

The title story, "The Veteran," follows an elderly decorated veteran of World War II who is assaulted by a gang of young criminals in London. The attackers believe they have chosen an easy victim, but they soon discover that the quiet old man possesses extraordinary courage, discipline, and a remarkable past. The story unfolds into a powerful tale of justice, honor, and unexpected consequences.

The remaining stories explore a variety of thriller themes:

• "The Art of the Matter" – An international art theft and insurance fraud mystery.
• "The Miracle" – A heartwarming tale involving faith, compassion, and an unexpected medical outcome.
• "The Citizen" – A tense revenge story rooted in wartime atrocities and long-delayed justice.
• "Whispering Wind" – A suspenseful adventure involving Native American history, greed, and hidden treasure.

Each story differs in tone but shares Forsyth's strengths: believable characters, carefully researched settings, moral dilemmas, and satisfying twists. The collection ranges from espionage and crime to historical drama and human-interest stories, offering more emotional variety than his traditional novels.