"The Hoax" is a novel by Clifford Irving that tells the story of a con artist who fabricates a biography of the elusive artist Howard Hughes. Set in the 1970s, the narrative explores themes of deception, ambition, and the nature of truth in the world of publishing. Irving's protagonist, driven by a desire for fame and fortune, successfully convinces a major publisher of the authenticity of his work. As the hoax unfolds, it raises questions about the ethics of storytelling and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their dreams.