Eight stars
Returning to read some of Nelson DeMille's early work, I came upon one of his first thrillers. In a story that is as poignant today and when it was penned, DeMille takes the reader on an adventure like no other, where bloodshed is common and terror a part of the game. Full of political nuances with Middle East peace at its core, this was an enthralling piece that had a little of everything. DeMille keeps the reader hooked until the very end.
With a potentially life-changing peace conference to bring peace between Israel and the Palestinians set to take place at the U.N., there is a sense of calm. The Israeli delegation is prepared to travel on two Concorde jets, waiting at Lod Airport. With hope in their eyes and some trepidation keeping them grounded, the delegation takes off and prepares for the flight. When a bomb detonates in the tail of one jet, sending it crashing into the desert with no survivors, panic ensues in the second. A crash Lansing in the middle of nowhere is all the group can expect, as they prepare for whatever awaits them.
With little idea of where they are or how to survive, the remaining Israelis will have to prepare for the worst, though there is high hope that their government will find and rescue them. When gunfire commences, it becomes apparent that this was a plot by the Palestinians and that an armed force is slinking closer to take them out. Working to battle against the armed men, the group tries their best to defend territory and personal dignity, all while the rescue mission seems less likely.
With no idea where their people have gone, the Israeli government holds panicked meetings and tries to make sense of what has happened. A strong-willed prime minister tries to herd cats and get answers for all, while knowing that failure to rescue his countrymen could be disastrous. With bloodshed high and willpower shaky, there will have to be some resolution to the stranded Israelis and a decision made how to handle the apparent Palestinian involvement in the attack. DeMille presents a stunning story that has all the elements for a great thriller.
I have long enjoyed the work of Nelson DeMille, though have become used to his sharp wit and well-placed innuendo. This book is nothing like that, choosing a deeper and more serious theme throughout, with only a few lighthearted moments. The narrative is well-paced, though there are times it appears too divided to get an impactful story. While some have criticised that it lacks direction, I can see where things are headed and why DeMille chose this approach. DeMillie tells the story from a number of perspectives to offer a keen insight into the sentiments of many, which enriches things. A number of characters offer flavour to the story and perspectives to enrich the reading experience. There are many, I will admit, but this was a necessity to get the full picture.
Plot points emerge and develop throughout the story, which helped me feel the sense of urgency and despair throughout the piece. I loved hw things developed well and kept me on the edge of my seat. While the Israeli plight theme is nothing new, the means by which this was explored left me quite entertained. DeMille's early work surely does not compare to the later stories, though there is a sense of depth and real interest in showing the reader true themes. This is a great asset for the larger reading experience and that a dedicated and open-minded reader will discover.
Kudos, Mr. DeMille, for a great story from your early writing days!
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