Terrifically sharp and wholly entertaining…
Sharp dialogue and propulsive plotting sweep readers into an atmospheric historical narrative in Ring’s second installment in The Scandalous Memoirs of General John Torrance. 1880. Jack is temporarily assigned to the obscure British Intelligence Department’s Balkans, Turkey, and Africa Desk, a mix of low-priority tasks. Viewing it as an opportunity, he immerses himself in Arabic lessons and studies Islam and Ottoman politics. Amidst Egyptian rebellion, Jack’s powerful connections secure him a crucial mission to Cairo, aiming to aid in freeing the Egyptians from Constantinople’s control. Jack’s reflective first-person narration draws readers into his innermost thoughts, while each location, from luxurious cabins to vast seascapes, shapes the narrative’s tone. References to real historical events and societal norms create an authentic backdrop, with landmarks like the Simplon Tunnel and the assassination of the Tsar adding depth to the setting. Natural and dynamic dialogue exchanges drive the plot forward, while themes of relationships, identity, and the passage of time prompt reflection and engagement.
Readers will gladly immerse themselves in this rich and complex tale of adventure and human drama.
Modesty Jack
The Scandalous Memoirs of General John Torrance #2
D.E. Ring
Grinder
Pub date May 14, 2024
ISBN 978-1738095766
Price $2.99 (USD) Kindle edition, $9.99 Paperback
