08.08.09
Posted in Action Suspense, Mysteries, Recent Publication at 7:12 am by Easley Wayne
Risk by Colin Harrison
In Risk, Colin Harrison tells the story of George Young, an insurance company attorney who normally investigates insurance claims for possible fraud. George is asked by the widow of the firms founder to investigate her son’s death and determine what was on his mind during the final hours before his death.
Risk is a narrative about a guy who acts out of duty, rather than self interest, and gets into situations that are very dangerous. Where does duty become foolishness? George’s main problem is how to get out of challenging predicaments while still doing his duty.
Risk is a very different novel in today’s publishing world. It is a detective story without a crime. Risk is an action, suspense novel without shootings, explosions, nudity or passionate sex scenes. Instead of analyzing the causes of the victim’s death, Risk inquires into the behavior of the deceased, hoping to learn about his thoughts and feelings immediately before his death. The details discovered during the investigative journey are fascinating to this reader.
The narration in Risk is meticulous and vivid. The characters are mostly cosmetic, except for the main character, George Young. George tells the story and invites us into his thoughts. As George narrates the action he discusses his emotions, shares his reluctance, fears, and doubts.
George is an unusual detective. He talks to his wife about his struggles at work and the problems he has with his investigation. He even listens to her suggestions. George’s actions teach us that patience and persistence can lead to a solution, and that solving a problem may uncover facts not anticipated.
In Risk, the story demonstrates that things are seldom what them seem, and that if we are not careful and discreet, our good intentions may lead us into devilish predicaments. I recommend this novel, it is a fun read.
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