Review: Deceit

Tom Valle is a small town Californian journalist. He is sent out to report on a road accident one day, but whilst looking into the case, he discovers that various things do not tally. Investigating further, he unearths an enormous conspiracy and realises that his own life is in grave danger.

Having recently read DERAILED and DETOUR from the same author, I knew exactly what to expect when it came to DECEIT. As ever, James Siegel does not disappoint. He has written an intense tale that moves at a breakneck pace. Furthermore, he seems to have reduced the inverisimilitude that wracked his previous novels. It was simply did not seem possible for all the events that were described to take place, whereas his latest novel seems more believable. As ever, DECEIT would be excellent cinematic fare and Universal Pictures have already purchased the screen rights, with the film to be produced by Lorenzo Di Bonaventura.

Siegel also triumphs in this novel with his characterisation. In previous books, I had noticed that the characters had somewhat of a cardboard element, whereas here, protagonists such as Tom Valle seem real, particularly because of the flaws that they display. Valle is portrayed as a complicated person, someone who was carried away by enthusiasm and then unable to break out of his downward spiral, leading to his ultimate humiliation and downfall. The novel is made even more real by Siegel’s decision to use a first person narrative, which makes for a particularly interesting conclusion. Siegel also seems to recreate small town California particularly well.

There are many, many conspiracy thrillers available today, but DECEIT stands out from the crowd. Its intricate plotting, good character development and action-packed narrative mean that it will appeal to any mystery or thriller fan. There is no doubt that Siegel is well aware of how to combine all the ingredients to make a very exciting thriller.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM

Book Review: Deceit