Nelson DeMille is a funny guy. Not overtly, but rolling-your-eyes funny. The kind of guy you would have liked to hang out with in high school. Always a chuckle, but with a sparkle of intelligence gleaming in his eyes.
In The Lion, DeMille shows us in Micky-Spillane fashion. John Corey and his wife, Kate Mayfield, are members of a joint task force of FBI agents and retired New York cops. Kate is FBI; John, a retired cop. Together, they lead us into a world of daring-do.
Taking a break from the stresses of work, they go skydiving. Kahlil Asad, the Lion, shows up to exact revenge for past grievances - midair. During a tandem jump, Kahlil attaches himself to Kate and, in a grand show of retribution, slices her throat in full view of a helpless John. Kahlil promises he will soon be back for John and leaves him to deal with his dying wife.
In this lion and tiger dance, each has surprises for the other on their way to the endgame.
DeMille’s writing is sharp, witty, and clever. Each of his characters have personalities that explode in color, framing a picture for the reader. His plot moves at a consistent pace, drawing the reader deeper into the story.
DeMille further adds interest to his characters by donating the names of philanthropic friends to the cast in exchange for a hefty donation to the charity of their choice.
DeMille is succinct in his words. I was surprised that I had read the last line, indeed, the last page, for when I flipped it over, I found the acknowledgements.
Guess I’ll just have to read his next book!
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