Review of Quest: Finding Freddie

[Diana Lowery]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Quest: Finding Freddie" by Thomas Richard Spradlin.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Thomas Richard Spradlin's writing style combines all the positives of John Grisham and James Patterson without any of the negatives from those authors. Quest: Finding Freddie is based on an actual case that Spradlin worked on in his position with a prestigious law firm. Set in Nigeria in 1979, the author narrates an adventure that is hard to believe.

Political intrigue is not my favorite genre, but I was drawn in by the opportunity to learn some African culture. I was pleased that the author included details about the different tribes, their food, and their clothing. Some of the dialog was in Pidgin English, providing more learning opportunities. In addition, the author used footnotes after each chapter with facts not included in the narrative. I was also pleased that the political aspects were minimal but served as a necessary background for the adventures of the characters.

The protagonist, known as Richard in the story, takes on what seems to be an impossible quest to locate a man who has disappeared while on a business trip to Nigeria. Because Spradlin kept all papers, journals, correspondence, and receipts from this case, he was able to recreate the tale meticulously. Through the harrowing ordeal, I kept expecting the worst but hoping for the best.

My favorite parts were the italicized comments that Richard makes to himself. They were usually snide remarks that made me smile. My favorite character was Chima, the man hired by Richard as a driver, who became an active participant in the search for the missing man. His honesty, kindness, and loyalty served as a foil to the blood-thirsty antagonists.

There were a few errors and typos, but not enough to deduct any points. My rating is five out of five. I found nothing to dislike. With summer vacation time beginning, reading Quest: Finding Freddie would be a perfect way to keep occupied while traveling.

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Quest: Finding Freddie
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[Jane Gent]

I would just like to say I’m new here and having a few problems getting ‘in to the swing’ of reviewing. This is very helpful and a great review. I now want to read a book I was not previously interested in, so thank you.

[Diana Lowery]

I would just like to say I’m new here and having a few problems getting ‘in to the swing’ of reviewing. This is very helpful and a great review. I now want to read a book I was not previously interested in, so thank you.

Welcome, Jane. I think we all struggled with getting into the swing of reviewing. I appreciate your comment.