Review of Quest: Finding Freddie

[David Samanthaa]

[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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This book, “Quest: Finding Freddie” by Thomas Richard Spradlin, begins with the disappearance of Frederick Nachman, a prominent businessman, who vanished while on a business trip to Lagos, Nigeria. His wife, Ruth, reaches out to the author, Thomas, who works for a legal firm, to go and investigate this disappearance, which she believes is uncanny and suspicious because of the political tension between Israel and African countries. It is amidst this charged political climate that Nachman, who is a Swedish-born Jew with American residency, goes missing, raising concerns for his safety.
 
Equipped with his intelligence, network, and a substantial amount of cash, Spradlin manoeuvres through the perilous and unpredictable streets of Lagos. He ventures into the city's dark side, depending on tips, instincts, and relentless perseverance to uncover any sign of Nachman. Spradlin's journey is a testament to resourcefulness and determination. 
 
I appreciated how the book skillfully integrates historical context, offering an intriguing look into Nigeria after colonial rule. It highlights the political atmosphere of that era, especially the anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic attitudes found in parts of Nigerian society. This historical setting enriches the main mystery, adding layers of depth and interest. I also loved that this book, "Quest: Finding Freddie," is written in a straightforward and captivating manner. Spradlin employs vivid descriptions to bring Lagos and its inhabitants to life. The use of footnotes enriches the story, providing additional historical context for those who want to explore further.
 
One thing I would applaud the author for is his loyalty and determination. He uses his familiarity with the region, earns the trust of the locals, and manoeuvres through a system where money often holds more sway than words. This part of the story is especially captivating, highlighting the significance of human connections and strategic negotiations in reaching an almost unattainable objective.
 
This book is an intriguing read for anyone who enjoys stories about global intrigue, historical fiction, or real-life examples of human perseverance and cleverness. I didn't have anything that I hated about this book, so I would rate it five out of five stars.

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Quest: Finding Freddie
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