Title: A Question of Taste: A Tale of Political Intrigue
Author: Keith Salmon
Publisher: Toplink Publishing, LLC
ISBN: 978-1950256570
Pages: 182
Genre: Political Thriller/Suspense
Reviewer: Christina Avina
Hollywood Book Reviews
A tale as old as time itself, there has never been a great civilization without those in power over the masses seeking to control the narrative or monopolize control over the wealth of an empire or nation. From the days of the Roman Empire to the modern world governments led by the United States and beyond, there will always be those in power who seek control by any means, and the fight to bring this corruption to light can be one of the deadliest – and at times the most impossible task a person can undertake.
It is that fight which becomes the center of author Keith Salmon’s political thriller and suspense novel, A Question of Taste: A Tale of Political Intrigue. Exploring what would happen when leaders around the world began to seek nefarious means of keeping their governments from reaching bankruptcy, the novel focuses on journalist Gavin Henderson, whose work uncovers this wide-range conspiracy and he must decide whether to heed the advice not to publish his findings or speak the truth, come whatever may happen.
The author did such an incredible job of creating intrigue and mystery throughout this narrative. The secretive meetings in backroom deals, and the tension which the author subtly brought into everyday conversations amongst the characters was remarkable to behold. The imagery really brought these settings to life effortlessly through the author’s writing style, and the exploration of such powerful themes as government conspiracy and the far reach of those in power over the masses was woven neatly throughout the story itself. The well-rounded nature of these characters was great to see as well, getting every perspective on the subjects while also providing the sense of suspicion around a lot of the characters, never knowing who the reader or the protagonist could really trust, all emphasized even more so with the use of the first person perspective.
This novel will be greatly appreciated by readers who thoroughly enjoy political thrillers, especially those which involve a sense of mystery, suspense, drama, international intrigue, and conspiracy theories. The fast pace of the narrative and the chilling actions those in power take throughout the narrative, as well as the clever way the author explores these greater themes using a story device – such as the consumption of meat products around the world, especially in the UK, and how that business can be impacted and force those in power to make life-altering decisions, was so creative and engaging to get lost in as a reader.