Review of Quest: Finding Freddie
Posted: 16 Jun 2024, 02:55
[Following is a volunteer review of "Quest: Finding Freddie" by Thomas Richard Spradlin.]
In a period of unrest in Nigeria following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed, the Nigerian head of state, in 1976 and the Israeli raid in Uganda around the same period, it was a dangerous time for anyone with Jewish or Israeli ties in Nigeria. The president and chief executive officer of Nachman International Trading Corporation (NITC), Frederick "Freddie" Nachman, was on a business trip to Nigeria and had not been heard from for a week. All efforts to solicit the help of the American and Swedish embassies have proved futile. The task of finding Freddie eventually falls to Thomas Richard Spraldin, a general partner at Clifford & Warnke law firm, who has some experience of the Nigerian terrain, as he was on official duty there just the previous week. Numerous questions hang in the air, especially revolving around whether Freddie is alive or dead, as well as the circumstances of his disappearance. With no leads and an expired single-entry Nigerian visa, Richard is thrust into an enthralling journey filled with mystery, danger, and unexpected twists.
An atmosphere of uncertainty and tension welcomes readers as they open the first few pages of Thomas Richard Spradlin’s book, Quest: Finding Freddie, especially considering that Freddie is Jewish. The precarious situation faced by individuals with Jewish or Israeli ties in Nigeria during this tumultuous period was well captured by the author, which set the stage for this high-stakes adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
The story is narrated from Richard’s perspective, as he is tasked with the daunting mission of locating the missing Freddie Nachman. Richard is resourceful, determined, and quick-witted, which at least gives him a sliver of hope in making it through the complex circumstances he encounters in his quest. These qualities will also endear him to the readers, as I found myself rooting for him and felt like I was his confidante on his journey.
The author's unique storytelling and engaging writing style are some of the most striking aspects of the book that will catch the reader's attention early on. Richard skillfully weaves together a suspenseful and intriguing tale that will keep readers captivated from start to finish. I found myself excited by the gradually uncovered clues and revealed mysteries behind Freddie's disappearance.
The author's description of Nigerian history and the political dynamics of the era is evidently the result of rigorous research with amazing attention to detail. He gives readers a thorough understanding of the historical background, including details about the Civil War, coups, and Nigeria's sociopolitical climate at the time. He also brings us close to the executions, betrayals, and some of the investigations that took place. This historical context immerses readers in the reality of 1970s Nigeria while also enhancing the narrative and giving it a sense of authenticity.
Furthermore, the author adds emotional depth to the story by exploring the power of friendship through the bonds Richard forms with key characters such as Peter, Chima, and Bosede. These connections are shown to be essential to his path and serve as a powerful reminder of the strength of human connection in the face of difficulty.
In conclusion, Quest: Finding Freddie is an engrossing and thrilling book that provides a vivid depiction of a bold mission against a backdrop of political intrigue and historical turmoil. For readers who enjoy mystery and adventure books, Thomas Richard Spradlin's book is a must-read because of his skillful narrative, extensive historical knowledge, and compelling characters. I cannot think of any aspect of the book I did not like. It was also a professionally edited piece. On that note, I rate the book five out of five stars.
******
Quest: Finding Freddie
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
In a period of unrest in Nigeria following the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed, the Nigerian head of state, in 1976 and the Israeli raid in Uganda around the same period, it was a dangerous time for anyone with Jewish or Israeli ties in Nigeria. The president and chief executive officer of Nachman International Trading Corporation (NITC), Frederick "Freddie" Nachman, was on a business trip to Nigeria and had not been heard from for a week. All efforts to solicit the help of the American and Swedish embassies have proved futile. The task of finding Freddie eventually falls to Thomas Richard Spraldin, a general partner at Clifford & Warnke law firm, who has some experience of the Nigerian terrain, as he was on official duty there just the previous week. Numerous questions hang in the air, especially revolving around whether Freddie is alive or dead, as well as the circumstances of his disappearance. With no leads and an expired single-entry Nigerian visa, Richard is thrust into an enthralling journey filled with mystery, danger, and unexpected twists.
An atmosphere of uncertainty and tension welcomes readers as they open the first few pages of Thomas Richard Spradlin’s book, Quest: Finding Freddie, especially considering that Freddie is Jewish. The precarious situation faced by individuals with Jewish or Israeli ties in Nigeria during this tumultuous period was well captured by the author, which set the stage for this high-stakes adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
The story is narrated from Richard’s perspective, as he is tasked with the daunting mission of locating the missing Freddie Nachman. Richard is resourceful, determined, and quick-witted, which at least gives him a sliver of hope in making it through the complex circumstances he encounters in his quest. These qualities will also endear him to the readers, as I found myself rooting for him and felt like I was his confidante on his journey.
The author's unique storytelling and engaging writing style are some of the most striking aspects of the book that will catch the reader's attention early on. Richard skillfully weaves together a suspenseful and intriguing tale that will keep readers captivated from start to finish. I found myself excited by the gradually uncovered clues and revealed mysteries behind Freddie's disappearance.
The author's description of Nigerian history and the political dynamics of the era is evidently the result of rigorous research with amazing attention to detail. He gives readers a thorough understanding of the historical background, including details about the Civil War, coups, and Nigeria's sociopolitical climate at the time. He also brings us close to the executions, betrayals, and some of the investigations that took place. This historical context immerses readers in the reality of 1970s Nigeria while also enhancing the narrative and giving it a sense of authenticity.
Furthermore, the author adds emotional depth to the story by exploring the power of friendship through the bonds Richard forms with key characters such as Peter, Chima, and Bosede. These connections are shown to be essential to his path and serve as a powerful reminder of the strength of human connection in the face of difficulty.
In conclusion, Quest: Finding Freddie is an engrossing and thrilling book that provides a vivid depiction of a bold mission against a backdrop of political intrigue and historical turmoil. For readers who enjoy mystery and adventure books, Thomas Richard Spradlin's book is a must-read because of his skillful narrative, extensive historical knowledge, and compelling characters. I cannot think of any aspect of the book I did not like. It was also a professionally edited piece. On that note, I rate the book five out of five stars.
******
Quest: Finding Freddie
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon