Review of Knight's Tour

[Ifionayi Onosetale]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Knight's Tour" by Earl James.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Earl James's Knight's Tour is an in-depth study of the mind of Morrow, a seasoned confidence trickster, as he elaborately coordinates an extended confidence trick complete with a mock sale by auction and a one-million-dollar vase. The main characters are Morrow, the mastermind; Lexy, the subtle signaler; and Ghost, the vigilant lookout. Thus, the splicing of deception, strategies, and high stakes together in the story creates a dramatically comprehensive narrative.

What impresses me in the book is the plotting in detail and strategic depth, like, for example, the auction scene. How it leads up to Hanley bidding is just a masterclass in both tension and strategy, showing how Morrow can manipulate the situation, with subtle signals from Lexy as part of the great planning required. 

In fact, the kernel of the book consists of the minute details of preparation and execution of the mechanics involved in the con, which make for a very interesting insight into the world of the con. Furthermore, there is an artful use of misdirection and psychological manipulation with these aspects. The book was exceptionally well edited and error-free.

In my view, there was nothing that could be liked less about this book. The book was a great mix of fiction and reality. From the characters to the settings down to the plot, all was well mixed to bring out a great book. Beyond the plots and all, the life lessons that are intertwined between the pages of this book make it very unique in itself. Risk and reward, deception, and truth were well labeled throughout the book.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars; it deserves nothing less. This book has been lauded for its plotting and depths in strategy, right from the auction scene where Hanley bids. Insightful comments have been provided in the book regarding how the artistry, preparations, and executions were made. 

The misdirections and their psychological manipulations had layers upon layers. This book is a great balance between fiction and fact, with life lessons on risk and reward, deception, and truth that stand the test of time. I would recommend this book to readers who like a good, thought-provoking novel and those interested in the mechanics of con artistry and psychological manipulations.

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Knight's Tour
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