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This novel recounts the story of Leo Kirkland. He was an Australian air force pilot in North Korea and often thinks about the good and bad moments of this period of his life. Once, he and his friend, Jack, took a one-day trip to Matsuyama. They met a young lady named Michiko. The moment Leo set his eyes on her, he was smitten. Michiko felt the same way about him. Sadly, their love story was short-lived, and Leo was sent back to Australia. Currently, Leo works as a secret service agent. His daughter, Janine, does not know about it. One day, an assassination attempt is made on Leo’s life. He realizes that his agency is behind it. Throughout this journey, Leo must protect his daughter and untangle a web of lies and deceit.
Knight dives into Leo’s emotions and feelings. He gives a detailed account of his struggles and inner thoughts. For instance, when Leo returned from the Vietnam conflict, he was a different man. The author effectively shows how Leo struggled with mixed emotions during this period. For example, he no longer had feelings for his wife, Gloria. It took such a toll on him mentally that he resigned from his job and joined the security intelligence business. Knight also reveals the other demons Leo wrestles with. He has a drinking problem, and he has a hard time quitting. The past keeps haunting him, and he wishes he knew what happened to Michiko. This brief affair made him happy and sad at the same time because he never knew why Michiko never replied to his letters. He never forgot her. The author shares the protagonist’s inner struggles with deep honesty. Readers who enjoy digging deep into the psychological churnings of the characters will undoubtedly enjoy this novel.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review