Assessment:
Plot: Benny Goldfarb is a smooth-talking private detective who gets sucked into the complex world of Colombian politics, drug cartels, and gun-toting mercenaries, when his love interest Rosa asks him to help save her missing brother Enrique. The result is a fast-paced adventure through Colombia as Benny, Rosa, and their cab driver Umberto race to find Enrique before it's too late.
Prose/Style: Feigenbaum's prose is simple--though mostly effective--as it unravels the adventures of Benny and his cohorts; the reader is given what is needed to paint a narrative picture without deviating into fluff or overly complex prose. This simplicity allows the story to keep moving without too many stalls along the way.
Originality: A damsel-in-distress needing rescue from a private detective is formulaic; however, the chase through Colombia adds a bit of color and flair. Feigenbaum's familiarity with Colombian history, customs, and conflict--and his ability to keep the reader engaged--add a layer of interest to this standard detective tale.
Character Development/Execution: Benny Goldfarb is a fun character who has a few tricks up his sleeve--he's resourceful, passionate, and not afraid to resort to violence (when necessary); while still remaining morally upright, spiritual, and oddly old-fashioned. Rosa and Umberto, as Benny's sidekicks, add a sense of camaraderie to the narrative that makes it more enjoyable to read.
Date Submitted: May 22, 2021
Benny Goldfarb is a smooth-talking private detective who gets sucked into the complex world of Colombian politics, drug cartels, and gun-toting mercenaries, when his love interest Rosa asks him to help save her missing brother Enrique. The result is a fast-paced adventure through Colombia as Benny, Rosa, and their cab driver Umberto race to find Enrique before it's too late.
Feigenbaum's prose is simple--though mostly effective--as it unravels the adventures of Benny and his cohorts; the reader is given what is needed to paint a narrative picture without deviating into fluff or overly complex prose. This simplicity allows the story to keep moving without too many stalls along the way.
A damsel-in-distress needing rescue from a private detective is formulaic; however, the chase through Colombia adds a bit of color and flair. Feigenbaum's familiarity with Colombian history, customs, and conflict--and his ability to keep the reader engaged--add a layer of interest to this standard detective tale.
Benny Goldfarb is a fun character who has a few tricks up his sleeve--he's resourceful, passionate, and not afraid to resort to violence (when necessary); while still remaining morally upright, spiritual, and oddly old-fashioned. Rosa and Umberto, as Benny's sidekicks, add a sense of camaraderie to the narrative that makes it more enjoyable to read.