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Vendetta: In Pursuit of a Scoundrel
Bert Silva, author
They had trusted him. He was smart, charismatic and most important of all---convinced them he could save the company. Instead, he stole from them, murdered, and escaped with millions of embezzled loot. No one appeared willing or capable of doing anything about it. The investment company had been an offshore rogue mismanaged by incompetent executives. One man, on a desperate voyage to an island hideaway, seeks vengeance for his father's death at the risk of his own life.
Plot/Idea: 4 out of 10
Originality: 4 out of 10
Prose: 4 out of 10
Character/Execution: 3 out of 10
Overall: 3.75 out of 10
Assessment:
Silva provides promising short, punchy beginning chapters as the murder of investment broker Matthew Serling propels his son Hank on a voyage, first of revenge, later of self-understanding. Coincidence takes too large a role in the plot, as former SEAL Glen Maddox links up with fugitive crook Wilbur Gammon, who arranged Matthew's murder. Moreover, the stumbling plot inertia of the Isle de la Boca scenes, offering "native" girls speaking fragmented English, leave the reader benumbed. The authentic-sounding descriptions of sailing offer more value than the reflections on the dubious merits of seeking revenge.
Date Submitted: July 22, 2016
