Reviews

BOOKLIFE REVIEWS - PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY, August 19 & 26, 2024

Fratello mixes spy-thriller excitement with spiritual reflection in this fleet-footed debut revolving around soldier Myron (aka Sarge), and techie Bernie, who reunite after a 45-year-long hiatus from fighting together in the Vietnam War. Something has gone very awry in one of Sarge's assignments as an undercover NSA operative, forcing him to turn to Bernie, the only person outside his militaristic world he can think of—"I'm on the wrong side of the wrong people. Right now, I'm a dead man walking" Sarge pleads. Bernie's ready for action, and together the two embark on an epic escape trip, dodging surveillance, security operatives, and ghosts from their pasts, all in an effort to save Sarge's life.

Spirituality surfaces throughout the book, as Sarge and Bernie meet an array of colorful characters who push them to reflect on the greater meaning of life. Quotes by Buddha, musings on the Bhagavad Gita, and Zen Buddhism are interspersed among all the action, making the high-speed, cross-country escape somewhat of a catalyst for pondering the non-attachment and rootlessness that comes with being on the road. In one particularly moving scene, as Sarge and Bernie open up to a man called The Professor, Sarge reflects that "everyone here has something that they are walking away from or maybe just left behind," prompting readers to contemplate just what Sarge and Bernie may be running from—or towards.

Fratello leaves the minutiae of Sarge's predicament rather hazy, allowing space for the duo—and readers—to sink into their journey as they cultivate a deep friendship and personal transformation along the way. Each chapter is punctuated with quirky characters attempting some version of that journey in their own lives, a strength of the novel that, though not as flashy as its drug cartel regimes and Russian threats, carries serious weight, making this entertaining read surprisingly discerning.

Takeaway: A lively escape turns into a reflection on life in this discerning thriller.

Comparable Titles: Ian Fleming's Diamonds are Forever, Eric Ambler's Epitaph for a Spy. 

AMAZON READER REVIEWS

Daphne Kenyon

5.0 out of 5 stars A compelling and uplifting read

Way of the Bow is a compelling adventure story with a philosophical underpinning, heavy on Buddhism. The book is full of interesting characters and reflects the author's positive view of human nature. If you want to read something that is well written, thought provoking, and uplifting, I highly recommend this novel.

Diane Ross

4.0 out of 5 stars Would make a great action/adventure film

Initially, I didn't realize this book is based on a screen play, but it makes sense: reading it is like watching a really well done action/adventure flick. The action is well-paced and varied. The protagonists are engaging and likeable. There's a nice balance between physical prowess and intellectual ability. The supporting characters are quirky and the plot twisted and turned often enough to keep me guessing. The only gripe I have is that the Zen philosophy discussions were a bit much - less would still have fleshed out the character, without slowing the pace.

Kek

5.0 out of 5 stars A rollicking fun read!

Buddies from the Vietnam war, Bernie and Sarge, reunite after 45 years. Sarge is in deep trouble with his employer, the NSA, after an undercover assignment fails in Central America. He is being pursued relentlessly and the only person who can help him is Bernie, a computer whiz and someone not tracked by the NSA. Bernie immediately agrees to the challenge of getting from Seattle to DC, where Sarge hopes to solve the mystery of why he is being targeted. They need to travel undetected, but fortunately, Bernie knows people across the country who can aid the duo in their mission. They travel by car, plane, horseback, boats, and trains, meeting a wide assortment of eccentric and philosophical characters.

The fun is in the journey and the discussions on life and love that occur along the way. On their trek, the pair interact with their fellow travelers, discussing Buddhism, other religions, and the meaning of life. There are also car chases and other effective thriller scenes sprinkled throughout, making this rollicking, buddy road trip a thoroughly entertaining read.

Ruth A.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great read!

This book stands out with the imaginative adventures and brilliant characters in a provenly-realistic background of places, character-types, and modes of transportation.

Avid reader

5.0 out of 5 stars A great read: action-adventure with a twist

This well-crafted first novel is a great read!—admirable and engaging main characters, vividly described and quirky supporting characters, and a fun and suspenseful plot. This book is more thoughtful than the average action-adventure because of some quotes and philosophical asides the author includes along the way. They serve to give the plot and protagonists greater depth. I look forward to more works by this author (including a sequel, I hope). Loved this book!