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Free Fall |
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 Free Fall byKyle Mills Harper Collins 384pages, April 2000 ISBN 0060193336 Reviewed by Morgan Ann Adams With stunning imagery and almost prophetic political sense, Mills has created an exemplary thrill ride of a read. The pace is that of a typical thriller, complete with daring chases up mountain cliffs and through the streets of Thailand. Even so, at the heart of the plot is a character driven mystery. At the same time Free Fall has a large political conscience, raising questions about today's most important issues in the guise of interesting fiction. Mark Beamon is Mills' character. Beamon is a middle-aged, rogue FBI agent, in trouble not only with his bosses, but with the entire country. On suspension and facing an expensive trial, Beamon accepts a job investigating in the "private sector." Beamon finds himself searching for female mountain climbing expert, Darby Moore. Darby's ex-boyfriend has been killed while on an outing with her, and Darby is the main suspect. She is on the run, often hanging quite literally by her little finger in an attempt to evade her many pursuers. While on her trail, Beamon finds she is quite a popular lady, wanted not only by Beamon's private benefactor, but by a rival mountain climber and a series of government agencies. It does not take Beamon long to figure out that Darby is wanted for more than murder. She has in her possession a misplaced FBI file that could mean disaster for dozens of highly placed government officials. Add to the mix the hottest presidential campaign of the century and some of the most vile villains to appear in print, and you will begin to understand the sense of urgency created by this novel. The mountain climbing scenes are breath taking. Mills' love and intimate knowledge of this activity is honest and obvious. Just as overt is the legend and reverence with which he speaks of the FBI Beamon is a hero harkening back to the all-good guy days, who believes everything is black and white, right or wrong. He would sacrifice his own life and happiness rather than believe an injustice exists within his reach. This is welcome at a time where morally flawed main characters may have become a trend. Taking on the intrigue during the year of an actual presidential race is more risky than relevant. Characteristics of the major players are reminiscent of recent political figures, though all appear to be amalgams of life and fiction. Compared to more reality based political fiction such as Primary Colors or American Hero, this is far more pleasing and satisfying. Free Fall is a powerful adventure into the world of espionage and physical exertion. Kyle Mills is a writer to seek out in the future |
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