(Reviewed by JD Jung)
“It didn’t matter that I had a good job, or that I had secured us a home. I saw that my girls were vulnerable to mysterious and external forces, forces that could destroy us if I wasn’t careful. “
Though Thomas Martin suffered an unfortunate childhood and was still in contact with members of his dysfunctional family, he seemed to have survived. Working as an associate creative director at a prestigious Manhattan advertising agency, he felt so lucky to have a lucrative job, wonderful wife and pre-teen daughter. He felt in control of his life. However, what he didn’t realize was that no one can fix everything. So once he lost even a bit of control, his world began to crumble.
As this is written from the perspective of Thomas, he compared himself to Tannhäuser from the Wagner opera. “I see myself in him. Even as I question his choices. Why does he publicly admit to the crimes of his past when his world has already taken him back with open arms? Why does he throw it all away once more?”
Though I am not a fan of opera, the author provided explanations to the opera references so that readers like me would understand Thomas’ emotions. I found that these associations added depth to the already intriguing story.
This haunting tale will keep readers on the edge until the very end. In fact, I read it in one sitting, constantly anticipating what would happen next. And I never would have guessed the ending. Additionally, the characters are well developed, and the reader can readily understand their motives. The plotting is meticulous and the structure flawless.
For those who enjoy dark, well-written stories of the human condition, A Good Man is just the book for you.
