Deadly Dance

A novel by Darville Knowles M.D.

Milligan Books

1425 West Manchester Avenue Suite C

Los Angeles California 90047

(323)750-3592

ISBN # 0971974985

409 pp $15.95

 

Some first novels are like a canned broth, sure they have some taste, but there is no essence of what the main ingredient was. Others are as a fine wine, once savored, each drop lingers joyfully relished by the mind far after the experience is over. “Deadly Dance” by author Darville Knowles is the equivalent of a Rothschild 66 or a 1970 Chateau La Caronne, delicious to consume and remembered long after the experience itself has passed.

First novels can be tough, yet in the hands of a writer as gifted as Dr. Knowles, the characters and situations that he presents spring to life as if of their own accord. He has a style that allows the readers to experience not only the external, but also the internal motivations, feelings, and turmoil that they are going through.

The lead character of this story is Dr. Evander Parker, a noted psychiatrist that had everything going for him; a successful practice in a high rise office, a great secretary, everything that could be taken as signs of success. Then, in a series of trials and tribulations that would make Job feel sorry for him, he loses everything. Now a homeless fugitive and wanted for a murder that he didn't commit, he struggles to not only clear his good name and restore some resemblance of his life, but to help bring those that caused this to happen to him to be brought to justice. Luckily he has Taylor Nash, a Private Investigator, to help him-or is he?

This novel manages to weave several parallel stories at the same time, yet never in a confusing way, until you are swept up in the onslaught of plots and characters as they rush to their final fateful rendezvous. Along the way, we are treated to views on topics ranging from racial prejudices to medical malpractice and religious extremism. This was an enjoyable read from an author that I am sure we will hear more from as time goes by. In fact, I would not be surprised to find out that there is more in store for this unlikely dynamic duo to come, and I for one will look forward to their adventures.