The Dynamite Fishermen

American Embassy worker Conrad Prosser simply can’t catch a break in Fleming’s captivating novel. Despite his fluency in Arabic and impeccable record of gathering vital intelligence information; he’s looked over for promotion after promotion because he can’t snag recruited agents. Then, as icing on the cake, he discovers he’s being followed. Things are not looking up for Mr. Prosser by mid-book, and the ending only gets better. Perhaps, his love affair with the beautiful Rima (sister of a prospective agent) will help soothe his soul – although that, too, seems unlikely to last.

The beauty in the story, for me, lies in Fleming’s description of the ways in which nations carry on in the face of daily violence. Markets close during the moments of violence, but open immediately at the first sign of cease-fire. Nightlife continues to throb with people looking for a good time and a strong drink. Love blossoms and dies. Jobs are gained and lost. Fleming’s understandings of the way these people are forced to carry on despite the turmoil of reckless violence. His depiction seems genuine and spot on.

Set in the mid-80’s Beirut, Dynamite Fishermen is an absolute stunner of a novel for a number of reasons – but primarily because of the foreshadowing of the current crisis in the Middle East. It’s clear Fleming has done his research and it shows in the seamless dialogue and the ease at which he tackles the task of conveying the wartime ambiance surrounding his characters. This is a must-read for history buffs – although I feel strongly everyone will enjoy the rapid pace and captivating suspense. Preston Fleming is a writer deserving of many accolades.