Falling: A Novel - Book reviews of Falling: A Novel

'Falling: A Novel' book reviews

Review for'Falling: A Novel'

**Title:** Falling: A Novel

**Author:** T.J. Newman

As a former flight attendant, T.J. Newman brings her firsthand experiences and insider knowledge to the fore in her debut thriller, "Falling: A Novel." This high-octane, heart-pounding book takes readers on a white-knuckle journey through the skies, delivering a narrative that is as relentless in its pacing as it is rich in emotional depth.

The plot centers around Captain Bill Hoffman, a seasoned pilot who finds himself in an unimaginable situation. Just before a routine flight from Los Angeles to New York, Bill's family is kidnapped. The kidnapper presents him with a harrowing ultimatum: crash the plane, killing everyone on board, or his family will be murdered. This nightmarish scenario sets the stage for an edge-of-your-seat thriller that examines the lengths a person will go to in the face of moral and ethical dilemmas.

Newman’s experience in the aviation industry shines through in her meticulous attention to detail. Her descriptions of cockpit procedures, flight dynamics, and the inner workings of an airplane are not only accurate but add a layer of authenticity that makes the narrative even more gripping. This, combined with her ability to create vivid, relatable characters, makes "Falling" a standout in the crowded field of thriller novels.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character development. Bill Hoffman is portrayed not just as a hero but as a human being with fears, flaws, and an overwhelming sense of duty. His internal struggle and the moral weight of his decision-making process are portrayed with heart-wrenching clarity. The supporting characters, including the flight crew and Bill’s family, are equally well-developed, each adding their own perspectives and emotional layers to the story.

Newman’s writing style is both accessible and compelling. She has a knack for building suspense, often ending chapters with cliffhangers that make it nearly impossible to put the book down. Her prose is crisp and efficient, focusing on action and dialogue that drive the plot forward at breakneck speed. Yet, she also manages to infuse moments of poignancy and introspection, providing a balanced narrative that resonates on multiple levels.

One minor critique could be that some of the plot twists, while thrilling, strain credulity. However, this is a small quibble in an otherwise stellar debut. The book’s cinematic quality and visceral impact more than make up for any narrative leaps, making it easy to envision "Falling" as a blockbuster movie adaptation.

In conclusion, "Falling: A Novel" is an exhilarating read that combines expert knowledge of aviation with a thrilling, emotionally charged story. T.J. Newman has crafted a novel that not only entertains but also raises thought-provoking questions about duty, sacrifice, and the human spirit. For fans of high-stakes thrillers, "Falling" is an absolute must-read.

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