Title: The Deadly Stingaree
Authors: Corey Lynn Fayman and Jonathon Cong
Publisher: Konstellation Press
ASIN: BOFVHN6ZBZ
Pages: 316
Genre: Historical Fiction / Mystery
Reviewer: Anthony Avina
Pacific Book Review
If there is one thing most people cannot resist, it is a good mystery. There is something about the unknown which drives people wild, and the drive to find answers has always become the underlying force behind world-renowned investigators and amateur sleuths alike. While some mysteries are surely meant to remain a mystery, while some mysteries need to be solved without hesitation.
Mysteries are what drive authors Correy Lynn Fayman and Jonathon Cong’s The Deadly Stingaree. The novel follows a young teen named Johnny Cong, an orphan who works hard to realize the American dream while traversing the streets of 1891 San Diego. When word arrives that President Benjamin Harrison is set to arrive in the city soon, a deadly plot by a group of citizens emerges, and Johnny soon finds himself embroiled in the plot as he must navigate the murky path between loyalty and treason.
The rich character development found in this novel is immediately felt from the first chapter. The dialogue and tone of the conversations found between the characters perfectly articulated the era of history the story takes place in, and the powerful imagery in the author’s writing allowed readers to feel immersed in the city of San Diego in a unique time period rarely explored. The balance of world-building and action the story has while weaving these elements equally through the mystery building from the book’s beginning makes this story feel vibrant and alive. The dynamic which forms from the get-go between Johnny and Mr. Sigerson is so unique, and the sense of adventure and curiosity the action sparked feels like something readers would have witnessed in an old Hollywood film.
For readers who enjoy historical fiction, especially those who enjoy historical fiction set in American history and the inclusion of western and suspense thriller elements, this is the perfect novel to immerse themselves in. The harrowing journey Johnny finds himself on is perfectly mirrored by the strong themes the novel delves into, especially the struggle many immigrants have faced in the United States to find their promise of the American Dream. This theme has never been more prevalent or important than it is nowadays, and Johnny’s experiences and his viewpoint of the world around him strikes an emotional chord which will resonate with many readers today.
