Title: Instant Karma
Author: Donald Frum
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 979-8369421956
Pages: 146
Genre: Mystery / Thriller
Reviewed by: Ephantus M.

Read Book Review

Author Donald Frum’s Instant Karma is a heart-pounding thriller about a homicide
investigation which culminates with the question of whether karma is the ultimate option
when the law is not applied fairly and evenly.

Yonkers Police Department homicide section head Don Tomlin is called around
mid-morning regarding a presumably suicide case involving Sergeant Rokowski, the
drug task force of the Yonkers Police Department. Don is well acquainted with the
victim, who was recently notified by the internal affairs unit for posting racist and
anti-Semitic content on websites that support white supremacist ideology. Following a
thorough examination of the crime scene alongside a few other investigators, Don
stands motionless and then closes his eyes for a few deep breaths. A rapid burst of
vision, resembling the flash of a pistol muzzle, enters his awareness, alerting him to the
fact that the victim may have been sitting on the side of his bed when someone thrust a
nine-millimeter service weapon into his mouth before squeezing the trigger.

Elsewhere, the life story of a veteran who was the lone survivor of a roadside bomb and
was deemed incapacitated after suffering a broken right arm, a traumatic brain injury,
and the loss of his right eye, which ended his career as a sniper, is told. Following the
tragedy, he devised a concept that revitalized his military lifestyle. After the event, he
formed strong relationships with other disgruntled white supremacists, hoping that the
idea would offer him the most success he had ever had, as well as power, influence,
and an outlet for his sentiments and rage.

In this multidimensional story, the protagonist leads readers on a quest to discover the
facts as well as the motivation behind the murder of a man termed universally despised.
Unpredictable developments emerge when further tragedies affecting other men in the
area take place, contributing to a confusing reality that requires an immediate response.
After revealing himself as an individual with a great desire to take on anybody in the
government for fame and recognition while partaking in his favorite activity – murder –
the antagonist effectively establishes the main character’s task and objective.

Written in Frum’s typical, excellent style, the novel moves at a steady clip – it’s gripping,
but not rushed. Frum has a true gift for quickly and effectively bringing the characters to
life on paper, and he also provides a storyline that is linked to many deep and thrilling
present-day themes and concerns. Instant Karma is a gripping mystery which stands
out thanks to its genuine appeal. Because it takes a fresh perspective and explores a
topic that is frequently discussed – karma – it is sure to keep one intrigued from
beginning to end. Furthermore, it is a short read and a great way to escape after a long
day thanks to its clever humor and lingering tension.

Instant Karma is a book that will not only keep readers on the edge of their seats, but
also leave them contemplating their own beliefs about justice and retribution. Frum’s
storytelling shines through, making this novel a worthy addition to the genre of
philosophical thrillers.