“Solemnly Swear”

by Joe Porrazzo

iUniverse, Inc., $ 16.95

www.iUniverse.com

ISBN:  978-0-595-44215-7

Reviewed by Claudia Pemberton

“Solemnly Swear” is retired U.S. Air Force Officer Joe Porrazzo’s first, in hopefully a long line, of suspense novels. 

Mr. Porazzo’s portrayal of the lead character Alex Porter gives the reader an instant connection with Porter’s well-developed and believable military personality. The reader bonds with Alex, a trustworthy and incorruptible friend, and Porazzo gives us more than enough reasons to care about what happens to him.

Alex is a former U.S. Air Force special agent whose retired life isn’t far removed from the dangers of his previous life as an American soldier.  Riddled with guilt over the untimely death of his wife, troubled by nightmares associated with witnessing a grizzly crime scene involving a powerful mafia boss, and struggling with the obstacles of fatherhood, still Alex stands strong and resilient against the pressures of the untouchable antagonist; mobster Vince Vionelli. 

Mr. Porrazzo’s thought-provoking storyline draws the reader in with one of the most impossible dilemmas a person (fictional or otherwise) can ever find themselves in – doing what’s morally right no matter what the cost – or protecting oneself and the ones we love.

The narration is smooth and easy to read.  The dialogue is refreshingly realistic.  And each chapter ends with just enough enticement to make the novel impossible to put down.   

If you’re in the mood for a good mystery/thriller, I highly recommend, Joe Porrazzo’s “Solemnly Swear”.  The plot is unique … the pace is fast … the direction is unpredictable … and the final pages are shocking.  What a great book with which to spend a weekend!