Review: Fascinating and Disturbing
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 13, 2014
Title:  Small SpidersAuthor:  J. T. ConroeReviewer:George ShadowSummary:A novel based on actual events. A young black female reporter investigates a CIA mind-control research program (MK Ultra) and its apparent connection to the series of history-altering assassinations that took place during the 1960s. She joins CBS News and becomes a rising star there. Tracking an obscure lead, she encounters what appears to be the early phase of yet another assassination plot, and soon finds herself in the frightening position of holding the key to the destruction of the Nixon presidency, a criminal enterprise that will stop at nothing to preserve its own existence.Social/Historical Context:The political assassinations recorded in the US down the years often appear to have stemmed from an internal organization bent on fashioning out a political hold on the country from its agenda. In SMALL SPIDERS, the means is hypnotherapy and the endgame is electoral victory for a president who is all too familiar with scandal. Many familiar faces grace the pages of this book, and the historical narrative is a realistic one. An investigative reporter tries to discover the truth behind an unpleasant affair and in the course of her investigation; she comes across a mind-blowing incident, which sets her on the part to marking the biggest highlight of her career.Book Cover & Formatting:The cover is divided into two almost equal parts: a picture of the Whitehouse below which is the title and author’s name. This is a simple design intended to impart a sense of political foreboding and timeliness into the viewer. The title and author fonts equally convey an uprightness and formality the Whitehouse represents, although the black background represents a looming doom or hidden agenda, which the Whitehouse often secretly harbors while openly denying any knowledge of such highhanded executive instruments. The interior design of the kindle book (which I read) is also remarkable. The font type creates a sense of urgency, which I think is brilliant, and the overall layout is a job well done.Writing Style:Narrated by our lead character, SMALL SPIDERS is a rolling embodiment of word interplay and superior English. The brisk writing style of Author Conroe is commendable. He leaves nothing to chance, though, as he spins out the fabric of his story. From a historical perspective, I think I was also impressed, because the Nixon era has always been a muddled one for me, and I cannot imagine all these exciting characters had always been part of it. Sound grammar and minimal typographical error also make for sound and enjoyable understanding, and the overall reading experience is a satisfying one.My Thoughts:Fascinating and disturbing. Very disturbing.George Shadow is the author of THE WHITE BOOK.