Eli Dagan has a history. He used to work for the Israeli Defense Force (the Mossad), but could not continue psychologically after he witnessed the brutal murders of his wife and only child. He now conducts life as a paid assassin in New York City with very transactional and survival-oriented relationships. Though no longer needing the money, he takes a job offered to him by the Russian mafia that leads to death, love, and perhaps a chance at a new life.
In this work of suspense, Rubinstein tries to stay within the bounds of realistic fiction. A psychiatrist and novelist, he relates medical nuances and the griminess of real life well. I’ve never read any works by him before, but he seems to be an effective storyteller. The chapters are normally short but intensely focused. Like Anton Chekov (another physician-writer), he describes reality for what it is, but does not mince words on florid descriptions.
In this story, the plot continues to turn far beyond that which I originally imagined. In fact, I’m not sure Rubinstein wrote this with a specific overarching storyline in mind, instead preferring to make the most of opportunities. The depth of his themes, though, continue to grow increasingly philosophical as the book unfolds. Ultimately, the story boils down under the following motif. Everyone has a history, but everyone can also reinvent herself/himself. Still, reinvention never erases the past. Will Eli face a grand new future or will past choices catch up to him? This question also faces the reader as she/he faces life.
Anyone who likes realistic suspense/fiction will find this book interesting. As any good psychiatrist, Rubinstein’s meaning-oriented themes also provide a subtle – not too strong – critique on the human condition. He clearly understands human behavior, the human psyche, and biological functions well. Those involved in the medical professions will enjoy how he mingles biomedical insights into real life (even though he is relatively silent towards the compassionate nature of the caring professions). In the final analysis, I was not sure at the start whether this book would be worth my time to read, but I am grateful I did read it.
Assassin’s Lullaby
By Mark Rubinstein
Copyright (c) 2022
Thunder Lake Press
ISBN13 9781941016312
Page Count: 328
Genre: Fiction, Suspense
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