True North by Randall DeVallance (Book Review #1652)

“True North: A Thrilling Tale of Enlightenment, Vengeance, and Unexpected Reunions”

“True North” by Randall DeVallance is a riveting tale that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, suspense, and unexpected connections. Set against the backdrop of True North, LLC, a direct marketing company peddling self-improvement based on the mysterious Burt Leathers’ experiences, the story takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions and unforeseen twists.

Salvatore “Sal” Slocum, a sales representative at True North, finds himself thrust into an unexpected position when Burt Leathers, the company’s enigmatic founder, chooses him to take over the reins. Little does Sal know that this promotion comes with a perilous caveat – death threats from an aggrieved customer, Don Bagley. As Bagley, a Stetson-wearing, gun-toting cowboy, embarks on a journey towards True North’s headquarters, the tension escalates.

The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Bagley encounters Elmie, a former True North employee, at a roadside bar. Their chance meeting leads to a series of events that intertwine the lives of these characters in unexpected ways. Bagley’s motivation for revenge unfolds, revealing a tragic backstory of abandonment, adoption, and an unrelenting quest for self-improvement.

As Elmie and Bagley form an unlikely alliance, Sal, now the Interim CEO, implements positive changes for True North’s workforce, much to the dismay of the shadowy Burt Leathers. The story reaches a climactic moment when Bagley and Elmie infiltrate True North’s offices, holding a customer service representative hostage and demanding justice.

The narrative gains complexity as Burt Leathers, hidden in the shadows, attempts to thwart Sal’s initiatives and reveals his true intentions. However, the story takes an unexpected turn when Bagley and Elmie’s demand for justice leads to a startling revelation – Burt Leathers is Elmie’s long-lost husband, Jim.

The emotional intensity rises as family ties are revealed, and the characters confront their intertwined pasts. The story’s climax unfolds during a tense negotiation, culminating in a tragic twist that alters the fates of Burt Leathers and Don Bagley forever.

“True North” masterfully combines elements of mystery and family drama, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The characters’ complex relationships, unexpected connections, and the magnetic allure of Burt Leathers create a narrative that challenges perceptions and explores the consequences of seeking enlightenment and vengeance. The novel concludes with funerals that mark the end of an era, leaving Sal and his colleagues to grapple with their newfound understanding of life’s real meaning.

Randall DeVallance delivers a captivating story that explores the intricacies of human connection, the pursuit of self-improvement, and the unforeseen consequences of a life-changing event. “True North” is a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end, leaving them with a mix of emotions and a renewed appreciation for the complexities of the human experience.

Written by Jeyran Main

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