Literary Titan
Syntell Smith�s Redeye is a fast-paced, character-driven novel that pulls you into the complex world of Nate Durant, a man juggling multiple gigs, past regrets, and present uncertainties in the bustling backdrop of New York City. The story follows Nate as he navigates his relentless hustle of writing, podcasting, photography, and even stand-up comedy all while dealing with his marriage, personal demons, and an unexpected blast from the past. The novel seamlessly blends humor, drama, and emotional depth, making for an engaging read.
One of the standout elements of Redeye is how real the characters feel. Nate is not your typical protagonist, he�s flawed, sometimes selfish, yet undeniably likable. His relentless work ethic comes off as both admirable and exhausting. Smith does an excellent job making you feel his fatigue, whether it�s through his chaotic schedule or the moments he crashes at home only to be greeted by responsibilities he barely has time for. A particularly powerful scene is when he confronts his wife, Cynthia, about his need to stay busy, revealing his deep-seated fear of ever returning to the version of himself that felt trapped in his own body. It�s raw and honest, making you root for him even when he�s being stubborn.
The dialogue is another strong point. It�s natural, snappy, and full of life. Conversations between Nate and his wife, Cynthia, feel authentic, especially when they butt heads over his work-life balance. The banter in the podcast scenes, particularly the heated debate over Ben Affleck playing Batman, is hilarious and captures the chaotic energy of pop culture discourse. Smith�s ability to write casual conversations that still push the narrative forward is impressive, making the novel feel immersive and dynamic.
The pacing feels erratic, bouncing between Nate�s gigs, personal conflicts, and unexpected discoveries like stumbling upon an old acquaintance in a compromising online photo. While this frenetic energy adds to the book�s charm, it can also feel overwhelming. Some subplots could have used a bit more breathing room to develop fully, particularly Nate�s backstory with Stephanie. Her presence lingers in the novel, but the resolution to that thread felt somewhat rushed compared to the time spent on other aspects of Nate�s life.
Redeye is an energetic, character-rich novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the grind of modern life pressing down on them. It�s perfect for readers who enjoy fast dialogue, real-world struggles, and a protagonist who is far from perfect but easy to root for. If you like books that capture the pulse of a city and the people trying to make it within it, this is worth picking up.
