Appointment in Milano by Warren Dekko
Appointment in Milano* by Warren Dekko tells the story of James Deramore who leaves a prestigious law firm position to pursue a modeling career in Italy’s fashion capital. James is quickly caught up in a relationship with an up-and-coming young model, fast cars, decadent parties, drugs, hipster friends, and everything else that comes with the so-called glamorous life — and the novel replicates this frenzied pace.
What was James looking for when he moved to Milan? Has he found it? Is he capable of finding it? And how did he even get to where he is, considering his father is a powerful attorney who certainly doesn’t approve of James’ new lifestyle? How long can James keep driving in the fast lane?
Although the book is relatively slight at just over 200 pages, if you’re looking for a light, quick read, Appointment in Milano isn’t it. The basic story is easy enough to follow with plot twists galore toward the end, but these characters, despite their seeming superficiality, run dark and deep, and you just may find yourself thinking about their motivations and decisions long after you finish the final chapter. I know I did.
Dekko’s writing is smart and sharp, though at times esoteric and sometimes just plain raw in its delivery; it may present a challenge for some to get into the flow of the book and Dekko’s style, but once I sat back and let the author lead the way about 50 or so pages in, it was a heck of a ride.
And that’s why I’m giving it four espresso cups out of five:
I look forward to reading more from Dekko; he has a unique voice with the ability to spin many thought-provoking tales, and I do hope he does.
*This link is to Amazon.com; the book is also available at Amazon.it and Amazon.fr.
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