Forms of Madness

Aaron Baker Cole
iUniverse (2007)
ISBN 9780595414840
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (12/07)


Aaron Baker Cole immediately draws you into “Forms of Madness.”  The story is set in the 1980s, as the Soviet Union is trying to economically recover from the effects of the Cold War.  In their efforts to keep up with the United States in military spending, the Soviet Union’s economic situation is severely affected.  In this story, Jordan Bauer is a journalist who has been approached by a CIA operative to get information about a bio-weapons program in Tallinn, near Moscow.  He is assisted by Anna, a concerned employee, of this research center.  During his investigation, he falls for her.  When things fall apart, and tragedy strikes, Jordan is severely emotionally affected by the outcome. 

Five years later, he is maintaining a distant, but caring, relationship with a woman named Toni; however, he finds himself unable to fully commit to her.  Jordan begins to suspect an international conspiracy is taking place near his home.    As he is drawn into his investigation, his interest is noted by government agencies.  He also is forced to confront his past and realize how it has emotionally stunted his present situation.  The more he investigates, the more he learns that what happened in Tallinn was not quite what he thought it was and that there are ties to the current situation.  Jordan is faced with a dilemma in deciding how he wants to proceed.  He has to weigh his desire for revenge over his need to do what is best for his self.

If you enjoy government conspiracy/espionage types of suspense novels, you will find yourself hooked to “Forms of Madness.”  Aaron Baker Cole uses his technical background in space technology and national security to write a realistic novel.  To add to the realism, he blends real historical events into the plot.  It is obvious and appreciated that he did extensive research into Russia to present realistic scenes.  In addition to a tricky and surprising plot, I also enjoyed the development of the characters in this story, especially of Jordan.  I highly recommend “Forms of Madness.”  It is guaranteed to be a perfect gift for espionage fans. 

Make comment on weblog