Review: Red Mist mixes James Bond, the world of automotive journalism and Asian American culture into a non-stop action thriller
Sam Mitani’s second novel, “Red Mist,” skillfully blends elements of James Bond, the captivating realm of automotive journalism, drug cartels and the rich tapestry of Asian American culture to craft an unrelenting action-packed thriller. As I devoured the pages, my mind conjured vivid scenes that seemed tailor-made for premier streaming platforms or cable networks.
For those intrigued by the enigmatic term “red mist,” it encapsulates the pivotal instant when a racecar driver succumbs to madness, relegating rationality to a secondary role, and forsaking all semblance of self-preservation to outmaneuver slower vehicles and seize victory at any cost. In essence, it’s akin to a turbocharged manifestation of road rage.
The central figure, Max Koga, emerges as a protagonist with a compelling backstory. Once a US Navy intelligence officer, he transitions into the role of a DEA agent. However, his life takes a harrowing turn when he endures brutal torture, leaving him scarred by profound mental trauma, including the phenomenon of red mist synesthesia triggered by intense situations. Although he doesn’t transform into the likes of the Incredible Hulk, this condition profoundly impacts his performance in multifaceted ways.
The narrative takes an intriguing twist as Max Koga is discharged from the DEA due to these debilitating symptoms. Struggling under the weight of severe PTSD, he faces an additional challenge: encounters with the apparitions of his fallen comrades, a phenomenon termed “haigorei” in Japanese lore. This concept reflects spirits lingering in an unjustly severed existence, driven by unfinished matters. Mitani ingeniously incorporates this ancient belief into the story, portraying Max’s ex-teammates as spectral companions haunting his nights.
Mitani’s background as an automotive journalist intricately weaves into the plot, as Max’s new venture places him within the realm of a premier car media outlet. This clever pretext paves the way for thrilling automotive escapades, featuring an array of impressive vehicles, from Koga’s classic Mazda RX-7 to the formidable Lexus RC F. Various other models, including a Rolls-Royce Phantom, make an appearance, serving as the antagonist’s vehicular choice, though ultimately meeting its demise in a heated shootout.
As alluded to earlier, envisioning the cinematic potential of this novel is effortless, thanks to its inherently entertaining prose. I’ve ventured to offer my own character interpretations, generated through an AI service, but it’s important to note that these images do not officially represent the author’s intended depictions.
All in all, the novel is just as exciting and fun to read as Mitani’s first novel, The Prototype, which I thought was spectacular. There are some cameo appearances from the first book which makes Red Mist not a sequel but a crossover story. Two thumbs up from me and I can’t wait for this story to become a TV show! You’ll feel the same after you speed through the 314 pages of non-stop action.
Click here to pre-order Red Mist or buy on Amazon after August 18th, 2023.
