Unthinkable by Richard Cibrano is a phenomenal read! I love stories about the Titanic, both fiction and non-fiction, and this telling account did not fail to impress. However, the story did not revolve solely around the Titanic tragedy – the plot was very well shaped, with layers upon layers of suspense, i.e., murder, insurance fraud, espionage, arson, war. You name it, it happens in this story.
It all begins when Allen Pinkerton, principal of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, receives a visit from the former president, Theodore Roosevelt. President Roosevelt brings with him a letter written by his former aide, Major Archibald Butt. Major Butt had been overseas for a diplomatic meeting with the King of Italy and wrote this letter on the day of his departure for return to the United States on the Titanic. Major Butt went down with the ship.
The letter included information of monumental concern, with regards to premeditated sinking of the Titanic and the threat of world war. Pinkerton calls in his best man, detective Francis Dimaio, to work with him on the investigation. An initial investigation points to a case of insurance fraud involving the Titanic and the Olympic, two of the fleet of the White Star transatlantic steamship line, but it soon becomes apparent that the Alliance, a consortium of international bankers and the British Admiralty are involved in the conspiracy and the plot thickens.
The characters are fully developed and engaging. Although Dimaio has worked for the Pinkerton Detective Agency for many years, this is the first case he has worked on with Allen Pinkerton and I love the way they worked as one – reading the other’s mind and working with complete trust and respect. Their back and forth bantering brought stimulating humor to the plot.
Unthinkable is exceptionally well written. Cibrano’s thoughtful attention to the factual events of the Titanic’s demise and his unique twist on the event is brilliant. I was engrossed from beginning to end. If you are a fan of mysteries and thrillers, this one is sure to please. I highly recommend “Unthinkable” and rate this book with 5 stars!