In a world where we read about scams involving vintage and classic cars almost all the time, the story told by F. Hauser doesn't seem so unrealistic. He had actually given up his workshop as he was threatened with burnout after sudden success. However, he continued to carry out occasional jobs, including work for the financial shark and car collector Wettstein. He was supposed to go and buy an old Bentley in England for the latter, but the project didn't go so smoothly.
It's all about cars ...
Given Hauser's background, it naturally made sense for him to travel to the British Isles in an old Jaguar. The fact that he ended up with an MGB driver was a twist of fate. And the fact that a Porsche 904 GTS also plays a role in the story, or almost mainly so, is shown by the cover designed by the author.
... but it's not just about cars
But there are also other themes in the novel, the title of which you only begin to understand towards the end of the story. And until then, there is little time to think and rest. After all, the story is exciting and you get to know F. Hauser (we won't reveal what the F. stands for here) better with every page. And actually like him too.
A thriller?
Yes, the plot does have something of a crime thriller about it - after all, it is at least about a case of fraud. A person also dies, but it's not a murder case. The plot really draws you in and you don't want to put the book down until you've devoured the 250 or so pages. And now you know what this Porsche 904 GTS is all about. And you know more about the Bentley in England and the people involved with it.
A good title?
We would probably have liked a different title, one that suggests more suspense and thus does the book even more justice. How about "Jazz, royal waves and polyester resin"?
But what does the title matter if the book is already on the bedside table and just waiting to be read. So if you're looking for a little change from everyday life and enjoy reading about old cars and their strange stories, and don't have an allergic reaction to somewhat more extensive descriptions of relationships and philosophies of life, this paperback will certainly keep you happy and, above all, entertained. And the fact that you can also learn something here and there makes it even better.
From experience
Author Roland Knecht earned his spurs as a creative director at an advertising agency and writing was part of his everyday life. Despite this, he didn't venture into a book project for a long time. But then he started writing for Christophorus and later for his classic car dealership.
And finally, the first book entitled "The Autumn Girl" was written. "The Children of Frank Mason" is now his second extensive work, and more will certainly follow if readers are interested.
Bibliographical details
- Title: The Children of Frank Mason
- Author: Roland Knecht
- Language: German
- Publisher: Neopubli GmbH
- Edition: 1st edition 2021
- Format: Paperback, 12.5 x 19 cm or eBook
- Scope: 264 pages
- ISBN: 978-3-754126-73-8
- Price: EUR 12.80
- Buy/order: Online at amazon.de, online on the author's website or in bookstores
