Set in the late 1970s, Flying Crooked, by Stephen W. Borgess, delves into the troubled life of Jack Dolan, a young airline pilot whose personal demons are beginning to interfere with his professional duties. Jack is grappling with relationship problems and the lingering trauma of his experiences in Vietnam—issues that are pushing him toward a dangerous downward spiral. In the high-stakes world of commercial aviation, what’s happening inside a pilot’s mind can have catastrophic consequences, not only for the pilot but for the lives of countless passengers.

Borgess offers an intense psychological portrait of a man on the edge. Jack is likely suffering from PTSD, a condition that is slowly infiltrating every aspect of his life. Despite his passion for flying and his drive to succeed, Jack’s fragile mental state poses a serious risk. His identity is deeply intertwined with his career as a pilot, and through introspective moments in the novel, we see that Jack cannot envision himself in any other role. Yet, this same profession, combined with his unresolved trauma, is turning him into a ticking time bomb. As the story unfolds, we witness Jack’s attempts to advance in his career, but his psychological baggage constantly undermines his efforts. His relationships—with both his love interest and his colleagues—are strained by his inner turmoil. Borgess skillfully portrays Jack’s brooding nature and the impact it has on those around him, all while maintaining a steady undercurrent of tension that keeps readers on edge.

One of the novel’s most gripping elements is the tension between Jack’s inner struggles and the obliviousness of his passengers. None of the individuals boarding the planes he pilots have any inkling that their safety might be compromised. Borgess uses this tension to great effect, creating a palpable sense of unease. The novel serves as a stark reminder of the immense trust we place in airline pilots, assuming not only their technical competence but also their mental and emotional stability. Flying Crooked forces readers to confront the unsettling possibility that this trust might be misplaced.

In Flying Crooked, Stephen W. Borgess crafts a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that examines the precarious balance between professional responsibility and personal demons. Jack Dolan’s story is a powerful reminder of the unseen battles that can rage within, even as we place our lives in the hands of those who seem in control.

Pages: 444