Flying a Kite

Money always solved everything for multi-millionaire Aldo Galliano. So when faced with imminent death and the need to decide between cryonic preservation - with its hope of subsequent revival - and plain faith in God and an afterlife, he offers a £1m prize for the most convincing argument either 'for' or 'against' the existence of God. The snag is, he only has 6 months to live, which piles the pressure on. That kind of prize money is enough to focus any mind. Enter Bruce Kramer, a dropout theology graduate, who sees a ‘win-win’ opportunity to consolidate his religious leanings with science. He aims to reveal links between creation and evolution by scientifically explaining mysteries as diverse as the Garden of Eden story, the wise men's guiding star, and where Heaven might really be. But dangerous rivals with Mafia connections aim to prevent his success.

With locations including Bath, Rome, Lake Garda, Tenerife, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, this fascinating novel draws the reader deeply into the excitement of Bruce's squabbling research team, his untimely romantic entanglements, and the compelling theories pursued by a cast of engaging but eccentric characters. Subtly combining the spiritual discernment of C. S. Lewis, the humour and rich characterisation of Peter Carey, and all the twists and turns of a mystery thriller, the author brings us an entertaining and unforgettable tale. But beware. Like one of Galliano's favourite lattes, while everything might appear frothy on the surface, a high caffeine brew lurks deep below that may keep you awake at night... thinking. And that’s the least of it. It might also change your outlook on life – and death!

This novel was first published in paperback.

REVIEWS:

"Fluid, smooth and flows at a lovely pace. Really engaging from the start. Like 'The Shack', there is a niche for this kind of book."
–Gillian McDade (journalist and author of 'Standing Man')

"A wonderful, well written and entertaining novel that demonstrates the reality of an afterlife and that science and creation are complementary. It will no doubt open the minds of many that there is so much more to life than that witnessed by the six senses. "
–William Roache, MBE (Actor)

"Addresses a universal question in a much better way than Dan Brown in ‘Angels and Demons’, where the God versus science debate is just another sub-plot in another ciphering book. In ‘Flying a Kite’ it's the main plot thread, convincingly dealt with and riveting."
–Richard Pierce (author of ‘Dead Men’)

"Fluent, graphic writing and excellent use of description. Characters come alive through captivating dialogue."
–Elijah Iwuji (author of ‘Praying in the Will of God’

"Ian Kingsley's 'Flying a Kite' clearly documents the literary talent of its author. Deftly written, original, genuinely entertaining, iconoclastic, 'Flying a Kite' is a rewarding and entertaining read from beginning to end and highly recommended for personal and community library Contemporary Fiction collections. Of special note is the author's own website at iankingsley.com that is packed with helpful information for aspiring writers seeking to create their own memorable literary works." –Jack Mason (Midwest Book Review)

"Characters are direct and effective. I enjoyed the pace which allowed the reader to think about important concepts by himself."
-Heikki Hietala (author of ‘Tulagi Hotel’)