Abbott, Jeff

Abbott’s ingeniously plotted 22nd novel (after Never Ask Me) is a skillfully complicated tour de force with multiple suspects, an engrossing backstory, and a baffling puzzle with twists guaranteed to stun.

Abbott is a master of misdirection, though multiple red herrings and ever-tightening entanglements lead to a conclusion that some might find confusing. Still, the suspenseful plot with its numerous twists will appeal to readers of Harlan Coben or Gillian Flynn. [See Prepub Alert, 1/22/18.]

Series fans will overlook the occasional awkward prose, the world-weariness of the 26-year-old protagonist, the mistaken allusions tied to the overriding theme of a labyrinth (where twice Perseus, rather than Theseus, is said to have killed the Minotaur), and the sketchy descriptions (favorite adjectives include "nice," "stunning," and "striking"), but others may find it a slow go until Abbott hits his stride a third of the way in. Then the pace picks up, intriguing complications ensue, and the action leads to a terrific conclusion. [See Prepub Alert, 1/10/14.]

There are enough fights and chases for several blockbuster movies in this thriller, which should please adrenaline junkies. Those seeking something deeper should look elsewhere.

Things could not be worse for CIA agent Sam Capra: his pregnant wife has been kidnapped, and he's been branded a traitor...