HIDDEN PREY by John Sandford
Lucas Davenport is back on the case in John Sandford's newest "prey" novel, HIDDEN PREY. The popular detective is now a troubleshooter for the state of Minnesota, and he gets into trouble hip-deep when a Russian is murdered in the State. This makes for some tense diplomatic moments and a lot of pressure to get the crime solved.
For this adventure Lucas does not act alone. He has a woman named Nadya who is a representative of some type with the Russian government. Is she military, a spy, or a military spy - she isn't saying for sure and Lucas can't pin her down.
While Lucas and Nadya are scurrying through the small towns in the state more bodies are piling up. It seems there is some kind of Russian cell in our country and they are acting against the representatives the Russian government keeps sending over to deal with them.
The enjoyment of the book is once again in the fast-paced plot as well as the likeable aspects of Davenport's personality. He and Nadya make a good team, as she is a woman with a variety of appetites while he is trying to maintain his status as happily married man and new father.
Sandford knows how to roll out a plot and keep it all interesting and logical. He has perfected this talent over Lord knows how many PREY tales. Some of them have been great while others have just been good. This one fits into the "great" category. It is Davenport at his shrewdest with a supporting cast of characters who give the story balance.
This is Sandford's twentieth novel so he has stood the test of time. Reading one of his books is like visiting with an old friend who lives an interesting life. You are comfortable with the setting and you are intrigued by the activity.
Pick up HIDDEN PREY and you will have a few nights of fun reading. It won't disturb your dreams and it won't put you to sleep either.
HIDDEN PREY is published by G P Putnam's Sons. It contains 393 pages and sells for $26.95.