In the second page-turning action thriller to feature former Marine special operations captain Lysander Dalton, Brace (Black Tiger
) keeps up the bracing pace and the hero's winning, ironic voice from the first page. After escaping abduction and interrogation by unknown assailants, Dalton accepts an off-the-books job from a government bigwig to track down the would-be purchaser of a black market plutonium supply. Lysander follows the money from the British Virgin Islands to the Nevada stronghold of reclusive billionaire software tycoon Xerxes Antullis, leaving a trail of lusty women and foiled opponents behind him. A spiritual descendent of James Bond, though with considerably rougher edges, Lysander assembles the plot's puzzles while dodging bullets and seducing the ladies in this stylish blend of techno-thriller and action-adventure. Former Australian naval officer Brace, now a New York resident, writes with authority about weaponry, race cars and overseas money transfers, and gives his characters enough humanity to engage the reader's sympathies. With plenty of surprises in the layered story, Lysander's adventures deserve a wide readership. (Apr.)
