The Paris Diversion

Edgar winner Pavone’s sturdy sequel to 2012’s The Expats finds Kate and Dexter Moore living in Paris with their young sons. Dexter, a semireformed cybercriminal, now earns his money day trading, and Kate, a former CIA officer, works for an off-book intelligence outfit tasked with making the world “more hospitable” for the U.S. and its interests. Kate hasn’t received a new assignment in some time, so when news breaks of bomb threats in multiple locations, and a man in an explosive vest entering the Louvre, she decides to prove her continued relevance by investigating. Meanwhile, Dexter makes a risky investment that hinges on an announcement from his former boss, Hunter Forsyth, regarding the acquisition of a European competitor. Then authorities sequester Hunter for security reasons, jeopardizing both men’s plans for profit. Events unfold over a 12-hour period, with details of the terror plot’s scope and design emerging through the eyes of its participants. Poorly established stakes and underdeveloped characters lessen the tale’s urgency and impact, but Pavone’s clever setup and nimble execution buoy the book to an action-packed finish. Fans of latter-day le Carré will be well satisfied. Agent: David Gernert, Gernert Company. (May)