Minute Zero

Moss’s fine second novel of diplomatic intrigue featuring Judd Ryker (after 2014’s The Golden Hour) takes the U.S. State Department troubleshooter to Zimbabwe, to oversee a dicey presidential election. Once on the ground in Harare, Ryker discovers that the country’s entrenched strongman, Winston Tinotenda, is facing Gugu Mutonga, a female opponent who’s surprisingly tough for a foe of Tinotenda’s, and that heavy foreign money is fueling both candidates. With U.S. policy squishy, Ryker eventually determines that the situation is ripe for a concept known as Minute Zero, the idea that after political upheaval, a narrow window opens when power is up for grabs to anyone who can maneuver adroitly. The action moves relentlessly, shifting between Harare and Washington, D.C., and among several well-drawn characters. A former U.S. diplomat in Africa, Moss maintains a high level of authenticity throughout. At times, Ryker comes across as a bit naïve, particularly in dealing with his wife, whom he doesn’t know works for the CIA, but this is a minor flaw. Author tour. Agent: Josh Getzler, HSG Agency. (Sept.)