Force of Nature

Starred review from January 30, 2012
Edgar-winner Box’s breakneck 12th Joe Pickett novel (after 2011’s Cold Wind) focuses on Joe’s outlaw buddy, Nate Romanowski. Nate’s been hiding in the foothills of Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains from cruel and powerful enemies, harmlessly communing with his falcons, except when assisting game warden Joe on a case. Unfortunately, Nate’s sociopath former Special Forces commander, John Nemecek, a fellow falconer, comes after him with merciless efficiency and a crew of fanatical thugs, and Nate responds with measured but startling ferocity. When Nemecek begins interrogating—and eliminating—people connected to Nate, Joe’s family members become targets, forcing Joe to decide how far he can go to help his friend. The struggle between loyalty and law has always been at the heart of this series, set far from big-city legal support systems, and it’s especially impressive in this superior entry. Author tour. Agent: Ann Rittenberg, Ann Rittenberg Literary Agency.

August 1, 2012

This latest installment in the Joe Pickett series focuses on his friend and former Special Forces soldier Nate Romanowski. One of Nate's old comrades is now a high government official and wants to make sure that his army buds stay permanently silent about some unsavory incident from years back. Nate must convince Joe of the impending danger. David Chandler's baritone has an easygoing confidence that blends well with the text. He is especially adroit with the narrative portions. VERDICT With loads of tension, suspense, and more than a couple of deaths, this is an exciting thriller. This series is quite popular, and public libraries should consider purchasing. ["This is the best Box I've ever read, and I've read them all. Recommend to fans of Lee Child's The Affair," read the review of the Putnam hc, LJ 3/1/12.--Ed.]--Michael T. Fein, Central Virginia Community Coll. Lib., Lynchburg

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