Bishop’s End Game by Michael Frost Beckner
If you enjoyed MFB’s 1st novel: Muir’s Gambit you most likely will enjoy this book as well. There are many aspects of this book I enjoy, but (1) does it have to be over 500 pages? (2) you have to like reading a book that so much of the action is through the eyes of the CIA lawyer Russell Aiken who not only is a damaged character, out of his depths and now has brain cancer. Nonetheless, for many this will be a good read. Btw I am one of those who liked it and look forward to reading the third in the trilogy.

The movie Spy Game (starring Robert Redford Brad Pitt) is one of my favourites in the genre. It’s visually neat and the story offers a solid plot. So, when I found out a trilogy based on the movie was being released, I was really excited about it. The first book in the Aiken series is a prequel set 48 hours before the movie. The other two are sequels happening after the movie.

Overall, my enthusiasm for the books didn’t reach the level it did for the movie (but again, with books, you don’t have all the movie components like soundtrack to make it fly!). I thought it wasn’t easy to follow the complicated plot, and if you can easily rewatch films to grasp all the nuances, it’s harder to do with books. But, the concept is still a strong one, so don’t hesitate to have a go at it.

This review is for The Aiken Trilogy #1-3:
An excellent spy series. Each book is engaging, and well-written overall. The author created fully formed characters that are interesting to watch. I didn't always enjoy the conversations, but the suspense and strong writing kept me going. Beckner has found a way to write to his strengths.

I really appreciate the free ARCs for review!!