Midnight in Crystal City is short, and that's good. The author wants to make the point that a chance encounter can change lives. Here the lead is Michael, a federal contractor who is delayed while in Crystal City. He is estranged from his daughter, a worker at the library of Congress. Early on Michael meets a homeless man, Ben, and that is the chance encounter that changes his life. Rolled into this is Ben's past as a champion discus thrower who is forced by rogue CIA agents to attempt to assassinate Gorbachev at the 1980 Olympics. But, of course, the US ended up boycotting them. For me, the whole Ben scenario was ludicrous and strongly detracted from my enjoyment of the novel. But thanks to the author more than Ben, Michael's life changes. I'll let you read how. That's not a recommendation, just a possibility..Who knows? You might find the Ben scenario fascinating.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.

3.5 stars rounded up.

A decent short read. I couldn't quite tell what this was supposed to be as many different genres across multiple strands. The ending was tied together nicely if not with some significant leaps in the story and relationship. Overall, good concept that could've been excellent with some areas been fleshed out.