This story was my introduction to Simon Gervais’ work and what an introduction! Fast paced and action packed, your head will be spinning with the hair pin twists and convoluted turns of this book. It is a wonderfully crafted story with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat right to the last page.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio who provided me with a copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

In The Elias Enigma, bestselling author Simon Gervais once again proves his mastery of the thriller genre, immediately immersing readers in a world where stakes are high and pasts are anything but buried. This sequel to The Elias Network sees Caspian Anderson, formerly the black-ops assassin Elias, now attempting to forge a new life with the Defense Clandestine Service. However, his burgeoning relationship with German spy Liesel Bergmann adds a compelling layer of personal complexity to his already dangerous existence. Gervais's signature superb writing and unmatched action sequences are consistently on display.

The narrative propels Caspian and Liesel into the treacherous currents of international espionage. Their joint mission to dismantle a global criminal conspiracy is fraught with peril, exacerbated by the unspoken truths that lie between them. This underlying tension escalates dramatically when the operation uncovers a shocking connection to Caspian's own parents, forcing him to confront deeply personal demons. As the mission’s stakes become intensely personal, Caspian has no choice but to reawaken the formidable skills of Elias.

Gervais expertly orchestrates a symphony of pulse-pounding action and a meticulously constructed plot. Beyond the thrilling pursuit, The Elias Enigma offers a sophisticated exploration of identity, the nuances of loyalty, and the profound sacrifices demanded by love and duty. It's a testament to Gervais's skill that this novel not only delivers unrelenting suspense but also delves into the deceptive nature of truth and the lingering influence of the past. The result is an expertly crafted novel that maintains suspense until the final revelation, further solidifying Gervais's standing as a purveyor of intelligent, high-octane thrillers.

I didn’t read the first in the series so that may explain why I had trouble following this story. Caspian has a secret that comes between him and his lover/partner who happens to be a German spy but they work together on other missions? And now his parents are in the line of fire for their involvement in a major smuggling operation that only Caspian and his partner can penetrate? Korea, Mexico, Nairobi, Maine, this story is literally all over the place!
My suggestion: read the first book in the series before diving into this one. If you did read the first, then you’ll be pleased that the narration of this audiobook is very good and helps keep the suspense.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook for review purposes. Publication date: 8 June 2025.