Rating: 
Summary: Something for Everyone
Review: This is an accomplished first novel that deftly combines a "locked room" mystery, espionage, war games and intrigue. I came to this book in a dubious frame of mind 1) I'd just read a really bad "first" novel 2) I had doubts about a woman author doing espionage. 3) Spies can be boring. I was pleasantly surprised on all counts.Ms. Ramthun uses a fast intercut method of whizzing us from D.C. to Colorado Springs to the Middle East and the wilds of Russia without dropping the ball or our interest. The characters are interesting, life-like and have recognizable human traits. The drop dead gorgeous girl is not a cardboard cut out; she is also pregnant, has morning sickness, and is becoming compulsive about beef jerky, Twinkies and moon pies. In spite of the many threads in the story, it was easy to follow. My interest intensified as the plot developed, and I found I was in the "can't-put-it-down" mode. (My favorite reading stance). The war games are so well described; even this novice knew what was going on. The book was a real pleasure and I am looking forward to Ms. Ramthun's next novel. I'd bookmark her if I could.
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