“Reckless” by Andrew Gross; Morrow, $25.99
Andrew Gross’ “Reckless” delivers a pulsating thriller that turns on international conspiracies, financial sleight of hand and believable characters.
While thrillers wrapped around the economic crisis and stock-market meltdowns are becoming more common, Gross makes “Reckless” a fresh and original take on the financial thriller.
Although Gross allows too many cliches to enter his story, such as “wet behind the ears,” he overrides this flaw with an energetic story complemented by mega-action. Gross is proving himself to be among the top thriller writers.
“Reckless” brings back former Connecticut police detective Ty Hauck, who is now a partner in a high-profile security company. The private sector has brought Ty wealth and status, but he is still, at heart, a cop and a dogged detective, especially when a crime hits close to home.
Ty is willing to risk his cushy job to help investigate why equities trader Marc Glassman and his family were killed. Ty had known April Glassman, who had helped him deal with his emotions during a low period in his life. When other stockbrokers die in strange circumstances, Ty follows a money trail that leads to an illusory financier, a money trail and an unusual coverup.
While Ty trusts his instincts, the only person who seems to agree with him is Treasury agent Naomi Blum.
“Reckless” rips through conspiracy after conspiracy and manages to make the financial juggernaut understandable. While mega-action moves “Reckless” at break-neck speed, Gross doesn’t forget to realistically shape his characters.
Ty is a man of action, but he also is a family man devoted to his daughter. While way too much is made of Naomi’s model-like looks, she doesn’t shrink under pressure. Gross makes Ty and Naomi equals, which adds to their chemistry and the exciting plot.
Gross became a best-selling author as one of James Patterson’s co-authors with six novels, including “The Women’s Murder Club” series. Gross’ fourth solo thriller, “Reckless” proves his work stands by itself.
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