The Moscow Code

The lively second book in Wilkshire’s series featuring the quick-witted Canadian diplomat and amateur sleuth Charlie Hillier (after Escape to Havana) sees Charlie posted to Moscow. A night out with an old high school friend takes an unexpected turn when their passports are stolen and then they are arrested as foreigners with no ID. But while spending the night in a police holding cell, Charlie meets a fellow Canadian, Steve Liepa, who says he is being detained on bogus drug charges. When Charlie is released, he promises to help, but, before he can even open an official file, Steve is found dead in his cell. While the authorities claim it was suicide, Charlie and the victim’s sister, Sophie Duran, know it was murder. Wilkshire writes with confidence as the action moves from Moscow to Ottawa, Berlin, and the French Riviera. It’s a fun ride for readers who like their international thrillers laced with humor. (Dec.)

Correction: An earlier version of this review misstated the title of the author's previous book.