Absinthe

Eekhaut’s gripping thriller, the first in his Amsterdam trilogy, introduces Belgian Chief Insp. Walter Eekhaut, who’s transferred to Amsterdam because of issues with authority that are never fully explored or explained. Walter arrives there right as political activist Pieter Van Boer is killed after stealing a list of secret donors to an ultra-conservative political party. Pieter’s girlfriend escapes with the list, pursued by a Russian henchman with connections to Putin and the Russian mob. Walter pairs with Chief Supt. Alexandra Dewaal, who harnesses his rebellious nature enough to use it to her advantage in the investigation. Meanwhile, Walter spends nights at a local bar, Absinthe, meeting with a mysterious woman with possible ties to the crimes. A few frustrating plot lapses aside, Eekhaut does a fine job of highlighting the cultural differences between Belgium and the Netherlands as revealed through the interactions between Walter and Alexandra. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the workings of two distinct cultures. Agent: Peter Riva, International Transactions. (Aug.)