Head Shot: A Marko Zorn Novel

Eskin’s busy sequel to 2020’s The Reflecting Pool piles one problem after another on the broad shoulders of Washington, D.C., homicide detective Marko Zorn. First, the shady character who sometimes employs Marko gives him a lucrative, off-the-books assignment: guard the life of Nina Voychek, the prime minister of Montenegro, who’s about to arrive in Washington on a state visit. Then he’s summoned to a local theater where a former lover of his has just been shot dead. Next, the U.S. State Department also demands that he protect Nina to prevent a pro-Russian coup organized by the brother of the late tyrant she replaced (who was killed by an angry mob in Chicago Marko did nothing to discourage). Things get really complicated after a rival homicide detective tries to arrest Marko for murder and an assassin stalks both Nina and Marko. Fortunately, he is enough of a hard-boiled smart-ass to charge straight ahead through all the confusion, knowing exactly where to turn for vital information or assistance. Those who prefer breathless action to careful reflection will enjoy this one. Agent: Judith Ehrlich, Judith Ehrlich Literary. (Dec.)