Wake the Devil

Forensic psychology professor Jack Kale, a former FBI agent, and Det. Beth Sturgis of the Atlanta PD reunite in Daniels’s solid sequel to 2015’s Once Shadows Fall. A deadly assassin known as the Sandman has already killed Dr. George Lawrence, a key witness against chemical plant owner Sergei Borov, who’s suspected of terrorist dealings. FBI deputy director Janet Newton and special agent Todd Milner enlist Jack’s aid in catching the Sandman, who the FBI officials believe is gunning for two other witnesses, Lawrence’s widow, Dr. Rachel Lawrence, and their partner, Dr. Wilson Landry. Newton approves Kale’s request to add Sturgis and her partner, Dan Pappas, to the team. Daniels keeps the action moving as the Feds try to identify the Sandman; Kale thwarts several clever plots to attack the witnesses; Kale runs afoul of U.S. Attorney Carmine Donofrio, who objects to his methods; and the impulsive Sturgis survives an encounter with the killer. Some surprising wild cards enliven the mix. Agent: Jane Dystel, Dystel Goderich Literary Management. (Sept.)