Shattered Lion: Volume 2

In 2020’s Shattered Lion: Volume 1, the world of Dutch soccer player Jan VanRijn was upended on a visit to the U.S. after his sister, Anja, was abducted and he learned that the kidnappers worked for the Society, “a secretive organization whose leaders occupy some of the highest seats in government.” VanRijn allied himself with a group opposed to the Society, survived being kidnapped himself, and ultimately succeeded in killing the evil group’s leader, who happened to have been the American vice president. That success, however, hasn’t removed Anja from jeopardy. Now, in this high-octane sequel, VanRijn makes increasingly desperate efforts to save his sister, bring down the Society, and have a final reckoning with Anton Ivanov, the Russian leader of the cabal who tortured the athlete during his captivity. Pulling no punches, Kushner leaves readers in suspense over who will survive. The action barely stops in this breakneck high-stakes ride. Robert Ludlum fans will find lots to like. (Self-published)