Review - Simple Genius
The Latest Thriller by David Baldacci
Former secret service agents -- and friends, Sean King and Michelle Maxwell, have seen a lot together, both in the service and lately as private investigators. Nothing however, has prepared Sean for Michelle's near fatal psychological breakdown. After emptying their bank account and calling in a few favors, Sean has enough to have Michelle admitted to a psychiatric hospital and buy the assistance of one of DC's best psychiatrists.
Sean King and Michelle Maxwell
The move, however, has left the pair without funds, so King has no choice but to look to his former girlfriend (and barracuda) Joan, who runs a "we ask no questions" type detective agency. She sends him down to the Tidewater area of Virginia, about an hour south of DC, to a "think tank" called Babbage Town. Just what goes on at this former colonial estate and who owns the property is a mystery. What's not a mystery is that one of the scientists was found dead recently across the York River at a CIA-owned property called Camp Peary.
Camp Peary
If Babbage Town is secretive, then Camp Peary doesn't even exist. The compound, a former WWII naval installation, is strictly off limits -- and off the map. However, strange things are happening over there. For one thing, there are jumbo jets landing each weekend with their running lights off. For another, someone took a shot at King while he was watching the property from the other shore. Soon another scientist is found dead and King doesn't know whom to trust. When Michelle joins him, fresh out of the hospital, he's unsure whether to fully trust his old partner. Is she really cured?
Simple Genius is enjoyable for the return of Sean and Michelle, too very likeable and sympathetic characters. What's not so enjoyable is the almost too pat conspiracy theory, government run amok plot line. Still, not a bad read.
About David Baldacci
Baldacci is the author of 13 novels as well as several short stories and screenplays. His first novel, the 1996 thriller Absolute Power was made into a movie, starring Clint Eastwood and Gene Hackman. He has also penned two books for young readers, featuring Freddy and the French Fries. A Virginia native and UVA alumni, David Baldacci still lives in the Commonwealth state, with his wife, Michelle, and their two sons. His next novel, Stone Cold, is due out in November of 2007. You can read more about Mr. Baldacci on his Web site.
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Simple Genius by David Baldacci
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