Steve Martini's latest book to feature attorney Paul Madriani begins with a seemingly easy case, but quickly turns deadly.
Alex Ives needs Madriani's help when he's accused of vehicular manslaughter in the death of a Washington, D.C., attorney. All Ives can remember is having a drink at a party, then waking up in a hospital. His blood alcohol level was relatively small when he was tested, and there's no evidence of drugs in his system. Madriani believes Ives was given the equivalent of a date rape drug.
Individuals high up in government are concerned that Ives survived the attempt to rid themselves of several problems. Now those behind the conspiracy will do anything to maintain secrecy, and that involves hiring a ruthless assassin who has never failed.
Martini's novels are always obvious in terms of the client's innocence and unpredictable in how they are resolved. Readers who enjoy a good legal thriller will find Martini is best when most of the narrative focuses on thrills and action.
While it stretches credulity to believe that Madriani can continue to survive battles with trained killers and psychopaths in his pursuit of justice, the journey is still worthwhile.
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