A Delicate Truth   John LeCarré
Perfectly executed novel about a rendition attempt gone wrong and the damage it does to some of the people involved. Beautifully written, interesting characters, and a timely, if depressing, plot. Excellent.

Walter Benjamin   Esther Leslie
Well written intellectual, or critical, biography of the German “philosopher” and critic who is currently so popular. I’m still not sure what to think of Benjamin, but there is much of him that is deeply intriguing, and this is an excellent overview. Well worth the read.

The Leopard   Jo Nesbø
Another excellent installment in the Harry Hole series. Harry returns to Oslo to track a serial killer to the Congo and back, while dealing with the encroachment of Kripos, his own addictions and demons, and the death of his father. The increasing damage to Harry’s body reflects the damage to his mind. Longest in the series so far and well worth it. Can’t wait for the next one.

In the Tunnel   Okubo Takamichi
Very disappointing Novella about two people trapped when the bus they are on is caught in a tunnel collapse. Read more and more like a pep talk on a positive mental attitude. Waste of time even though it was short.

The Destroyed   Brett Battles
Disappointing installment in Battles’ cleaner series about an unfinished job that comes back to haunt Quinn. Not enough character development, and Battles’ seemed to strain at the plot. Really quick read, but not that much fun.

Second Son, A Jack Reacher Story   Lee Child
Short story about a 15-year-old Jack Reacher solving a case the way the adult Reacher does. Nice to meet his family. Same intelligence of style and plot that makes the whole series so interesting. Really liked it.

The Infinite Tides    Christian Kiefer
Beautifully written, thoughtful novel about an astronaut returning from the ISS to deal with his daughter’s death and his wife leaving him. Thoughtful, interesting, and as already mentioned beautifully written. Too bad the ending was so disappointing. Too bad.

California Fire and Life   Don Winslow
Entertaining, well-written novel about an insurance fire investigator uncovering murder and fraud by a real estate mogul tied to the FBS and Russian Mafia. Enjoyed his conversational style. I was nicely entertained.