In The Aden Effect, Claude Berube's debut novel, pirates, drug dealers, corrupt politicians and inept military leaders all contribute to a complex plot packed with political conspiracy, military intrigue and international conflict.
When the U.S. ambassador to Yemen, C.J. Sumner, fails in her attempts to build relationships with Yemeni leaders, she uses her influence to recall ex-navy officer Connor Stark to active military duty--assigned to her embassy, where she hopes his connections will help her break down the walls of silence before Washington pulls her out of her position.
Meanwhile, U.S. diplomatic security agent Damien Golzari arrives in Yemen, following a lead in the death of a State Department official's college-aged son. When Golzari and Stark cross paths, Sumner has to convince the two headstrong men they are on the same side and need to work together.
Berube's protagonists are an unlikely match; the straightlaced, impeccably dressed Golzari exudes as much arrogance as the non-traditional, informal Stark. Yet readers will find it difficult to dislike either man. Their foes are easier to dislike, but Berube is equally respectful with them. Smart, determined and realistic, they make the novel's action chillingly believable.
Fans of political thrillers, international espionage or military crime should not let this gem fly under the radar. --Jen Forbus of Jen's Book Thoughts