An impressive debut thriller from Scots-born TV screenwriter Sean Black that introduces a new full-on action hero.
Former Royal Military Police close protection officer Ryan Lock, is now working for a major biotech company in New York which is the subject of animal rights protests.
Ferocious and single-minded, but with a conscience, Lock proceeds to confront one of the finest female villains since Ian Fleming's Rosa Klebb with a style that would bring a smile to the face of his spiritual father - Lee Child's Jack Reacher.
Clearly influenced by Child and Joseph Finder, Black drives his hero into the tightest spots with a force and energy that jump off the page. He still has a little to learn when it comes to depth of character and pacing, but that won't take long. Lock is clearly going to be around for a long time.
With a spine-tingling finale that reminded me of Die Hard, this is a writer, and a hero, to watch.
