An engaging installment in this timely and evocative series.
Tormented by the murder of his wife at the behest of the Russian president, and further impassioned by the unspeakably barbaric atrocities committed in Ukraine and elsewhere under that savage despot's direction, retired operative Hap Franklin seeks revenge. Following his reinstatement by the CIA, Hap leads a clandestine operation to bring down the Bad Bear, despite knowing that the risks and possible reprisals from grappling with such a demented wretch would also serve to feed his own demons. The mission provides Hap time for sobering reflection upon elements of an otherwise celebrated life that he's neither altogether proud of nor satisfied with. Though a serious and riveting story, it is told with an abundance of playful humor throughout.