Book Review: The Wall of Night

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The Wall of Night     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Grant Blackwood
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Thriller   Espionage   Political Intrigue
Jove, Mar 2002, $7.99, 576 pp.

In 1990 China, People’s Liberation Army Chief of Staff General Han Soong stuns the West when he secretly informs an attaché at an embassy reception that he wants to defect. CIA Agent Briggs Tanner is assigned the task of safely bringing Soong out China. Briggs arranges the escort of Soong starting in Chengde. However, the scenario fails as the Chinese are ready and Soong is taken away while Briggs can only helplessly watch before escaping to safety.

Twelve years later, Soong has made contact again and wants to flee to the West. He will only do so with Briggs as his guide. However, Briggs’s actions are being scrutinized at the highest levels of power including a White House with Chinese campaign support. If he survives his return trek to China, his efforts could lead to global war.

Though it takes an adjustment to the constant switching of perspectives and events, readers will feel it is worth the effort as THE WALL OF NIGHT is an exhilarating thriller. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action that seems believable in our modern world. Fans of international political, military and espionage tales will want to read Grant Blackwood’s novel that combines the best elements of all three genres.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner