Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Trust No One, the fourth book in the Conor Thorn series, is a well-conceived historical thriller set in the WWII era.
Prose: The prose is rich but dense, and clearly displays the author's knowledge of the era. Suspenseful and engaging, Trust No One packs a punch while also offering a striking portrayal of international conflicts, political turmoil, and the human tolls of war.
Originality: Dyer's focus on WWII-era espionage pulls in familiar elements, but the novel is uplifted via clearly extensive research and attention to detail that brings the historical circumstances to life.
Character/Execution: Characters Conor and Emily emerge as the most complete characters, but the author capably populates the novel with convincing figures, providing historical verisimilitude.
Date Submitted: May 21, 2024
As Thorn and Bright discover, of course, their mission will reveal even more deadly secrets than were hinted at in their briefing, plus some surprisingly personal ones. With their lives at risk from threats known and mysterious, this action-packed thriller offers up suspense and surprising twists and turns as the couple delves behind enemy lines—and Dyer steeps readers in this impossibly tense moment in French and Algerian history with an eye for culture, language, and vivid descriptions. Illuminating the darkest shadows of complex alliances, Dyer immerses readers in daring infiltrations, military secrets, dirty politics, and the unexpected.
Crisply told, alive with intrigue and telling detail, Trust No One will please espionage fans who favor historical accuracy but also a ripping yarn. The couple’s dialogue imbues the suspense with welcome warmth, and a cliffhanger will keep fans of the series eagerly awaiting the next installment of Thorn's story.
Takeaway: Gripping WWII espionage thriller rich in history and suspense.
Comparable Titles: Samuel Marquis, Alan Furst.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A