Brad Taylor is known for his high intensity, action packed thrillers, but American Traitor brings another (and welcome) component to the storyline. While there is plenty of 'Pike being Pike' on display throughout the book, American Traitor drops the Taskforce squarely in a new type of fight, under a new type of mandate.
Gone are the days of Pike Logan and company being focused solely on rooting out terrorists across the globe and putting them in the ground. With geopolitical considerations now front and center, the Taskforce finds itself hot on the trail of a genius AI programmer who has stolen data crucial to the defensive capabilities of Taiwan as they see China continue to escalate their 'gray war' in the South China Sea. A single wrong step could plunge the world's two superpowers into all out war.
Along with the evolution of the Taskforce's operating parameters, Taylor continues to tease out the psychological impact their missions have on the team members. The exploration of the subtle changes in Jennifer (Koko) Cahill's demeanor and outlook were a bonus in this book. While Pike continues to rely on both her judgement and moral fortitude, there is an underlying worry that while she is clearly a positive influence on him, he (and their work) may be changing her.
I would have to say this is my favorite Pike Logan book. The combination of action, espionage, and nuanced character development can all be found in American Traitor. Taylor continues to up his game and show us why his books are required reading for any thriller fan.
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