Mark Tier's "Trust Your Enemies" is imaginative and original. It's a novel of ideas that's also packed with action, adventure, and excitement. This is a tale of government corruption, drug smuggling, blackmail, revenge, investigative reporting, cyberhacking, romance, and more.
Australia? Well, yes. But despite the seemingly exotic setting, American readers will find themselves at home, readily absorbing the complex developments and dramatic conflicts, and eagerly following the huge cast of interesting characters.
Derek Olsson is not your usual hero, and one of the novel's clever ploys is that you wonder for a while whether the author wants you to admire him or not. You'll also meet two strong and independent female protagonists, one of whom experiences a remarkable intellectual odyssey over the course of the story. This extraordinary trio matches wits with a villainous politician, and the ensuing battles give the book its plot and momentum.
It's an intriguing tapestry, and woven though it are challenging and controversial themes, such as freedom and individualism and the corrupting effects of power, that will have readers with libertarian sympathies cheering--while probably infuriating others!
Any criticisms? Yes. The book is long -- longer than necessary to accomplish its purposes. Had it been judiciously edited and pruned, it could have had a faster pace, a more focused concept, and a stronger dramatic arc.
But enough quibbling. "Trust Your Enemies" delivers plenty of value to reward your investment of time and money. You've never read anything quite like this unique novel. Can't wait for the movie!