Mob Justice
This thriller by Chad Boudreaux is the second book in the Scavenger Hunt series. Trust me when I say, if you like thrillers, you’re going to love this book set in Chicago and D.C.
Fresh off a high-stakes terrorism case, Justice Department lawyer Blake Hudson is assigned to the Organized Crime Strike Force. With hopes of rehabilitating his reputation with his department and bringing mobsters to justice, he heads to Chicago, only to be surprised by his new ragtag team. They’re unsettling, especially the leader who thrives on taking risks and putting Blake in the crosshairs of some of the deadliest gangsters in the country.
Simultaneously, Enzo Renzi, Ivy League consigliere of The Chicago Outfit, is fighting to make positive changes in how “The Family” does business. This puts a target on Enzo’s back and makes him a threat to the Italian and Irish mob and the rogue extortionist group, The Black Hand.
With survival at stake, the two form an unexpected alliance to pursue their distinct visions of justice. Uncertain where their loyalties lie, both the government and La Cosa Nostra unleash lethal measures to bring Blake and Enzo to their knees.
I absolutely loved this book.
It’s a fast-paced thriller with heart-pounding end-of-chapter hooks. A unique twist was having two elite-trained, highly intelligent protagonists who are opposing forces but who simultaneously have the utmost respect for one another. So much so that they would subtly (and overtly) protect each other. Whenever they would meet, the scenes gave the reader a better understanding and, yes, admiration for the two men.
The history behind Chicago’s La Costa Nostra was fascinating. And with a nod to Michael Corleone, the author designed a perfect, charismatic character in Enzo. Let me also state that the fight for succession to replace Don Giuseppe Falcone took an unexpected turn. How the Don parlayed his private meeting with Irish Gang boss, Eddie O’Bannion, into a “sign of respect” by giving him the key to his legacy was clever.
While I’m on the character thread, the list of supporting characters is intriguing in its own right, adding another engaging element to the book. One thing I believe wasn’t necessary was added POV’s, especially from Lupo (the godfather’s son) and Natalie (Blake’s girlfriend). Being in Blake and Enzo’s mindset set a perfect view for the reader.
The plot, pace, and characters are enough to make this a best-seller, but wait, there’s more: a healthy balance of intrigue, action, history, and criminal tutorial. I liked how Chad explained the details of an investigative procedure without slowing the plot.
As a fan of fast-paced thrillers and Mario Puzo, I am lucky I found Mob Justice. Now I’m a fan of Chad Boudreaux!
Book and Image Courtesy of PR By the Book and NetGalley
