Sirk TV Book Review: THE GATEKEEPER [Minotaur]

The essence of a book that can combine a cinematic superlative with a sense of the real, even as things spiral out of control is a tall order. This reviewer always likes to see new implementations of characters from the ground up so it can be tricky seeing what is really working until sometimes the 3rd or 4th book (if they get that far). With a book like "The Gatekeeper" [James Byrne/Minotaur/304pgs], it moves right from the get go. The first couple chapters are muddled as it tries to establish a little bit of perspective of backstory with what becomes the lead character per se in Dez who is a jack of all trades but pretends he knows none. His essence of wrong place at the wrong time before taking the bull by the horns does work. His foil (at least in this book) is Petra Alexandris,, the headstrong and brilliant daughter of a Greek business magnate who is powerful but stuck behind the times. The conspiracy that builds works quite well also because Dez is a way is so inclusive as a character while still being brutish and non-committal while being committed.

It is a hard balance to keep especially with the background story which is current (as of the past year of 2021). This galley was read in late 2021 and the review run and release date is in mid June 2022. This would be a great character for Gerald Butler in his prime since it needs that off put humor. Liam Neeson's style is too different but the great thing is that the book in this way can be visualized. It is like Jack Reacher but without his baggage. Dez doesn't have baggage per se…he just is. He doesn't get offended but don't piss him off. He doesn't assume anything though he knows most things. As the integration of plot points continue but don't overwhelm the reader, Byrne gives Dez an ability to approach the story with ease, even as the noose in a way tightens.

Even the villains sort of have this chess point. They are somewhat megalomaniacal but definitely don't have everything worked out though they think they do. "The Gatekeepers" [which refers to Dez's job per as a independent contractor, sets up a character wonderfully without assuming too much. the books’ shine is that it keeping the comedy moving without sacrificing any of the intrigue. B

By Tim Wassberg