pub: Baen 304 page paperback., Price: $ 7.99 (US), £ 5.85 (UK). ISBN: 978-1-41659-162-7).

check out website: www.baen.com

In his follow up to 'One Jump Ahead', 'Slanted Jack' is the second book to feature Jon Moore and his PCAV, Lobo. In this novel, we catch up with an old friend and business associate of Jon's, the book's namesake, Slanted Jack. Aptly named, Jack's view of the world is just left of skewed, it's slanted. Con artists don't reform, they just find more subtle ways of doing business and this deal is one Jon has a hard time turning his back on as it involves a child.



While at the beginning I was excited to adventure with Jon Moore and his sarcastic sidekick, Lobo, I didn't feel the same connection and punch as the first novel. I think it was the several additions to the 'team' cut that into my precious time alone with Jon and Lobo. I still enjoyed the book, but I'm glad I'd already read the third instalment in this series and loved it, because I would hate to have had my interest wane here.

There are some great scenes though. The 'halo luge' is awesome and reminiscent of the speed ray in 'One Jump Ahead'. As always Jon has some neat tricks up his sleeve, I always enjoy his conversations with drink dispensers and Lobo shows his 'fun' side. In the third book 'Overthrowing Heaven', Van Name really hits his stride with these two characters. I recommend you keep reading!

Kelly Jensen