James Scott’s “The Blood of Patriots and Traitors” delivers a lot of action. Former CIA agent Max Geller is yanked back into the world of espionage, tasked with extracting a high-level Russian defector. The plot races across continents, with heart-stopping chases, near misses, and intricate spy games.
However, the characters struggle to keep pace with the thrilling plot. Max, despite his impressive skills, feels like a typical action hero archetype – brooding, relentless, and lacking in nuance. The supporting cast falls into similar tropes, with clear-cut heroes and villains leaving little room for complexity.
The story’s focus on a Russia conspiracy with allusions to a specific U.S. president feels a bit heavy-handed. Additionally, the sheer amount of action stretches believability at times. While some may enjoy the over-the-top sequences, others might find them lacking in realism.
Overall, “The Blood of Patriots and Traitors” is a fun, action-packed read for those seeking a quick escape. But if you’re looking for a spy thriller with layered characters and a grounded plot, this might not be the perfect fit.