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The Hidden Man    by Anthony Flacco Amazon.com order for
Hidden Man
by Anthony Flacco
Order:  USA  Can
Ballantine, 2008 (2008)
Softcover, e-Book
* * *   Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth

The Hidden Man is the second in the highly acclaimed series by Anthony Flacco. The first, The Last Nightingale, introduced Detective Randall Blackburn and his adopted son Shane Nightingale.

San Francisco is hosting the 1915 World's Fair. The city is trying to recover from the Great Earthquake. A new city is rising from the ashes and the Fair will pull visitors from all over the world to help with its recovery. Many scientific wonders will be presented, including the first transcontinental telephone call.

Famed mesmerist James 'J.D.' Duncan has top billing. Unfortunately for J.D., Doctor Alzheimer has diagnosed him with the newly discovered condition named for said doctor and his performances will be dicey. If that were not enough, Duncan has another very serious problem. A figure from the past is stalking him. He acquires the team of Blackburn and Nightingale to watch his back.

Blackburn and Nightingale do their best to keep the mesmerist safe but the man refuses to tell them just who he thinks is placing him in danger. We experience the devastation of Alzheimer's that plagues Duncan and feel for him. We also experience the frustration of Blackburn and Nightingale over not knowing what is frightening their employer.

The Hidden Man is a good read with suspense throughout, action galore, well-fleshed out characters and a bang up climax. Don't miss it.

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