Book Review: The Trap

Title: The Trap

Author: Ava Glass

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group / Bantam

Publication Date: September 3, 2024

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Ava Glass delivers another thrilling espionage adventure with "The Trap," the third book in the Emma Makepeace series. While the novel starts off slowly, it picks up pace about a third of the way in, ultimately providing a gripping and engaging narrative.

Emma Makepeace, the female equivalent of James Bond, is further developed in this installment by being paired with a Scottish detective named Mackenzie. Initially unwanted, Mackenzie becomes a compelling partner, adding depth to Emma's character and hinting at potential future collaborations.

Set against the backdrop of a G7 meeting in Edinburgh, the plot revolves around Emma's mission to stop a Russian assassination attempt. The tension builds steadily, culminating in a nail-biting race against time to thwart the assassin's plan.

Despite the slow start, "The Trap" rewards patient readers with a satisfying and suspenseful spy thriller. Glass's ability to craft complex characters and intricate plots shines through, particularly in the novel's latter half. The Edinburgh setting adds an atmospheric touch to the unfolding drama.

Overall, "The Trap" is a solid addition to the Emma Makepeace series, showcasing Glass's growing prowess in the espionage genre. With well-developed characters, taut plotting, and a tense conclusion, this novel is sure to please fans and newcomers alike. Emma's journey continues to captivate, promising more heart-pounding adventures in the world of international espionage.

A hearty thank you to Random House and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. This is one book you don’t want to miss.