Fiction Book Reviews

Book Review: The Accomplice

By Sandy Amazeen Oct 25, 2012, 3:00 GMT

In this stellar debut by journalist turned Washington insider and political writer Charles Robbins, an eager politico finds himself on the rise only to discover the perilous costs of success. When Henry Hatten wangles a job as communications director for Nebraska SenatorTom Peele\'s presidential campaign, he breathes a huge sigh of relief.  Smarting over a recent gubernatorial campaign in which his pulling a political punch may have cost his boss ...more

Had enough of the current political posturing? Then grab a copy of this intelligent debut novel by a former journalist familiar with the sordid Washington underbelly. After pulling a punch that likely cost his candidate an election win, Henry Hatten was between jobs and shaken. By accepting a new position as press secretary for Senator Tom Peele, a republican from Nebraska looking to make a run for President of the United States, Henry sees an opportunity to redeem himself. Vowing to set aside any annoying ethics, Henry quickly discovers Peele suffers the same afflictions the plague most men in power, namely women and a faulty moral compass. As the line between right and wrong become increasingly blurred, with a hushed murder, Henry realizes the corruption is far worse then he had imagined. Somehow, Henry must uncover a murderer while staying alive long enough to beat killer at his game.

Lust, murder, corruption and the daily stresses of the campaign process ring true in this interesting if slow moving story. The authentic feeling dialog gives readers the sense of being behind the scenes during campaign activities. Henry is an interesting character as he continually struggles to do what is right in the midst of political intrigue and murderous cover-ups. Robbins maintains a credible tension level while throwing in just enough twists to keep you engaged provided you aren't looking for rapid paced action.