‘The Tin Men’ by Nelson and Alex DeMille; Simon & Schuster; 384 pages; $29
Despite the highly entertaining plot and the rip-roaring action, “The Tin Men,” by the father-and-son duo of Nelson and Alex DeMille, comes with sadness. During the writing of this military thriller, Nelson DeMille passed away on Sept. 17, 2024, at age 81, leaving his son to finish the manuscript they had been working on.
As is fitting, Alex DeMille leads off “The Tin Men” recounting how he worked with his father on their series about Army criminal investigators Scott Brodie and Maggie Taylor and how this third novel was concluded.
“The Tin Men” is a fitting tribute to Nelson DeMille’s rich career, which was filled with gripping bestsellers that captivated even those readers not always drawn to thrillers. “The Tin Men” moves briskly and is seamlessly punctuated by believable characters and elaborate-but-realistic military craft, while showing how artificial intelligence can be useful or manipulated to be diabolical.
The intelligent, unrelenting team of Scott and Maggie often are called to take on the tough assignments. The two arrive in the Mojave Desert to investigate the malfunction of D-17s — killer robots called “tin men.” During military testing, “tin men” killed an Army computer scientist. The robots’ speed and capabilities outmatch those of the human soldiers, putting an Army ranger regiment in danger. Scott and Maggie need to find out who is manipulating the robots’ software.
The authors keep the action on full speed as Scott and Maggie go through numerous physical and emotional trials. The DeMilles are careful to keep the story believable — the duo knows how to make smart, quick decisions.
“The Tin Men” is an apt legacy for the late Nelson DeMille and a new path for Alex DeMille.
Meet the author
Alex DeMille will discuss his and Nelson DeMille’s “The Tin Men” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. The event is free, but reservations are requested. Visit booksandbooks.com/event or call 305-442-4408.
‘The Disclosure’ by Mel Taylor; Severn River Publishing; 252 pages; $17.99
Emmy Award-winning reporter Mel Taylor, who covered South Florida for more than 20 years, delivers a detailed look at broadcast journalism augmented by solid suspense in “The Disclosure,” the third in his series about TV reporter Booker Johnson.
Booker, a reporter for South Florida’s Ch. 27, has covered a variety of news stories including the disappearance four years ago of circuit judge William Rocker following his wife Shanice’s murder. Rocker was the prime suspect but had not yet been charged when he fled to Vietnam. Now, unexpectedly, the judge calls Booker, saying he is returning to clear his name. He will only discuss the case with Booker, then the two will go together to talk with the police.
The judge insists the first interview must be conducted the next day in Chicago — the exact site to be shared once Booker and his film crew arrive. Booker and his producers wonder if they are being played, but the judge keeps his word.
However, a crucial witness who could clear the judge is killed before the person can speak with the police. As Booker pulls together a now more complicated story, he also fends off print and electronic rivals.
Taylor keeps the suspense high and the reality steady in his brisk plot. Booker’s relationship with his crew, especially his cameraperson, and their ethical approach to covering the news elevates “The Disclosure.” Booker is a solid investigator, but he is a journalist first and does not cross the ethical line or take unnecessary chances. His home life adds to this well-rounded character.
Taylor is a welcome addition to the growing group of writers who showcase South Florida.
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