The Matarese Countdown, by Robert Ludlum
1997 Bantam Books. 566 pgs.
I like spy novels. The funny thing about these type of books is that they are often predictable. I thought The Matarese Countdown was good, but certainly not great. Ludlum is a classic writer in his field and it is likely that many attempt to emulate his brilliant style. This story is about CIA case officer Cameron Pryce enlisting the aid of an old “retired” agent, in order to destroy the Matarese and its attempts at world domination. The global community is unaware of the underhanded schemes the wealthy Matarese is about to bring about, yet if all goes according to plan, the few can make a lasting difference for the whole. Basically, the good guys win and the bad guys loose. The characters are enjoyable, but not overly memorable. The antagonists are filled with pride and seemingly unstoppable, which of course plays a part in their fall. If you like Ludlum, you’ll enjoy this book.