Terrorist Felix the Cat, believed dead, makes an unexpected reappearance when a film about him and his exploits goes into production. Targeting one by one the writers and actors he goes on a killing spree and his old adversary detective Denny Delany is quickly back on the case. As Felix engages in a periodic dialogue with Denny by telephone we learn of the terrorist’s aims and get to see into his twisted mind.

While the plot unfolds we also get to know Denny better as we follow his interactions with Felix and by contrast see him also in his private life; his relationship with his wife and his parents, including his ailing father.

The story at times moves with unnerving haste as we follow the killings, at other times there are unsettling periods of peace as perhaps Denny spends time with his parents, or even Felix pursues an unexpected and surprising diversion.

Along with the action the writer provides much in the way of detail. There are many references to stage and screen reflecting both the villain’s and hero’s interests. There are also many minor details that bring the story to life and provide a sense of time and place; as a Brit reading a story set in the States I find this particularly appealing. Interesting too is the clever inclusion of a character from John Rooney’s recent novel The Rice Queen Spy.

More seriously the story raises questions about the mind of the terrorist and subtly draws comparisons with the actions of powerful governments. But in never gets bogged down in propaganda, and humour is never far away. I found this an engaging story which is as concerned about the development of its characters as with the intertwining and unpredictable plot. ( )