🎯 Book Review: Power Play by Catherine Coulter
A politically charged, adrenaline-fueled FBI thriller that pits diplomacy against deadly secrets—with Savich and Sherlock caught in the crossfire.
Book 18 in Catherine Coulter’s FBI Thriller series, Power Play delivers a dual narrative packed with suspense, revenge, and high-stakes drama. With a Goodreads rating of 4.20/5 from over 9,000 readers, this installment is praised for its fast pacing, layered plotlines, and the return of fan-favorite agents Dillon Savich and Lacey Sherlock.
🧠 Plot Overview
Natalie Black, the U.S. ambassador to the Court of St. James, is reeling from the sudden death of her fiancé, George McCallum, Viscount Lockenby. British tabloids suggest suicide, blaming Natalie for breaking off the engagement. But when she’s nearly run off the road in London—and later targeted again in Washington—Natalie suspects someone wants her silenced.
Enter FBI Special Agent Davis Sullivan, who believes Natalie’s story and joins the investigation. Meanwhile, Savich and Sherlock face a chilling threat of their own: Blessed Backman, a psychopathic cult leader with hypnotic powers, has escaped from a mental hospital and is out for revenge—especially against Sherlock.
As the two cases unfold, the agents must navigate political pressure, personal danger, and a ticking clock to stop a killer before he strikes again.
🔍 Why It Works
- Dual Threats: Coulter balances two intense storylines—one rooted in political intrigue, the other in psychological terror.
- Strong Female Leads: Natalie Black and Sherlock both face threats with resilience and intelligence.
- Series Continuity: Familiar faces return, while new characters like Davis Sullivan add fresh energy.
- High Stakes: From embassy corridors to mental hospital escapes, the tension never lets up.
💬 Critical Reception
- “Elite Washingtonians are bedeviled by scandals and murder attempts… action-packed, though less thrilling than Coulter’s best.” — Kirkus Reviews
- “The clock is ticking and the danger intensifies… a satisfying blend of suspense and character-driven drama.” — Goodreads community
🏁 Final Verdict
Power Play is a compelling entry in the FBI Thriller series, offering a mix of political suspense, psychological danger, and emotional grit. If you enjoy thrillers with layered plots and strong character dynamics, this one delivers a satisfying punch.
