THE SHADOW LIST is a thrilling read with a lightning fast pace. The tale is believable and it is obvious that the author, through experience and research, has given factual information. It has a complicated plot filled with many twists and turns. Kidnapping, betrayals, greed, and political power grabs that take us to exciting locales. From Washington, D.C, to London, on to Lagos, then Nigeria, and, finally, to St. Petersburg, Russia.

Judd and Jessica Ryker, married, have two children and live in Georgetown. Judd is a rising star at the State Department while Jessica is a CIA agent. Both careers carry danger and secrecy. To protect their family and their marriage they make an oath. It is called the Ryker Rules of Engagement. When it comes to their jobs, they will avoid talking about their assignments. Where they were, who is involved, etc. They will assist each other, when possible. Admit or abandon when necessary, but always they must do it together. So far they have been kept safe in their secretive and treacherous occupations.

Judd's newest assignment given to him urged swift and immediate. A NBA basketball star, Tunde Babatunde, was dedicating a children's hospital in his hometown in Lagos, Nigeria in Western Africa. Judd's mission: Travel to Nigeria, find Tunde, and bring him back home QUICKLY. While he is in Nigeria, Judd will investigate the disappearance of American, Jason Saunders, a hedge fund executive with the firm of Harvey Holden, who owns the Brooklyn Nets. Judd's investigations point to a financial scam by an group of thieves in Lagos known as the Coyotes.

Jessica is on her way to St. Petersburg, Russia for a terrifying assignment. She is to meet a powerful Russian Mafia Boss known as "the Bear." Jessica must convince him that she is Queen Sheeba, a paid assassin and try to discover his next movements and what her next target will be? I found her kick-ass tactics in defending herself against three of the Bear's bodyguard to be very enjoyable. This espionage drama that will have you turning the pages, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the startling finale. What are the chances the Rykers would meet in Lagos? That's when the action heats up, the suspense builds, with a cast of characters in Western Africa, a country I have not read much about.

Todd Moss is a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and knows how to tell a story. This is the fourth book in the Judd Ryker novels and I look forward to the next. My praise for Todd Moss....outstanding writing and riveting events. It is all there for an adventure you will truly enjoy. My recommendation and 5 stars!