The One Minute Assassin Troy Cook Capital Crimes Press $14.95 Trade Sept.

John Black loves his mother and sister despite the fact they're both politicians. John hates politics. He and his mentor Harley are 'persuaders,' convincing deadbeat dads, stalkers and child molesters to stay on the right side of the law. While checking the security set up for his sisters campaign for the California Governorship, John meets and is hired by, reporter, Sierra Rodriquez. He quickly deals with her ex husband because with a week remaining in the race, several of the frontrunners have been 'meeting with accidents.'

When John's niece, Hillary, surprises a man crawling out from under her mother's car, John and Harley are convinced he's been hired by someone higher up to affect the outcome of the race. John and Harley are determined to get not only the underlings but the top men. It's this chase and the interplay of the characters that drives the plot. The One Minute Assassin is Troy Cooks second novel; fast paced, funny and full of action. If The One Minute Assassin reads like a movie it's just Mr. Cook playing to his strengths as both screenwriter and director. He provides an enjoyable result. Pop yourself some popcorn and sit down with The One Minute Assassin.

Dave Biemann