Summary of Hidden Prey by John Sandford
This summary was generated by ChatGPT.
Hidden Prey is the 15th book in John Sandford’s Prey series, featuring Lucas Davenport. The story begins with the murder of a Russian man, Vladimir Orslov, in Duluth, Minnesota. The FBI believes the crime is tied to espionage, prompting Davenport to work with Russian investigator Nadya Kalin.
As Davenport and Kalin delve into the case, they uncover a Cold War-era sleeper spy network that has persisted for decades. The investigation leads them to a complex web of murder, betrayal, and hidden motives among former spies and their descendants. Kalin and Davenport face mounting danger as they close in on the truth.
The book explores themes of loyalty, deception, and the lingering effects of the Cold War, blending intense action with Sandford’s trademark sharp dialogue and fast-paced plotting.
My Thoughts
Hidden Prey is generally not the kind of book I enjoy as much. The reason is that I’m tired of spy books that have a Cold War-era plot to them. Of course, Hidden Prey was written years ago making the plot more realistic than it would be today.
Even though I’m tired of books using the Cold War as a backdrop, Hidden Prey was different from many books involving that time period. The plot took place entirely in Minnesota. Many of the characters that make the Lucas Davenport series interesting are at least small parts of this story. And, of course, there is plenty of adventure and intrigue.
I’m glad Lucas seems committed to Weather, but I don’t think the affair between Nadya and another detective was necessary.
I was hoping Lettie, the girl Lucas took into his home at the end of Naked Prey, would be part of this story. The fact that she wasn’t may indicate Sandford doesn’t intend to involve her much in the rest of the series.
The part of the plot where the grandfather was effectively brainwashing his grandson certainly added a disturbing aspect to the plot.
Hidden Prey was a better read than I was expecting. If you like detective stories, even if you are tired of the Cold War, Hidden Prey will be worth your time.