Take a moment to read the opening of VCU alumnus David Baldacci’s “Split Second.”
Take another moment to cancel any weekend plans, because this book will probably be far more engaging.
Although longtime fans of Baldacci say that it is not his best work, when considered alone, it stands as a great work.
In terms of dialogue, “Split Second” is up-to-date. In one part, Baldacci writes a scene in which a character is speaking of decorating using Feng Shui principles.
Sean King, a former Secret Service agent lost his career after failing to competently perform his duty.
Nine years later, agent Michelle Maxwell is on the verge of being transferred to Secret Service duty when her charge, a presidential candidate is also killed.
King and Maxwell decide to team up because they discover a connection between the two incidents. They also discover some feelings for each other.
Baldacci’s writing is, at times, somewhat poetic. Although unexpected, it serves the reader well for softening otherwise tragic events.
It is all right to take a break from it, but don’t take longer than a split second.
David Baldacci. “Split Second.” 404 p.p., hardcover. List price: $26.95, hardcover. Available in hardcover, paperback, and abridged compact disc. Available in English, Spanish, Dutch, German and French. (All languages may not be available in the United States.)