Thriller Genre Annotation

Masquerade by Gayle Lynds (1996)

St. Martin’s Press, 450 pgs. Series: Liz Sansborough, Book One 

Summary:
Liz Sansborough has amnesia. She does not remember her name or her previous life as a CIA field agent. A charming stranger shares memories of her past and their life together. He helps her heal then train for a special assignment. When Liz discovers information that contradicts what she has been told, she sets out to find the truth. Confused and alone, Sansborough encounters an attractive fellow agent who joins her search. Together they uncover a terrifying plot called Grandeur that has devastating global repercussions. If they survive the tortuous web of violence, diabolical medical practices, mixed identities, and shifting alliances, will they be in time to dismantle Grandeur?

Thriller Characteristics in Masquerade 

Prominent elements:

Fast-paced, intricate plot with surprising twists and widespread violence 

Saricks’ Genre Characteristics (Source: Saricks 72-82) 

Pacing: The story reflects the fast-paced action of an Adrenaline genre. Danger or imminent danger propel the pace and build suspense.

Frame/Setting: Lynds designs the action to cinematic effect; the protagonist travels from California to Colorado, Washington, D.C. and Paris. The focus is on the espionage profession. The types of weapons, facilities, clothing, and lifestyle related to tradecraft are described in technical detail.

Story Line: The plot’s byzantine twists reflect the political maneuverings of international espionage. The intricate narrative directs the fluctuations in the action.

Characterization: The main characters are representative of the genre. Liz is a strong and sympathetic protagonist. The antagonist and his cohorts are clever and sinister.

Tone/Mood: The violence and constant threat of danger give the book a dark tone common to the Thriller genre.

Style/Language: Lynds’ narrative is informal and replete with intelligence community jargon.

Masquerade’s Appeal 

Liz is a likeable heroine; she is resourceful and determined. Action dominates the text and sets a page-turning pace. The plot is complex with many twists. Lynds frames the story in a recognizable intelligence agency (CIA) and immerses readers in a global story of political intrigue. 


Read Alikes

Mathews, F. (2009). The cutout. New York, NY: Bantam Books

Reason:  Like Francine Mathews Gayle Lynds writes gripping, fast-paced tales of international espionage with strong female protagonists, rapidly shifting perspectives and locations, and authentic atmospheric details gleaned from government agencies. -- Derek Keyser*

Reich, C. (2003). Rules of deception. New York, NY: Delacorte

Reason:  These authors write gripping, action-packed, and intricately plotted thrillers involving international espionage and possible global catastrophe. Amidst the endless deception and suspenseful chase scenes in their stories are also more intimate elements involving romantic relationships where one partner carries deadly secrets. -- Derek Keyser*

Rimington, S. (2006). At risk. New York, NY: Vintage Crime/Black Lizard.

Reason:  Though the spy fiction genre is dominated by male writes and characters, these women authors create strong, intelligent female protagonists while maintaining the relentless action, international locales, and intricately drawn, conspiracy-filled plots that fans of the genre expect. -- Derek Keyser*

*Derek Keyser is a contributor for NoveList Plus, the online database used to find these read-alikes.

References

Keyser, D. (2019). Read-alikes for Lynds,Gayle. NoveList Plus. Retrieved from https://www.carmel.lib.in.us/

Saricks, J. (2009). The readers’ advisory guide to genre fiction (2nd ed.). Chicago, IL: American Library Association.