Review: The Siegfried Contingency by Steven Laskin

The Siegfried Contingency by Steven Laskin is a gripping novel that will satisfy thriller fans and book lovers alike. With a dangerous book containing a world-changing secret sitting at the core of this fast-paced thriller, the author has leaned into an old framework, but also twisted it within a new setting and time period that features definitively unique characters.

When bookstore owner Carl Traeger is accosted by some no-nonsense German mobsters in his Seattle shop, demanding that he turn over what they seek – despite not being clear on what the object is – Carl realizes that he is in way over his head. With the passing of his aunt, and her subsequent bequeathing of a book to him, it becomes clear that extremely dangerous powers are swirling around him and this shadowy tome. Fortunately, a policeman (in name only) quickly comes to his aid, meaning that Carl gains both an ally and a possible love interest. This adds a unique angle to the plot, in which emotions run high in multiple directions, drawing readers in with both heartfelt tension and fatal intrigue.

As the mystery unfolds, and hidden Nazi secrets rise up from their buried past, the danger to Carl and special agent Randy McCutcheon swells, forcing them into increasingly improbably and intimate situations. Should they destroy the book and rid the world of its damning revelations, or give into forces greater than they could ever comprehend and save their own skins? Being kept on the knife’s edge between truth and lies is what draws in readers, while the sharp dialogue and strong narration help to keep the pace rushing forward.

Carl is developed exceptionally well, as readers are given the inside scoop to his perspective, but Randy remains a bit more nebulous throughout the book, as are Carl’s relatives’ motives and past errors. Although Carl and Randy come from two very different worlds, their personalities don’t differ all that much, nor do their reactions to rather incredible situations. This mirroring helps strengthen their bond and mutual dependence, but not necessarily the authenticity of the story. A thriller requires high-quality draftsmanship that closes loopholes and retains the attention of readers, and there are times when scenes wrap up too clean and convenient.

When it comes to believability and continuity, there are more than a few moments in the novel that elicit an eye-roll, and may push readers to the limit of their suspended disbelief. Striking a balance between suspense and romance is a challenge, and this ambitious plot requires the writing to be thrilling yet subtle, but it doesn’t always stay in that zone. Fortunately, the setting, speed, dialogue, and unpredictability of the plot help push through weaker moments, resulting in a story that is within shouting distance of great.

A thorough edit to eliminate certain unnecessary scenes and heavy-handed internal monologuing would clean up the rough spots, and guarantee that readers stay engaged and “sold” on the story. On the whole, this is a smart historical thriller with a distinctive focus and a compelling cast of characters.