The Escape Artist

Jim "Zig" Zigarowski, a mortician at Dover Air Force Base, discovers irregularities while preparing the body of Nola Brown, a military artist supposedly killed in a plane crash. His investigation reveals that Nola, whom he knew years ago, may not be dead after all. The story moves between Dover Air Force Base and various locations across the United States as Zig pursues the truth about Nola's apparent death. His search uncovers connections to government secrets, military operations, and a centuries-old network of magicians and escape artists. The plot centers on the intersection of military intelligence, historical mysteries, and the art of illusion, building tension through revelations about both Nola's past and present circumstances. The narrative examines the bonds between the main characters while maintaining focus on the central mystery. This thriller explores themes of loyalty, deception, and the lengths people will go to escape their past. The integration of military procedure and magicians' techniques creates a unique backdrop for examining how appearances can deceive.

Readers report The Escape Artist keeps a fast pace but takes time to develop its central mystery around mortuary operations at Dover Air Force Base. Many note the detailed research into military funeral practices adds authenticity. Readers liked: - The protagonist Zig's emotional depth and backstory - Historical connections to Harry Houdini - Technical accuracy about military procedures - Short chapters that build tension Readers disliked: - Multiple timeline shifts that some found confusing - Side characters that needed more development - Plot points that require suspension of disbelief - Ending that some felt was rushed "The mortuary details were fascinating but never felt gratuitous," noted one Amazon reviewer. Others mentioned the book "tries too hard to be Dan Brown." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (22,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (9,800+ ratings) Book Reporter: 4/5 LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (450+ ratings)

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★ Dover Air Force Base's mortuary, where the book is set, is America's only facility for returning and identifying all military personnel who die overseas - processing over 50,000 fallen service members since 1955. ★ Author Brad Meltzer spent extensive time at Dover Air Force Base researching the book, including observing actual mortuary procedures and interviewing personnel to ensure authenticity. ★ The character Nola Brown was inspired by real-life military artists whose job involves documenting warfare and military operations through art rather than photography. ★ Before becoming a bestselling thriller writer, Meltzer worked as a White House speechwriter and co-created the TV series "Jack & Bobby." ★ The book's intricate plot draws from the historical tradition of "escapology" - the art of escape made famous by Harry Houdini - and weaves it into modern military conspiracy themes.