Alibi by Joseph Kanon (7 out of 10)

Alibi is set in post WWW Venice. This setting enhances the story, which is dark and full of plot twists. Nothing is as it seems. The protagonist is a recently released American officer who had hunted war criminals in Germany. He travels to Venice to stay with his wealthy, widowed mother. He meets a mysterious young Jewish woman and falls in love. The hero wants to protect the women in his life but misjudges their vulnerability. He ultimately finds that survival makes all men and women do things which seem repugnant during times of peace. Judgment is impossible. This book was upredictable and very dark.

Originality-8

Characters-7

Themes- 6