In the aftermath of World War II, Berlin has been reduced to rubble. Many of its citizens resort to black market trading to survive.  Kasper Meier is one of the more successful traders, supporting himself and his father comfortably. When a young woman, Eva, blackmails him into finding a British Officer, Kasper is forced into the middle of a city-wide conspiracy with deadly ramifications.

This is the first novel by Fergusson whose portrayal of post-war Berlin is extremely detailed, showing the depressing surroundings and its broken citizens. The story is a clever thriller that spends most of the plot leading you in one direction, cleverly hiding the book's major twist. A smart, enjoyable debut from Fergusson.

THE CORNERS OF THE GLOBE
By Robert Goddard
Bantam Press $32.99

World War I has just ended and James Maxted, a former British ace, is looking for the truth about his father's death. The one person with any information is Fritz Lemmer, the notorious German spymaster. Infiltrating Lemmer's network, James uncovers a secret document that forces him to break cover and flee across Europe.

This is the second book in The Wide World Trilogy by veteran writer Robert Goddard. An intense thriller, Goddard has set his story in a Europe still recovering from war. The story includes several interesting historical elements, such as the capture of the German fleet and the Paris Peace Conference. Set against a strong historical base this tale of adventure makes for an excellent read.

WAYFARING STRANGER
By James Lee Burke
Orion Books $29.99

The book opens in 1934 when sixteen-year-old Weldon Holland shoots Bonnie and Clyde's stolen car. Eleven years later, Holland returns from the War with his wife Rosita, his sergeant Hershel Pine, and advanced Nazi machinery that allows them to break into the oil business. This places them into competition with several shady businessmen more dangerous than either outlaws or the Nazis.

From acclaimed author James Lee Burke, Wayfaring Stranger is a gripping thriller set in the distinctly Texan world of American oil. With several larger than life characters, hidden motives and the false glitz and glamour of post-war America, Burke has written an intriguing mystery that will keep you enthralled right to the end.