When Mark Greaney’s representative at Penguin Random House reached out about reviewing the latest spy novel in his ongoing “Gray Man” series, I assured him that I had only ever seen the film that came out in 2022. I had not read the previous 12 “Gray Man” books. Being a fan of spy novels, however, I was more than willing to delve into the latest book and give an honest review. I was sent the new book, along with the rest of the “Gray Man” library (not sure when I’ll be getting to those). I mention all of this for a very good reason, as it is ultimately the crux of this review.
“The Chaos Agent” is the 13th book in the series, and despite its name, starting at the tail end actually produces no chaos for the reader. Of course there are characters from previous installments, such as Court Gentry (the Gray Man himself), his girlfriend and former Russian spy, Zoya Zakharova, and close associate Sir Donald Fitzroy, but not knowing these characters, surprisingly, does not affect the read. Perhaps the closest definition to chaos in the book is the many moving parts and storylines that eventually converge into one. But this is a controlled chaos, controlled by a writer who has undoubtedly become a master at the craft of complex storytelling.
“The Chaos Agent” follows Gentry and Zakharova, who are now both former agents/assassins, attempting to lay low and stay out of sight of the CIA and Russian intelligence. When a global plot powered by artificial intelligence inadvertently entangles them both, they become targets for assassination. This entanglement pulls them back into the fray. Despite having been in hiding (a point made clear in the book), they are forced to help former colleagues within the CIA work to unravel this mystery and stop what looks to be a growing army of lethal autonomous weapons (LAWs).
Character and Plot
Mr. Greaney creates several handfuls of characters, all with personalities that stand out; incredibly, even those with short-lived appearances. These personalities range from helpful and generous to greedy and cruel. Few characters seem one dimensional, which is a real rarity when in popular fiction. I recall one moment regretting the assassination of a character despite the character’s appearance lasting only a few pages (the book’s length is more than 500 pages).Along with the many characters and eventually converging storylines, there are plenty of action sequences. Indeed, the action drives the story along, quickly. The fast pace and countless action sequences doesn’t convolute the plot. Ultimately, the action is the plot.
As aforementioned, Gentry, Zakharova, and others are tasked with unraveling the mystery behind a dozen assassinations around the globe that target high-level artificial intelligence (AI) experts. The clues Mr. Greaney leaves behind by make solving the mystery a rather easy task. I came to the correct assumption about a quarter of the way into the book. This early resolution, however, doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of the book. “The Chaos Agent” is not a “whodunit?”
Related Stories
Mr. Greaney’s new book introduces fitting topics for our time. The power of AI, its potential existential threat, and the temptation for man to play God, are subjects covered in the book. While the book is a fun and action packed read, it also dives into some deep philosophical questions, although Mr. Greaney doesn’t really indulge in letting his characters wax too philosophical.
Another aspect of Mr. Greaney’s writing is his attention to detail. His description of places, people (regardless of how instrumental their character is to the plot), and weapons, proves that he cares not just about the story’s overlying theme, but also about what the reader will visualize as they move from chapter to chapter. Mr. Greaney also proves his understanding of strategy and tactics in small- and large-scale engagements. It’s another testament to the seriousness with which he takes his craft. (It’s small wonder that he was the first co-author with the late Tom Clancy.)
A Very Fun Read
“The Chaos Agent” is one of the more fun reads you can have this year. It boasts tons of action, believable dialogue (no easy task to accomplish), a plot that moves quickly, appealing characters (good guys and bad guys), occasional drops of humor (I laughed aloud a few times), and a plot worthy of today’s complex world. Whether you’ve read all of the “Gray Man” novels, or, like me, none of them, “The Chaos Agent” is a story that stands alone. Now, onto the other 12.
‘The Chaos Agent’
By Mark Greaney
Berkley, Feb. 20, 2024
Hardcover: 560 pages
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