Exile is a work of fiction. But given the nature of these times, this book feels very real. The punch-out scene in Exile covers a suicide-bomb assasination that takes place in San Francisco. The bomber’s target is the Israeli Prime Minister, and the plot unfolds with all of the explosive fire and carnage you can dream up. But don’t be fooled into thinking this book is only filled with big explosions and nothing else. Exile digs deeply into the state of things in the Middle East, with a lot of focus on the Israel/Palestine situation, and how it affects the rest of the world. I found the middle part of the book fascinating, as it depicts the protagonist’s travels through ancient sacred cities and rough backstreet ghettos, searching for clues as to who is behind the bombing. Overall, Exile is an enjoyable read, and really DOES have something for everyone. Mystery, international intrigue/espionage. There’s even a complex love triangle between the book’s protagonist, his former lover and a hardline Palestinian fundamentalist. I don’t want to give away too much there but two words: Paternity test! If you’re a fan of Grisham or Tom Clancy, or if you’re just looking for something more than a beach read this summer, I strongly recommend that you check out Exile.