In "Brackish Water", the fourth thrilling installment of the Angus Green FBI series, Special Agent Angus Green finds himself caught between duty and compassion as he navigates a complex web of art theft, immigration, and personal discovery.
When a young Cuban art historian named Yulirus Diaz is detained after illegally entering the United States, Angus sees an opportunity to unravel a larger criminal enterprise. Yulirus claims knowledge of valuable artwork being smuggled out of Cuba, including a potential masterpiece. As Angus digs deeper, he uncovers a sophisticated operation involving not just art theft, but money laundering and discrimination within a prominent Cuban-American business.
Balancing the demands of his investigation with his own ethical compass, Angus finds himself advocating for Yulirus and another Cuban immigrant, Elpidio López, the very man responsible for smuggling the artwork. Angus must navigate the complexities of immigration law, FBI procedures, and his own growing empathy for those caught in difficult circumstances.
Meanwhile, Angus's personal life is in flux. He's moving in with his boyfriend Lester, a transition that brings its own set of challenges and uncertainties. As he settles into their new shared apartment, Angus grapples with the evolving dynamics of their relationship and his own identity as a gay man in law enforcement.
The investigation takes unexpected turns, leading Angus from the brackish waters of the Florida Keys to the sleek high-rises of Miami's Brickell Avenue. Along the way, he must outsmart wealthy art collectors, coordinate with multiple law enforcement agencies, and make split-second decisions that could impact lives and careers.
Adding another layer of complexity, Angus receives shocking news about his own family history, forcing him to reconsider his understanding of fatherhood and identity. This personal journey parallels the themes of the Murillo painting at the center of the investigation - a depiction of Saint Joseph and the young Jesus that resonates deeply with Angus's evolving perspective on family and belonging.
With its rich exploration of Cuban-American culture, the complexities of immigration, and the high-stakes world of art crime, "Brackish Water" offers readers a nuanced and compelling narrative. Plakcy deftly weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry that is at once a gripping procedural and a thoughtful examination of human nature.
Fans of the series will appreciate the continued development of Angus's character, his relationship with Lester, and his growing confidence as an FBI agent. Newcomers will find a self-contained story that introduces them to a unique and engaging protagonist navigating both professional and personal challenges.
"Brackish Water" is more than just a crime novel; it's a meditation on identity, justice, and the sometimes murky waters we must navigate to do what's right. With its vivid South Florida setting, diverse cast of characters, and timely themes, this book offers readers a thought-provoking and entertaining journey through the complexities of modern law enforcement and human relationships.
