It is so refreshing to find a fast-paced thriller that actually ties up the loose ends of a story and reaches a satisfying conclusion. In The Hidden Man, attorney Jason Kolarich is retained to defend a childhood friend accused of murdering convicted sex offender Griffin Perlini, who was accused of kidnapping his sister years earlier. Kolarich recalls the case from growing up in the neighborhood, as well as the fact that - despite the mounting suspicions against Perlini - he was never convicted, and the abduction of the little girl, Audrey, remained a mystery.

Kolarich was actually hired by an illusive stranger, Mr. Smith, whose interest in the case is one of the main mysteries weaved throughout the story. Almost immediately after the initial request for representation, it becomes clear that there are a number of people with a vested interest in the outcome of the case and will go as far as necessary to achieve the desired result. The motives of Mr. Smith and the basis for his interest in having it handled a certain way are all clues that lead to the novel’s conclusion, which actually provides a plausible explanation for all of his prior conduct.

The book is a great novel that allows readers to try to attempt to figure out the motives of Mr. Smith right alongside Jason Kolarich. The only difference is that Kolarich believes that his future safety and the safety of his family depends upon him finding those answers.

The Hidden Man is a hidden treasure readily distinguishable from the cookie-cutter thrillers published each year, and it should be given its rightful place at the top 2009’s lists of books that should not be missed.