The First Wave [Paperback]

The second Billy Boyle investigation

Billy Boyle is dispatched to help arrange the surrender of Vichy French forces in Algeria. But dissension among the regular army, the militia, and De Gaulle’s Free French forces allows black marketers in league with the Germans to divert medical supplies, leading to multiple murders. Billy must find the killers and rescue the woman he loves, a British spy.Praise forThe First Wave

Another rousing adventure . . . Once again the period details are spot-on and Billy, who doesn't pretend to be anything but what he is, continues to make a thoroughly engaging detective.
—TheDenver Post

“What a great read, full of action, humor and heart . . . Equal parts spy thriller, war story and murder mystery, with a dollop of romance that’s never sweet, this is just a terrific book. More please!”
—Louise Penny

“A rattling good read.”
—Rhys Bowen

“A solid follow up to Benn’s first novel . . . [I] look forward to his next.”
—Robert B. Parker

“Benn follows up his first World War II mystery (Billy Boyle) with another danger-filled episode and delivers a cross-genre tale that is at once spy story, soldier story, and hard-Boyled detective.”
—Library Journal, Starred Review

“Certain to appeal to WWII fiction fans.”
—Booklist

“Part Indiana Jones derring-do and part grown-up adventure novel with spies, black marketers, loyal and dastardly French, and the reliably evil Nazis. If you like World War II historical crime novels, you’ll love this one.”
—Mystery Scene
James R. Benn is the author of the Billy Boyle World War II mysteries. The debut,Billy Boyle, was named one of five top mysteries of 200l{