Thomas Perry’s 'Pro Bono' delivers a gripping crime thriller

Pro Bono by Thomas Perry weaves an intricate tale of embezzlement, revenge, and suspense.

Illustration by Chasseur de Couleurs

By Novanka Laras and Sarah Oktaviany

Pro Bono, by Thomas Perry

Few crime fiction authors match Thomas Perry’s ability to keep readers in suspense, and his latest novel, Pro Bono, is no exception. The fast-paced thriller follows a web of embezzlement, deception, and revenge, taking unexpected turns as its intricate plot unfolds.

The story opens in 2007, when con man Mack Stone swindles his new wife out of a significant fortune before fleeing Los Angeles. His escape is cut short in the Nevada desert, where he falls victim to a fatal road-rage attack. His wrecked car is discovered by a busload of convict firefighters, two of whom steal financial documents that could help them access the deceased con artist’s hidden fortune once they are released from prison.

Seventeen years later, in 2024, the consequences of Mack Stone’s crimes resurface. Vesper Ellis, a 36-year-old widow, seeks help from Los Angeles lawyer Charlie Warren, an expert in recovering stolen assets. Unbeknownst to her, Charlie has a personal connection to the case—his own mother was one of Stone’s victims. Vesper’s concern is simple: her late husband’s investment accounts are shrinking when they should be growing. When Charlie investigates, he uncovers unauthorized withdrawals and a complex fraud scheme. But just as he begins to put the pieces together, he is attacked in public, and Vesper mysteriously disappears.

Twists, deception, and layered storytelling

Perry masterfully intertwines Vesper’s troubles with Charlie’s past, crafting a narrative filled with unexpected twists. Pro Bono is a relentless thriller that keeps readers guessing, much like a ride through the winding roads of Topanga Canyon. Just when a resolution seems within reach, new players emerge, complicating the already tangled mystery.

What sets Perry’s writing apart is his meticulous character development. Every figure in Pro Bono—from the morally ambiguous to the outright sinister—adds depth to the unfolding drama. The novel doesn’t just rely on shocking revelations; it thrives on its rich, well-drawn personalities, making each twist feel organic rather than forced.

A crime novel that keeps readers engaged

Perry has long been known for his ability to craft intelligent and unpredictable crime fiction, and Pro Bono stands as a testament to his skill. Fans of suspenseful storytelling will appreciate the novel’s shifting perspectives, its attention to detail, and the intricate layers of deception at play.

With its blend of legal drama, high-stakes financial crimes, and relentless tension, Pro Bono is a must-read for thriller enthusiasts. Perry once again proves why he remains one of the genre’s most compelling storytellers.

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