YUCATAN CHANNEL

A lawyer embarks on a mission to find his kidnapped nephew in this second installment of a thriller series.

Attorney Nick Sanchez has been trying to arrange a legal residence for his 17-year-old nephew, Lazaro, so he can move from Cuba to the United States. But Lazaro is an impatient and reckless youth and turns to the mysterious El Cabrón to get out of Cuba. Lazaro spends thousands of dollars on this trip, and at first it seems to be going well, but soon events take a turn for the worse. He is not sailing to Mexico as he thought but instead is heading for the dark, dangerous, and “enchanted Isla de Esperanza—The Isle of Hope.” But there is no hope here, and soon Lazaro will see the truth behind the enigmatic Dr. José Perez (“Welcome to paradise”) and his terrible plans. In order to find his beloved nephew, Nick makes the risky decision to reach out to the man his father called La Serpiente: Ernesto Delgado. Delgado promises Nick answers, but secretly he has his own connection to El Cabrón. Meanwhile, Nick is sailing with friends when he helps rescue a group of people abandoned at sea by El Cabrón. More determined than ever, Nick goes to Cuba in secret and blends in with the locals to discover answers and, more importantly, find his nephew. Vincenti delivers an exciting premise and an admirable lawyer and sleuth. Nick is affable and intelligent, and his love for his family makes him a memorable hero. His commitment to finding his nephew drives the plot and keeps the novel feeling grounded. The villainous Delgado and Perez, who sports “a Clark Gable mustache,” are intriguing, and their actions help keep the stakes high. The supporting characters, such as Nick’s on-again, off-again girlfriend, Joulie Crane; his attorney partner, Londi Francolino; and his sailing friend Nate, have their own engaging backstories. While the subplots are entertaining, they sometimes detract from the main tale. That said, the story overall is enjoyable and satisfying.

A gripping, harrowing adventure with a striking hero.