A former spy who calls himself James Wolff has penned “Spies and Other Gods,” a novel described as a “splendid mystery set in the world of espionage.” Despite his hidden identity, Wolff’s work raises a compelling question: Why do ex-spies so often become spy novelists?

Best-selling author and television personality Dr. Ian Smith embarks on a journey into the murky waters of Chicago’s political scene in “Beyond Midnight,” the fifth installment of his Ashe Cayne mystery series. The novel promises an intricate clash between power and justice, showcasing the intrigue at the heart of one of America’s iconic cities.