There is a pervading sense of and commitment to realism in Eisler's books, something that most readers will realize, consciously or otherwise. He visits all the settings he writes about, whether it's Hong Kong or Rio or Macau, scouting them and assessing the possibilities and complications of any location. He consults medical doctors to ensure that Rain's "natural causes" killing techniques are plausible. He talks to snipers, FBI agents and security specialists, anyone who can provide the expert insight that Rain relies upon to stay alive.

Whether or not everything that happens in the Rain yarns is strictly accurate or not, I couldn't say. I do know, however, that Eisler does his job so well that everything seems possible, and that is what really matters.

Rain Storm is not a novel for everyone. Some readers might be put off by the story's violence; some might be unable to warm up to an assassin as a "hero." But for those who can get past these factors, Barry Eisler's books, this latest in particular, are sure to please even the most discriminating readers. Don't wait any longer — pick one up today!