he Cellist (2021) is the 21st novel in Daniel Silva’s acclaimed Gabriel Allon series, a gripping espionage thriller that delves into contemporary geopolitical tensions. The story follows Israeli intelligence chief Gabriel Allon as he investigates the suspicious death of Viktor Orlov, a Russian billionaire and dissident, who is found poisoned in London. This discovery leads Allon into a complex web of financial crimes and covert operations orchestrated by the Russian government. The plot explores themes of money laundering, cyber warfare, and the manipulation of Western democracies .Wikipedia Smithsonian Associates +3 Barnes & Noble +3 Barnes & Noble +3

The novel is notable for its timely reflection of real-world events, incorporating elements such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 U.S. presidential election, and the January 6 Capitol insurrection. Silva weaves these into the narrative, highlighting the vulnerabilities of democratic institutions to external interference .Wikipedia Houstonia Magazine +2 Lester The Nightfly Radio +2

Critics have lauded The Cellist for its sophisticated storytelling and timely themes. The Wall Street Journal praised the novel's pacing and surprise elements, while Bookreporter.com described it as "a sophisticated voyage through the world of concert halls, art museums, lavish receptions and the occasional chase scene" . However, some reviewers noted that while the novel addresses pressing issues, it may not be as compelling as some of Silva's previous works .Bookreporter +2 Barnes & Noble +2 Kirkus Reviews

For those interested in a fast-paced, politically charged thriller, The Cellist offers a compelling narrative that resonates with current global concerns.