The Russian Cage – Charlaine Harris

Lizbeth gets word that Eli has been imprisoned in the Holy Russian Empire (aka an alternative California-plus-Oregon set a couple of decades after an alternative Russian revolution), and goes to free him.

Most of us would not know how to go to a foreign country and free a prisoner who is enmeshed in physical and magical security - and politics. Most of us would not know where to start. The answer appears to be to be at the right places at the right times, meet helpful people, and shoot anyone who looks to be a problem. It works for Lizbeth. (People in the HRE tend not to ask awkward questions when someone is killed, which helps.)

The plot is simplistic, but it moves briskly. Besides the most interesting parts of the book are inside Lizbeth’s head - an admirable combination of awareness, self-awareness, and steadiness of purpose. She decides what to do and does it. Best supporting character is Felicia, her half sister, who is consistently capable and who, like Lizbeth, pays attention.

I had fun reading this book.