Baltimore Logic by Basil Truscott is an espionage thriller set in one of the most tumultuous periods in American history; the time immediately preceding the bombing of Pearl Harbor and America’s entry into the Second World War. Society at this time is highly fractured, with a myriad of issues causing division and hatred, predominately generated by ideological differences arising from political alignment, racial treatment, and religious belief. The main players in this volatile mix are the Nazi and Japanese spy networks, based out of their respective embassies, the FBI, various Intelligence Offices, and local law enforcement, all under the watchful eye of the Federal Government. Into this incredibly convoluted and dangerous vortex, two innocent and unrelated young men attending college in Baltimore are ensnared; Lieutenant J.G. Martin Victor and Coleman Braxton. Working in the shadows of a cloak and dagger world never envisaged before, neither one of these heroic and spirited individuals knows just how similar their ultimate fates will be. One thing is certain; their journeys to what lies ahead will be fraught with intrigue, adventure, danger, and fast-paced action at every turn they take.

Basil Truscott’s Baltimore Logic is surprising in the way it actually feels true to real life; there are some sections where you envisage that actual FBI reports must read this way. Another aspect where this story excels is in the details. All of the localities, technologies, events, and factual personalities covered appear to be spot on, as well as informative. Clearly, an enormous effort has been invested in research. The characters are quite realistic; however, the sheer number of these precludes the possibility of building personalities for each. The main players are well formulated. Baltimore Logic is for those who enjoy a good spy story wrapped in an exciting period in history, especially where you have some knowledge of the Baltimore and Washington regions.