Palace of Treason by Jason Matthews, Scribner 2015Author Matthews' 33 years in the CIA lends this very current spy thriller about Iran's nuclear plans, Putin's involvement, and the US' interests and intentions, great detail and credibility. The book starts slowly, however, and readers must be patient as the story develops, enriched by Matthews' inside knowledge of spy methods, secret communications, and nuclear and spycraft scenarios. There is no substitute for someone who has "been there," and that credibility excuses the occasional writing bleeps. Although some readers may find the end-of-chapter recipes - yes, recipes - distracting, they are a delicious reminder of the pleasures of off-shore travel.