Head On by John Scalzi (2018)

This book  is a satisfying continuation of the Lock In series and the adventures of FBI agent Chris Shane. Having established the fascinating setting in the first novel, Scalzi lets the sequel focus on the characters, the mystery, and the political tensions that naturally arise from his near-future world.

The story centers on the investigation of a suspicious death connected to Hilketa, the violent robotic sport that has become a cultural phenomenon among Haden's syndrome patients. The murder mystery unfolds against a backdrop of corporate interests, political maneuvering, media attention, and the continuing social consequences of the pandemic that reshaped society.

I enjoyed both the mystery and the politics. I was especially delighted by Leslie Vann, whose irreverence and relentless antics provide much of the novel's humor while never undermining the seriousness of the investigation. The partnership between Vann and Chris Shane remains one of the series' greatest strengths.

The plot moves at a brisk pace, the characters continue to grow, and the action never overwhelms the detective story. I finished the book eager to continue the series. 5/5 stars.