John Sanford has two talents that set him apart from many of the current mystery writers populating the bookstore shelves. First, he finds "different" plots. Sanford doesn't rely on the same well-worn hashed-over plots that most writers use. No serial killers here (well that may be arguable), at least the sociopathic type we are most often presented. "Hidden Prey" offers a cold-war survivor's tale that resembles some of the work of John le Carre.Second, Sanford has an ability to make every character seem real. The reader gets to know even minor characters.The best aspect of this story may be found in a sub-plot that encompasses serrendipitous redemption.However, I have one complaint. The explanantion of the central plot mystery is disposed of in one paragraph. I think Mr. Sanford could have embellished this a bit, to at least provide some details of the conumdrum faced by the sympathetic villian.All in all, pretty good.