In Stuart Woods' Golden Hour, author Brett Battles expertly takes up the mantle of the beloved late author Stuart Woods. He launches into yet another thrilling saga in Woods' expansive universe, this time breathing life back into some familiar faces while introducing captivating new ones. As a first effort by Battles at helming Woods' esteemed franchise, the book provides a blend of nostalgia and fresh adrenaline, artfully designed to grip both veteran fans and newcomers alike.

The novel picks up with the poised and unflappable Will Lee, now tucked away from the dangerous corridors of Washington politics, opting for what should be a peaceful European vacation with his wife, Kate. However, peace is short-lived when they are swept into an unforeseen crisis: a high-profile kidnapping that threatens international stability. From here, Battles orchestrates a masterclass in suspense and intrigue, pulling the reader through historic cities and shadowy figures that are hallmarks of Woods' narratives.

One notable strength of Golden Hour is how Battles uses the backdrop of Europe to infuse the story with a rich layer of history and culture, which not only enriches the plot but also deepens the reader’s immersion. The chase through Amsterdam's labyrinthine canals and the tense negotiations in the secluded Swiss Alps are described with such potency that they almost serve as characters on their own. Moreover, his portrayal of Will Lee is particularly commendable; he inherits Woods' hero and adds layers of complexity and vulnerability, making him more relatable and humanized.

The introduction of new characters is equally impressive. Laila, a Dutch intelligence agent with a sharp acumen for espionage, is perhaps the standout. Her dynamic with Will offers refreshing bouts of intellect and wit, while her backstory serves as a significant subplot that Battles deftly intertwines with the main narrative. This interlacing of stories is seamless and speaks volumes of Battle's narrative control, ensuring the plot remains engaging and cohesive.

Battles also doesn’t shy away from the tech aspect of modern thrillers. He incorporates state-of-the-art technology into the storyline in a way that is believable without overwhelming the reader with jargon. This thoughtful inclusion reflects the evolving nature of global threats and the corresponding countermeasures, which is a nice touch considering the techno-savvy readership that gravitates towards this genre.

However, taking over such a prestigious series does not come without its hitches. Some long-time fans might find the transition between authors noticeable, particularly in the dialogue and pacing of the story. Whereas Woods' prose had a particular sharpness and often moved at a breakneck pace, Battles’ approach is noticeably more descriptive and deliberative. This shift isn’t necessarily detrimental but could be a point of adjustment for readers accustomed to Woods' style.

The pacing of the novel might also pose a mild contention. The first half of the book, loaded with setup and exposition, can feel a bit sluggish compared to the electrifying second half. Once the pieces are set, however, Battles pushes full throttle, steering to a climactic finale that is both satisfying and thought-provoking. It leaves a promise of more adventures, possibly hinting that Will Lee's journey under Battles' stewardship is just beginning.

In conclusion, Brett Battles' Golden Hour is a commendable continuation of Stuart Woods’ legacy. It succeeds in balancing the delicate act of maintaining the soul of the original works while introducing innovations that mark Battle’s own creative signature. For those who hold Woods dear, this novel respects that sentiment; for newcomers, it opens up a world rich with intrigue, action, and complexity. Despite minor quibbles about pacing and stylistic adjustments, the essence of an enthralling thriller is ever-present, making Golden Hour a beacon for both old fans and new explorers of the genre.