Take a photo of a barcode or cover
t_hen44 's review for:
The Secret
by Lee Child, Andrew Child
A retired scientist dies in a fatal fall from a hospital window. Authorities suspect a connection to other suspicious deaths, possibly linked to a 1969 military operation. Despite these deaths appearing accidental, the Secretary of Defense launches an inter-agency task force to investigate. Jack Reacher, recently demoted, is chosen as the Army's representative, raising questions about why he's selected for the role.
As Jack rushes to uncover links between the victims, identify their killers, and discern motives, he must navigate the hidden agendas of his fellow agents. The hunt becomes increasingly complicated as the CIA, FBI, Army, and Treasury Department, pursue the investigation with their agency’s interests foremost, making collaboration nearly impossible.
The central question remains: Will Reacher pursue justice through official channels or take matters into his own hands?
THOUGHTS
With THE SECRET, Lee Child returns to the formula that has made the Jack Reacher series such a long-standing success. While the novel is the 28th in the series, it can easily be read and enjoyed all on its own.
In THE SECRET, Jack Reacher isn't depicted as a superhuman action hero, but rather as a soldier driven by a sense of duty to uncover the truth. Unlike in later novels, many of the significant incidents referenced haven't occurred yet, rendering Jack a more realistic and compelling character. While he retains his drive, investigative skills, and physical prowess, they're portrayed in a grounded manner, devoid of larger-than-life attributes. The world-weary demeanor synonymous with his transient lifestyle is absent, allowing new readers to witness the formation of Jack Reacher's core persona during his military career.
At this juncture, Jack has been demoted from Major to Captain MP, casting uncertainty over his future in the military. However, his involvement in the task force investigating the killings of scientists linked to a secret military operation presents a potential way back to reclaiming his former rank. The appearance of his brother, Joe, provides insight into their relationship, echoing themes explored in the first Jack Reacher novel, "THE KILLING FLOOR," illustrating occasional intersections between the brothers' lives.
RECOMMENDATION: 4 Stars
THE SECRET offers a return to the early Jack Reacher and serves as an excellent entry point into the series. While offering plenty of action for seasoned fans, THE SECRET spends significant time developing a strong and compelling narrative.
As Jack rushes to uncover links between the victims, identify their killers, and discern motives, he must navigate the hidden agendas of his fellow agents. The hunt becomes increasingly complicated as the CIA, FBI, Army, and Treasury Department, pursue the investigation with their agency’s interests foremost, making collaboration nearly impossible.
The central question remains: Will Reacher pursue justice through official channels or take matters into his own hands?
THOUGHTS
With THE SECRET, Lee Child returns to the formula that has made the Jack Reacher series such a long-standing success. While the novel is the 28th in the series, it can easily be read and enjoyed all on its own.
In THE SECRET, Jack Reacher isn't depicted as a superhuman action hero, but rather as a soldier driven by a sense of duty to uncover the truth. Unlike in later novels, many of the significant incidents referenced haven't occurred yet, rendering Jack a more realistic and compelling character. While he retains his drive, investigative skills, and physical prowess, they're portrayed in a grounded manner, devoid of larger-than-life attributes. The world-weary demeanor synonymous with his transient lifestyle is absent, allowing new readers to witness the formation of Jack Reacher's core persona during his military career.
At this juncture, Jack has been demoted from Major to Captain MP, casting uncertainty over his future in the military. However, his involvement in the task force investigating the killings of scientists linked to a secret military operation presents a potential way back to reclaiming his former rank. The appearance of his brother, Joe, provides insight into their relationship, echoing themes explored in the first Jack Reacher novel, "THE KILLING FLOOR," illustrating occasional intersections between the brothers' lives.
RECOMMENDATION: 4 Stars
THE SECRET offers a return to the early Jack Reacher and serves as an excellent entry point into the series. While offering plenty of action for seasoned fans, THE SECRET spends significant time developing a strong and compelling narrative.