Review: The Enemy

The Enemy is #8 in Lee Childs fabulous Jack Reacher series. Reacher is an ex-MP downsized out of the Armed Forces who now drifts across America dispensing his own brand of justice to the bad guys and riding off into the sunset with the girl. Reacher is one of the most original characters currently in print. He epitomises the classic lone hero with just the right touch of vulnerability and romantic idealism about the way the world should be. Reacher appeals to all of us as every man wishes he could be just a little bit like him, and every woman wishes Reacher could be their man.

This book is different from the rest of the series. Child takes us back into Reachers past for a prequel. We meet Reacher at age 29, still a Major in the Military Police. Set in 1990; rumours abound about cutbacks in the military. The Cold War is over and Americas massive war machine is no longer as necessary. Reacher has been ordered to a new base and soon after he arrives, the bodies start piling up. A General drops dead of a heart attack under embarrassing circumstances and Reacher is asked to be part of a cover-up. The Generals wife ends up dead next and things go from bad to worse. He joins up with the lovely Lieutenant Summer to try and crack the conspiracy and solve a couple of murders before he ends up on the wrong side of a body bag himself. Reacher is up against a lot of heavy Brass and as the Army changes he finds it difficult to figure out who The Enemy really is.

The writing style is excellent. Lee Child writes a yarn that is very easy to read. He continues (from Persuader) to write Reacher in the first person drawing us much closer to the hero we love. The action scenes are fast and powerful, making the reader feel like they are right there packing the punches. Child pulls off the prequel in great style and left me begging for more of a younger Reacher. The Enemy gives us great insight into what made Jack Reacher the man we know and love today. Reacher in the army loses none of his lone wolf image he is not one for toeing the company line. For those of you who are long time fans of the series you will be pleased to know we meet Joe Reacher in this book. For those who havent met Reacher, dont wait any longer. Buy The Enemy today. Im a big fan and believe this episode into Reachers life is the best yet.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Jaynie - Australia

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.

Book Review: The Enemy

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.