A review by mojoshivers
Redemption by David Baldacci
5.0
I read four Baldacci series—Atlee Pine, John Puller, and Robie & Reel being the others. Till now I thought of Will Robie as being the best and certainly my favorite. That was the series that got me into reading the author and assassin-themed novels are a particular favorite of mine. Blame Scotch for that.
However, the last two novels in that series have left me wanting, delving into more maudlin territory and getting wrapped up in sub-plots that detour it from what it originally was. It’s still a good series but no longer what I originally signed up for.
Amos Decker, in contrast, has grown to be a much richer character and provided a much more well thought-out arc to run. Not only are the mysteries still brilliantly enacted but they’re proving to be more inclusive of utilizing Decker’s particular talents to solve. They exact more of a toll. They better him in a much richer way. When I read about Robie and Reel, their cases don’t feel entangled as much with who they are as people. They may be personal, but they don’t feel like only the two heroes can solve them. Decker’s cases inevitably do.
This novel especially feels legitimately like it has Decker’s stamp all over it. Because of that my enjoyment of it goes far beyond being visceral. I enjoy this novel because he has quickly grown to be an outstanding character with an incredible story to share—and it feels like we’re privileged to come along for the ride.
I just hope the winning streak continues.
However, the last two novels in that series have left me wanting, delving into more maudlin territory and getting wrapped up in sub-plots that detour it from what it originally was. It’s still a good series but no longer what I originally signed up for.
Amos Decker, in contrast, has grown to be a much richer character and provided a much more well thought-out arc to run. Not only are the mysteries still brilliantly enacted but they’re proving to be more inclusive of utilizing Decker’s particular talents to solve. They exact more of a toll. They better him in a much richer way. When I read about Robie and Reel, their cases don’t feel entangled as much with who they are as people. They may be personal, but they don’t feel like only the two heroes can solve them. Decker’s cases inevitably do.
This novel especially feels legitimately like it has Decker’s stamp all over it. Because of that my enjoyment of it goes far beyond being visceral. I enjoy this novel because he has quickly grown to be an outstanding character with an incredible story to share—and it feels like we’re privileged to come along for the ride.
I just hope the winning streak continues.