The first book in the Jack Reacher series, this is some fun, unrealistic entertainment! We have insta-love and a hero who is the toughest Mamma Jamma around. Law enforcement (those who aren't corrupted at least) tend to trust Jack Reacher after a few clever witticisms in just one or two conversations. He inspires loyalty from the good guys immediately with his Sherlock-ian deductions, thus opening up endless, often seamless connections when most needed. If this is something that doesn't bother you, settle into a fast-paced and larger-than-life adventure story.
Aforementioned disclaimer aside, the book was really compelling. I loved the foreword by Lee Child where he explained his career prior to being an author, and the specific principles he devised for Reacher to follow. Specifically, that he would be an intriguing enough character to be sustained over a long running series- with an imposing physical build and background to tackle issues with unapologetic brute strength. Reacher's name development was a funny and surprising story. Child wants his readers to feel victory in this fictional setting, especially because it often eludes in real life. This escapism reading is meant to feel victorious in the end, with lots of violence and mayhem sprinkled throughout. I also found the finance angle of this story line a fun topic.
I enjoyed Reacher being morally ambiguous, mostly unemotional, and totally focused. I thought the mystery was fun and fast paced. Literary fiction this is not, but the writing was strong and suited the book's style. This worked for me, even though Reacher is straight forward and simplistic in aim. Get the bad guys, and kill them if necessary. Also, there are at least 20 books in the series.. so I'm sure his backstory and personality will evolve as the series continues. I mean, he's not a robot. At least, I don't think so.
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