The Recovery Agent

The Recovery Agent by Janet Evanovich

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


*** Possible spoilers ***

One reviewer suggested the protagonist is a cross between Stephanie Plum and Indiana Jones. That's pretty much the case. Unfortunately Ms. Evanovich got the worst of both. The book is still highly enjoyable, just not as good as it could have been. In addition there are some pretty gaping plot holes.

I consider this a particularly good book for writers to read, particularly if they write humour. Humorous novels need a plot of some sort. You really can't write humour in a vacuum unless you're writing for something like stand-up which is an entirely different thing. The problem is the plot sometimes takes over to such an extent you lose the humour and the book winds up being just an every day adventure novel. This one starts out very well with our protagonist receiving instruction on where to look for treasure from her grandmother, who in turn, received them from a ghost. In short, we are introduced to whimsy and might hope the book would continue in that vein. Unfortunately it quickly becomes serious - a pretty good thriller mind you but not the silly romp I was hoping for. There are some amusing scenes and quirky characters but mostly this is an adventure novel.

The relationship between the protagonist and her ex-husband seems unbelievable. Presumably they broke up for a reason and probably several. Suddenly she views him as 'hot' and allows him to elbow his way back into her life. I found that a bit of a stretch.

Janet Evanovich is a good writer and her pacing is splendid so despite the short comings this book was pleasant to read. It was just a little disappointing because while it was good, it could have been brilliant.





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