Sleazy politicians, a surprise presidential election result, and an investigation into that presidential election questioning if it were manipulated with the help of Russians. Sound familiar, guess again, this fictional novel was written in 2006 by Twin Cities native Vince Flynn. Vince Flynn wrote a series of thirteen novels staring a fictional CIA agent name Mitch Rapp. Flynn is a fascinating story himself as he forced himself to read challenging literary novels and write to overcome his difficulties with dyslexia. He started with a self-published novel, which did well in the Twin Cities which in turn, led to a traditional book deal for his Mitch Rapp series. Several Mitch Rapp novels hit the New York Times bestseller list. Flynn was also a consultant for the television series “24”. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2013 after a long battle with prostate cancer. In 2016, the first Mitch Rapp movie, “American Assassin” was release and grossed over $66 million worldwide.
Well, this is my first Vince Flynn novel and while it took me a bit to get into it, it eventually pulled me in and grabbed me until the last page. The main character, Mitch Rapp, is a savvy, shoot first – ask later, American CIA version of James Bond. He’s not afraid to skirt the law a bit to get a righteous outcome. This novel feels a little too realistic with a couple of unscrupulous politicians caught up with shadowy contract killers. The story is tight, the action regular and stirring, and the characters are well constructed. It’s masculine action-adventure for sure, but its also smart and just plain fun. An example of Flynn’s clever observations is that when someone is constantly late, they are either idiot savants, perfectionists, or egomaniacs. And the one to be most wary of, is, of course, the third category. Little remarks like that greatly increased my enjoyment of the story. I wish Flynn were still around writing more Mitch Rapp stories, but at least I have twelve more to read.
An entertaining political thriller that highlights the dangers of power and betrayal, but also finds hope that there are those that will stop at nothing for truth and justice.