Lone Wolf by Gregg Hurwitz, Narrated by Scott Brick

Book Review:  Lone Wolf by Gregg Hurwitz, Narrated by Scott Brick

Thank you, NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, for providing this book for review consideration. This review expresses my own personal opinion. I have not been asked to post it by the author, their publishing company, or anyone connected with the book or author.

Review:

My review encompasses both the author's work and the narration by Scott Brick. This is my second Orphan X novel narrated by the ever-engaging Scott Brick, and once again, he delivers a stellar performance.

In The Lone Wolf, former government assassin Evan Smoak, also known as Orphan X or the Nowhere Man, faces an unusual task. He is called upon to look for his half-brother's daughter's missing dog. His little niece, unaware of her connection to X, seeks him out because she believes he can find anything or anyone. This is not the typical life-or-death mission X is used to, but how can even a hardened assassin turn down the pleas of a little girl, especially his niece, even though only he and his half-brother know the truth?

Reluctantly, X takes on the assignment, using his skills and resources to locate the missing dog. What starts as a simple mission quickly escalates into a deadly cat-and-mouse game with another trained assassin—a female clone of X in skill, instinct, cunning, and ruthlessness. The stakes are high: X must protect a target at all costs, while the Lone Wolf, as the assassin is known, must eliminate the target at any cost.

Once again, Gregg Hurwitz crafts an unputdownable, action-packed thriller. His Orphan X series is utterly addictive, and The Lone Wolf is no exception. Hurwitz's storytelling keeps you on the edge of your seat, and just when you think you've figured out the next move, the plot takes another twist.

Scott Brick, one of my favorite narrators, delivers a superb performance. His narration generates almost unbearable tension and suspense from start to finish. At times, I found myself needing to take a breath and put the book down momentarily. Brick's ability to bring the characters to life is a true skill.

Joey Morales, the teenage girl X rescued from the Orphan program, returns, giving X a hard time in every way while also serving as his reliable IT genius. Add to this that she is going through the teenage years of self-doubt and trying to fit in with no parents to guide her. X is the closest thing she has to a parent, and he’s way out of his depth. Meanwhile, trusted friend Tommy, who gets X the equipment he needs, and others add depth and support to the story. Keep an eye on Tommy during the story, that's all I will say.

Picture Orphan X, a.k.a. the Nowhere Man, as a more skilled version of Jack Reacher. Both answer the call for help with unwavering commitment, and let's just say, you don't want to be the target of their attention.

The ending of The Lone Wolf will have you saying, "What the F?" It's that shocking and unexpected. I am completely hooked on the Orphan X series, just snagged the latest installment "Nemesis", thank you NetGalley, and intend to start reading the series from the first Orphan X book.  

I rate this book five stars for its gripping plot, compelling characters, and the exceptional narration by Scott Brick.