Orphan X (by Gregg Hurwitz)
Did I really need to add another series of books to my ever growing TBR? Of course I did! A few years ago, I read Gregg Hurwitz’s novel, They’re Watching, and I thought it was incredible! Since that time, I’ve been collecting his other stand alone novels in my Audible library. I have seen a lot of praise for the Orphan X series over time. I honestly avoided reading it because I am working my way through a few other series of novels and I didn’t want to add another one to my rotation just yet. Well, Orphan X caught my attention the other day when I was scouting for my next Audible selection from my massive ‘not started’ library. I figured that was the universe giving me a nudge to start listening. And I’m so glad I did!
Evan Smoak, AKA Orphan X, AKA The Nowhere Man, began his training as an orphan child to become an assassin. He was part of a secret squirrel program that trained exceptional children in all types of surveillance tactics, combat, tending to one’s own medical needs, controlling one’s mind, and managing relationships. The list goes on and on. To me, Evan’s skills were beyond anything I’ve seen in a James Bond movie. Following a tragic event, Evan leaves the program and uses everything he was taught to disappear and go completely under the radar. He decides to use his unique skill set for good. When he receives a call from someone desperate for help, Evan will do anything to protect them and help them out of their dangerous situation. His routine is disturbed when he learns someone is after him.
I loved everything about this book! Evan Smoak is a fascinating character. He keeps everything close to his chest and really can’t allow anyone to get close to him to protect his identity. So it’s interesting to follow his interactions with other characters he can’t avoid. He’s extremely clever and insightful. Portions of the book focus on Evan’s training during his upbringing which also illustrate his big heart. My favorite trait of Evan’s is that he’s a meditating assassin!
The story is fascinating! The writing is outstanding! Hurwitz provided a nice foundation for the story; I like how he described Evan’s role and his living environment. From there, the story gradually evolved to include the first person Evan is called on to help, to the person after him, and his training. All of these aspects were weaved together perfectly.
One of the book series I am working my way through is Lee Child’s Jack Reacher, which I love. Orphan X has a similar vibe, but yet is so different. If you like Reacher, you will be a fan of Evan Smoak. I’ve already added the rest of the Orphan X series to my Audible wishlist. I’m fully committed to this series! Scott Brick, one of my favorite narrators, has the perfect voice for Evan Smoak.
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