Review: In The Name Of The Father

In the Name of the Father by A.J. Quinnell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

You know what? I was really set to say, "this book sucks!" but it doesn't. And I realized that toward the end when I was actually on the edge of my seat during a crucial scene. Somehow, the author, A.J. Quinnell, had gotten me engrossed enough to actually care about what was at stake for the protagonist. Up to that point, I thought I couldn't care less, but the author somehow managed to make me. I think that's the sign of a true master writer--he gets you to care without you even realizing it.

That said, the prose was kind of weak sometimes, especially in the sex scenes. Also, the story was a little played out. The plot of a secret envoy out to kill the man who wants to assassinate the Pope is a good idea in theory, but it kind of falls apart since it relies on so many of the tropes in the genre. But again, you know what? I liked it. Would I recommend it? Well, not really. Not unless you like thrillers. But if you do like thrillers, then you'll likely enjoy this. I've certainly read a lot worse.

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