The Five Greatest Warriors
- Matthew Reilly
Publisher: UK - Orion
With the end of the world fast approaching, Jack West Jnr must rebuild the final pieces of the fabled, ancient 'Machine' - the only thing that can prevent global catastrophe. But he is out of clues, out of leads . . . until he is presented with an ancient text about five unnamed warriors, great historical figures who were all in some way connected to the mysterious Machine. And so Jack and his loyal team set out to discover their identities - and their secrets. Soon Jack is on the trail of a legendary list of greats: from Moses to Genghis Khan and Napoleon, and finally to one most unlikely warrior, the unknown 'Fifth', who, it is said, will be there 'at the end of all things...'
I like a bit of action and adventure occasionally and in the past I’ve enjoyed Matthew Reilly’s books. They tend to read like a summer blockbuster – loads of action, close scraps and testosterone filled men (who have a soft side for children and animals). His latest, The Five Greatest Warriors is the third in his Captain Jack West Jnr series – an Australian hero who needs to uncover a variety of ancient mysteries in order to save the world. This book covers exotic locations from around the globe from Loch Ness in Scotland, to the tip of Japan and the mysteries of Easter Island. There is a continual countdown and each ancient puzzle has to be solved in order to move on to the next. There is plenty of suspense and high octane thrills.
It is a lot of fun – if you turn your brain off. Stopping and think too deeply about any of the events in the story it does ruin it. Some of these mazes and quests are at the extreme edge of believability – suspension of disbelief only takes you so far. This is definitely one of those books where the plot overtakes the characters. There are no shades of grey – you’re either a good guy or a bad guy. Some people may find that difficult especially if they like their character development but I found it quite refreshing.
If you want a wild ride, that doesn’t need much brain power this is a perfect book. Light, fun and full of adventure.
Recommended for fans of Dan Brown and Lee Child. 6 out of 10
Book Chick City's Mystery & Suspense Reading Challenge Book 1/12
I really liked this review! I've never heard of this series, but there are times when I want a fast paced and fun novel that requires no thought on my part. And who doesn't love a guy with a soft spot for children and animals? :)
ReplyDeleteI might look this one up at the library.
Jennifer (An Abundance of Books)
LOL! Turn your brain off. I'm assuming there are no zombies in this one then. ;) I don't think this one is for me. I love shades of grey in my characters. Makes them more real and interesting. However, loved your review.
ReplyDeleteI gave this book a 4 out of 5 :)
ReplyDeleteSo when you say It is a lot of fun – if you turn your brain off. Stopping and think too deeply about any of the events in the story it does ruin it. . Does that means I would be picking the book apart?
ReplyDelete