The Bourne Identity

by Robert Ludlum
The Bourne Identity cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 1370
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-05
  • ISBN: 9780307813787
  • Publisher: Bantam
  • Published: 2012-08-14
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99

Jason Bourne wakes up with amnesia, his body riddled with bullets and a microfilm implant in his hip. As he races to uncover his identity, he becomes entangled in a web of international intrigue and deadly conspiracies. Pursued by ruthless assassins, Bourne must rely on his instincts and combat skills to survive. The answer to his true identity could be the key to his survival—or his downfall. /n/nRobert Ludlum's gripping thriller blends espionage, action, and suspense, creating a pulse-pounding narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The novel introduces one of the most iconic characters in modern literature, Jason Bourne, whose quest for truth unfolds against a backdrop of global deception and danger.

Reviews
Creative Deeds · 2025-10-05
engaging 4.50

They enjoyed the numerous twists and turns. The story kept them guessing, making it an engaging read.

The reviewer found 'The Bourne Identity' to be a gripping read with its multitude of twists and turns. They mention that the story kept them on their toes, always thinking they had it figured out, only to be surprised again. The reviewer appreciates the complexity and the gray areas in the narrative, which added depth to the reading experience. Overall, they highly recommend this book for its ability to keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end.

Quick quotes

    So many twists and turns.

    There was a lot of 'gray' in this one and I'm not talking about the weather.

    It kept me guessing until the very end.

Vocal Media · 2025-10-05
exciting 4.50

They praise the fast-paced narrative and intricate plotting. The book is described as a classic spy thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The reviewer highlights Ludlum's ability to craft a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. They appreciate the intricate plotting and the adrenaline-pumping action that makes 'The Bourne Identity' a standout in the spy thriller genre. The reviewer suggests that this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thrillers, as it delivers on all fronts with its suspenseful storytelling and complex characters.

Quick quotes

    Ludlum's fast-paced narrative, intricate plotting, and adrenaline-pumping action make 'The Bourne Identity' a classic spy thriller.

    It will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    A must-read for anyone who enjoys thrillers.

Luke Harkness · Luke Harkness · 2022-02-20
promising 3.00

The book had potential but fell short in some areas. It's a good start to a trilogy with room for improvement.

Luke Harkness felt that 'The Bourne Identity' had a lot of potential but didn't quite live up to it. They appreciated the premise and the start of a promising trilogy, but found some aspects lacking. The action and suspense were engaging, but the execution could have been stronger. Overall, it's a solid start that leaves room for growth in the subsequent books.

Quick quotes

    The Bourne Identity is a book that had so much potential.

    It's the beginning of a book trilogy that is hugely promising.

    The execution could have been stronger.

Reddit · 2020-04-30
exciting 4.50

The book is underrated and immersive. The action feels real and engaging.

The Reddit reviewer thinks Robert Ludlum is an underrated writer who has a unique ability to make readers feel like they're in the midst of the action. They found the book to be incredibly immersive and engaging, with a rare gift for making the action feel real. The reviewer highly recommends it for its suspense and thrilling moments.

Quick quotes

    Ludlum is definitely an underrated writer.

    I found that he has a rare gift to really make you feel like you're 'living the action'.

    Most authors can't capture the intensity Ludlum does.

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