The Enemy

by Lee Child
The Enemy cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Technical
  • ID: 4299
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780857500113
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2011-01-01
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 4

Jack Reacher, a former military cop, is called in to investigate the death of a general, which is initially ruled a murder-suicide. However, Reacher's instincts tell him something is amiss, and he begins to unravel a conspiracy that goes far beyond the military. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that puts his own life in danger. /n/nThe Enemy is the first book in Lee Child's popular Jack Reacher series, which has sold over 100 million copies worldwide. The novel is known for its fast-paced action, intricate plot, and the iconic character of Jack Reacher, a lone wolf who always gets his man.

Reviews
Rick McBee · Rick McBee · 2023-04-01
good 3.50

The book is a bit wordy in the middle with side stories that are unrelated to the overall central story. The pacing slows down in the middle but picks up towards the end.

Rick McBee's review highlights that while the book has its moments, it tends to get bogged down in the middle with side stories that don't contribute much to the main plot. The pacing is a bit uneven, but it does pick up towards the end, making it a decent read overall. He appreciates the return to a younger Reacher and the insights into his early career, but feels the book could have been tighter.

Quick quotes

    The book is a bit wordy in the middle with side stories that are unrealated to the overall central story of the book and don't require the extra pages.

    The pacing slows down in the middle but picks up towards the end.

    This is a good read and a good introduction to the Jack Reacher series for those who have not yet read any of the books.

Jon Crunch · Jon Crunch · 2018-03-18
great 4.00

The book is more procedural in nature with a focus on autopsies and plaster casts. It provides a different perspective on the Jack Reacher series.

Jon Crunch notes that 'The Enemy' is more procedural than other books in the series, focusing on elements like autopsies and plaster casts. This gives the book a different feel, which he appreciates. He finds the story engaging and enjoys the detailed look into the investigative process. Overall, he thinks it's a solid entry in the series, even if it's not as action-packed as some others.

Quick quotes

    "The Enemy" is more “procedural” in nature than some of the other entries in the Jack Reacher series.

    We are treated to autopsies, plaster casts, and other forensic details that add depth to the story.

    This book provides a different perspective on the Jack Reacher series, one that is both intriguing and satisfying.

Mike Finn's Fiction · Mike Finn · 2015-01-16
excellent 4.50

The plot is tight, complex, and satisfying, providing a fascinating insight into the origins of Jack Reacher. The book explores how the US Army works through an investigation into a general's death.

Mike Finn praises 'The Enemy' for its tight and complex plot, which he finds satisfying. He particularly enjoys the book's exploration of the US Army's inner workings through the investigation of a general's death. This provides a fascinating insight into the origins of Jack Reacher, making the book a standout in the series. He appreciates the depth and detail that Child brings to the story, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    "The Enemy" explores how the US Army works via an investigation into the death of General.

    The plot is tight, complex and satisfying.

    This book provides a fascinating insight into the origins of Jack Reacher, making it a must-read for fans of the series.

Mike Finn's Fiction · Mike Finn · 2015-01-16
fascinating 4.50

The book offers a tight, complex, and satisfying plot that delves into the US Army's workings. It provides a fascinating insight into Jack Reacher's origins.

Mike Finn highlights 'The Enemy' for its tight, complex, and satisfying plot. The book delves into the workings of the US Army, offering a fascinating insight into Jack Reacher's origins. This depth adds a new layer to the series, making it a compelling read. The character development and the intricate plot make this book a standout in the Jack Reacher series, providing both entertainment and intellectual engagement.

Quick quotes

    The plot is tight, complex and satisfying.

    The book offers a fascinating insight into the origins of Jack Reacher.

    This depth adds a new layer to the series, making it a compelling read.

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