Review by Brigitte Gallegos -- Shadow Game by A.M. Adair

[Brigitte Gallegos]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Shadow Game" by A.M. Adair.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars as it’s well written and very engaging until the last page. Shadow Game by A.M. Adair tells the story of Elle Anderson who is sent on a mission to Iraq to destroy a terrorist organization called ‘Daesh’. A team of hardworking professionals is assigned to her to support the planning and execution of the mission. The reader accompanies Elle on several smaller missions to take out a list of important figures within the terrorist organization.

Elle is incredibly well prepared and completes each job with precision, focus, and physical strength. The smallest mistake can have devastating consequences as the reader learns throughout the book. The author describes how Elle prepares for her assignments and how she stays mentally, emotionally, and physically strong. However, we also learn about her struggles to trust and let others take control when she is unable to.

What I liked the most about the book was all the technical details provided to describe the different action sequences. The gear that is used, the pre-mission briefings, the routes that are chosen, all of it is incredibly well described and adds to the general credibility of the story. Also, the overall plan to complete the mission and take down ‘Daesh’ is explained well and easy to follow. It's also very well described how the characters struggle morally with getting this challenging job done. Furthermore, I enjoyed the fact that the main character is a woman guiding her team through such a difficult mission. Even though she shows some vulnerability at some point, it’s very clear that she’s an important asset to her employer and not many can live up to her standards.

I think the characters could have been developed a bit more. I would have enjoyed some more details and background on each of them, including the main character Elle. We learn how she struggles to trust people and show emotional vulnerability, but the reason behind this behavior is not given. At one point, the transition from her being a cold-blooded killer to an emotional wreck seem a bit abrupt and hard to follow.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thrillers and crime or action novels. It’s hard to put the book down and one is engaged until the very last page. I’m pleased that it’s a trilogy and that Elle’s adventure will continue. I will certainly continue reading!

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Shadow Game
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[PeterRabitt20]

This book sounds unique. there aren't many books like this with a female as the hero/warrior. Thanks for your review.