Blog Review: Thunder Game (GhostWalker #20) by Christine Feehan
There’s something undeniably thrilling about diving into a new installation of a long-loved series, and as a fan of Christine Feehan’s GhostWalker novels, I had high hopes for "Thunder Game." With its promise of psychic intrigue and intense action, I couldn’t wait to see how Feehan would evolve her beloved characters, especially Diego. However, as I turned page after page, I found myself wrestling with a perplexing sensation: anticipation morphing into disappointment.
At its core, "Thunder Game" is largely a story of mental health, focusing on Diego’s struggles with his past and self-worth. While I appreciate the exploration of such themes, especially in a genre often geared toward high-octane action, I found myself yearning for more of the suspense and energy that has characterized the GhostWalker series. Instead, the narrative felt like a series of conversations—valuable insights into Diego’s psyche, yes, but ultimately devoid of the thrilling stakes I’d come to expect from the franchise.
The most glaring issue for me was the repetitiveness of the storytelling. Diego’s recollections of his traumatic childhood with Luther Gutherie, Layla, and Rubin came across as particularly heavy-handed. While revisiting the past can sometimes add depth, here it leaned toward monotony. The emotional weight of Diego’s self-sacrificing nature and his complicated relationship with his family seemed to overshadow the action, leaving me longing for the explosive moments typical of GhostWalker adventures. As I read about his decision to return home, burdened by the intention to end his life, I felt more like an observer in a dampened world than an engaged reader within the narrative.
And then, we have Layla, referred to as Diego’s "warrior woman." While I love strong female characters, her character felt marred by the rushed nature of their connection. Their instant attraction lacked the organic development found in previous pairings, making it hard for me to fully invest in their relationship. Diego’s helpful nature towards Layla’s family felt commendable, but the circumstances surrounding it seemed a bit forced and disconnected. The concept of psychic surgery—while intriguing—left me scratching my head rather than fueling my excitement.
The pacing of "Thunder Game" was another hurdle. With the story culminating in what felt like a drawn-out congressional hearing before transitioning into a rescue mission, the momentum fizzled rather than soared. It almost felt as though once the focus shifted to the team’s endeavors, we had already lingered too long in conversations devoid of action. And while the introduction of familiar faces like Ezekiel and Malachi provided a momentary spark, the absence of genuine threats—particularly Whitney’s waning menace—left me wondering if it might be time for the saga to usher in a new villain or perhaps conclude altogether.
Ultimately, I rated "Thunder Game" 2.5 stars—the lowest I’ve ever given to a GhostWalker novel. Although some readers may appreciate the deeper dive into emotional themes, I personally missed the heart-pounding suspense and immersive action that originally drew me to Feehan’s world.
In conclusion, while "Thunder Game" may resonate with those seeking a story centered on mental health and character reflection, it might not satisfy fans craving the adrenaline-fueled escapades that typically characterize the series. Nevertheless, I believe there’s merit in its exploration of vulnerability—a significant, albeit somber, evolution in the GhostWalker universe. If you’re willing to follow Diego through his introspective journey, you may find something meaningful; just don’t expect the tempestuous thrill ride of previous installments.
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