Review of Thunder Game (GhostWalker #20) by Christine Feehan
As I cracked open Thunder Game, the latest entry in Christine Feehan’s beloved GhostWalker series, I was filled with anticipation. The previous books have delivered a perfect mix of action, suspense, and emotional depth, so I was eager to dive back into this intricate world of genetically enhanced warriors. However, what I found was a narrative that felt more like a leisurely stroll down memory lane than the pulse-pounding adventure I was hoping for.
A Deep Dive into Themes and Characters
At the center of Thunder Game is Diego, a character grappling with his tumultuous past and his complicated relationship with his childhood friend Rubin. The exploration of mental health is a brave move and one that surprisingly takes center stage over the usual action-packed sequences. While this deep dive into the psyche of a troubled hero can be poignant, it does often result in a story bogged down by repetition. Feehan revisits Diego’s childhood with an unrelenting persistence, making it feel less like backstory and more like an echo—an echo I found somewhat depressing.
What struck me most was the sense of monotony that permeated the narrative. It’s no secret that Feehan has a tendency to revisit past themes and phrases, but in Thunder Game, it feels like an overindulgence rather than a stylistic choice. I would catch myself wondering when we would shift from contemplation to confrontation, a hallmark of the series that was sorely missing here. When we finally get action, it’s almost an afterthought: a dead soldier here and there, and even the much-anticipated confrontation with Whitney feels lackluster.
The Romance Dilemma
Then there’s the romance between Diego and Layla. Dubbed his “warrior woman,” Layla has the potential to be a strong ally, yet their instant attraction feels somewhat forced. While the GhostWalkers have had memorable romantic pairings in the past, this one left me questioning the chemistry that typically zings off the pages. Instead of excitement, I found myself more curious about how psychic surgery works—an element that felt less developed than it should have been.
Writing Style and Narrative Flow
Feehan’s prose still has her signature lyrical quality, yet the pacing of this book didn’t pack the same punch. Much of the story reads like a congressional hearing, with characters discussing rather than engaging in daring exploits. The only significant shift occurs when other characters from the GhostWalker universe join the fray, which injects brief life into the narrative but ultimately doesn’t compensate for a lack of excitement throughout most of the book.
Final Thoughts
For long-time fans of the GhostWalker series, Thunder Game may feel like a sleepy detour—one that could leave you wondering about the future of this once-thrilling franchise. While the themes of mental health are important, the execution here may not capture everyone’s attention. I rated it a modest 2.5 stars, the lowest I’ve given to a GhostWalker novel, which feels like a bittersweet farewell to this chapter.
This book might resonate more with readers interested in character development and emotional healing rather than the adrenaline-fueled action sequences that usually define this series. If you’re someone who appreciates a story that delves into the intricacies of the human psyche—even at the cost of a brisk pace—you may find something to savor. But if you’re in it for the excitement and suspense, you might want to sit this one out.
Ultimately, Thunder Game may not deliver the pulse-pounding thrills we’ve come to expect, but it certainly raises questions about where to go next in this expansive universe. Here’s hoping for a return to form in the next installment!
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