Book Review: Lone Wolf by Gregg Hurwitz, Narrated by Scott Brick

Thank you, NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, for providing this book for review consideration. This review expresses my own personal opinion. I have not been asked to post it by the author, their publishing company, or anyone connected with the book or author.

Review:

My review encompasses both the author's work and the narration by Scott Brick. This is my second Orphan X novel narrated by the ever-engaging Scott Brick, and once again, he delivers a stellar performance.

In The Lone Wolf, former government assassin Evan Smoak, also known as Orphan X or the Nowhere Man, faces an unusual task. He is called upon to look for his half-brother's daughter's missing dog. His little niece, unaware of her connection to X, seeks him out because she believes he can find anything or anyone. This is not the typical life-or-death mission X is used to, but how can even a hardened assassin turn down the pleas of a little girl, especially his niece, even though only he and his half-brother know the truth?

Reluctantly, X takes on the assignment, using his skills and resources to locate the missing dog. What starts as a simple mission quickly escalates into a deadly cat-and-mouse game with another trained assassin—a female clone of X in skill, instinct, cunning, and ruthlessness. The stakes are high: X must protect a target at all costs, while the Lone Wolf, as the assassin is known, must eliminate the target at any cost.

Once again, Gregg Hurwitz crafts an unputdownable, action-packed thriller. His Orphan X series is utterly addictive, and The Lone Wolf is no exception. Hurwitz's storytelling keeps you on the edge of your seat, and just when you think you've figured out the next move, the plot takes another twist.

Scott Brick, one of my favorite narrators, delivers a superb performance. His narration generates almost unbearable tension and suspense from start to finish. At times, I found myself needing to take a breath and put the book down momentarily. Brick's ability to bring the characters to life is a true skill.

Joey Morales, the teenage girl X rescued from the Orphan program, returns, giving X a hard time in every way while also serving as his reliable IT genius. Add to this that she is going through the teenage years of self-doubt and trying to fit in with no parents to guide her. X is the closest thing she has to a parent, and he’s way out of his depth. Meanwhile, trusted friend Tommy, who gets X the equipment he needs, and others add depth and support to the story. Keep an eye on Tommy during the story, that's all I will say.

Picture Orphan X, a.k.a. the Nowhere Man, as a more skilled version of Jack Reacher. Both answer the call for help with unwavering commitment, and let's just say, you don't want to be the target of their attention.

The ending of The Lone Wolf will have you saying, "What the F?" It's that shocking and unexpected. I am completely hooked on the Orphan X series, just snagged the latest installment "Nemesis", thank you NetGalley, and intend to start reading the series from the first Orphan X book.

I rate this book five stars for its gripping plot, compelling characters, and the exceptional narration by Scott Brick.

Let's delve into the ninth book of the Orphan X series, Lone Wolf. It's a remarkable read. This time, the Nowhere Man is tasked with finding a missing dog. Sounds simple, right? But, the plot quickly becomes more riveting. While this book can be enjoyed as a standalone, familiarity with the main characters adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

In keeping with the previous books, Lone Wolf is brimming with action. However, the real highlights are the familiar characters and their dynamics. Joey and Tommy consistently provide entertainment, and witnessing Evan's growing bond with them is truly heartwarming. This book masterfully blends thrilling action, emotional depth, and a healthy dose of humor into an excellent read. Picture Evan Smoak, a highly skilled assassin, attempting to fit into the role of an average person. Observing him navigate life with Joey, which resembles parenting or at least mentoring a teenager, is genuinely amusing. Although the climax might not be as impactful as some of the previous books, the ending delivers a strong punch and leaves you wanting more.

Scott Brick's narration? Absolutely flawless, as always. He truly excels in his craft.

Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing the audiobook. All opinions expressed are my own.

A simple thing like searching for his newly discovered niece’s lost dog winds up having Evan Smoak, X, the Nowhere Man interrupting a murder, with a teen witness who's then hunted down to deal with the witness to the murder. Will he be able to save the world this time while he’s being hunted too? Only Hurwitz could pull this off and Scott Brick tells it well. Must read.

I've been a fan of the Orphan X series from right from the start, the latest just solidified my love for the series. Hurwitz created a beast of a series! Sometimes, I find that the storylines suffer when authors continue on with a series, the characters become dull and overrated. That definitely isn't the case here, it takes one helluva author to create a series that just keeps getting better. Orphan X, Evan, is a bad ass, hardcore, can't stop, won't stop beast of a main character. While he's an absolute asshole, distant, and a bit curmudgeonly, he still has that heart of gold (and ice). I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with all of the characters. The action is epic and I am totally here for it all!

Lone Wolf is the 9th Orphan X book and as he shows more of his human side, I like his character much more. This is one of those series that I recommend you read in order. In the last book, he discovers he has a half brother and a niece. In Lone Wolf, he is asked by his niece to help find her missing dog. He takes on the mission, and when he looks at the video he sees where he has gone. He also stumbles into a robbery/murder and rescues the daughter of the murdered man. He is now on the trail of a hired assassin, trying to find his niece's dog and dealing with Joey's personal issues. Non-stop from the start of the book.

Gregg Hurwitz continues to write original stories for Evan Smoak, aka Orphan X. The one things about this series that I love is his growth. He went from a trained assassin, robot like and with no emotions, to a man, who helps others and is dealing with his own emotions, all new to him. He is a little OCD, and a well trained, smart assassin. He gets help from his foster child, Joey, who is a computer tech genius. One of the themes in this story, AI and technology being used to take over our brains was really scary. This story found him really dealing with his human side, his new family, meeting his father, as well as dealing with Joey growing up, wanting friends, and becoming a woman. Of course his skills as an assassin, saving others are always on full view and this one had him matching skills with someone just as skilled as him. There is even a little humor in this one, involving a joke between him and Joey, to lighten things up a bit. Another wonderful book in this series that had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see who Evan was going to take down next. I have been listening to this series and love the narration by Scott Brick. He is the voice of Evan Smoak and makes these books wonderful to listen to.

I have been provided with a review copy of Lone Wolf from NetGalley for an impartial review.

I was just drawn into this wonderful story and I just couldn’t put it down! It’s extremely easy to get lost in this story. I just didn’t want it to end. I just couldn’t get enough, and now I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.

I am not sure how this book is still at this level when it is book 9 in the series, but it is. I love that we get more of Evan's human side and see all he is working to protect. And how he spent time looking for his niece's dog. She knows he helps people and she needed help finding her dog. This is exactly what is great about this series. While Evan is in the middle of one of his biggest crisis, this young girl adds a little tenderness and levity to the book. Along with Evan and Joey's banter.

The case in this one was top notch. Taking out the lone wolf before she takes him out. She is as skilled and clever as Evan and I loved watching this battle unfold.

Scott Brick again narrates Evan. His voice is Evan and I love it. I will be so disappointed if a change is ever needed. He perfectly narrates the ups and downs and the action and emotions. So very good as an audiobook.

This was a great addition to the Orphan X series. I have to admit that Joey can get on my nerves, but it was nice to see some growth on her part. Evan also continues to grow his emotional intelligence and social skills. Those interactions are definitely out of his comfort zone. He is just beginning to have to face the idea of aging as well.

This installment had a couple of funny moments in addition to the action. I thought this added a little fun to the story without going overboard and becoming silly. It was a great mix of light humor, Orphan X style action, and emotional interactions.

This one wraps up the main story, but leaves a thread open that will need to be dealt with in the next book. If you are paying attention, it won't be much of a surprise, but it may still sneak up on you. I'll definitely be interested to see how Evan handles the situation.

I listened to the audio of this one and Scott Brick is Evan Smoak. I will listen to his narration of this series every time if given the opportunity.

Evan Smoak! I'm always excited when a new Orphan X book is on the horizon and as usual, this newest one did not disappoint. Hurwitz has given Evan another worthy adversary, this time a highly skilled hired killer known as "Lone Wolf". But there's so much more going on, and boy, is some of it timely. We have the wonders, and dangers, of AI and those who attempt to control it. We have Evan's continued struggle to figure out how to be a friend, a mentor, a brother. We even have Evan's reluctant search for a lost dog. This book made me laugh out loud, multiple times. It also scared the spit out of me. And it left me anxious for, while also afraid of, what will be coming in the next book. I had both the Kindle and the audio version of this one, but (as usual) I mostly listened to the audiobook and (as usual), Scott Brick's narration was brilliant and added another dimension to my enjoyment of all that was happening.
And now the wait begins for the next installment. No pressure, Gregg Hurwitz - but please write quickly!
Thanks to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for providing copies for an unbiased review.

My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the audiobook, which I highly recommend.
I enjoy how Hurwitz slowly ages the Nowhere Man, who recalls how easily his body reacted to physical abuse when he was in his 20s and through his 30s. Yes, X is aging, even as his young protégée is blooming, although she’s now a mouthy teen. Happily, X has recovered from the events in the prequel, because The Wolf, a preternaturally skilled assassin and sniper hunts him. The big question: who’s paying The Wolf? One of my favorite narrators, Scott Brick, does superb voice-acting on this book.

This is the 9th installment in the series and each one just keeps getting better and better. This wonderfully crafted story with well developed and compelling characters has twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat right to the last page. It was so captivating and exciting that I simply couldn't put it down. I had to read the whole thing in one sitting! Definitely a five-star blockbuster!

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio who provided me with a copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

My dad loved this author and we used to read/listen his books together. We both adored the character of Evan Smoak. He is all about righting wrongs, particularly for those most in need. He’s like an M&M. Hard outer shell and in his own way sweet on the inside. A great story, the expected take down of some truly awful people, getting to know his niece, helping to find her lost little beloved dog and more of his humanity coming through. As always, I’ll be looking for Orphan X #10. This was one of my favs in the series. I enjoy the narrator, but sometimes wish it was dialed down a bit. It’s always so intense, even in the moments when it could be less so. I sometimes found it exhausting to listen to.

Another great edition to this series. I had mixed feelings about giving this book 5 stars, but decided it's worth it.

The story is timely and interesting (AI and the spread of personal information and how it's used), the pacing as always fast and sure. Evan Smoak is still evolving as a person and I love that about him -- it's a slow process, considering his upbringing and training, but I love that Hurwitz can make him human and flawed when he can seem machine-like and perfect. Joey as always is a fantastic addition to the story (HELLBENT, book 3, is still my favorite book in the series.)

My reservations are relatively minor, and I realize that because I expect a lot from this series I sometimes have too-high expectations. My first issue was the opening chapters. The pacing wasn't as strong as it could have been and I was a bit lost. (I listened to audio. This may not have been a problem with the print.) There were a few points in the story where I zoned out -- something I've never done listening to this series. But I didn't think I missed anything important. The overarching story -- finding a lone wolf assassin and the motivation behind the person who hired her -- is clear and focused. I really liked the touch of humor and his search for the missing dog that started the action.

My main reservation -- even though I understand the purpose (showing Evan he has built a web of people in his life) was focusing on all of Evan's relationships with different people (at his condo, his friends, his new-found family.) It was a bit much, IMO, and left the book a tough unfocused. I liked of course Joey, but she's important to the plot so her subplot about the sorority was relevant. And we knew from the end of the last book that Evan had found his unknown father, so I really liked how that happened and the conflict within him as he learned who he came from. (I didn't meet my father until I was an adult, and the fantasies of childhood as to who he was were shattered. ) I liked how the missing dog storyline tied in his half-brother and how Evan ultimately handled that relationship. It was very well-done (especially the last scene, because it showed so much more than what was on the page -- loved it.) HOWEVER, all the other subplots felt unnecessary and just a bit too much. The HOA. Joaquin at the desk. Melinda. Even the one phone call to Candy that had no purpose because she said no and hung up, and then it never mattered later (I kept waiting for her to come back.)

Now, all that said, it's still a great book. And I often do the same thing in my writing because there are a lot of stories I want to tell. This is a book that might make me re-thinking that. Am I doing it for me or readers? That's the big question.

Anyway, Orphan X is still one of my all-time favorite series and I think sometimes, when I'm really looking forward to a book, I have too-high expectations. I'll definitely be getting the next book.

Thanks to MacMillan Audio and NetGalley for this advanced copy. Views are mine alone.

(Also posted on Goodreads)

The narrator for Lone Wolf was the same as previous Gregg Hurwitz novels which provided consistency but also some irritation. I had forgotten how descriptive Hurtwitz is when it comes to his writing, lots of adjectives and (unnecessary) descriptions. Instead of saying he pulled out his handgun, you get the make, model, weight, caliber, tactical use, etc for the gun. But the story arc of Evan, Orphan X, has been nice to read and see how he has grown in his EQ.

I loved this book and the action thriller that it is. What makes it shine for me is the humor, inside thoughts and little romance. Great installment!

I listen to this on audio and I loved the narration!

Evan Smoak, AKA The Nowhere Man, is who you call when you need help. He is a OCD riddled ex-assassin who ferrets out justice. When he takes a call from a young girl asking for help finding her dog he can hardly believe it but then he finds out who she is, his niece. This starts him on the hunt for a mangy dog, Loco, and right into the target of The Wolf, an assassin who may be as good as he is but we all know better. It also lands him in the middle of traffickers and a lot of other messy things, both in his life at home and elsewhere. His mantra has always been "don't let it get personal" but that has gone out the window. I did have to laugh every time his ring tone went off, especially at the most inopportune times.

I don't know how this author does it but this series just keeps getting better! I had this one in audio and LOVE this narrator!

As we learn more and more about Orphan X, we find that there are reasons for his rigid demeanor and no-nonsense personality. In this book, we meet family of the nowhere man, with all their scars and destructive behaviors. It helps to understand Evan Smoak much better. Meanwhile, he is busy saving lives and restoring equilibrium.
The characters, writing and plot are all that avid readers of Gregg Hurwitz expect. As Evan discovers more about himself, he beings to accept the nature of his personality.

Of course, narrator, Scott Brick, could read anything and I would listen. I fall into that smooth, luxurious voice everytime.

I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion or rating of this book. I am voluntarily submitting this review and am under no obligation to do so.

Lone Wolf is the 9th in the Orphan X series, and I’ve loved every installment! It’s a series best read in order, so if you haven’t started the series, go grab book one and prepare for an amazing, exciting ride!

Evan Smoak was taken from his foster home and trained as an elite assassin for a covert government operation and then left the program when his conscience demanded it. Now Evan operates as The Nowhere Man helping the helpless when they have nowhere else to turn.

In Lone Wolf Evan is at a low point personally, but he must quickly shake off his gloom when a young girl calls the hotline and asks for help finding her lost dog. Evan reluctantly agrees and “the case of the lost dog” quickly turns into sooo much more! Parts are extremely concerning as it mirrors real-life with AI and it’s chilling! As usual, Evan has his ever-growing collection of friends at his back, Joey, Tommy, and Melinda assist with the investigation.

I’ve said this before, but I think one of the reasons I love this series so much is because justice usually wins out. The baddies get retribution, something I long to see in real life, but doesn’t always happen. And Evan’s just so badass! Even when you think he’s cornered into a situation he can’t possibly get out of, he somehow prevails! Although, there was a comedy of errors when he gets his own line “Look at me closely. And ask yourself: Do I look scared?” back from nine-seven-year-old lady! It was a good lesson for him! Also, so many laughs over Evan having to endure looking through the many, many photos and videos of Sofia’s beloved, ugly dog!!!

The main conflict is resolved, but boy, that surprise at the end could change things! As usual, I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment!

I listened to the audiobook version, the way I’ve “read” the entire series. Scott Brick is a fantastic narrator, bringing Evan to life. He IS Evan Smoak to me even now. His female voices and accents are spot on, and his comedic timing is wonderful! I listen at my normal 1.5x-1.75x normal speed.

Man, I LOVE this series! I read the book before this as an ARC as well. Now I have to wait for the next book to come out! I have loved watching Ethan flourish into being more "human" and less killer. And his relationship with Joey!

The AI tech in this book and the behavior of the billionaires is very scary b/c I could totally see this actually happening!

Evan Smoak is back and on the biggest mission of his life…find a missing dog. I’m joking though the search for a missing dog is how the story kicks off. But of course it wouldn’t be an Orphan X novel if things didn’t get wild, and indeed they do. I’m not going to lie here, this one does have a slightly different feel about it. And yet I’m not sure how to explain it. I’d say more ‘personal’ and yet I don’t think that’s really the right description. Regardless, readers will still get everything we’ve come to expect from the series: a wonderful story with plenty of twists, tension, and excellent action. There is also quite a bit of character development as well. And with AI and tech playing major roles in the story this one really feels quite timely. I always appreciate when a series sticks with a narrator, and Scott Brick returns as narrator, once again delivering a solid performance. I’d like to thank Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen to an review an advanced audio copy of Lone Wolf.

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