Evan Smoak is a highly trained assassin that lives by a code known as the ten commandments. He suddenly finds himself in conflict with Tommy, a close friend but now an enemy, and his code goes out the window as his emotions take over. Calm, cool, and collected no more, Evan is on a hot streak to end this war.
Tommy owes a favor to a friend. With Evan now hot on his trail, as well as other parties who are bent on their own warfare, this turns into a highly explosive and emotional thriller that leaves you hanging on to find out who ends up on top, and alive. This is my first of this series and now I'm interested in going back and diving in from the first to catch up to this, even though this stands all alone in drawing you in to the story line.
**Narrated by Scott Brick- who was easy to listen to and came at the audioversion bearing different accents for Evan and Tommy that made it especially easy to tell the difference between the two main characters. Highly recommend listening to his narration**
*I received a copy of this audiobook from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*

I'm a huge fan of the Orphan X series, but much as I've loved every book in the series, after finishing the previous book in the series, Lone Wolf, I was almost afraid of where this next one would go. And y'all, it went deep. Evan and his good friend (and weapons supplier) Tommy are at odds - just when they really need each other. Tommy's trying to fulfill a promise to a military buddy from long ago. He's also trying to dodge a particularly nasty assassination team. Evan has his own issues with said assassination team. This one has all the action, all the humor, all the social commentary and all the introspection and revelations from the past that fans have come to expect from this series. The conflict between Evan and his friend Tommy elevates everything, and at times broke my heart. It just might be my favorite of the series to date. Scott Brick's narration of the audio version is, as usual, elite. He handles the action scenes with the intensity required, and the introspective scenes with the necessary sensitivity - it's a perfect pairing of artist and material.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for providing a digital copy for an unbiased review.

Nemesis is another adrenaline-fueled ride in Gregg Hurwitz’s Orphan X series, but this time, the stakes are deeply personal. Evan Smoak’s strict code is put to the test as he goes head-to-head with his closest friend, making for an emotionally charged and high-stakes conflict. The action sequences are as sharp and intense as ever, and the tension never lets up. While the pacing slows at times with detailed subplots, the gripping moral dilemmas and razor-sharp storytelling keep it compelling. Fans of the series will appreciate this fresh angle, and new readers will be drawn into Evan’s relentless world. A solid addition to the series!

Orphan X is that series that is my guilty pleasure. I have been reading and/or listening to it from the first book and I have enjoyed Evan's character arc over the books. It is that reason that I recommend you read this series in order. In this book, Evan finds himself at odds with his oldest friend, all the rules he lives by shatter, and it could end in death. Tommy Stojack crossed the line by selling weapons to child killers. While Evan is trying to find Tommy, Tommy has crossed the US to small town Georgia?? to help the son of someone who he knew in the armed forces. He called Tommy for help stating that he accidentally ran over 3 Mexicans and now they are after him. Now Evan has to follow him across the country. Who is going to survive this one?

Oh my goodness, talk about a moral dilemma. This is one of the most action packed stories so far. My heart rate sped up while listening to this one and I couldn't sleep after I finished it. I was heartsick about the situation between Evan and Tommy and I was worried about how that would play out. You will have to read the book to find out. I liked the message that Tommy was trying to send to "Hick" and his friends. They were extremely racist and he was trying really hard to make them think about their actions and beliefs. There are some issues between Evan and Joey (his sort of foster daughter) and once again Evan had to get her to think for herself and not follow others. This is an extremely topical books with issues that are coming to a head today. Overall, this was a high octane story from the first page to the end and I was engaged all the way through. I absolutely love the narration by Scott Brick. The voices he has given the main characters are the characters in my mind and it is nice to be able to recognize them.

**4-Star Audiobook Review for *Nemesis* by Gregg Hurwitz**

*Nemesis* by Gregg Hurwitz is a thrilling, action-packed ride that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The story follows Evan Smoak, a former operative with a dark past, who is thrust into a dangerous situation. The plot is full of twists, suspense, and non-stop action, making it a gripping listen.

Scott Brick’s narration is excellent, capturing the intensity and depth of the characters. His voice is a perfect fit for the complex Evan Smoak, and he brings out the nuances of the other characters as well, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience. The pacing is fast, and the action scenes are well-done, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

However, while the story is exciting, it sometimes feels a bit predictable. The twists, while thrilling, didn’t always feel as fresh as I’d hoped, and there were moments where the plot felt a little too familiar compared to other thrillers in the genre. Still, Hurwitz’s writing is solid, and the character development of Evan Smoak adds emotional depth that elevates the book above a typical action thriller.

Overall, *Nemesis* is an enjoyable and well-executed audiobook, with a fantastic narrator and an action-packed story. It’s not without its flaws, but it’s definitely worth a listen, especially if you enjoy thrillers with a complex lead character. Highly recommend for fans of suspenseful, fast-paced stories!

The Orphan X saga continues. This time, it pits friend against friend. Evan is going after one of his only friends for selling arms to an assassin that not only tried to kill him but also hurt innocent people. Evan can't let that stand. This one pulls you back and forth. You don't know who to root for at times. I will say Scott Brick is one of the best narrators I've ever heard. He's narrated all the Orphan X books and does a wonderful job.

Thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan audio, and Gregg Hurwitz for the opportunity to listen to this book.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

"Nemesis," Gregg Hurwitz's latest installment in the Orphan X series, is a masterclass in thriller storytelling, and the audiobook experience, elevated by Scott Brick's narration, is nothing short of exceptional. Here's a deeper dive:

Hurwitz doesn't just deliver action; he orchestrates it. "Nemesis" delves into the complex dynamics of Evan Smoak's relationships, particularly his fraught connection with Tommy. This novel pushes Evan into uncharted emotional territory, and the resulting tension is palpable.

The narrative weaves a web of intrigue, blurring the lines between ally and adversary. The sense of paranoia is pervasive, and Hurwitz expertly ratchets up the suspense with each passing chapter.

Scott Brick's narration is a perfect marriage of voice and character. He embodies Evan Smoak with a cool, controlled precision that mirrors the character's own demeanor. Brick's ability to differentiate between characters is remarkable. He imbues each voice with distinct nuances, bringing Hurwitz's world to vivid life.

More than just reading the words, Brick performs them. He understands the rhythm and pacing of the narrative, delivering each line with the perfect amount of weight and emphasis. His delivery of the action sequences is particularly impressive, conveying the urgency and intensity of the moment.

It is very clear that Scott Brick has become the voice of Evan Smoak, and it would be very hard to imagine another narrator taking on this role.

While the action is undeniably thrilling, "Nemesis" also explores deeper themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of redemption.

Hurwitz skillfully balances the adrenaline-fueled action with moments of introspection, giving readers a glimpse into the inner workings of Evan Smoak's complex psyche.

The growth of the character Joey is also a highlight of this installment, adding a very good layer to the over all story.

"Nemesis" is a must-listen for fans of the Orphan X series and thriller aficionados alike. The combination of Hurwitz's gripping storytelling and Brick's masterful narration creates an immersive and unforgettable audiobook experience.

This audiobook is a perfect blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth, making it a standout in the genre.

The "Nemesis" audiobook delivers a very high quality listening experience.

This is my first Orphan X book. I know I’m late to the game, but you have to start sometime. I found myself easily picking things up and loving the story even with no previous experience in this world. I do wish that I had more than the minimum experience with the relationships in the series. I may have to go back and read the rest.

Let me start by saying, I LOVE THIS SERIES! and I recommend it often. The narrator of the audiobook is Evan Smoak to me. He does all the variations of characters to perfection! On his last "mission" he has a slight mishap (by a fraction of a second) with his ammunition. He knows he has no one to blame but his longest friend Tommy Stojack. When he tasks Joey to finding what Tommy has been up to he finds Tommy has been supplying others, bad characters. When he confronts Tommy things go off the rails. When Evan gets his bearings back he goes back to confront Tommy but is met with a sniper and assassins. Little did he know Tommy was not there as he had left to meet up with the son of a man he had served with. Tommy has found himself a whole crazy town of scandal, the chief of police covering up crime, the boys playing at militia and murdering a family, and Tommy in the middle trying to make it right. Now Evan has come to town and the Nowhere Man does not play nice when setting things straight. To say nothing about Joey having her own identity crisis trying to fit in at UCLA. I LOVE THIS SERIES! I highly recommend it. You can read each book as a standalone but I prefer the audiobook.

Evan Smoak is back!! Strap in for another wild ride in the Orphan X series. The character development and evolution was very well done, and the intrigue kept me on the edge of my seat! I listened to the audiobook version, and I thought the narrator was just excellent. I can attest that this truly is a KNOCKOUT! Definitely recommend for Orphan X fans and for those just getting into the series.

This is latest of the Orphan X series, and I listened to the audiobook. Evan Smoak (Orphan X) and his long-time friend Tommy Stojack are squabbling (really more serious than that), and it affects the mission. These two have been very tight up until now, and it’s hard to see them at odds.

I really liked the character development in this installment. We haven’t gotten to see the personal details included before, and they definitely added to the story and its depth. Joey also has a somewhat antagonistic stance with Evan, but she *is* a teenager, after all. Scott Brick’s narration is first-rate.

This one is definitely a don’t-miss in the Orphan X series. The action doesn’t stop, and the added character depth just left me wanting more!

Five stars!

One of the most interesting book in this captivating series. Hurwitz once again shows evolution in both his writing style and the humanity of his iconic character. Absolute must read!

This series just keeps getting better and better. In this edition the main characters, Evan, Joey and Tommy test the limits of their friendship. Each is taking a very introspective look at their beliefs and trying to reconcile them with their present situation. This provocative, somewhat dark and twisted story grabs you from the first page and keeps you guessing until the very end where the authors insert a deliciously wicked twist. The end had a satisfying, realistic conclusion; but enough justice for everyone.

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

Evan Smoak has always lived by a ridged set of rules. Rules he refuses to break. So when Tommy Stojack, Evan’s best friend, crosses a line he goes to confront him, only to end up on the wrong side of an ambush. Evan survives, naturally, but that only leaves him further enraged and dead set on getting some payback. That is just the start of this explosive adventure. There is so much happening in this one you may just need to take some notes, lol. No, seriously there are many moving parts in this story, and incredible author that he is Hurwitz has them working together like the finest Swiss watch. This is a brilliant ballet of action and adventure. Every time one of these books come out I’m left asking the same question, how have these stories not been made into movies yet? This is the tenth of the Orphan X novels, and while I really believe they can each be read as a standalone, you’ll want to read them all. This was the review I wrote about a month ago when I read an eARC of the novel. Now I was given the opportunity to listen to an advanced copy of the audio version and have to say it was just as the second time around. Once again Scott Brick is back as the narrator and as always he does an incredible job. I always love when a series keeps a consistent narrator, especially when they are as talented as Mr. Brick. I’d like to thank St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an eARC of Nemesis, and Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the allowing me the opportunity to listen to an advanced copy of the audio version. No matter how you choose to experience Nemesis you won’t be disappointed.

https://www.amazon.com/review/RJK4TRRDKGAMB/ref=pe_123899240_1043597390_SRTC0204BT_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Evan Smoak was trained as an elite assassin for a covert government organization but has since left the program after some dark discoveries. Now Evan operates as The Nowhere Man helping the helpless when they have nowhere else to turn.

Each of the Orphan X books has a problem that is solved, but the repercussions of Evan’s decision to leave the Orphan program and his relationships are ongoing and progressive, so it’s best to start the series from the beginning. If you haven’t started this series, you’re in for a treat! Thrilling action, compelling missions interspersed with clever, dry humor make Orphan X one of my all-time favorite series!

I thought this installment had a more serious undertone than the prior stories. The story centers on a tragedy Tommy wades into when the son of a man he served with calls for help. It’s not pretty. Ignorance, hatred and complete idiocy factor in. A situation I could easily see playing out currently in real-life! It’s heartbreaking on both sides. Evan becomes involved, too.

Despite trying to stay off the radar and keep others free from the danger he faces, Evan’s gathered friends. I’ve loved seeing those relationships grow and evolve through the series. However, this installment has one of those relationships on rocky ground! I didn’t know how it’d work out. I was happy and sad by the end! As usual, I eagerly look forward to the next installment!

I alternately read and listened to the audiobook and can recommend either version, but the audios are fantastic! Scott Brick is an excellent narrator, bringing Evan to life. He IS Evan Smoak to me now! His female voices and accents are also well done, and his comedic timing is spot on!

Nemesis AUDIO and print by Gregg Hurwitz is the newest addition in the Orphan X Saga. Evan has to deal with the ups and downs of friendship which is a new world for him when he judges Tommy and deals with what he sees as a betrayal the only way he knows how. He misreads what happens at Tommy’s compound and follows him across country, where Tommy becomes a kind of foster parent for the son of a man he didn’t even like, but had made a promise to. Since Evan is there, he gets involved too, but from a different perspective. Meanwhile he is dealing with the teenage girl issues of his mentee, a girl who he rescued from the program and has set up for a life. She is a computer genius and Evan uses her skill regularly. This time she wants to use it for herself, not being mature enough and worldly wise enough to see the dangers ahead as well as know how teenage girls behave, an area in which Evan has no expertise either.

Evan Smoak is a trained government assassin who has broken away and works for himself. He is slowly becoming human after many years of having it trained out of him. He is violent and opinionated and ready to help whenever and wherever he can. His human relationships are few and difficult for him to manage. His communication skills are even worse. He is an absolutely fabulous character: lovable and righteous. The plot is fast moving and makes sense from Evan’s point of view, if not always to the reader’s who has more information. It is an exciting read and an even more exciting listen.

Scott Brick is the narrator and as always, is the perfect fit. Keeping with the program and staying calm even when things are falling apart. He may read a little faster somtimes, but he is always right there. No better choice.

I was invited to listen to Nemesis by MacMilllan Audio and read it before publication by St Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #MacMillanAudio #StMartinsPress
#ScottBrick #GreggHurwitz #Nemesis #TheNowhereMan

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart


Review copy was received from NetGalley, Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I LOVE the Orphan X series. I recommend reading from the beginning, in order, for the character and world developments. Evan has grown and become more personable throughout the series. He grapples with his Orphan rules and the feelings for people. I worry for him in every book.

Evan has some real issues with probably the two most important people in his life. One is Joey; the other is Tommy. He found out Tommy supplied the bad guys in the previous adventure. Evan feels betrayed and Nemesis is about that struggle with someone who is the closest to friend he has. He goes to talk to Tommy and it doesn't go well. He tries again and runs into a bunch of assassins. Evan and Tommy are horrible with communication and are at odds a lot in this adventure.

Tommy ends up out of town to try to help the son of an old military buddy. The son has done some horrible things, not meaning to do them but people died. Evan follows him there and is not thrilled with the racist good old boys covering up white boy's crimes. Tommy tries to educate the white boys with some success.

Joey has tried to get in with a girl's group at college. They do a meme to support women and Joey uses her skills to make it go viral. But Evan points out to her that she didn't fully research the issue and when it goes south Joey struggles. Luckily, she has Candy and Evan to help her to better options.

I really appreciated the emotional journeys Evan, Tommy and Joey took here. They are strong people who mostly are alone and follow their own codes. When things go wrong, they question themselves and their codes. They try to fit things into their morality and learn.

Narration:
Scott Brick is a narrator is the voice of this series. I am completely settled into his voices for the characters and loved his performance. He does a nice differentiation with all the ages and locations. I enjoyed his performance so much. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.

Tommy Stojack might be Evan’s best friend in the world. He’s a gifted gunsmith who has created much of Evan’s own weapons and combat gear. But now, he has apparently crossed one of Evan’s hardest lines and their argument explodes into open warfare. Now Evan has no choice but to track and face down his only friend.

As with all Ophan X books, you have a little bit of humor, a good amount of intensity and a large amount of fighting. And no one fights better than Evan. He is tough as nails, lightening quick and he ain’t stupid! I have to say, Gregg Hurwitz can create some amazing fight sequences that get your heart pumping! And the beef between Evan and Tommy will definitely have you stressing a bit!

To say I enjoy this series is an understatement. This is book #10 in this series and yes I have read and enjoyed every one. It is not necessary that you read them in order. But, I would read the first one to understand what all Evan has been through.

I have said this before and I will say this again…the narrator, Scott Brick, is the best in the world. And believe me…he is Orphan X!

Need a fast paced, full of fight scenes, thriller…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest opinion!

Greg Hurwitz returns with his popular Orphan X series (a favorite) with #10, NEMESIS, taking us even deeper into the complex personality of Evan Smoak, The Nowhere Man, in this action-packed thriller, leaving fans anxiously awaiting the next in the series.

NO GREATER FRIEND.
NO WORSE ENEMY.

About...

If you have read all the books in the series as I have, you know Evan is a highly trained former government assassin who survived for years keeping a few trusted confidants and adhering to a strict code of "The Ten Commandments.

In this installment, Evan is at odds with his oldest friend, Tommy Stojack (we go back 15 years), and the rules are shattered. He is a gifted gunsmith who has created many of Evan's weapons, but now he has crossed a line. He has to track down this friend and face him face to face.

Tommy has left town to deal with a dead friend's son, and Evan is out to find him. But there is something more dangerous and sinister going down. Who will make it out alive?

My thoughts...

In NEMESIS, lines are blurred, and loyalties are tested with multiple enemies in this high-adrenaline action-packed installment. From trained killers, The Four Horseman, a crooked sheriff, and others.

We witness Evan grappling with the conflict between his Orphan Program training and his sense of humanity. He introspects and questions his friendships, and the ongoing inner turmoil adds emotional depth to this character we have grown to love.

The author brilliantly keeps his fans entertained, from the struggle between good and evil to exploring friendships and betrayals, emotions, soul searching, values, and rules. Evan, who has not had an easy life, faces his Nemesis, perhaps the most demanding challenge he has ever faced, showing us that personal growth is always possible.

In addition, fans will be delighted to catch up with Joey (age 17) as she struggles to find her place in society with social media and hatred.

Audiobook...

I enjoyed experiencing the audiobook narrated by the talented Scott Brick. His exceptional performance, with a voice that perfectly suits the story, elevates the narrative, bringing the characters, setting, action, and suspense to life. It's a must-listen for any fan of the series!

Recs...

NEMESIS is for fans of the Orphan X series and Greg Hurwitz as well as Evan and Joey and looking into the characters even more as we glimpse into characters and things they may hide from others. Highly recommend.

Thanks to Macmillan Audio, Minotaur Books, St. Martin's Press, and Netgalley for a digital advanced review copy and advanced listening copy in exchange for an honest review.

blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub Date: Feb 11, 2025
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Packed with great scenes, plus we get to see how Evan and Tommy handle things while they’re on the outs. Some parts weren’t for me, especially with how close it felt to real world events, and I could have done without the racial slurs. But overall, it’s an intense listen. Scott Brick nails the narration, his portrayal of X is spot on, and I wouldn’t want anyone else to portray Evan. This one definitely sets up the next book, and it’s gonna be good!