Review of Untouchable (Joe DeMarco, #18) by Mike Lawson
As a longtime fan of Mike Lawson, I eagerly anticipate each new installment in the Joe DeMarco series—Untouchable is no exception. From the moment I plunged into its pages, I was captivated by the rich tapestry of political intrigue and moral ambiguity that Lawson weaves so skillfully. With a storyline that echoes current affairs and personal resolve, this latest thriller once again showcases Lawson’s talent for delivering a potent mix of suspense and insight.
At the heart of Untouchable is Joe DeMarco, the fixer for former Speaker of the House, John Mahoney. When Brandon Cartwright, a notorious figure embroiled in a child trafficking scandal, is mysteriously murdered in his mansion, the wheels of justice threaten to stall. However, a mysterious note discovered in the National Archives hints at a far darker conspiracy involving the sitting president. As soon as DeMarco steps in, readers are taken on a relentless journey filled with twists and turns that leave you questioning who is truly untouchable in the corridors of power.
Lawson does an exceptional job of crafting characters that are both multi-dimensional and relatable. DeMarco is particularly compelling; his determination drives the narrative, making it hard not to root for him—even as he treads dangerous waters. Cartwright’s opulent lifestyle and questionable ethics provide a chilling contrast to DeMarco’s investigative zeal. The narrative builds steadily, creating a sense of urgency that had me flipping pages late into the night, desperately seeking resolution.
What struck me most about Lawson’s writing in Untouchable was the palpable tension. Each chapter escalates the stakes, peppered with real-world parallels that are both unsettling and thought-provoking. The storyline mirrors the morbid fascination we often have with power and corruption, serving as a reflective lens on today’s political climate. Lines that draw parallels to high-profile scandals are laced throughout the book, creating a narrative that feels intensely relevant.
One quote that resonated deeply with me was, "Answers are like ghosts; often haunting, but rarely tangible." It encapsulates the depth of DeMarco’s quest for truth while leaving readers to ponder the shades of gray in moral dilemmas. Lawson skillfully urges us to confront the complexities of justice and morality, blurring the lines between right and wrong.
As I closed the book, I found myself pondering not just the thrilling plot but also the broader implications of the themes explored. Lawson has created a world where the untouchable reigns supreme—yet, in DeMarco, we see the flicker of hope that truth may one day illuminate the darkest secrets.
I wholeheartedly recommend Untouchable to fans of political thrillers, mystery enthusiasts, and anyone craving a suspenseful ride laden with real-world implications. Lawson has delivered yet another stellar addition to the Joe DeMarco series that left me hungry for more. Whether you’re a longtime follower or new to Lawson’s work, this novel will ensnare and engage you from start to finish.
Kudos, Mr. Lawson, for yet another brilliant offering in this series! As always, I look forward to the twists and turns that await in the next installment.
For more reflections on books like this one, feel free to visit my collection at Pechey Ponderings. Happy reading!
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