Title: First Family
Author: David Baldacci
First published April 21, 2009
449 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780446539753 (ISBN10: 0446539759)
Rating: 4.08
Overview
David Baldacci’s latest thriller, “First Family,” follows former Secret Service agents turned private investigators Sean King and Michelle Maxwell as they are called upon to rescue a kidnapped child from a daring abduction at Camp David, the presidential retreat. Despite their initial reluctance to get involved, the First Lady’s request becomes a matter of national security, and Sean and Michelle must put their skills to the test to save the child.
With enemies lurking around every corner and Michelle battling her own demons, the duo finds themselves in a race against time, struggling to distinguish friend from foe in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. Baldacci’s heart-pounding storytelling will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
About the Author
David Baldacci’s love for writing started at a young age, when his mother gave him a notebook to jot down his stories. Little did she know that this simple gesture would ignite his writing career.
David’s first novel, “Absolute Power,” was published in 1996, and later adapted into a feature film directed and starred by Clint Eastwood. Since then, he has authored 46 novels for adults, all of which have become national and international bestsellers.
Some have even been transformed into film and TV adaptations. David’s books have been translated into over 45 languages, sold 150 million copies worldwide, and are available in more than 80 countries.
Additionally, he has published seven books for young readers.
David’s passion for philanthropy is as strong as his passion for writing. He is particularly devoted to the Wish You Well Foundation, which he and his wife, Michelle, established.
This foundation supports family and adult literacy programs throughout the United States.
David is a proud Virginian and an alumnus of Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia School of Law.
Editoral Review
First Family by David Baldacci is a gripping thriller novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. Baldacci is a renowned author, having penned numerous bestselling novels that have won critical acclaim.
The book is set in Washington D.C. and follows the story of the First Family – President Roger Simpson, his wife Pam, and their children. The plot kicks off with the kidnapping of the President’s niece, and the First Family is thrust into a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse as they race against time to save her.
Baldacci’s writing is fluid and fast-paced, making it easy for readers to get immersed in the story. The characters are well-developed, from the brave and resourceful President to the scheming villains who are behind the kidnapping.
The book’s setting is also vividly described, with Baldacci blending real-life locations with his own imagination to create a realistic and vivid Washington D.C.
The author’s political insight is on full display in this book, with themes such as corruption and power struggle woven into the plot. The story’s relevance to current events is also notable, especially considering the book’s publication date of 2009, which is just a year after Barack Obama’s historic election as the first African American president of the United States.
One of the book’s major strengths is its pacing – Baldacci maintains a relentless pace that leaves no room for boredom. However, the plot is somewhat predictable, and the resolution is somewhat too neatly tied up.
Additionally, some of the characters’ actions are hard to believe, and the book’s ending feels somewhat rushed. Overall, First Family is a thrilling read that will appeal to fans of the thriller genre.
While it is not entirely flawless, it is still an enjoyable and engaging read. Readers who are looking for a fast-paced and exciting book that explores the darker side of politics will find much to enjoy in David Baldacci’s First Family.
Rating: 4/5. The book’s strengths in pacing, character development, and political relevance outweigh its flaws in predictability and believability.
