Sometimes flashes from the past are in fact hidden gems: Area 7 was first released back in 1995 as the second book in Matthew Reilly's Scarecrow trilogy, and upon being recommended to read it this reviewer was shocked at the sheer quality of writing on offer in this decade-old thriller. Area 7 follows Shane Schofield, a Marine given the task of keeping the US President (who remains strangely unnamed, likely to allow readers to picture any of their favourite- or perhaps least favourite- American icons in danger) alive as he attempts to track down a seemingly invincible foe before his country is consumed by nuclear warfare. Even ten years on, this premise is as simply thrilling as the genre's name would demand, and for the most part Reilly carries out on his promises by providing twists, turns and gunfights aplenty. It has to be said, however, that often the author's revival of thought-dead characters proves too unrealistic and obvious for this reader's liking to the point that even when a central protagonist "died" I already had grasped the outcome wasn't so grim. Indeed, that can be said of Area 7 too: some thrillers are remembered for their high-octane climaxes, and while this sequel boasts an engaging final battle the ending itself is a little too predictable to the point that most readers will be disappointed. Never mind that, though, as Area 7 is undoubtedly one of the most welcome blasts from the past I've read in a long while- recommended for action fans!
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