If you’re a fan of mystery and suspense novels, then you might be interested in two thrilling novels: William Kent Krueger’s “Ordinary Grace” and Lars Emmerich’s “Burn”. In this article, we will delve deep into both novels and provide a detailed comparison to help you figure out which one is worth your time.
An Introduction to the Two Thriller Novels
Before diving into the comparison, let’s take a brief look at these two novels. “Ordinary Grace” is a novel published in 2013 by New York Times bestselling author, William Kent Krueger. It is set in the summer of 1961 and tells the story of Frank, a thirteen-year-old boy growing up in a small Minnesota town. Lars Emmerich’s “Burn,” on the other hand, is set in present-day New York City and follows Jake Aubrey, a wealthy businessman with a dark past.
“Ordinary Grace” is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of family, loss, and faith. The novel is narrated by Frank as an adult, reflecting on the events of that summer and the impact they had on his life. Krueger’s writing is lyrical and evocative, transporting the reader to a different time and place.
In contrast, “Burn” is a fast-paced thriller that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The novel opens with Jake Aubrey waking up in a hotel room with no memory of the previous night and a dead woman lying next to him. As he tries to piece together what happened, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a ruthless killer. Emmerich’s writing is sharp and suspenseful, making “Burn” a page-turner from start to finish.
William Kent Krueger’s “Ordinary Grace”: A Brief Overview
“Ordinary Grace” is a novel that combines mystery, family dramas, and coming-of-age themes. The novel is narrated by Frank, who witnesses the deaths of four people in his small town, including a young boy who was his brother’s close friend. Krueger’s writing style is lyrical and atmospheric, evoking a strong sense of time and place.
The novel explores themes of grief, faith, and forgiveness as Frank and his family navigate the aftermath of the tragedies. Through Frank’s perspective, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and understanding as he grapples with the complexities of life and death. Krueger’s masterful storytelling and vivid characterizations make “Ordinary Grace” a poignant and unforgettable read.
Lars Emmerich’s “Burn”: A Quick Summary
“Burn” is a fast-paced thriller that follows Jake Aubrey, a businessman with a dark past who is forced to confront his demons when his past comes back to haunt him. The novel is full of action-packed scenes, both in New York City and across the globe, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers engaged.
In addition to the thrilling plot, Emmerich’s writing style is also noteworthy. He has a talent for creating vivid descriptions that transport readers to the heart of the action. From the bustling streets of New York City to the remote corners of the world, Emmerich’s attention to detail is impressive.
Furthermore, the characters in “Burn” are complex and multi-dimensional. Jake Aubrey is not your typical hero, and his flaws and struggles make him all the more relatable. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, with each character playing a crucial role in the story.
The Plot and Themes of “Ordinary Grace”
“Ordinary Grace” is a novel that explores themes of grief, loss, and forgiveness. The plot revolves around Frank’s attempts to make sense of the unexpected deaths that occur in his small town, including the death of his young brother. Frank also struggles to come to terms with his own identity and beliefs, as well as the complex family dynamics that shape his life.
Throughout the novel, the author, William Kent Krueger, skillfully weaves in elements of mystery and suspense, keeping the reader engaged and guessing until the very end. The small town setting adds to the sense of intimacy and community, as the characters grapple with their shared tragedies and secrets. Ultimately, “Ordinary Grace” is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience, and the ways in which we cope with loss and find meaning in the face of tragedy.
The Plot and Themes of “Burn”
“Burn” is a novel that is largely driven by its fast pace and action-filled plot. The novel explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the price of power. The plot follows Jake’s attempts to protect those he loves while also confronting his own past, which threatens to destroy him and everything he holds dear.
The character of Jake is a complex one, and the novel delves deep into his psyche, exploring his motivations and inner conflicts. As the story progresses, Jake is forced to make difficult choices and face the consequences of his actions, which adds depth and complexity to the plot.
In addition to its thrilling plot and complex characters, “Burn” also offers a commentary on contemporary society and the corrupting influence of power. Through its exploration of the price of power, the novel raises important questions about the nature of power and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.
The Writing Style of William Kent Krueger in “Ordinary Grace”
Krueger’s writing style in “Ordinary Grace” is lyrical and poetic, with a focus on setting and atmosphere. He creates a vivid sense of place and evokes a strong emotional response from the reader. The language is sparse but powerful, allowing the reader to focus on the characters’ inner lives and the novel’s themes.
The Writing Style of Lars Emmerich in “Burn”
Emmerich’s writing style in “Burn” is very different from Krueger’s. The style is fast-paced, with short, punchy sentences that create a sense of urgency and tension. The language is direct and to the point, with a focus on action and plot. While the novel lacks the lyrical prose of “Ordinary Grace,” it makes up for it with its relentless pace and suspenseful plot.
Character Development in “Ordinary Grace”
One of the strengths of “Ordinary Grace” is its well-developed characters. Frank, in particular, is a fascinating character who undergoes significant growth throughout the novel. Krueger does an excellent job of portraying Frank’s internal struggles and creating a sense of empathy for the character’s situation. Other characters, such as Frank’s father and the local pastor, are also well-written and add depth to the novel.
Character Development in “Burn”
“Burn” is more plot-driven than character-driven, and as such, character development is not as strong as it is in “Ordinary Grace.” Still, Emmerich manages to create compelling characters, particularly Jake Aubrey, whose complex past and motivations are slowly revealed throughout the novel. The supporting cast of characters is also well-written, adding layers of complexity to the story.
Setting and Atmosphere Comparison between the Two Novels
The setting and atmosphere of “Ordinary Grace” and “Burn” are vastly different. Krueger’s novel has a slow, introspective feel that is rooted in its rural Minnesota setting. Emmerich’s novel, by contrast, is set in the hustle and bustle of New York City, with an emphasis on action and suspense.
Mystery and Suspense Elements in the Novels
Both “Ordinary Grace” and “Burn” contain elements of mystery and suspense. In “Ordinary Grace,” the mystery revolves around the deaths of several people in Frank’s small town, while “Burn” is powered by the tension of Jake’s past catching up with him. Both novels have plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the very end.
Symbolism and Motifs Used in the Novels
Krueger employs recurring motifs in “Ordinary Grace,” such as the imagery of trains and the Nightingale, a symbol that represents hope and redemption. Emmerich uses recurring symbols such as fire and water in “Burn” to create a sense of danger and urgency.
The Role of Family Dynamics in both Novels
Family dynamics play a significant role in both novels. In “Ordinary Grace,” Frank’s interactions with his family members are central to the novel’s themes of grief and forgiveness. In “Burn,” Jake’s relationship with his family is a catalyst for the events that unfold in the novel, and his attempts to protect them form a core part of the plot.
Which Thriller Novel is Worth Your Time? A Final Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between “Ordinary Grace” and “Burn” depends on the type of novel you enjoy. If you prefer lyrical prose and introspective explorations of grief and loss, “Ordinary Grace” is the way to go. If you seek a fast-paced thriller with lots of action and suspense, “Burn” is the choice for you. However, both novels are compelling in their own right and are worth your time.