In the world of fiction, the thriller genre has long been a favorite amongst readers, and two notable novels in this genre are Smokescreen by Iris Johansen and Devolution by Lars Emmerich. Both these novels have been written by seasoned authors and offer a compelling experience for readers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look and compare these two novels, discussing their plot, characters, writing style, themes, similarities, differences, and their impact on the thriller genre.
Introduction to Smokescreen and Devolution
Smokescreen tells the story of Eve Duncan, a forensic sculptor and a widow who discovers that her daughter has been kidnapped. Devolution, on the other hand, revolves around a government conspiracy and a deadly virus that threatens to kill millions of people. While Smokescreen is a psychological suspense thriller, Devolution is more of a political and military thriller.
Both novels were written by New York Times bestselling author Iris Johansen. Johansen is known for her strong female characters and intricate plotlines that keep readers on the edge of their seats. In Smokescreen, Eve Duncan must use her skills to reconstruct the face of her daughter’s kidnapper, while in Devolution, a team of scientists and soldiers must race against time to stop the spread of a deadly virus. Johansen’s writing style is fast-paced and engaging, making both Smokescreen and Devolution must-reads for fans of the thriller genre.
Plot Overview of Smokescreen
The plot of Smokescreen is set in motion when Eve Duncan receives a mysterious letter, which is seemingly from her deceased daughter. The letter leads her on a dangerous and emotional journey to discover the truth about her daughter’s kidnapping. Along the way, she meets Joe Quinn, a former FBI agent who becomes her partner in the investigation. As they uncover the sinister plot behind the kidnapping, they risk their lives to save her daughter and bring the perpetrator to justice.
Throughout the course of the investigation, Eve and Joe encounter several obstacles and setbacks. They discover that the kidnapping is part of a larger conspiracy involving powerful individuals who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden. As they delve deeper into the case, they realize that their lives are in danger and they must act quickly to bring the perpetrators to justice. With the help of some unexpected allies, they are able to uncover the truth and bring closure to the case.
Plot Overview of Devolution
In Devolution, the plot centers around a powerful government agency that is tasked with preventing the spread of a fatal virus. The story follows the exploits of Dr. Gregory Anson, a scientist working for the government agency. As the situation becomes critical, he must collaborate with ex-military soldier, Claire Ferrier, to unravel the conspiracy behind the virus and find a cure before it’s too late.
Along the way, Dr. Anson and Claire encounter a group of survivors who have managed to evade the virus and the government’s attempts to contain it. These survivors, who have formed their own community in the wilderness, provide valuable insights into the virus and the government’s true intentions. As Dr. Anson and Claire race against time to find a cure, they must also navigate the complex web of politics and power that surrounds the virus and the agency tasked with stopping it.
Character Analysis of Main Characters in Smokescreen
Eve Duncan is the protagonist in Smokescreen, and she is a well-rounded character. Her background as a forensic sculptor adds depth to her personality. She is driven and determined to find her daughter, and her unwavering grit in the face of danger is commendable. Joe Quinn, on the other hand, is an ex-FBI agent who is now working as a private investigator. He is strong, capable, and puts up a tough exterior, but is also caring and sensitive towards Eve. Catherine Ling, a CIA operative, provides pivotal support to Eve and Joe, making her a vital character in the novel.
In addition to these main characters, Smokescreen also features a cast of well-developed supporting characters. One such character is Jock Gavin, a former soldier who now works as a security consultant. He is fiercely loyal to Eve and Joe, and his military training proves invaluable in their fight against the villains. Another supporting character is Jane MacGuire, Eve’s adopted daughter, who is a talented musician and artist. Her artistic abilities play a crucial role in the plot, and her relationship with Eve adds emotional depth to the story.
Character Analysis of Main Characters in Devolution
Dr. Gregory Anson from Devolution is a multi-dimensional character who brings a scientific perspective to the novel. A brilliant scientist, he is no stranger to danger and is not afraid to take risks to save millions of lives. Claire Ferrier is a former military soldier, and her combat experience is a key asset when it comes to fighting the enemy head-on. Their combined efforts and expertise make them a formidable duo to reckon with.
In addition to Dr. Anson and Claire, there is another character in Devolution who plays a crucial role in the story. His name is Jack, and he is a survivalist who lives in the wilderness. Jack’s knowledge of the outdoors and his ability to live off the land prove to be invaluable when the main characters find themselves stranded in the wilderness. Despite his gruff exterior, Jack is a loyal and trustworthy ally to Dr. Anson and Claire, and his presence adds an interesting dynamic to the group.
Writing Style and Techniques Used in Smokescreen
Iris Johansen’s writing style in Smokescreen is crisp, sharp, and emotionally compelling. Her use of vivid descriptions immerses the reader in the story, and her plot twists keep readers guessing until the very end. She also does an excellent job of developing the characters and making them relatable.
Writing Style and Techniques Used in Devolution
Lars Emmerich’s writing style in Devolution is more fast-paced and suspenseful. His use of military jargon and geopolitical references adds authenticity to the novel. He also employs descriptive action scenes and cliffhangers to keep the reader engaged throughout its pages.
Themes Explored in Smokescreen
At its core, Smokescreen examines the themes of deceit, trust, and love. Eve’s love for her daughter is the driving force behind her actions, while the twists and turns of the plot highlight the theme of deception. The fulfilling relationships between the characters illustrate the importance of trust and reliance when faced with adversity.
Themes Explored in Devolution
In Devolution, themes of power, corruption, and responsibility are explored. The plot illustrates the danger of unchecked power and how easy it is for people in authority positions to abuse their power. The ongoing threat of a fatal virus emphasizes the importance of accountability, preparation, and responsibility.
Similarities between Smokescreen and Devolution
Despite being vastly different in terms of plot and setting, both Smokescreen and Devolution share some similarities. Both novels portray strong, competent, and resourceful protagonists, and their determination to overcome seemingly impossible odds is what propels the story forward. Both authors also use plot twists and cliffhangers to keep the reader engaged and guessing at every turn. The intricacies of the characters and their relationships also promise a level of emotional depth and resonance.
Differences between Smokescreen and Devolution
One of the key differences between Smokescreen and Devolution is their tone. While Smokescreen leans more towards the psychological side of things, Devolution takes on a more political and military tone. Additionally, Smokescreen revolves around a kidnapping case, while Devolution focuses on a global threat poised by a deadly virus. The writing styles of the two authors are also distinct and unique, with Iris Johansen having a more character-driven approach, and Lars Emmerich focusing more on action and suspense.
Impact of Smokescreen and Devolution on the Thriller Genre
Both Smokescreen and Devolution are excellent examples of the thriller genre in their own right. They deliver suspense, surprises, and a well-built narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Their unique approach to the genre and their storytelling methods make them stand apart from other books in the genre.
Conclusion: Which Novel Reigns Supreme?
So, which is the better novel – Smokescreen or Devolution? The answer depends on what you’re looking for in a thriller novel. If you prefer psychological thrillers with an emotional core, then Smokescreen is the book for you. If, however, you enjoy fast-paced, action-packed thrillers with a political twist, then Devolution is the novel you need to read. Regardless of the choice, both these books offer a thrilling reading experience that is not to be missed.