Thriller novels are a staple of the literary world, and have been popular for decades. The fast-paced plot, suspenseful scenes, and thrilling twists and turns keep readers on the edge of their seats. One of the latest entries into this genre is “The Survivor” by Kyle Mills which was published in 2015, and Lars Emmerich’s “The Blowback Protocol” which was published in 2019. In this article, we will take a deep dive into these two novels, exploring their themes, characters, settings and writing styles to help you decide which one to add to your reading list.
A Brief Introduction to the Thriller Genre and Its Popularity
Thriller novels have been popular since the early twentieth century, and their popularity continues to grow. According to a recent survey by Goodreads, thriller novels are the second most popular genre after romance novels. This is not surprising as thrillers offer an escape from the everyday and provide a rush of excitement that is hard to find in other genres.
One reason for the enduring popularity of thrillers is their ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The genre often features high stakes, fast-paced action, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. Additionally, many thriller novels explore complex themes such as morality, justice, and the human psyche, making them not only entertaining but also thought-provoking reads.
The Survivor: A Synopsis of Kyle Mills’ Bestselling Novel
The Survivor tells the story of a former CIA agent, Joe Rickman who goes missing in Afghanistan after turning against his country. After he is presumed dead, a message is discovered which suggests that he is being held captive and tortured. The CIA’s efforts to rescue him soon become a complicated and dangerous mission, as the agency races against time to save one of their own. The novel delivers a gripping plotline with intense and memorable characters.
The novel also explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. As the story unfolds, readers are forced to question their own beliefs about patriotism and the lengths one should go to protect their country. The characters in the novel are complex and multi-dimensional, with their own personal struggles and motivations. The Survivor is a thought-provoking and thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Exploring the Themes of The Survivor and How They Compare to Other Thrillers
The Survivor explores themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the cost of war. These themes are often explored in other thriller novels, and are known to resonate with readers. The novel is also action-packed and replete with tension, keeping readers engaged until the very end.
One unique aspect of The Survivor is its exploration of the psychological effects of war on soldiers. The protagonist, a former soldier, struggles with PTSD and survivor’s guilt throughout the novel. This adds a layer of depth to the story and makes it stand out from other thrillers that focus solely on physical action.
Additionally, The Survivor incorporates elements of mystery and suspense, making it a hybrid of both thriller and mystery genres. The reader is kept guessing until the very end, as the protagonist uncovers a web of lies and deceit that goes beyond his own personal struggles. This combination of genres adds to the complexity of the novel and makes it a must-read for fans of both genres.
A Deep Dive into Lars Emmerich’s “The Blowback Protocol”: Plot, Characters, and Setting
The Blowback Protocol tells the story of Jack who is recruited by a former CIA colleague on a mission to take out a group of terrorists. The mission goes awry and the group becomes hunted by a ruthless enemy. Lars Emmerich uses interesting subplots, unique characters, and vivid descriptions to keep the reader engaged. The novel is compelling and delivers an intriguing plot with interesting twists and turns.
In addition to the exciting plot and well-developed characters, Emmerich’s attention to detail in setting is also noteworthy. The novel takes place in various locations around the world, from the bustling streets of New York City to the remote mountains of Afghanistan. Emmerich’s descriptions of these settings are so vivid that the reader can almost feel the heat of the desert sun or the chill of the mountain air. The attention to detail in setting adds an extra layer of depth to the story and makes it feel even more immersive.
Comparing the Writing Styles of Kyle Mills and Lars Emmerich
Both authors use fast-paced plots and well-developed characters to keep the reader engaged. However, there are differences in their writing styles. For example, Mills uses a more straightforward approach to his storytelling, creating intense scenes that keep readers on edge. On the other hand, Emmerich uses descriptive language to build suspense and keep readers guessing.
In addition to their writing styles, Mills and Emmerich also differ in their choice of settings. Mills often sets his stories in real-world locations, such as Washington D.C. or New York City, while Emmerich creates fictional worlds that are rich in detail and imagination. This allows Emmerich to fully immerse readers in his stories and create a unique reading experience.
Another difference between the two authors is their use of humor. Mills tends to focus on the serious aspects of his stories, while Emmerich incorporates humor and wit into his writing. This not only adds a lighthearted element to his stories, but also helps to balance out the tension and suspense that he creates.
Examining the Similarities and Differences Between The Survivor and “The Blowback Protocol”
Although the two novels share similar plot devices, they differ greatly in their characters. The characters in The Survivor are more emotional and have a more profound psychological impact on the reader. On the other hand, the characters in “The Blowback Protocol” are more action-oriented and heroic.
Furthermore, the settings in the two novels also differ significantly. The Survivor takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where survival is the main focus, while “The Blowback Protocol” is set in a high-tech, futuristic world where technology and espionage play a major role in the plot. These differences in setting contribute to the overall tone and atmosphere of each novel, making them unique in their own way.
A Look at the Critical Reception and Reader Reviews for Both Novels
The Survivor has received critical acclaim for its gripping plot and engaging characters. Readers have praised the novel for its fast-paced action and suspenseful story. Similarly, The Blowback Protocol has also received positive reviews. Readers have appreciated the novel’s riveting plot and unique characters, with some even comparing the novel favorably to blockbuster action movies.
However, some critics have noted that The Survivor’s ending felt rushed and unsatisfying, leaving readers with unanswered questions. On the other hand, The Blowback Protocol has been criticized for its lack of character development, with some readers feeling that the characters were not fully fleshed out.
Despite these criticisms, both novels have garnered a loyal following, with many readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in each series. Fans of The Survivor have praised the author’s ability to create a complex and thrilling world, while fans of The Blowback Protocol have praised the novel’s intricate plot twists and turns.
Which One Should You Read? A Comprehensive Comparison of The Survivor and “The Blowback Protocol
Choosing between these two novels could be challenging as they both offer a riveting plot and engaging characters. However, readers seeking a more cerebral read may prefer The Survivor, while readers looking for fast-paced action with a heroic character could choose “The Blowback Protocol.”
The Survivor is a character-driven novel that explores the psychological effects of trauma and survival. The protagonist, a survivor of a plane crash, must navigate the aftermath of the tragedy and confront his own demons. The novel delves into themes of grief, guilt, and redemption, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in exploring the human psyche.
On the other hand, “The Blowback Protocol” is a high-octane thriller that follows a former CIA agent as he races against time to stop a terrorist attack. The novel is packed with action sequences and plot twists, making it a page-turner for readers who enjoy fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled stories. The protagonist is a heroic character who will stop at nothing to save innocent lives, making him a compelling figure for readers who enjoy rooting for the underdog.
Conclusion: What Makes a Great Thriller Novel and How These Two Stack Up
Thriller novels are a great way to escape from reality and embark on an exciting journey. The Survivor and The Blowback Protocol are two examples of what makes a great thriller novel. Both novels offer a compelling plot, intriguing characters, and a page-turner experience. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on what the reader is looking for, with both novels providing an exciting and satisfying reading experience.