If you’re a fan of gripping page-turners, you can’t go wrong with a well-written thriller novel. In this article, we’ll be comparing two recently published thrillers: “Persons Unknown” by Susie Steiner and “Fallout” by Lars Emmerich. We’ll delve into the plot, characters, setting, narrative techniques, themes, and more, to give you an in-depth analysis of what these books offer.
Meet the Authors: Susie Steiner and Lars Emmerich
Before we dive into the books themselves, let’s take a moment to get to know the authors behind them. Susie Steiner is a British crime novelist and former journalist, who has written three novels to date. “Persons Unknown” is the second book in her series featuring detective Manon Bradshaw, following the critically acclaimed “Missing, Presumed”. Lars Emmerich, on the other hand, is an American author and screenwriter, who has worked on several TV shows and movies. “Fallout” is his debut novel, which has garnered praise for its fast-paced plot and complex characters.
In addition to their writing careers, both Steiner and Emmerich have interesting backgrounds. Steiner worked as a news reporter for The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph before turning to fiction writing. She has also taught creative writing at Goldsmiths, University of London. Emmerich, on the other hand, has a degree in physics and worked as a software engineer before pursuing a career in writing. He has written for popular TV shows such as “NCIS” and “The Blacklist”.
Plot Overview: Persons Unknown – Susie Steiner’s Take
“Persons Unknown” opens with the discovery of a young woman’s body in a Cambridge park. Manon Bradshaw is assigned to the case, which takes on a personal dimension when her adopted son, Fly, becomes a suspect. The novel follows Manon’s efforts to clear Fly’s name while untangling a web of secrets and lies. Steiner’s writing style is both witty and poignant, and her characters are richly drawn and relatable.
As the investigation progresses, Manon discovers that the victim had a complicated personal life, involving multiple romantic relationships and a history of mental health issues. Meanwhile, Fly’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, causing Manon to question whether he is truly innocent.
Throughout the novel, Steiner skillfully weaves together themes of family, identity, and the impact of trauma. She also offers a nuanced portrayal of the criminal justice system, highlighting its flaws and limitations. Overall, “Persons Unknown” is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Plot Overview: Fallout – Lars Emmerich’s Take
“Fallout” is a geopolitical thriller that imagines a scenario where North Korea successfully launches a nuclear attack against the United States. The novel follows the aftermath of the attack, as different players vie for power and control amidst the chaos. Emmerich’s writing style is fast-paced and cinematic, and his characters are morally ambiguous and multi-layered.
The novel also explores the psychological impact of the attack on the survivors, as they struggle to come to terms with the loss of loved ones and the destruction of their homes and communities. Emmerich delves into the themes of trauma, grief, and resilience, as his characters navigate the new reality of a post-apocalyptic world. Through their experiences, the reader is forced to confront the devastating consequences of nuclear war and the importance of international diplomacy and cooperation in preventing such a catastrophe.
Character Analysis: Comparing the Protagonists in Persons Unknown and Fallout
One of the key elements of any thriller novel is the protagonist, who must carry the weight of the plot and engage the reader’s empathy. Both Manon Bradshaw and Jack Ford, the main character in “Fallout”, are compelling and well-drawn characters, but in different ways. Manon is a flawed but determined detective, who struggles with the demands of balancing her personal and professional life. Jack is a former Marine and CIA operative, who has a complex history with multiple allegiances.
Despite their differences, both Manon and Jack share a common trait: they are both haunted by their past. Manon’s troubled childhood and failed relationships continue to affect her present, while Jack’s experiences in the military and intelligence community have left him with emotional scars. This adds depth to their characters and makes them more relatable to readers.
Another interesting aspect to compare between the two protagonists is their approach to solving problems. Manon relies heavily on her intuition and gut feelings, often going against the rules and procedures of her job. Jack, on the other hand, is a strategic thinker who carefully plans his moves and considers all possible outcomes. This contrast in their problem-solving styles creates tension and keeps the reader engaged throughout the story.
Setting the Scene: The Importance of Location in Thriller Novels
Another crucial element of thriller novels is the setting, which can serve as a backdrop, a character, or a metaphor for the themes of the story. “Persons Unknown” is set in the picturesque city of Cambridge, with its academic institutions, historic churches, and lively pubs. The contrast between the quaint exterior and the seedy underbelly of the city adds to the tension of the plot. “Fallout” is set in multiple locations, from Washington D.C. to Pyongyang, and showcases the geopolitical complexity of the world we live in.
Furthermore, the setting can also reflect the mood and atmosphere of the story. In “Gone Girl,” the small town of North Carthage, Missouri, with its decaying buildings and stagnant economy, mirrors the deteriorating marriage of the main characters. The bleakness of the town serves as a metaphor for the characters’ emotional state.
Additionally, the setting can provide a sense of familiarity or exoticism for readers. In “The Da Vinci Code,” the story takes place in Paris, London, and Scotland, which are all well-known and popular tourist destinations. The use of these locations adds to the appeal of the novel and allows readers to imagine themselves in the story.
Narrative Techniques: How Steiner and Emmerich Create Suspense
A skilled thriller writer knows how to create suspense and keep the reader guessing until the end. Steiner uses a mix of first-person and third-person narration to create a sense of intimacy with the characters while retaining a sense of detachment. Emmerich uses multiple point-of-views and time-jumps to create a sense of scope and urgency. Both writers are adept at pacing the plot and weaving in twists and turns.
Themes of Betrayal and Deception in Persons Unknown and Fallout
Betrayal and deception are common themes in the thriller genre, as they tap into our primal fears of being betrayed by those we trust. “Persons Unknown” explores these themes through the lens of family, adoption, and loyalty. “Fallout” explores these themes through the lens of politics, espionage, and power. Both books show how the line between right and wrong can blur in extreme circumstances.
In “Persons Unknown,” the protagonist struggles with the betrayal of her adoptive family, who she believed to be her biological family for most of her life. This theme of identity and trust is further explored as she uncovers secrets and lies within her family. In “Fallout,” the theme of betrayal is intertwined with the political landscape of the Cold War era, as characters navigate the murky waters of espionage and double-crossing. The theme of power and its corrupting influence is also prevalent, as characters make difficult choices in order to gain or maintain their positions of authority.
The Role of Law Enforcement in Thriller Novels: A Comparative Analysis
Law enforcement is a staple of thriller novels, whether it’s the police, the FBI, or the intelligence agencies. “Persons Unknown” portrays the police as fallible and overworked, but ultimately dedicated to bringing justice to the victims. “Fallout” portrays the intelligence agencies as ruthless and self-serving, with little regard for the collateral damage of their actions. Both books challenge our assumptions about who we can trust to protect us.
Why You Should Read Both Persons Unknown and Fallout
If you’re a fan of the thriller genre, you owe it to yourself to check out “Persons Unknown” and “Fallout”. Both books offer compelling characters, complex plots, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you prefer a domestic drama or a geopolitical thriller, these books have something for everyone. So go ahead and immerse yourself in the world of Susie Steiner and Lars Emmerich—you won’t be disappointed.