Thriller novels are one of the most popular genres in modern literature, captivating readers with their suspense, intrigue, and gripping plot. In this article, we will be comparing two of the most famous thriller novels of all time: John Grisham’s “The Client” and Lars Emmerich’s “Devolution”. These two novels are both hailed as groundbreaking works of fiction in the thriller genre, and we’ll be looking at their similarities and differences in detail.
Introduction to The Two Novels and Their Authors
In this section, we will be introducing the two novels and their authors to give readers a better understanding of their backgrounds and the context in which they were written.
The Client by John Grisham: “The Client” is one of John Grisham’s most popular novels, first published in 1993. Grisham is a former lawyer turned bestselling author whose books often revolve around legal themes.
Devolution by Lars Emmerich: “Devolution” was released in 2014, and it is the first novel by Lars Emmerich, a political consultant turned writer. Unlike “The Client”, “Devolution” is a political thriller.
Despite their differences in genre, both “The Client” and “Devolution” share a common theme of power and corruption. Grisham’s novel explores the corrupt legal system and the power dynamics between lawyers and their clients, while Emmerich’s novel delves into the corrupt political system and the power dynamics between politicians and their constituents. Both authors use their backgrounds and experiences to shed light on these themes and provide thought-provoking commentary on the state of power and corruption in society.
Plot Overview: The Client by John Grisham
The plot of “The Client” revolves around the story of a young boy named Mark Sway who witnesses the suicide of a Mafia lawyer. With the Mafia on his tail, Mark hires a lawyer to help him avoid being killed, but the attorney refuses to disclose information about his client’s involvement in the crime. As a result, the Mafia and the law enforcement agencies are all after Mark, and the novel follows his efforts to stay alive and protect his family.
Throughout the novel, Mark’s relationship with his family is explored in depth. His mother is an alcoholic, and his younger brother is developmentally disabled. Mark’s desire to protect his family from the danger he has brought upon them is a driving force in the story. Additionally, the novel delves into the corrupt world of the legal system, as the lawyers involved in the case are shown to be more concerned with their own interests than with justice.
As the story progresses, Mark’s lawyer, Reggie Love, becomes more invested in his case and in protecting him from harm. Their relationship develops into a strong bond, as Reggie becomes a mentor and friend to Mark. The novel also explores themes of loyalty, trust, and the lengths people will go to protect those they care about.
Plot Overview: Devolution by Lars Emmerich
The plot of “Devolution” is centered around Frank Marshall, a veteran Washington lobbyist, who uncovers a conspiracy involving the highest levels of the US government. With his life in danger, Frank must race against time to save himself and his family.
As Frank delves deeper into the conspiracy, he discovers that the stakes are much higher than he initially thought. The fate of the entire country is at risk, and Frank must decide whether to risk everything to expose the truth or to keep quiet and protect his loved ones. Along the way, he must navigate a web of lies and deceit, and confront his own moral compass in order to make the right decision.
Character Analysis: Mark Sway in The Client vs. Frank Marshall in Devolution
The main characters of the two novels are quite different from each other. Mark Sway is a young, innocent boy who finds himself caught up in a dangerous situation due to no fault of his own. On the other hand, Frank Marshall is a seasoned Washington insider who is well-versed in the ways of power and politics. Despite their differences, both characters are determined to protect their families at all costs and will go to extraordinary lengths to do so.
Mark Sway’s innocence and naivety are evident throughout the novel, as he struggles to understand the gravity of the situation he finds himself in. He is forced to grow up quickly and make difficult decisions, all while trying to protect his family and himself. In contrast, Frank Marshall’s experience and knowledge of the political landscape make him a formidable opponent. He is willing to use any means necessary to achieve his goals, even if it means sacrificing others.
Despite their differences, both characters are ultimately motivated by the same thing: love for their families. Mark Sway’s love for his younger brother is what drives him to seek help and protection, while Frank Marshall’s love for his daughter is what motivates him to take extreme measures to ensure her safety. This common thread highlights the importance of family and the lengths that people will go to protect those they love.
Setting Comparison: Memphis, Tennessee vs. New York City
One of the most notable differences between the two novels is their settings. “The Client” is set in Memphis, Tennessee, while “Devolution” takes place in New York City and Washington, D.C. The contrast between the two cities adds an extra layer of intrigue to the novels.
Memphis, Tennessee is known for its rich musical history, particularly in blues and rock ‘n’ roll. The city’s vibrant music scene is reflected in “The Client,” with references to famous Memphis landmarks like Beale Street and Graceland. On the other hand, New York City is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population and iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. “Devolution” captures the energy and fast-paced lifestyle of the city, with scenes set in Times Square and the New York Stock Exchange.
Legal Thriller vs Political Thriller: A Genre Comparison
Another significant difference between the two novels is their genre. “The Client” is a legal thriller, while “Devolution” is a political thriller. Both genres are popular within the broader thriller category, and each novel showcases the unique aspects of its respective genre.
A legal thriller typically revolves around a legal case or courtroom drama, with the protagonist being a lawyer or a legal professional. The plot often involves a crime or a legal dispute, and the tension builds as the case progresses towards a verdict. On the other hand, a political thriller focuses on the political landscape, with the protagonist being a politician or a government agent. The plot often involves a conspiracy or a threat to national security, and the tension builds as the protagonist tries to uncover the truth and prevent a disaster.
Themes Explored in The Client and Devolution
The two novels explore different themes that are prevalent in the thriller genre. “The Client” deals with issues of justice and the criminal justice system, while “Devolution” examines power and corruption in the political sphere. Both novels raise thought-provoking questions for readers to ponder.
Writing Style Comparison: Grisham’s Simplicity vs Emmerich’s Complexity
In terms of writing style, John Grisham’s prose is often simple and straightforward, making the story easy to follow. In contrast, Lars Emmerich’s writing is more complex and layered, requiring readers to pay close attention to fully appreciate the nuances of the story.
Reception and Criticism of The Client and Devolution
Both “The Client” and “Devolution” have received widespread critical acclaim and are regarded as significant works of fiction. However, they have also received their fair share of criticism, such as accusations of predictability and a lack of depth in “The Client” and criticism of Emmerich’s overcomplicated plot in “Devolution”.
Conclusion: Which Novel is a Better Read for Thriller Fans?
Both “The Client” and “Devolution” are excellent choices for thriller fans, each offering a unique and compelling reading experience. While “The Client” is simpler and more accessible, “Devolution” is more complex and requires a bit more patience from readers. Ultimately, the decision of which novel to read depends on your preferences as a reader.
In conclusion, both “The Client” and “Devolution” are must-reads for anyone who enjoys a good thriller novel. The outstanding writing, characters, and intricate plots of these two novels make them stand out as some of the best in the genre.