Jack Reacher fans, meet Peter Ash. Justice is coming, and it's driving a 1968 Chevy C20.
Move over, Jack Reacher. I am making room on the shelf for another wandering trouble magnet.
Peter Ash comes home from war carrying an unusual burden. His PTSD manifests as "white static," making it almost impossible for him to stay indoors. After time spent climbing mountains and living outside, he learns that an old friend has died. Wanting to help the widow and children, he starts fixing up their house and discovers a suitcase hidden under the porch. It's full of money. A LOT of money. And explosives.
That discovery kicks off a thriller that never slows down. Who hid the suitcase? Who wants it back? Why is Peter being followed? Every answer leads to more danger.
What really made this book shine for me was Peter Ash himself. He's resourceful, loyal, and deeply affected by his experiences, but he refuses to let that stop him from doing what's right. His struggles feel authentic, and his determination makes him easy to root for.
And then there's the justice. If you love Jack Reacher's brand of "bad people made terrible decisions and now they have a problem," you'll appreciate Peter Ash. He doesn't go looking for trouble, but trouble keeps finding him, and the bad guys generally regret it.
The mystery is excellent, the pacing is fast, and the action scenes are outstanding. Best of all, I finished the book already looking forward to the next one.
Nick Petrie has earned a place on my list of favorite authors.
