Contents
Introduction
Behind the Book
It’s big, bold and almost impossible to put down . . . Decker is one of the most unusual detectives any novelist has dreamed up . . . I called this novel a masterclass on the bestseller because of its fast-moving narrative, the originality of its hero and its irresistible plot . . . Highly entertaining * Washington Post *A compelling puzzler . . . Baldacci is a truly gifted storyteller, and this novel is a perfect “fix” for the thriller aficionado * Associated Press on The Fix *Already among the world’s bestselling writers, Baldacci hardly needs to prove himself but he’s created one of the most intriguing, complex anti-heroes . . . Impossible to put down, especially because of Decker, who weaves a powerful spell * Daily Mail *
About the Author
You know that experience when you are holding a book of an author you have had a crush on since high school – that literal fan girl moment is what I am experiencing right now as I type this book review. At a time when my friends used to read M&B, I used to devour Sidney Sheldon, Fredrick Forsythe and David Baldacci like anything!Coming to the mystery man series – needless to add I have always loved the author’s work for their taut and gripping narrative, a total roller coaster ride is how I usually like to describe his book as. This one was no different, though there are ample moments in the book where the narrative does get slow but it is not boring even for a single moment. By slow I mean there is not much action happening in those scenes which is very unlikely of the author but yes sometimes it is important to pause before giving the readers a full throttle ride till the other end.
Amos and Alex are in Baronville for a vacation when it turns into a murder investigation. One thing leads to another and before they realise they are neck deep in a controversy which could sabotage the reputation of the city and the country. How they solve the case forms the rest of the story. Written in Baldacci’s inimitable style, this story makes for a compelling read. The characters, not alien to this action and thrill have already made a huge place for themselves in readers’ memory with their affable personalities.
His language is simple and to the point which makes reading it enjoyable. He doesn’t believe in using overtly difficult words just to create an impact. The story is the hero and David Baldacci makes sure it remains so till the last word. Replete with ample twists and turns to make you dizzy, this book is a perfect entertainer for a lazy weekend you plan to spend cosying up with books.
“The Fallen” by David Baldacci is the fifth book in the Amos Decker series, which is part of the larger Memory Man series. David Baldacci is known for his gripping thrillers, and “The Fallen” is no exception. In this novel, Baldacci continues to explore the intricate and complex world of Amos Decker, a former football player turned detective with a perfect memory, and his partner Alex Jamison as they solve a mystery in the small town of Barlow, Pennsylvania.
About the Author:
David Baldacci is an internationally bestselling American author known for his crime thrillers and mystery novels. He has written numerous books, including the highly successful Memory Man series, which features the character Amos Decker. Baldacci’s novels often feature fast-paced action, intricate plots, and complex characters, making him a favorite among fans of the thriller and mystery genres.
Overview of the Book:
“The Fallen” follows Amos Decker, a former NFL player turned detective, and his partner Alex Jamison, who find themselves in the quiet town of Barlow, Pennsylvania. The two are visiting Alex’s sister and her family when they get drawn into the investigation of a suspicious death.
The book begins with a tragedy: the death of a local man, who was reportedly an upstanding citizen. However, Decker’s perfect memory and keen observational skills reveal that there is something off about the situation. As Decker and his partner begin to dig deeper into the case, they uncover a web of secrets, deception, and corruption that involves several prominent figures in the town.
Decker’s remarkable memory allows him to connect seemingly unrelated events and see things that others cannot, which aids in his investigation. But the deeper they go, the more dangerous the situation becomes, and the pair find themselves up against not just criminals but also entrenched power and corruption that threaten to ruin them.
Key Themes:
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Justice and Morality:
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As with many of Baldacci’s works, justice is a central theme. Decker, who is driven by a strong sense of right and wrong, faces moral dilemmas as he uncovers the dark side of Barlow. The novel explores the challenges of seeking justice in a world where the lines between good and bad are often blurred.
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Memory and Perception:
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Amos Decker’s perfect memory is both a blessing and a curse. It allows him to solve cases with unparalleled precision, but it also means he relives traumatic experiences in his mind, making it difficult for him to let go of the past. The book examines how memory shapes our lives, and how it can be both a tool for solving problems and a source of personal torment.
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Small Town Secrets:
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The novel delves into the theme of small-town life, where everyone knows each other, and appearances can be deceiving. The seemingly perfect town of Barlow hides dark secrets, and the book explores how easily deception can thrive in such a setting. The small-town atmosphere adds a layer of suspense and intrigue, as Decker and Jamison unravel the town’s hidden truths.
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Teamwork and Partnership:
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The dynamic between Amos Decker and Alex Jamison is crucial to the story. While Decker is a solitary figure with an extraordinary mind, Alex provides emotional support, perspective, and insight. Their partnership emphasizes the power of teamwork, even when one member has a unique ability like Decker’s perfect memory.
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Writing Style:
David Baldacci’s writing in “The Fallen” is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with suspense. His straightforward style makes the book easy to follow, while his ability to weave intricate plots and surprise readers with twists keeps the story thrilling. Baldacci does an excellent job of balancing the investigative aspect of the story with emotional depth, particularly as he delves into Decker’s inner turmoil and the relationships between the characters.
Reception:
“The Fallen” has received positive reviews from both critics and readers alike. Fans of Baldacci’s previous works in the Amos Decker series have praised the book for maintaining the high standard of suspense and mystery that has come to be expected from the author. The plot is tight, with plenty of twists and turns, and Decker’s character continues to evolve, which makes the series even more compelling.
Some readers have found the book to be slightly formulaic in terms of its structure, but the character-driven storytelling and layered plot have kept the story fresh and interesting. Baldacci’s portrayal of Decker’s struggles with his past and his near-obsessive pursuit of justice remains a major highlight.
Conclusion:
“The Fallen” by David Baldacci is a thrilling and engaging addition to the Amos Decker series. It delivers all the suspense, intrigue, and complex characters that fans of Baldacci’s writing have come to expect. The novel’s exploration of memory, justice, and small-town secrets adds emotional depth and psychological complexity, making it a must-read for fans of crime thrillers.
Whether you’re new to the series or a long-time fan, “The Fallen” provides a suspenseful and satisfying read, with plenty of twists to keep readers hooked until the final page.
THE FALLEN BY DAVID BALDACCI
The Fallen by David Baldacci is part of his long-running series featuring Amos Decker, a former football player turned detective with a perfect memory, and his partner, Alex Jamison, a journalist. The novel is a gripping and fast-paced mystery that explores themes of justice, corruption, and the dark secrets lurking in seemingly peaceful small towns.
Overview of the Plot
The Fallen is the sixth book in the Amos Decker series, known as the Memory Man series. The story takes place in a small town called Barrettville, where Decker and Jamison visit to see Alex’s sister and her family. However, they quickly realize that there’s something off about the town. Decker’s remarkable memory and analytical skills allow him to notice details that others miss, leading to the discovery of a much larger conspiracy.
The case begins with a local man, Oliver (a former police officer), who is arrested and sent to jail under suspicious circumstances. The town has long been hiding deep secrets, and Decker’s sharp mind starts uncovering a series of unresolved deaths, injustices, and corruption. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a much larger plot involving both local and regional power players.
Decker, with his near-perfect memory, and Jamison, with her journalistic instincts, team up to bring justice to the people of the town, all while facing personal and professional challenges. They must face down enemies both known and unknown, while trying to keep themselves safe and free from those who want to protect the town’s secrets at any cost.
Key Characters
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Amos Decker: The protagonist of the series, Decker is a former football player who suffered a traumatic head injury that left him with perfect recall (a condition called hyperthymesia). His ability to remember every detail of everything he’s ever seen or heard is both a blessing and a curse, as he’s able to solve crimes but also suffers from the overwhelming burden of his memories. His stoic and methodical nature contrasts with his vulnerability, which he often keeps hidden.
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Alex Jamison: Decker’s partner, both professionally and personally. Alex is a former journalist who now works alongside Decker in solving cases. Her investigative skills, balanced by her compassion, are key to their success. Alex also provides a grounding counterbalance to Decker’s intensity.
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The Town of Barrettville: While not a character in the traditional sense, the small town of Barrettville plays a significant role in the story. Its residents and the town’s long-hidden secrets serve as the backdrop for Decker and Jamison’s investigation. The town’s atmosphere of seeming tranquility hides a disturbing truth, which Decker begins to unravel.
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Deputy Sheriff: A local law enforcement figure who works with Decker and Jamison during their investigation. The Deputy initially appears to be a good guy but has his own secrets and complicates things as the story unfolds.
Themes and Motifs
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Memory and Trauma: The novel explores the concept of memory, especially through Decker’s character. His perfect memory allows him to recall every detail of past events, both good and bad. This theme of memory serves as both an asset and a source of emotional weight for Decker. The trauma of his past is never far from him, and his inability to forget is both a gift and a curse.
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Justice vs. Corruption: The heart of the story deals with the theme of justice. Decker and Jamison uncover a town full of corruption, where people are trying to cover up past sins. As they dig deeper, they must confront not only the corruption but also the moral gray areas that blur the lines between right and wrong.
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Small-Town Secrets: The small-town setting is a perfect backdrop for the novel’s exploration of secrets and lies. In Barrettville, everything seems calm on the surface, but as Decker and Jamison investigate, they uncover a series of buried truths that reveal how deep the corruption runs. The idea that no one really knows what happens behind closed doors is central to the mystery.
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Personal Redemption and Growth: Both Decker and Jamison face personal demons throughout the book. Decker’s struggle with his memories, his sense of isolation, and his quest for justice are ongoing challenges. Jamison, too, deals with personal dilemmas as she balances her investigative work with her concern for Decker. Their relationship continues to evolve, providing a human element to the otherwise intense investigative storyline.
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Teamwork and Loyalty: The dynamic between Decker and Jamison is an important motif. Their partnership and trust in each other are vital to solving the case, and they both rely on each other’s strengths to overcome obstacles. Their unwavering loyalty to one another is a key element that adds depth to the narrative.
Writing Style
David Baldacci’s writing is straightforward and accessible, making his books quick and engaging reads. He’s known for his ability to keep the action fast-paced and full of twists, while also fleshing out well-rounded characters. The plot of The Fallen moves smoothly, with a steady build-up of tension that keeps readers hooked. The author’s use of suspense and plot twists keeps readers on edge, especially as Decker and Jamison uncover darker and more dangerous elements lurking beneath the surface.
Baldacci’s prose is clear, with sharp dialogue that propels the story forward. The pacing is brisk, and while there are plenty of moments that focus on Decker’s internal struggles and memories, the action never lags.
Reception
The Fallen received mostly positive reviews, particularly from fans of the Amos Decker series. Critics appreciated the way Baldacci balanced action and mystery with character development. The book is praised for its intricate plotting, the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, and the deeper emotional undertones that shape Decker and Jamison’s partnership.
Some readers found the mystery a bit predictable, while others felt that the suspense and tension made up for it. For long-time fans of Baldacci, the book fits into the established formula of the series, with enough twists and turns to keep readers satisfied.
Conclusion
The Fallen is another compelling installment in the Amos Decker series. It combines the elements of a classic crime novel with emotional depth and a focus on character development. Fans of the series will appreciate how Decker’s unique abilities are put to the test once again, and the evolving relationship between him and Alex Jamison provides an emotional anchor in the midst of all the mystery and action.
The novel is an excellent choice for fans of fast-paced thrillers, particularly those who enjoy detective stories with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and a heavy dose of suspense. While it’s part of a series, The Fallen can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, though readers may appreciate the depth of the characters more if they’ve followed the series from the beginning.
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