Book Review: Tom Clancy’s Executive Power (Jack Ryan #21)
As a longtime fan of Tom Clancy’s intricate world of espionage and political intrigue, I was particularly excited to dive into Executive Power, the latest entry in the Jack Ryan series. Thanks to NetGalley and Putnam for this opportunity! The intertwining of familial themes with high-stakes drama caught my attention right away. After all, who could resist a story that not only explores geopolitical machinations but also digs deep into family bonds—especially as we step into the shoes of Jack Ryan’s younger children?
In this installment, we follow Katie and Kyle Ryan, siblings who have always stood a bit apart from their more adventurous older siblings. With their backgrounds in military intelligence and electronics, they are determined to carve their own paths without relying solely on their father’s influence. However, when their quest for independence thrusts them into a dangerous situation, it raises the question: will their father, President Jack Ryan, leverage his power to rescue them, or will the young Ryans prove they can handle the heat?
The shift in focus from Jack to a new generation is a refreshing approach, brilliantly executed by the writing duo of Jeffrey Wilson and Brian Andrews. It gives the series a little kick of vibrancy while retaining the beloved family dynamics—complete with returning characters like Mary Pat Foley. I found that exploring the relationship between Katie and Kyle added depth to the story, revealing layers of resilience and camaraderie that I wasn’t expecting. However, I must admit, Kyle’s decision to plunge headfirst into danger without informing his family felt a bit off to me. Given the tight-knit nature of the Ryans, this choice came across as a weak point in an otherwise engaging plot.
One aspect that left me slightly disappointed was Cathy Ryan’s portrayal. While I appreciate the hustle she brings from her medical career, the way she was relegated to a background character didn’t resonate with me. It felt like a missed opportunity to showcase her depth and influence in the Ryan family. Instead, we hear more about her than we do see her in action, making her feel disconnected from the story. If there’s a way to better integrate her role, I’d love to see it in future installments!
When it comes to the book’s pacing and writing style, the combination of thrilling military tactics and touching familial themes works well, although I found myself yearning for a little more suspense in parts. Some plot lines beautifully mirrored current global events, leaving me pondering the stark realities of today’s world. It reminded me why I love Clancy’s work: it often feels ripped from the headlines, giving it an immediacy that keeps readers engaged.
Ultimately, I’d rate Executive Power 4 out of 5 stars. If you’re a series junkie like myself, you’ll relish the chance to dive into the next chapter of Ryan’s legacy. Even if you’re new to the Jack Ryan saga, this story serves as a compelling starting point, especially for those intrigued by military technology and family loyalty. All in all, this installment left me eagerly awaiting what comes next, as I am always ready to immerse myself back in the intricate web of the Ryanverse. For anyone passionate about thrilling plots and complex family ties, Executive Power is a must-read!
Happy reading!
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