Gideon's Sword

Gideon's Sword introduces Gideon Crew, a Los Alamos scientist and former art thief who discovers the truth behind his father's murder. After learning his mathematician father was killed for identifying flaws in an encryption system, Gideon sets out to confront those responsible. A mysterious security firm notices Gideon's skills and recruits him for a critical mission involving national security. His assignment requires him to intercept classified weapon plans from a Chinese scientist before they can be recovered by foreign operatives. The novel combines elements of espionage, technology, and action as Gideon races against time to complete his mission. His background in science and art theft proves essential as he navigates increasingly complex situations. This first installment in the Gideon Crew series establishes themes of revenge, justice, and the intersection of science and international intrigue. The story explores how personal motivations can become entangled with matters of national security.

Readers found this thriller disappointing compared to Preston & Child's Pendergast series. The protagonist Gideon Crew comes across as underdeveloped and unlikeable to many readers. Liked: - Fast-paced action scenes - Quick, easy reading - Interesting premise about revenge - Some clever plot twists Disliked: - Shallow character development - Implausible situations and coincidences - Too many action movie clichés - Rushed ending - Lack of scientific/technical detail common in other Preston/Child books One reader noted "It reads like a rough first draft that needed more work." Another said "The plot holes are big enough to drive a truck through." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (22,000+ ratings) Amazon: 3.7/5 (1,200+ reviews) LibraryThing: 3.3/5 (500+ ratings) The book received lower scores than most Preston & Child collaborations, with many longtime fans expressing disappointment.

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Orphan X by Gregg Hurwitz A trained government assassin breaks from his handlers to use his skills helping others while evading those who want him eliminated.

The Kill Artist by Daniel Silva An art restorer with a secret life as an intelligence operative returns to service to track down a terrorist responsible for a personal tragedy.

The Runner by Patrick Lee A special forces veteran uncovers a technology-based conspiracy while protecting a woman who holds key information about a national threat.

🔍 The co-authors Preston & Child first met while working at the American Museum of Natural History, where Preston was a writer and Child was an editor 🧬 The protagonist's name, Gideon Crew, may be inspired by the biblical Gideon, known for his strategic military leadership and unconventional tactics 🏢 Los Alamos National Laboratory, where the main character works, is a real facility famous for developing the first atomic bombs during the Manhattan Project 🎨 The combination of art theft and scientific expertise in the main character was inspired by real cases of highly educated professionals turning to high-stakes crime 📚 This book launched a five-book series featuring Gideon Crew, with each subsequent novel further exploring the intersection of science and espionage