Buy a Bullet

Buy a Bullet is a short story in Gregg Hurwitz's Orphan X series, released as an e-book in 2016. The narrative follows Evan Smoak, a trained operative who operates under the codename Orphan X. The story serves as a bridge between the first two full-length novels in the series, offering readers additional insight into Evan's world of covert operations and high-stakes missions. Set in the same universe as the main novels, this compact thriller maintains the series' focus on espionage and tactical precision. This e-book exclusive demonstrates how Evan Smoak puts his specialized training to use, showing his methodical approach to gathering intelligence and neutralizing threats. The concentrated format of a short story intensifies the pacing and action sequences. The narrative explores themes of justice, duty, and the cost of operating outside conventional law enforcement systems, adding depth to the larger Orphan X series mythology.

Readers consistently note this novella's brevity at only 35 pages. Many appreciate the quick glimpse into Evan Smoak's early years and his first encounter with his key informant. Likes: - Fast-paced action - Adds meaningful background to the Orphan X series - Shows character development - Efficient storytelling without filler Dislikes: - Too short for the price point ($1.99) - Some found it unnecessary to the main series - Ends abruptly - "Feels like a deleted chapter" - multiple Amazon reviewers Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (560+ ratings) Several readers recommend waiting to read this until after the first Orphan X book for better context. Multiple reviews suggest getting it only when on sale or as part of a series bundle due to length-to-price ratio.

The Kill List by Frederick Forsyth Elite intelligence operative tracks high-value targets across multiple countries while navigating complex international espionage networks.

The Gray Man by Mark Greaney Former CIA operative works as a freelance assassin, executing missions while staying one step ahead of rival intelligence agencies.

Orphan Maker by D.B. Shuster A trained operative from a classified government program uses lethal skills to protect innocent targets from criminal organizations.

Trigger Warning by Jason Pinter Former special forces soldier operates as a covert vigilante, implementing precision tactics to dismantle dangerous criminal enterprises.

Echo Burning by Lee Child Jack Reacher applies military training and strategic thinking to eliminate threats while operating outside official channels.

🔸 The Orphan X series has been optioned for film adaptation by Warner Bros., with Bradley Cooper previously attached to star as Evan Smoak. 🔸 Gregg Hurwitz consulted with real-world operatives and military specialists to ensure the tactical accuracy of Evan Smoak's methods and equipment. 🔸 Buy a Bullet is only 60 pages long but serves as a crucial connecting piece between Orphan X and The Nowhere Man in the series chronology. 🔸 Author Gregg Hurwitz is not only a novelist but also a screenwriter who has written for major TV shows like V and has penned numerous comic books for Marvel and DC. 🔸 The title "Orphan X" comes from a real CIA program that trained selected children to become covert operatives, though the actual program details remain classified.