Born in Death

Wild Fire receives commendation for its timely and unsettling premise, exploring a frighteningly plausible scenario of escalating global terrorism in the post-9/11 world, which investigates chilling government protocols for large-scale retaliation against global threats. Many readers found the story terrifying and thought-provoking, appreciating its exploration of extreme responses. The novel is widely praised for its fast-paced action and ability to build suspense, making it a compelling page-turner. A significant highlight is the protagonist, John Corey, whose irreverent, sarcastic, and witty dialogue, along with his courageous yet unconventional investigative style, consistently entertains. Reviewers frequently describe Corey as a smart-mouthed, humorous character who provides many laughs, even if he can be brash. The author's crisp dialogue and research are also noted for enhancing the engaging nature of the narrative, particularly with its vivid Adirondack Mountains setting.

Despite its strengths, some reviewers found Wild Fire to be a mixed experience, citing several drawbacks. A common criticism revolves around the character of John Corey, with some readers finding his constant wise-cracks and vulgarity to be tedious, annoying, and at times, sophomoric, rather than humorous. The book's length is another frequent point of contention, with many feeling it is overly long and that significant portions could have been edited down without losing impact. Plot credibility was also questioned, with elements described as far-fetched or implausible, particularly the actions of the antagonists and certain combat scenes. A significant number of reviews also noted a lack of suspense or originality, as the villain's detailed exposition of the plot early on removed much of the mystery, making the outcome predictable and the ending feel simplistic or a "cop-out."

Overall, Wild Fire elicits a divided but generally positive response, with many recommending it despite its flaws. It is often considered a fun and entertaining read, though some deem it one of the weaker installments in the John Corey series. This book is highly recommended for fans of Nelson DeMille and those who enjoy suspense thrillers featuring a cynical, wise-cracking protagonist. Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives with a strong emphasis on dialogue and a somewhat larger-than-life hero will likely find it enjoyable. However, those seeking a highly realistic plot, concise storytelling, unexpected twists, or a less verbose main character might find parts of the book frustrating.