Hey there! Starting the year off with some David Baldacci and a whole new style of review! Read on and let me know in the comments what other books you’d like to see dissected this way (or just say Hi!).
Oh and… Happy, Happy New Year!

Genre: Thriller
Length: 434 pages
Blurb:
War hero and brilliant US Army CID investigator, John Puller, gets sent on a solo mission to investigate four gruesome murders in the remote town of Drake, West Virginia. He works with local Police Chief, Samantha Cole, delving into a mystery that only deepens with every answer. Now, it’s up to Puller and Cole to solve the puzzle behind the increasing number of murders in a case that has greater implications and risks than either of them could have ever imagined.
Overall Rating: 7 out of 10
Plot: 7 out of 10
Characterization: 8 out of 10
Primary Element: 6 out of 10 for its ‘Thrill’ factor
Writing Style: 9 out of 10
Part of a Series?
Zero Day is the first book of Baldacci’s John Puller series. It would be best to start from here to get a good grasp of Puller, his background, and what makes him tick.
Highlighted Takeaway:
John Puller – the book is all about him, and his hard as nails but ideal within character and personality make that focus well worth it.
What I Liked:
Baldacci does not shy away from showcasing his main character’s strengths but also shows his vulnerability, which makes him a lot easier to relate with.
What I Didn’t Like:
Samantha Cole’s character gets a bit too subdued over the course of the book, losing a lot of its edge in Puller’s shadow.
Who Should Read:
- Those who enjoy Baldacci’s work
- Fans of the Amos Decker series
- Anyone looking for a well-layered, complex plot-based book
Who Should Avoid:
Anyone who gets queasy easily, because there is a good chunk of violence in Zero Day.
Read It For:
- its complex, layered storyline
- an intriguing and very likable hero
- Baldacci’s style finesse (which made him the success he is)
Want me to include any additional elements in this new review format? Let me know in the comments below!
– Rishika
Very simply and well put. An excellent review
Thanks so much! 😀
Very simply and well put. An excellent review. I’m intrigued to pick up the book and check out the Puller series by the author