I Am Pilgrim

Terry Hayes

Book 1 in the series:Pilgrim

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'I Am Pilgrim' by Terry Hayes is a complex spy thriller that spans several countries and involves undercover government work by an individual with multiple identities. The story climaxes in the averting of a worldwide catastrophe, pitting the retired head of a super secret espionage unit against a Middle Eastern jihadist intent on destroying the United States by synthesizing a potent smallpox virus. The book weaves together richly detailed settings, well-developed characters, and a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The novel delves into the life of a young intelligence officer, intertwining narratives of espionage, murder mysteries in New York and Turkey, and the hunt for a fundamentalist Muslim terrorist plotting mass casualties in the U.S. With intricate plots, subplots, and compelling characters, 'I Am Pilgrim' offers a mix of spy thriller, murder mystery, manhunt, and more, making it a gripping read that explores pre and post-9/11 events with powerful storytelling.

Characters:

Characters are intricately crafted, with Pilgrim portrayed as a flawed yet skilled agent and Saracen depicted with a compelling backstory that evokes both disdain and pity.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging, characterized by quick pacing and detailed descriptions that enhance the narrative while weaving multiple characters' perspectives.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a thrilling face-off between an American spy and a Middle Eastern terrorist, delving into their pasts and motives, while intertwining various global locations and historical contexts.

Setting:

The setting is globally diverse, transitioning through significant historical and cultural locations that ground the thriller in a real-world context.

Pacing:

The pacing adeptly shifts between intense action sequences and slower, reflective moments, maintaining a grip on the reader's attention.

Not everybody knows this—or cares probably—but the first law of forensic science is called Locard’s Exchange Principle and it says “every contact between a perpetrator and a crime scene leaves a trace...

Notes:

The protagonist, known as Pilgrim, is a master spy and assassin for a secret branch of the US government.

The Saracen, the antagonist, is a devout Muslim and a terrorist seeking revenge after witnessing his father's execution.

The novel explores themes of nationalism, religion, and the fine line between right and wrong.

It delves into the backgrounds of both main characters, showcasing their tragic pasts and how they shaped their identities.

The story intertwines real historical events, including the aftermath of 9/11 and Middle Eastern conflicts, with fiction.

Scott Murdock, one of Pilgrim's aliases, wrote a definitive book on forensic investigation that becomes central to the murder investigation.

The plot involves a biological weapon being developed to attack the USA, reflecting fears of bioterrorism.

Terry Hayes is a former screenwriter, and the book's cinematic style contributes to its fast-paced nature.

The book received mixed reviews, particularly concerning its portrayal of cultures and characters.

The author hinted at a sequel a long time after this book's release, increasing reader anticipation.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic violence, depictions of torture, themes relating to terrorism, and cultural stereotypes that may be triggering to some readers.

From The Publisher:

A breakneck race against time…and an implacable enemy.

An anonymous young woman murdered in a run-down hotel, all identifying characteristics dissolved by acid.

A father publicly beheaded in the blistering heat of a Saudi Arabian public square.

A notorious Syrian biotech expert found eyeless in a Damascus junkyard.

Smoldering human remains on a remote mountainside in Afghanistan.

A flawless plot to commit an appalling crime against humanity.

One path links them all, and only one man can make the journey.

Pilgrim.

"I Am Pilgrim is simply one of the best suspense novels I've read in a long time." -David Baldacci, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"A big, breathless tale of nonstop suspense." -Janet Maslin, The New York Times

"The pages fly by ferociously fast. Simply unputdownable." -Booklist

Ratings (19)

Incredible (4)
Loved It (10)
It Was OK (2)
Did Not Like (2)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (48):

Read It (21)
Want To Read (21)
Did Not Finish (3)
Not Interested (3)

What can you read after
I Am Pilgrim?

See the list (100 books)

About the Author:

Terry Hayes is the New York Times bestselling author of I Am Pilgrim and the award-winning writer and producer of numerous movies. His credits include Payback, Road Warrior, and Dead Calm (featuring Nicole Kidman). He lives in Switzerland with his wife, Kristen, and their four children.

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