Operation Running Brook: A Sam Barrett Novella, by Alex A. Jameson, is an engaging entry in the mystery and thriller genre, characterized by its swift pace and a compelling central storyline. The narrative revolves around Sam, a female protagonist grappling with amnesia following an accident. This intriguing premise of a lost identity sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery, propelling the narrative forward.

Jameson is adept at maintaining momentum, a crucial element for novellas, where brevity is key. The story immediately immerses the reader in the central mystery of Sam’s forgotten identity, maintaining this intrigue until the very end. This approach effectively hooks the reader, creating anticipation for a sequel. Although the novella primarily focuses on the richly developed character of Sam, offering an in-depth exploration through her perspective, it also leaves room for the secondary characters to be more fully realized in future works. This approach foregrounds Sam’s journey, setting the stage for potential expansion and deeper engagement with the supporting cast in subsequent narratives.

The novella’s efficient progression from point A to point B lays a solid foundation for the story, while also presenting an opportunity for future works to delve deeper into the intricacies of Sam’s psychological landscape. I feel such exploration could add further richness and depth to the narrative, enhancing the reader’s connection with Sam’s journey. Jameson succeeds in capturing the essential energy and suspense that fans of the thriller genre expect. The story’s pacing and central mystery are its strongest assets.

Operation Running Brook starts and ends on high notes, though I believe the supporting cast could benefit from further development to leave a more lasting impression on the reader. The story of Sam, or Jamie, stands out as a notable exception, leaving readers curious about her continued journey.

Pages: 126 | ASIN : B0B8L8ZZMX