Killing Floor is a beautifully designed action novel with captivating mystery, given that it is the first book in the Jack Reacher series. Child's writing is impeccable as he begins to develop the foundation of Reacher's character that will fuel the entire series.
The author implements the winning formula: a hero arrives in a small town ridden with crime and impunity and sets himself to right the wrongs of the community. While the setup is cliché in other authors' hands, Child has the magic words to make this formula work in his favor.
The novel is a cinematic thriller full of passionate characters and gripping tension. Reacher's scenes in the book are outstanding and well choreographed. He is a man of action who always gets to the point and is never afraid.
The simplicity in the plot is what makes Killing Floor a perfect read. It's a basic crime story with humane characters and basic motivations. Reacher's mission is to find justice for the weak, all while using his abilities to cross lines that the authorities might not be so inclined to cross. These elements make for an entertaining novel.
