Absolutely Worth Reading
Baldacci's first novel may be an oldie, but it's most definitely a goodie. A fast-paced, don't-blink-or-you'll-miss-it thriller, "Absolute Power" explores the idea of the nation's chief executive as a conscienceless murderer.
The smarmy President in this novel seems like a composite of everybody's worst nightmare (depending on what your party affiliation is, take your pick!) -- highly popular with press and constituents, well on his way to re-election, king of the sound bites--and a low-life philanderer who's not above a little violence. The "ew" factor is very high--and his chances of ever getting caught are very low.
Add in a young up-and-coming lawyer with a consience, a female chief-of-staff who has more than a few things to hide (including her unrequited adoration of her boss), a lifetime criminal with a heart of gold, and two loyal Secret Service agents in over their heads--and you've got a whopper of a yarn. I loved it.
`Beautiful one minute, nothing the next'
When lust, power and greed are coupled with a belief that money can buy anything and that the ends justifies the means regardless of the consequences, we have all of the ingredients of an explosive thriller.
When a sexual encounter between the US President and the young wife of a billionaire goes horribly wrong, a number of senior figures become involved in attempting to wipe out all evidence of the crime. Unfortunately for them, there was an eyewitness who has the only material evidence that can link the President to the crime scene.
So why was Luther Whitney robbing the billionaire's house? Not all answers are as obvious as they may seem. Why is Jack Graham prepared to sacrifice his promising career as a partner in a leading law firm in order to defend Luther, and will he make the right choices? There's plenty of action in this novel and believability is not necessarily an issue in escapism.
This novel was a great way to spend a couple of hours. I understand that this was Mr Baldacci's first novel and was published in 1996.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Absolute Entertainment!
David Baldacci successfully provides entertainment that rivals the best CSI or government conspiracy books. ABSOLUTE POWER is primarily a story about a corrupt presidency that covers up a high profile murder. If that were all, then this story would only rate 3 stars or less since the idea of the government participating in a crime and getting away it is not new, not even in real life - Watergate, Iran-Contra, etc. What is unique is the crime can only be solved with the help of criminals and Baldacci surrounds the story with a number of relatable conflicts that add to the story's intrigue - love versus hate of an absent father, greed versus virtue, and loyalty versus criminal behavior.
The main character, Jack, is a lawyer who is faced with a choice between an easy life and getting involved in a crime that appears to be over his head. His choice ultimately impacts an emotionally high maintenance ex-girlfriend, easy-living wealthy fiancé, a seasoned detective, a prominent law firm with stereotypical attorneys, a habitual burgalar who finds himself at the wrong place at the wrong time, and ultimately a presidency.
My only criticism of Baldacci is that he waites to the end to resolve most of the major conflicts created by the multiple characters. As a result, the story feels like it ends abruptly. I am of the belief that a well written story does not need an epilogue to resolve conflict or finish a story.
one of Baldacci's two best
Along with Baldacci's "The Winner," this book ranks in the top 10 of all books of this genre in my view. While the movie was well acted and well written, for those of us who read the book first, the storyline couldn't compare to the incredible depth, character development and subplots of the book. Treat yourself to a page-turner you won't be able to put down.
Different than movie
I finally decided to go back and read the Baldacci thriller that I hadn't read. I was reluctant because I have seen the movie and thought I would be a step ahead every page. I was wrong. As usual, the book is better than the movie. The main premise of the book and movie is the same, but parts of the storyline and characters are a quite different. I would rate this as one of my favorite Baldacci books up there with The Winner. If you like the movie, you'll love the book.
