The Fifth Profession

Rating:
Summary: Good Idea, horrible execution
Review: This book was recommended to me by a co-worker who knows I love stories about psychological confusion and dreams as well as Japanese culture. I decided to give this book a go on the basis that I did like the movie "In The Name of the Rose" which Morrell also wrote (although I never read the book). About twenty pages into the book, I realized the lack of talent that Morrell possesses. The characters are one dimensional and the dialogue barely rivals that of a few action-loving thirteen-year-olds.

The plot, however, is very interesting and has a lot of potential which is the only reason why I finished the book. I kept on imagining how good the book might have been if a talented writer was to have written it. If a talented screenwriter was to get a hold of this book, it may be a really good film as long as Morrell has no influence on it whatsoever. I give it two stars on the basis that there are some interesting facts on the Japanese - U.S. relationship and the story is a good idea. Other than that, I have nothing good to say about it and I will never read another Morrell book again.

Rating:
Summary: INCREDIBLE...!!!
Review: This story masterfully mixes the Secret Agent genre that we all know with the conventions and complexities of the Samurai. Make no mistake, the story is set in present day and is an action-thriller as well!

The characterization is so believable that as a reader, I began thinking ahead to figure out the puzzle and way out of the circumstances for the characters, as if I was an actual participant. The story is that immersive and Morrell's craft is that is that skilled. He pulls you in, and once in, you are in for a great ride; like an E-ticket at Disneyland!

If you have any interest in espionage, executive protection, Japanese culture, honor, action or on-the-edge-of-your-seat storytelling, this is the novel for you.

Rating:
Summary: The Fifth Profession
Review: What an outstanding book. I read this book a number of years ago and decided recently to read it again. Reading this book again, reaffirms why I read books written by David Morrell. If you love action, suspence and a thrilling twist at the end, this book is for you. The reason I like this book is because David Morrell has the ability to describe details in such away you feel like you are there. This detail is written in such a way that is does not detract from the book. The two main characters in this book are experts in executive protection and live on opposite sides of the world. They are drawn together by a set of circumstances which will stop you from putting the book down. It ends with a twist which blows you away and I guarentee if you don't currently read David Morrell books after this you will be thirsty for more.