Redemption
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ☆
Redemption (Ryan Drake, Book 1) by Will Jordan
The Drinker Recommends... 🥃👍
When I heard The Critical Drinker was also a published author, I was very skeptical and even more curious. 🤔 But WOW, he doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk.
Nowadays, when you hear "strong female character" you just want to role your eyes 🙄, but Jordan achieves it with flying colors simply by not making her a Mary Sue. Anya's story is grounded and believable, filled with hardship and setbacks that make her triumphs satisfying and earned. Nothing is ever handed to her, and nothing ever happens by coincidence. Her character makes sense within the context of the story and is an integral driving force of it.
But it’s not just Anya. Every character, major or minor, feels like they belong. Nobody’s there just to fill space or deliver exposition. Everyone has a clear purpose, memorable traits, and believable motivations. Whether it’s a hardened operative, a conflicted ally, or even a brief supporting role, everyone adds something to the larger picture.
On top if this is it’s amazing pacing. The story moves with a tight, deliberate rhythm; fast enough to keep you hooked, but never rushed. Jordan knows exactly when to turn up the intensity and when to let the quieter, character-driven moments breathe. The balance between action and introspection keeps you invested from start to finish.
Excellently balanced with sharp pacing, strong action, and compelling characters, Redemption is an absolute banger of a debut. 👌
