Absolute. Jack, Absolute. The parallels between Jack Absolute, C. C. Humphries' dashing Revolutionary-era British intelligence officer, and the iconic James Bond are unmistakeable. In the first of series of historical adventure novels centered upon the titular character, actor-turned-novelist Humphries introduces us to a character whose life experiences can be bested only by those of Sir Ian Fleming's imagination. Providing a vivid - and convenient - backdrop for Absolute's trials and triumphs, the Revolutionary War setting and some of its notable historical figures are brought to life through Humphries' extensive research. The author avoids miring the pace of the story with unnecessary details, however, instead leaving just enough to the reader's imagination to paint a suitably accurate picture of the scene. An enjoyable read, Jack Absolute is not without its flaws. The title character, for all of his wit and womanizing ways, seems to be uncharacteristically uncomfortable in the presence of the novel's leading lady - Louisa Reardon. Such distraction could be attributed to Miss Reardon's stellar beauty, but after all of the near-death experiences and female conquests alluded to in Jack's past, I would have expected him to have had a tighter reign on his emotions.The handling of Ate, Jack's Native American blood brother, also seemed to be a bit out of sorts with the rest of the novel. Although he appears at very opportune times in the story, we never really get much of an understanding of his motivations or even where he disappears to for large chunks of the novel. Much about his relationship with Jack is hinted at, so I expect more to be revealed in future installments of the series.Packed with action, intrigue, and betrayal, Jack Absolute (the novel) is a worthwhile read for Bond fans as well as those with an interest in the American Revolution as a setting. Historical adventures are some of my abso-fav stories to read so when I saw the blurb on this book, I just had to read it. I love it when a character is put in tight spots and makes me wonder how they're going to get out of them and I also enjoy a bit of romance and intrigue to make things interesting. This book had all that and then some. Its set during the early period of the American Colonial War for Independence and told from the perspective of a dashing British officer.The story begins in a rush with Jack Absolute, the former- well many things, in a speck of trouble over a woman or so he thought at first when he's forced to fight a duel over her. In actuality, it is a well scripted piece of drama and intrigue that was written by no playwright. For the moment General Burgoyne seeks to enlist him for a campaign against the rebels in America, he has a target on his back by those who would prevent his involvement and success. Unfortunately, Jack can't say no to the General's request for his aid once the general gets him out of a spot of difficulty. All is not lost though because he soon discovers that the beautiful, intelligent Louisa who caught his eye once before travels in the general's entourage.Jack and his blood brother, the Mohawk Ate', soon find themselves on a mission to help augment the British troops coming south out of Canada to meet the rebels in New York. There is a spy and saboteur in the British camp that wrecks havoc on the campaign trail and is indirectly responsible for the British peril at Saratoga. Jack knows the identity of one and they constantly dual in the shadows, but the identity of the second person eludes him. Jack's shadowy efforts are thwarted each time as well leading him from one near-death experience after anther. With failure eminent, Jack is commissioned to see a message through the enemy lines to the other British General, Howe for reinforcements and Louisa is to accompany him. He wonders if he can keep Louisa safe, deliver his message and discover the identity of the second spy in time.The pace of this story just didn't seem to let up which was great because the intriguing plot demanded it. I enjoyed the fact that though the story is set in a historical time period and is rich in detail, social norms, and characters of the time, it sticks to a story line and lets all that come out naturally. The authentic feel of being with an army on the campaign trail, the inclusion of native allies, the feeling of being in the middle of war, the connections and relationships between the characters was well told through actions and dialogue. Though the main character, Jack Absolute, is the story teller, there is refreshingly little internal monologue of the sort that pulls one out of the story. He was a wonderful character and was the strength of the story, but the surrounding characters were no slouches. His friend Ate', General Burgoyne, Louisa his love interest, and even the brief scenes with the captured Scotsman made these favorites with me too. The only thing that bothered me a bit was the abruptness of the ending. I didn't know where the story was going to go, but it felt sudden after what had just transpired before it. It either leads to a continuation of the story later or the reader is meant to use their imagination.All in all, it was a fantastic read that I would recommend to those who enjoy colorful historical adventure stories with a dash of romance and a whole lot of intrigue.
What do You think about Jack Absolute (2003)?
Jack is a fun character, noble and adventurous. I enjoyed this and read the prequel right away.
—bella
3.5 I would have given this book a solid 4 star rating until the last 50 pages.
—sseth
Historical fiction set during the rev war. A light read but enjoyable
—Dave
Good War of Independence story. Historical notes at end of story.
—mimi
