Secret Vengeance
Jack, No 3
F. Paul Wilson

Tor, a Tom Doherty Associates Book
February 2011 / ISBN 978-0765318565
Young Adult Fantasy
Amazon

Reviewed by Jan Fields

SECRET VENGEANCE is Wilson's third young adult book featuring his Repairman Jack character in his early teens. Jack's best friend, Weezy, is attacked by the charismatic school hero, Carson Toliver. However, Carson's version of the story results in everyone gossiping about "Easy Weezy." With that, Jack is determined to weaken Carson's place among his schoolmates and turn the school's attention from Weezy toRep Carson. What Jack doesn't know is that he and Weezy aren't the only ones who see Carson for what he really is.

The character of "Jack" is as enjoyable as a teen as it is in the adult novels. His strong moral code drives him to do something, but it also leaves him uncomfortable with his choices. Wilson does a great job showing that few moral choices are black and white, and it's the grey areas where the shadows that haunt you lie. Though less action packed than some of the Jack stories, this book grabs the reader with the handling of the emotional conflicts and the paranormal undercurrents. Weezy's desperation pains us even as it hurts Jack. And though we are eager to see Jack's plans come to fruition, the masterful layers keep us from ever seeing this as a simple revenge novel. A good job and a gripping tale.

Reviewer's Note: