Book Review: Jameson (Hunter Squad Book 1) by E. M. Tippet
When I first picked up Jameson, the inaugural title in the Hunter Squad series, I must admit, nostalgia washed over me. It’s been quite some time since I plunged into E. M. Tippet’s thrilling universe of the Hell Squad, where humanity kickboxed against aliens while fighting for survival. The fact that we’re stepping back into this world after a ten-year hiatus since our last adventure left me both excited and a little apprehensive. Did Tippet still have that spark? Spoiler alert: yes, she absolutely does!
Set thirty years after the climactic battles of the Hell Squad, Jameson carries a weighty sense of legacy and continuity. We meet Jameson Steele, son of the beloved characters Marcus and Elle, a young man grappling with feelings for his longtime friend, Greer Baird. Their relationship—a heart-pounding mix of tension, friendship, and underlying yearning—captured my attention from the outset. Tippet expertly weaves the evolving dynamics of love amidst chaos, making it a relatable anchor in a world fraught with intergalactic danger.
The central conflict emerges when Gizzida hybrids threaten Greer and her engineering team. This urgency catalyzes Jameson’s journey not just as a leader of the Hunter Squad, but as a young man coming into his own. Tippet balances the adrenaline-charged action with the delicate tenderness of Jameson’s pining for Greer. The dialogue crackles with a delightful banter reminiscent of old friends catching up, adding depth to the characters’ interactions.
Tippet’s writing retains its engaging pace; I found myself racing through the pages, caught up in the electric tension of the skirmishes between humans and hybrids. She is adept at using vivid imagery to illustrate both the gory confrontations and the strategies devised by the survivors. I particularly enjoyed how the author cleverly turned the Gizzida hybrids into a new form of threat, echoing the concept of the monsters evolving right alongside our protagonists. It’s a subtle reminder that in battles, the stakes—and the enemies—can transform dramatically.
One of my favorite moments occurs when Jameson confronts his self-doubt. He battles not only the physical dangers of hybrids but also the internal struggle of proving his worth. “Am I enough?” he asks himself—an earnest question that reverberates throughout the book and invites readers to reflect on their own thresholds of self-worth.
The pacing felt perfectly aligned with the thrill of the storyline, allowing moments for reflection while still propelling the plot forward. And Tippet’s ability to sprinkle in humor amidst the tension is a true testament to her talent.
If you enjoyed the Hell Squad series, Jameson will feel like coming home. Its near-future, post-apocalyptic landscape feels both chilling and familiar, pulling you right back into the pulse of this intricately woven world. For new readers, there’s enough context provided to feel welcomed—though trust me, you’ll likely want to dive back into the original series!
In conclusion, I’d recommend Jameson to fans of sci-fi, adventure, and heartfelt romance alike. If you find yourself craving a well-crafted plot, action aplenty, and a love story that tugs at your heartstrings, this book is for you. I can’t wait to see where the Hunter Squad goes next—here’s hoping for more captivating tales from E. M. Tippet in the near future!
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