Review: The further adventures of Mark Taylor
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 27, 2011
As a book series progresses you'll ideally get to know the main characters a little better; hopefully watch them grow and learn.  During "No Good Deed," Mark was mostly on his own.  His powers were secret from most and not totally believed by the few who were aware.  In "March into Hell," Mark gets a needed support team (whether he realizes he needs it or even wants it).  However, he struggles with his inclination to do what he believes is right while being uncomfortable with the attention he receives.  Mark starts to give serious thought as to who or what is behind the power he's been given.  In the process, he grows as a person and becomes better equipped to deal with his situation.In "No Good Deed" Taylor was under almost constant stress, both physical and emotional.  Without giving spoilers, I can't say how, but think you'll find his experiences in "March into Hell" are almost as intense.  McDonald does very well putting you inside Mark's head in a way that jacks up the intensity.  Luckily for you she doesn't make you actually feel it.The only quality those who read "No Good Deed" won't find in this latest installment of Mark Taylor's adventures is the political angle.  (For first timer's Mark was imprisoned as a post-9/11 "enemy combatant" in that book.)  Because of this, the good guys and bad guys are much easier to determine.  The real life questions provoked by the politics of Mark's situation aren't there.  Instead, for those who want more than just a good thriller, McDonald gives you plenty of opportunity to consider questions of heroism and hero worship.  What makes a hero?  Does being a hero commit a person to additional obligations?  Is it reasonable to consider a hero a public figure with the loss of privacy that implies?**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog.**