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THE PROGRAM is an intense novel where the author, Gregg Hurwitz, puts his characters in extreme situations without giving readers a hint as to how things are going to turn out. He did the unthinkable in 2003's THE KILL CLAUSE and he does it once again with this book that marks the return of now-disgraced former US Marshall Tim Rackley. Rackley, still recovering from his actions in the last book, is now working the unglamorous job of a security guard. He will get the opportunity to get his job back if he agrees to complete one job, one that has the reluctant approval of his former bosses. He is asked to 'rescue' the stepdaughter of Will Henning, an influential Hollywood film producer. She ran away to join a cult and Tim accepts with the condition that he is not going to kidnap Leah against her will. She is now a grown woman and if Rackley feels that she is in her right mind and not willing to leave the Program, then her stepfather must respect that. He knows that this is not going to be an easy task and he will do his research before going in blind. The one person he has underestimated is the cult's charismatic leader TD Betters aka 'The Teacher.' Once Tim infiltrates the group he is shocked by what he sees and will do everything under his power to shut them down and expose them. The question is will Leah help him or will she betray him? There is no way of knowing until after you finish reading this exciting and surprising book. Hurwitz gives readers the opportunity to look at the cult with eyes wide open. He makes no judgments as he lets readers see through Leah's eyes how easily people can be influenced, particularly during moments of weakness. He also shows it from the point of view of an outsider trying to look in, just as Rackley is doing prior to 'joining' the group. The author provides enough details of how groups influence individuals, a bit about group-think, and ways in which groups cultivate members. It serves as a wake-up call to things going on in this world. The book itself will grab you from the very first page and it will not let you go until you put the book down. Hurwitz has a way with characters making you care (or not) about the way they handle things. Rackley is journeying into hell once again in order to try to save a life once again. The only thing he needs to ask himself is this: Are you willing to lose a part of yourself in order to rescue a complete stranger? Pick up this book to find the answer.
Reviewed by Angel L. Soto, January 2006
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Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)
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