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The 6:20 Man #1
The 6:20 Man
Every day without fail, Travis Devine puts on a cheap suit, grabs his faux-leather briefcase, and boards the 6:20 commuter train to Manhattan, where he works as an entry-level analyst at the city’s most prestigious investment firm. In the mornings, he gazes out the train window at the lavish homes of the uberwealthy, dreaming about joining their ranks. In the evenings, he listens to the fiscal news on his phone, already preparing for the next grueling day in the cutthroat realm of finance.
Then one morning Devine’s tedious routine is shattered by an anonymous email: She is dead.
Sara Ewes, Devine’s coworker and former girlfriend, has been found hanging in a storage room of his office building—presumably a suicide, prompting the NYPD to come calling on him. If that wasn’t enough, Devine receives another ominous visit, a confrontation that threatens to dredge up grim secrets from his past in the Army unless he participates in a clandestine investigation into his firm.
This treacherous role will take Travis from the impossibly glittering lives he once saw only through a train window, to the darkest corners of the country’s economic halls of power…where something rotten lurks. And apart from this high-stakes conspiracy, there’s a killer out there with their own agenda, and Devine is the bullseye.
Then one morning Devine’s tedious routine is shattered by an anonymous email: She is dead.
Sara Ewes, Devine’s coworker and former girlfriend, has been found hanging in a storage room of his office building—presumably a suicide, prompting the NYPD to come calling on him. If that wasn’t enough, Devine receives another ominous visit, a confrontation that threatens to dredge up grim secrets from his past in the Army unless he participates in a clandestine investigation into his firm.
This treacherous role will take Travis from the impossibly glittering lives he once saw only through a train window, to the darkest corners of the country’s economic halls of power…where something rotten lurks. And apart from this high-stakes conspiracy, there’s a killer out there with their own agenda, and Devine is the bullseye.
466 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2022
About the author
David Baldacci
368 books120k followersDavid Baldacci has been writing since childhood, when his mother gave him a lined notebook in which to write down his stories. (Much later, when David thanked her for being the spark that ignited his writing career, she revealed that she’d given him the notebook to keep him quiet, "because every mom needs a break now and then.”)
David published his first novel, Absolute Power, in 1996; the feature film adaptation followed, with Clint Eastwood as its director and star. In total, David has published 50 novels for adults; all have been national and international bestsellers, and several have been adapted for film and television. His books are published in over 45 languages and in more than 80 countries, with 150 million copies sold worldwide. David has also published seven novels for younger readers.
In addition to being a prolific writer, David is a devoted philanthropist, and his greatest efforts are dedicated to his family’s Wish You Well Foundation®. Established by David and his wife, Michelle, the Wish You Well Foundation supports family and adult literacy programs in the United States.
A lifelong Virginian, David is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia School of Law.
David published his first novel, Absolute Power, in 1996; the feature film adaptation followed, with Clint Eastwood as its director and star. In total, David has published 50 novels for adults; all have been national and international bestsellers, and several have been adapted for film and television. His books are published in over 45 languages and in more than 80 countries, with 150 million copies sold worldwide. David has also published seven novels for younger readers.
In addition to being a prolific writer, David is a devoted philanthropist, and his greatest efforts are dedicated to his family’s Wish You Well Foundation®. Established by David and his wife, Michelle, the Wish You Well Foundation supports family and adult literacy programs in the United States.
A lifelong Virginian, David is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia School of Law.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,288 reviews
August 11, 2022
I'm a big fan of action thrillers and the book that started it all was The Innocent by David Baldacci. I'm forever grateful and always a fan. 🙏
The 6:20 Man introduces a brand new character Travis Devine, a former Army Ranger now entry-level financial analyst at a prestigious Wall Street Investment Banking firm. His routine is taking the 6:20 commuter train to work in the city but that all changes when Devine's co-worker/ ex-girlfriend is found dead by hanging inside their office storage room. He knew this was not a suicide. When NYPD realized it was a homicide, Devine became their prime suspect. Devine knew someone is trying to frame him for her death but why?
I like Travis Devine! His backstory and some action are what kept me reading. The plot.... eh... not as much. I was excited about the financial crime angle, murder mystery always works, an intricate web, but part of the reveal was a bit too much OTT unbelievable. 3.5⭐
Love Zachary Webber! 🎧
This is my 30th+ Baldacci book and (for me) not a favorite. I think fans of Baldacci would still want to check it out as the majority of it was enjoyable. But seriously, can we get a Robie and/or Puller book? Pretty please?🤩
The 6:20 Man introduces a brand new character Travis Devine, a former Army Ranger now entry-level financial analyst at a prestigious Wall Street Investment Banking firm. His routine is taking the 6:20 commuter train to work in the city but that all changes when Devine's co-worker/ ex-girlfriend is found dead by hanging inside their office storage room. He knew this was not a suicide. When NYPD realized it was a homicide, Devine became their prime suspect. Devine knew someone is trying to frame him for her death but why?
I like Travis Devine! His backstory and some action are what kept me reading. The plot.... eh... not as much. I was excited about the financial crime angle, murder mystery always works, an intricate web, but part of the reveal was a bit too much OTT unbelievable. 3.5⭐
Love Zachary Webber! 🎧
This is my 30th+ Baldacci book and (for me) not a favorite. I think fans of Baldacci would still want to check it out as the majority of it was enjoyable. But seriously, can we get a Robie and/or Puller book? Pretty please?🤩
July 26, 2022
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY! (July 12, 2022)
Thirty-two-year-old Travis Devine, is "The 6:20 Man", boarding the commuter train every morning into Manhattan, arriving early for a grueling day at his entry-level job as a financial analyst at Cowl and Comely, a prestigious investment firm, spending long hours crunching numbers six days a week. A decorated ex-Army Ranger who rose to the rank of Captain, he decided to quit, got his MBA, and joined the world of finance. Though he isn’t completely happy with his new life, he has reconciled with his new reality but his years as a “combat stud” were far more satisfying on a personal level.
One morning he receives an anonymous email informing him that his colleague, mentor to his recruiting class and former girlfriend twenty-eight-year-old Sara Ewes was found dead in his office building, presumed to have committed suicide by hanging. However, Travis is doubtful that she would commit suicide and as the story progresses it becomes obvious that Sara was murdered. Both local and federal authorities reach out to Travis. The NYPD initially regard him as a suspect in Sara’s death. The federal authorities suspect Travis’s employers of shady dealings and reel him in to investigate within his company, compelling him to do so by bringing up the reasons for which he quit the Army- events from his past that still haunt him. As Travis investigates, he unearths secrets from Sara’s past and also realizes that someone is trying to frame him in Sara’s death. He also gathers proof that there is much more to what meets the eye as far as his employers and their business dealings are concerned. Everyone has secrets and everyone is a suspect. He often seeks help from his housemates- a Russian hacker who loves his adopted country, a brilliant tech entrepreneur and a law graduate, but at times he is compelled to regard everyone with suspicion.
What happened to Sara? What or who caused her death? What goes on behind the closed doors of the 52nd floor of Cowl and Comely? Was Sara involved in the suspected shady dealings in the company or was she murdered for more personal reasons? Why is someone trying to implicate Travis?
Overall, David Baldacci’s The 6:20 Man is a thrilling read that weaves a complex web of murder, financial crimes, corrupt businessmen, and international conspiracy. Though the setting of the novel is in the world of finance, the author does not drown us in technical jargon or make it too difficult to comprehend. The author takes his time in introducing the protagonist and his backstory. After a relatively slow start, the story picks up its pace and hooks us in till the very end. Full of twists and turns, Baldacci does not fail to surprise with the final reveal. Every time I thought I had figured it all out, we are delivered another twist and not until the very end do we identify the culprit(s). However, all is not resolved and we can expect a series in the making. Yes, as with most thrillers, we can expect far-fetched and OTT moments, but that’s the fun of reading an action-packed, fast-paced Baldacci thriller! I look forward to more thrillers featuring "The 6:20 Man", Travis Devine in the future.
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for providing a digital review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The 6:20 Man is due for release on July 12, 2022.
Thirty-two-year-old Travis Devine, is "The 6:20 Man", boarding the commuter train every morning into Manhattan, arriving early for a grueling day at his entry-level job as a financial analyst at Cowl and Comely, a prestigious investment firm, spending long hours crunching numbers six days a week. A decorated ex-Army Ranger who rose to the rank of Captain, he decided to quit, got his MBA, and joined the world of finance. Though he isn’t completely happy with his new life, he has reconciled with his new reality but his years as a “combat stud” were far more satisfying on a personal level.
One morning he receives an anonymous email informing him that his colleague, mentor to his recruiting class and former girlfriend twenty-eight-year-old Sara Ewes was found dead in his office building, presumed to have committed suicide by hanging. However, Travis is doubtful that she would commit suicide and as the story progresses it becomes obvious that Sara was murdered. Both local and federal authorities reach out to Travis. The NYPD initially regard him as a suspect in Sara’s death. The federal authorities suspect Travis’s employers of shady dealings and reel him in to investigate within his company, compelling him to do so by bringing up the reasons for which he quit the Army- events from his past that still haunt him. As Travis investigates, he unearths secrets from Sara’s past and also realizes that someone is trying to frame him in Sara’s death. He also gathers proof that there is much more to what meets the eye as far as his employers and their business dealings are concerned. Everyone has secrets and everyone is a suspect. He often seeks help from his housemates- a Russian hacker who loves his adopted country, a brilliant tech entrepreneur and a law graduate, but at times he is compelled to regard everyone with suspicion.
What happened to Sara? What or who caused her death? What goes on behind the closed doors of the 52nd floor of Cowl and Comely? Was Sara involved in the suspected shady dealings in the company or was she murdered for more personal reasons? Why is someone trying to implicate Travis?
Overall, David Baldacci’s The 6:20 Man is a thrilling read that weaves a complex web of murder, financial crimes, corrupt businessmen, and international conspiracy. Though the setting of the novel is in the world of finance, the author does not drown us in technical jargon or make it too difficult to comprehend. The author takes his time in introducing the protagonist and his backstory. After a relatively slow start, the story picks up its pace and hooks us in till the very end. Full of twists and turns, Baldacci does not fail to surprise with the final reveal. Every time I thought I had figured it all out, we are delivered another twist and not until the very end do we identify the culprit(s). However, all is not resolved and we can expect a series in the making. Yes, as with most thrillers, we can expect far-fetched and OTT moments, but that’s the fun of reading an action-packed, fast-paced Baldacci thriller! I look forward to more thrillers featuring "The 6:20 Man", Travis Devine in the future.
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for providing a digital review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The 6:20 Man is due for release on July 12, 2022.
June 21, 2022
This is the latest action packed thriller from the prolific author, David Baldacci, set in the high finance world of New York. 32 year old Travis Devine is a former Army Ranger Captain who had distinguished himself with tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, but having quit, he is now a far from happy entry level grunt analyst, crunching numbers in the dog eat dog world of the powerful investment bank, Cowl and Comely. Every morning he takes the 6.20 train from Mount Kisco, where he shares a house with 3 others, to Manhattan, as it passes the homes of the uber wealthy he often glimpses a beautiful woman in a bikini at a 'palace', a highlight which has most of the male travellers salivating. One morning, he receives a strange anonymous email which informs him of the death of friend and colleague 28 year Sarah Ewes, with whom he had a brief relationship. In what at first is assumed to be a suicide, Sarah is found hanging in a storage room of the bank's building.
For reasons he cannot fathom, Devine finds himself a suspect, being closely interrogated by NYPD Detective Karl Hancock. To exacerbate matters, secrets of his army past comes back to haunt him when he is forced to investigate the bank and Brad Cowl by a former army general, Emerson Campbell, heading the secret Office of Special Projects, part of the Department of Homeland Security. Devine finds himself in his element, able to use his military experience and skills, plus his recently acquired financial expertise, freed at long last from the tedium of his normal long working days. After it becomes clear that Sarah was murdered, Devine becomes convinced that she must have come across evidence of serious financial wrongdoing at the bank. However, nothing is as it appears in the most dangerous of investigations, in which Devine is aided by his housemates, particularly the Russian Will Valentine, a white hatter hacker, and the surprising help that comes from Michelle Montgomery.
The author is an experienced thriller writer, and it shows here with the elevated levels of tension and suspense, and the incorporation of numerous unexpected twists in his compulsive storytelling. This is a hugely entertaining read, dark, intense, with a protagonist you cannot help but care for as he fights to stay alive, determined and intent on shining a light in the dark corners of Cowl and Comely and the threat it poses to the country. As is often normal within the genre of thrillers, you are going to have to suspend your sense of disbelief to enjoy this riveting offering from Baldacci. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
For reasons he cannot fathom, Devine finds himself a suspect, being closely interrogated by NYPD Detective Karl Hancock. To exacerbate matters, secrets of his army past comes back to haunt him when he is forced to investigate the bank and Brad Cowl by a former army general, Emerson Campbell, heading the secret Office of Special Projects, part of the Department of Homeland Security. Devine finds himself in his element, able to use his military experience and skills, plus his recently acquired financial expertise, freed at long last from the tedium of his normal long working days. After it becomes clear that Sarah was murdered, Devine becomes convinced that she must have come across evidence of serious financial wrongdoing at the bank. However, nothing is as it appears in the most dangerous of investigations, in which Devine is aided by his housemates, particularly the Russian Will Valentine, a white hatter hacker, and the surprising help that comes from Michelle Montgomery.
The author is an experienced thriller writer, and it shows here with the elevated levels of tension and suspense, and the incorporation of numerous unexpected twists in his compulsive storytelling. This is a hugely entertaining read, dark, intense, with a protagonist you cannot help but care for as he fights to stay alive, determined and intent on shining a light in the dark corners of Cowl and Comely and the threat it poses to the country. As is often normal within the genre of thrillers, you are going to have to suspend your sense of disbelief to enjoy this riveting offering from Baldacci. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
August 4, 2022
3.5
My first David Baldacci book and I can see why he is so popular; great writing and he pays attention to minute details. This is an action thriller stand-alone story so I chose the audiobook as I don't read much from this genre. It kept my attention throughout.
It's an engaging story that took a bit of time to start rolling. A lot of different things happening and it was hard to keep track of who the good and bad guys were. That's a definite plus. It just seemed a little too far-fetched for my liking.
From what I gather from his fans this may not be his strongest book. That said, I'd definitely pick-up another book by this author again. I like his writing style.
My first David Baldacci book and I can see why he is so popular; great writing and he pays attention to minute details. This is an action thriller stand-alone story so I chose the audiobook as I don't read much from this genre. It kept my attention throughout.
It's an engaging story that took a bit of time to start rolling. A lot of different things happening and it was hard to keep track of who the good and bad guys were. That's a definite plus. It just seemed a little too far-fetched for my liking.
From what I gather from his fans this may not be his strongest book. That said, I'd definitely pick-up another book by this author again. I like his writing style.
July 16, 2022
I have no idea where the 3, 4 & 5 star ratings for this train wreck of a book came from. OMG. This is another Baldacci disaster.
A few spoiler alerts but really more time-saver alerts (don't waste your time).
The stereotyped characters and wooden dialogue was a mind-numbing gut punch. Multiple times a character would go into full throttle "finance bro mode", "tech bro mode", "military jargon mode". "russian hacker mode" or "good cop/bad cop mode". Long conversations that no one ever would have in their entire life just to explain some complicated part of the story, and I suppose to add credibility.
The plot... (well, here's a spoiler) pivoted on a train that "stopped" (for no reason) at a place where the passengers could view a swimming pool in a luxury palatial home (why would anyone build a zillion dollar palace next to a train track?) And... the view was made possible because the owner had created an opening in the hedges so people could see a gorgeous woman in a bikini every morning. At the same time. AND this woman (unwittingly) wore different color bikinis to send a signal to SOMEONE on the train (who was never discovered or tracked down) so that some nefarious money laundering scheme could proceed. I think that was the reason.
This really bothered me too. The main character, a West Point grad, Army Ranger, Captain in the Army, multiple ribbons, hero, MBA, etc... was never accepted, respected or loved by his parents... because he did not go into business. His parents were beyond disappointed! What a failure. What an under achiever!! He left the army and began working his way up in some type of brokerage... "analyzing data, writing report, just to win his dad's approval.
The story is so stupid.
But I admit. I read it. Because I COULD NOT believe how bad it could be.
I've read several Baldacci books in the past (several excellent) but something is off now. This was absolutely terrible. I hope you heed my warnings.
A few spoiler alerts but really more time-saver alerts (don't waste your time).
The stereotyped characters and wooden dialogue was a mind-numbing gut punch. Multiple times a character would go into full throttle "finance bro mode", "tech bro mode", "military jargon mode". "russian hacker mode" or "good cop/bad cop mode". Long conversations that no one ever would have in their entire life just to explain some complicated part of the story, and I suppose to add credibility.
The plot... (well, here's a spoiler) pivoted on a train that "stopped" (for no reason) at a place where the passengers could view a swimming pool in a luxury palatial home (why would anyone build a zillion dollar palace next to a train track?) And... the view was made possible because the owner had created an opening in the hedges so people could see a gorgeous woman in a bikini every morning. At the same time. AND this woman (unwittingly) wore different color bikinis to send a signal to SOMEONE on the train (who was never discovered or tracked down) so that some nefarious money laundering scheme could proceed. I think that was the reason.
This really bothered me too. The main character, a West Point grad, Army Ranger, Captain in the Army, multiple ribbons, hero, MBA, etc... was never accepted, respected or loved by his parents... because he did not go into business. His parents were beyond disappointed! What a failure. What an under achiever!! He left the army and began working his way up in some type of brokerage... "analyzing data, writing report, just to win his dad's approval.
The story is so stupid.
But I admit. I read it. Because I COULD NOT believe how bad it could be.
I've read several Baldacci books in the past (several excellent) but something is off now. This was absolutely terrible. I hope you heed my warnings.
June 11, 2022
3.5 STARS
New stand-alone and my first by this author!
An engaging beginning that really had me hooked. Protag, Travis Devine takes the 6:20 commuter train to work each morning. He enjoys peering out the window along the ride (along with other commuters). A woman in a bikini gets their attention each morning. Her image has them dreaming about the lives of the people who live in the row of mansions.
The pace is steady in this complex story of corruption ( so much going on), murder, back-stabbing and financial fraud. Devine finds himself barely swimming in a shark invested tank of so called friends.One wrong move could end it all.
The book does eventually enter the far-fetched world and lagged a bit in the middle. I did enjoy/like Devine's character and was invested, but I wasn't totally onboard with the conclusion. If this turns out to be a series, I would read the next one.
Thanks to Novel Suspects for my Arc! OUT July 12, 2022
New stand-alone and my first by this author!
An engaging beginning that really had me hooked. Protag, Travis Devine takes the 6:20 commuter train to work each morning. He enjoys peering out the window along the ride (along with other commuters). A woman in a bikini gets their attention each morning. Her image has them dreaming about the lives of the people who live in the row of mansions.
The pace is steady in this complex story of corruption ( so much going on), murder, back-stabbing and financial fraud. Devine finds himself barely swimming in a shark invested tank of so called friends.One wrong move could end it all.
The book does eventually enter the far-fetched world and lagged a bit in the middle. I did enjoy/like Devine's character and was invested, but I wasn't totally onboard with the conclusion. If this turns out to be a series, I would read the next one.
Thanks to Novel Suspects for my Arc! OUT July 12, 2022
July 16, 2022
Travis Devine is the 6.20 man. He’s ex-highly decorated military now working on Wall Street for Cowl and Comely, a job he hates but pays the bills. He catches the 6.20 daily into NYC and gazes at the multi million dollar properties along the route, the bikini clad woman by the pool of one such mega mansion brightens his early morning commute. His mind numbing daily routine in the pursuit of making money for someone further up the food chain than himself is broken one morning when he receives a strange email about the death of a Co-worker he likes, Sarah Ewes. Her death is initially ruled a suicide- but why? Travis is questioned by NYPD and then by Federal agents who use his army past against him to ‘persuade’ him to go undercover at Cowl and Comely. This is just the tip of the iceberg as what is revealed is submerged in very murky waters in this well crafted thriller.
This standalone is my first David Baldacci and I’m not sure why I’ve never read his books before!!! I definitely feel the need to put that right! This takes a while to get going as it’s a bit over detailed at the start. However, once it gets off the starting blocks it’s a cracking read. Travis is an excellent central protagonist, he’s flawed (who isn’t?!) but very likeable and has good intentions. Initially nothing makes sense to him, then a lot of coincidences are revealed which makes you smell a large nest of rats! There’s a good range of characters from Gordon Gekko types to some you definitely have no wish to encounter anywhere, anytime.
The plot is good and it’s all too plausible, sadly, based on the things we have learned over the last year or so. It becomes action packed, we get glimpses of a conspiracy which then becomes very intense and dangerous. The tension ramps up and there are some breathtaking encounters. There are multiple clever plot twists, the pace is fast, the dialogue smart and it becomes more and more intriguing by the minute! The end is good and not one I anticipate which is all to the good and I like how it’s not too neatly tied up in a bow as that feels much more realistic.
I hope Travis appears again as I’d love to read what he gets up to next!!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Quercus for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This standalone is my first David Baldacci and I’m not sure why I’ve never read his books before!!! I definitely feel the need to put that right! This takes a while to get going as it’s a bit over detailed at the start. However, once it gets off the starting blocks it’s a cracking read. Travis is an excellent central protagonist, he’s flawed (who isn’t?!) but very likeable and has good intentions. Initially nothing makes sense to him, then a lot of coincidences are revealed which makes you smell a large nest of rats! There’s a good range of characters from Gordon Gekko types to some you definitely have no wish to encounter anywhere, anytime.
The plot is good and it’s all too plausible, sadly, based on the things we have learned over the last year or so. It becomes action packed, we get glimpses of a conspiracy which then becomes very intense and dangerous. The tension ramps up and there are some breathtaking encounters. There are multiple clever plot twists, the pace is fast, the dialogue smart and it becomes more and more intriguing by the minute! The end is good and not one I anticipate which is all to the good and I like how it’s not too neatly tied up in a bow as that feels much more realistic.
I hope Travis appears again as I’d love to read what he gets up to next!!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Quercus for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
October 13, 2022
This book is somewhat out of my wheelhouse. But I had seen lots of strong reviews, so decided to give it a try. I love mysteries, but prefer them to be more on the believable side. This comes across more as a Jack Reacher style thriller book with a lot of unbelievable scenes. It got to the point I was actually groaning at times over how unrealistic the plot was and how often it relied on a coincidence. The plot had holes the size of the Grand Canyon.
Travis Devine is an ex-Army Ranger who’s now working as a first year analyst for an investment firm. He hates his job and it’s more penance than enjoyment. The book starts when his secret girlfriend (dating is prohibited among co-workers) is found hanging in a supply closet. He quickly becomes a suspect. He knows he’s being framed but can’t figure out why or by whom. There’s also a separate federal investigation where he’s forced to help. I did appreciate that he doesn’t immediately come across as an investigating savant. He makes mistakes when he asks folks questions; he doesn’t always think things through. The plot is just so bonkers but also pretty predictable. It was obvious early on what the financial shenanigans were going to be. I debated quitting this several times. But I kept wondering how Baldacci would tie everything up. I’m sorry I bothered.
Zachary Weber was the primary narrator and came across just as wooden as the character he was portraying.
It’s the first Baldacci book I’ve read and I won’t rush to try another.
Travis Devine is an ex-Army Ranger who’s now working as a first year analyst for an investment firm. He hates his job and it’s more penance than enjoyment. The book starts when his secret girlfriend (dating is prohibited among co-workers) is found hanging in a supply closet. He quickly becomes a suspect. He knows he’s being framed but can’t figure out why or by whom. There’s also a separate federal investigation where he’s forced to help. I did appreciate that he doesn’t immediately come across as an investigating savant. He makes mistakes when he asks folks questions; he doesn’t always think things through. The plot is just so bonkers but also pretty predictable. It was obvious early on what the financial shenanigans were going to be. I debated quitting this several times. But I kept wondering how Baldacci would tie everything up. I’m sorry I bothered.
Zachary Weber was the primary narrator and came across just as wooden as the character he was portraying.
It’s the first Baldacci book I’ve read and I won’t rush to try another.
June 2, 2024
From the very first page, this book hooks you like a train crash you didn’t see coming. Meet Travis Devine, our everyday hero, who kicks off his mornings with a 6:20 a.m. train commute. Sounds mundane, right? Well, think again. His journey gets a quirky twist when he spots a mysterious lady in a bikini. Yes, you read that right – a bikini!
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. As the story unfolds, you’ll encounter a colorful cast of characters, each with their own peculiar quirks and secrets. It's like a box of assorted chocolates, where each one hides a surprise.
The pace? Lightning fast! The action? Non-stop! This book is a wild ride from start to finish. Trust me, you’ll be flipping pages so quickly, you might just finish it in one sitting. Buckle up and enjoy the
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. As the story unfolds, you’ll encounter a colorful cast of characters, each with their own peculiar quirks and secrets. It's like a box of assorted chocolates, where each one hides a surprise.
The pace? Lightning fast! The action? Non-stop! This book is a wild ride from start to finish. Trust me, you’ll be flipping pages so quickly, you might just finish it in one sitting. Buckle up and enjoy the
July 21, 2022
This guy is so predictable you can set your watch to him. Little wonder this uninspiring character is, "The 6:20 man." 3 of 10 stars
August 3, 2022
I always have high expectations when I open a Baldacci novel and I was not disappointed by this one.
Travis Devine is ex army and knows how to defend himself - an attribute he calls upon many times as the story progresses. He is currently paying a personal penance for a crime he has committed and consequently is working in a job he hates in an investment company. Then he receives a strange email, someone close to him commits suicide, and events start to develop out of hand.
The book begins slowly but gains momentum as more people die and Travis finds himself mixed up in things at every level. The twists and turns are endless and there are a few "Oh really!" moments but this is Baldacci we are talking about and he knows exactly how to make a book into a major page turner.
The ending has a clever, surprise twist which made me go back over a few pages to sort it all out in my mind. Ends were tied up satisfactorily but there were a couple of over reaching arcs left open which may indicate another Travis Devine book in the future. I hope so!
Travis Devine is ex army and knows how to defend himself - an attribute he calls upon many times as the story progresses. He is currently paying a personal penance for a crime he has committed and consequently is working in a job he hates in an investment company. Then he receives a strange email, someone close to him commits suicide, and events start to develop out of hand.
The book begins slowly but gains momentum as more people die and Travis finds himself mixed up in things at every level. The twists and turns are endless and there are a few "Oh really!" moments but this is Baldacci we are talking about and he knows exactly how to make a book into a major page turner.
The ending has a clever, surprise twist which made me go back over a few pages to sort it all out in my mind. Ends were tied up satisfactorily but there were a couple of over reaching arcs left open which may indicate another Travis Devine book in the future. I hope so!
July 30, 2022
Travis Devine is a West Point graduate who abruptly cut his military career short, got an MBA and became an overworked analyst at a financial firm. Sara Ewes was Devine’s coworker and former girlfriend, and her suicide starts Devine on a convoluted path. The police won’t stop questioning him, strangers start threatening him and he really wants to know more about the bikini-clad woman who puts on a show every morning for the passengers of the 6:20 train.
I read one other book by this author and didn’t like it very much. This book was much more entertaining. It is a standalone, but can easily be turned into a new series. If there is another book I will read it. It was long, but fast paced and I was never tempted to start skimming. There are a lot of mysteries to be solved as the body count continues to grow. Who is emailing Devine from a hidden account? What’s really happening on the locked floor of the firm? Who can Devine trust? I liked Devine, but there were also a lot of other characters with interesting stories, including Devine’s three housemates and the woman in the bikini. The narrators of the audiobook did a very good job. 4.5 stars
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the publisher.
I read one other book by this author and didn’t like it very much. This book was much more entertaining. It is a standalone, but can easily be turned into a new series. If there is another book I will read it. It was long, but fast paced and I was never tempted to start skimming. There are a lot of mysteries to be solved as the body count continues to grow. Who is emailing Devine from a hidden account? What’s really happening on the locked floor of the firm? Who can Devine trust? I liked Devine, but there were also a lot of other characters with interesting stories, including Devine’s three housemates and the woman in the bikini. The narrators of the audiobook did a very good job. 4.5 stars
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the publisher.
March 21, 2024
This book has a unique structure. I enjoyed the book, but barely. I kept wanting to put it down because it does what I call churning. The story line only has an appearance of moving forward when its not. Its like a stationary boat churning in the same place, in the same place, in the same place. The main character continually uncovers new things but we don't get anywhere. It's almost as if the author is shooting for a certain page count and is stalling. The roadblocks thrown up in front of the character never seem to advance the story. Well, not enough anyway. Could just be me.
Then at the end the single plot line diverges. The plot the main character chased throughout the entire book had nothing to do with the murders. It was merely a coincidence both plots were happening at the same time. This kind of thing--the coincidence--makes me want to throw the book across the room.
Its a decent tale with great descriptions but I wished someone would've told me before hand about the coincidence, I might not have taken such a long churning ride.
d.
Then at the end the single plot line diverges. The plot the main character chased throughout the entire book had nothing to do with the murders. It was merely a coincidence both plots were happening at the same time. This kind of thing--the coincidence--makes me want to throw the book across the room.
Its a decent tale with great descriptions but I wished someone would've told me before hand about the coincidence, I might not have taken such a long churning ride.
d.
August 1, 2022
Definitely in the minority judging by other reviews but this was a DNF for me at 15%,I found both the writing and the main characters hard going and certain things odd ( people living in houses worth billions do not have a train line running past their mansions,certainly not close enough that the men can spy on a lady in her pool ) very cliched in places (sweet cheeks????) and just not for me
June 27, 2022
A new character from David Baldacci, in the form of an ex army ranger… count me in.
This author has so many wonderful and diverse characters. When the Atlee Pine series ended recently, I hope for a new series and it looks like we may get that with Travis Devine. He is a big, strong and very bloody minded man that I wouldn’t want to get the wrong side of. His experience in the army has made him wary and he sees everything. I loved getting to know him in The 620 Man.
Travis Devine has a routine now that his army days are over. He gets up at 4am daily to work out and then he catches the 620am train from his shared home in Mount Kisco to his job in Manhattan. A far cry from the army, he is now working as a financial analyst for Cowl and Comley on WallStreet. One morning he gets an anonymous email telling him that his co worker and ex lover, Sara Ewes was found dead on one of the upper floors of the building that they work. At first it appears to be suicide but further investigation deems her death a homicide. No Travis finds himself the prime suspect, and the target of a government body who want him to investigate the CEO Brad Cowl, in exchange for his army secrets staying that way.
As always with Baldacci, it is a wild and fast paced thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. It gets pretty dark in places. The worlds of finance and politics collide in another fantastic read from this prolific author.
The 620 Man is published in Australia 28th June. Thanks to Macmillan Australia for my advanced copy to read.
This author has so many wonderful and diverse characters. When the Atlee Pine series ended recently, I hope for a new series and it looks like we may get that with Travis Devine. He is a big, strong and very bloody minded man that I wouldn’t want to get the wrong side of. His experience in the army has made him wary and he sees everything. I loved getting to know him in The 620 Man.
Travis Devine has a routine now that his army days are over. He gets up at 4am daily to work out and then he catches the 620am train from his shared home in Mount Kisco to his job in Manhattan. A far cry from the army, he is now working as a financial analyst for Cowl and Comley on WallStreet. One morning he gets an anonymous email telling him that his co worker and ex lover, Sara Ewes was found dead on one of the upper floors of the building that they work. At first it appears to be suicide but further investigation deems her death a homicide. No Travis finds himself the prime suspect, and the target of a government body who want him to investigate the CEO Brad Cowl, in exchange for his army secrets staying that way.
As always with Baldacci, it is a wild and fast paced thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. It gets pretty dark in places. The worlds of finance and politics collide in another fantastic read from this prolific author.
The 620 Man is published in Australia 28th June. Thanks to Macmillan Australia for my advanced copy to read.
August 4, 2022
2-1/2 /5
Meh! I expected better. A lot of high finance shenanigans and techno babble all of which goes over my head – so I depend on the characters to carry the story for me. Sadly that did not happen. The ‘hero’ Travis Devin is not all that interesting even though the author has done his best to make him so.
Devine is an ex-soldier, having left the Army under strange circumstances and now working in a high powered finance (Wall Street) job mostly to get back in the good graces of his father who was mad at him for going into the army (questionable reason).
A female co-worker has been murdered. Devin slept with her once but he is a suspect and I’m not exactly sure why, anyway this leads to Devine trying to find the real murdered and then some other people get killed just to confuse the issue.
On top of all that turns out he is also working for some Gov. agency trying to suss out what nefarious goings on is happening at the Wall Street firm.
The ending was so ridiculous I felt completely let down.
This is a stand-alone but is quite obvious that it is intended to become a series.
Meh! I expected better. A lot of high finance shenanigans and techno babble all of which goes over my head – so I depend on the characters to carry the story for me. Sadly that did not happen. The ‘hero’ Travis Devin is not all that interesting even though the author has done his best to make him so.
Devine is an ex-soldier, having left the Army under strange circumstances and now working in a high powered finance (Wall Street) job mostly to get back in the good graces of his father who was mad at him for going into the army (questionable reason).
A female co-worker has been murdered. Devin slept with her once but he is a suspect and I’m not exactly sure why, anyway this leads to Devine trying to find the real murdered and then some other people get killed just to confuse the issue.
On top of all that turns out he is also working for some Gov. agency trying to suss out what nefarious goings on is happening at the Wall Street firm.
The ending was so ridiculous I felt completely let down.
This is a stand-alone but is quite obvious that it is intended to become a series.
August 15, 2022
Had to appease the woke crowd.
What started out as a pretty good story turns into a woke propaganda piece including the now obligatory attacks on Christians as mean and homophobic. I don’t understand why todays authors think they must introduce homosexuals and transgenders into all their narratives. Just as the attacks on Christian “narrow mindedness” seems to be required in all books and movies. Like today’s sports……I was enjoying this book until it went woke. Go woke…..go broke. Just ask the NBA and NFL. No more Baldacci for me.
What started out as a pretty good story turns into a woke propaganda piece including the now obligatory attacks on Christians as mean and homophobic. I don’t understand why todays authors think they must introduce homosexuals and transgenders into all their narratives. Just as the attacks on Christian “narrow mindedness” seems to be required in all books and movies. Like today’s sports……I was enjoying this book until it went woke. Go woke…..go broke. Just ask the NBA and NFL. No more Baldacci for me.
May 17, 2023
Страхотно изграден персонаж е този Травис Дивайн! Харесвам го много!
🚅🏃♂️
Избрани цитати от българското издание на книгата:
Стр. 72 – Разбира се, момчетата казваха каквото трябва пред хората, за да не сложат прът в колелата на кариерите си, но когато си говореха насаме, беше съвсем друга история. Отрицателното отношение към жените се простираше от редници чак до полковници и генерали. И дребнавите мръсотии, с които си отмъщаваха тези мъже, бяха легендарно безмилостни. За една жена в униформа беше най-болезнено от всичко да разбере, че мъжът в униформа до нея не е готов да ѝ пази гърба – и още по-обидно, дори не иска тя да бъде там.
Стр. 75 – Никой не беше забелязал нараняванията по лицето му, нито колко сковано държи ръката си, защото никой не си беше направил труда да го погледне, когато всички влязоха. Беше съзнателно решение от страна на колегите му, защото той почти винаги идваше пръв на работа и знаеше, че по този начин ги вбесява. В отговор те не обръщаха никакво внимание на ранобудния натрапник. А после се заемаха да го смачкат с резултатите от собствената си вдъхновена работа.
Стр. 80 – Човек научава повече, когато слуша, и колкото по-малко думи излизат от устата му, толкова по-малко се връщат като бумеранг срещу него.
Стр. 119 – А с цялата тежест на очакването идваше и е��ин друг въпрос: Дали в живота, който водят хората, наистина има някакъв истински смисъл? Дали всички не очакваме само едно… нищо?
Стр. 120 – Някои хора бяха готови да съборят всичко, ако им се удадеше възможност. Включително и други хора.
Стр. 313 – Хората с пари са готови да простят много неща, ако парите продължават да се множат. Същото важи и за властите.
# The 6:20 Man (audiobook – review)
Избрани цитати от българското издание на книгата:
Стр. 72 – Разбира се, момчетата казваха каквото трябва пред хората, за да не сложат прът в колелата на кариерите си, но когато си говореха насаме, беше съвсем друга история. Отрицателното отношение към жените се простираше от редници чак до полковници и генерали. И дребнавите мръсотии, с които си отмъщаваха тези мъже, бяха легендарно безмилостни. За една жена в униформа беше най-болезнено от всичко да разбере, че мъжът в униформа до нея не е готов да ѝ пази гърба – и още по-обидно, дори не иска тя да бъде там.
Стр. 75 – Никой не беше забелязал нараняванията по лицето му, нито колко сковано държи ръката си, защото никой не си беше направил труда да го погледне, когато всички влязоха. Беше съзнателно решение от страна на колегите му, защото той почти винаги идваше пръв на работа и знаеше, че по този начин ги вбесява. В отговор те не обръщаха никакво внимание на ранобудния натрапник. А после се заемаха да го смачкат с резултатите от собствената си вдъхновена работа.
Стр. 80 – Човек научава повече, когато слуша, и колкото по-малко думи излизат от устата му, толкова по-малко се връщат като бумеранг срещу него.
Стр. 119 – А с цялата тежест на очакването идваше и е��ин друг въпрос: Дали в живота, който водят хората, наистина има някакъв истински смисъл? Дали всички не очакваме само едно… нищо?
Стр. 120 – Някои хора бяха готови да съборят всичко, ако им се удадеше възможност. Включително и други хора.
Стр. 313 – Хората с пари са готови да простят много неща, ако парите продължават да се множат. Същото важи и за властите.
# The 6:20 Man (audiobook – review)
August 7, 2022
Re: The 6:20 Man
Dear Mr. Baldacci,
I read your book. It was a very painful read.
Please rewrite it and send it to me for editing.
This version is missing not only your voice, but your tightly written and carefully crafted storylines.
This book could not have possibly been written by the same man that wrote “Absolute Power” and “Total Control”.
Many online reviews will confirm my concerns.
Dear Mr. Baldacci,
I read your book. It was a very painful read.
Please rewrite it and send it to me for editing.
This version is missing not only your voice, but your tightly written and carefully crafted storylines.
This book could not have possibly been written by the same man that wrote “Absolute Power” and “Total Control”.
Many online reviews will confirm my concerns.
October 28, 2022
David Baldacci is one of those authors whose books pull the reader in, no matter the subject matter. While I do enjoy the series he has written, I also find a great deal of happiness reading standalone thrillers, as this one appears to be. Baldacci hits the mark with this piece, intertwining some military background with a crime thriller that is sure to keep the reader up well into the night. I’m happy to see such a variety coming out of Baldacci, but am also looking forward to more of his series to build on the excitement.
Travis Devine is a financial grunt who has the same routine every day before work. Riding the 6:20am train to the heart of New York, Devine preps for another day as an analyst, peering out the window for a sliver of excitement. While is days are usually full of the mundane, when he receives a cryptic email, all this turns on its head. One of his mentors is found hanging and what originally looks like suicide is soon deemed a likely homicide.
While Devine is panicked as to what is going on, the evidence soon points to him as being the murderer. Sure that he will need to stay ahead of the game to exonerate himself, Devine is pulled into a parallel investigation by people from his military past, hoping to reveal something highly sinister. Who might have killed Sara Ewes and for what reason?
As Devine digs a little deeper, he realises that someone is targeting him and trying to ensure the police do as well. Trying to gather minute pieces of evidence, Devine forges ahead with some theories of his own, only to find himself tangled in the web of his employer and a powerful man at the top. There’s no doubt that Devine is one step away from disaster, but he will have to work fast ensure he gets the answers he needs to provide a pathway for the truth.
When others begin dying as well, Devine surmises that this is more deadly than first he thought. There is someone out there, trying to silence a select few about something that could cause financial chaos should it leak. Armed with his intuition and some help from roommates he hardly knows, Devine will pull out all the stops to prove his innocence and get to the root of Sara Ewes’ murder. Another winner by Baldacci, sure to impress those who enjoy a good thriller.
One need never worry when David Baldacci is at the helm, as the story always flows with ease. Baldacci’s seemingly endless ideas weave together and provide the reader with something well worth their time. Strong characters and a developing plot keep things on pace as the story crescendos to its climax. I am eager to see if there will be more standalone novels, or if Baldacci might weave Travis Devine into some of his other writing.
Key to a successful story is the narrative that leads the reader along. Baldacci has mastered this and provides a strong foundation for a powerful piece. With characters who are as interconnected as they are individualistic, Baldacci uses them to push the story along with ease, without getting too wrapped up in minutiae. A few plot twists to keep the reader from guessing too much provide great turns for all to enjoy. While I do love the series work that Baldacci has developed, I cannot help but enjoy some of his individual books that provide something refreshing for fans. I am eager to see what’s to come in the next few months.
Kudos, Mr. Baldacci, for another great book. I know those fans will find something in here that they can enjoy.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Travis Devine is a financial grunt who has the same routine every day before work. Riding the 6:20am train to the heart of New York, Devine preps for another day as an analyst, peering out the window for a sliver of excitement. While is days are usually full of the mundane, when he receives a cryptic email, all this turns on its head. One of his mentors is found hanging and what originally looks like suicide is soon deemed a likely homicide.
While Devine is panicked as to what is going on, the evidence soon points to him as being the murderer. Sure that he will need to stay ahead of the game to exonerate himself, Devine is pulled into a parallel investigation by people from his military past, hoping to reveal something highly sinister. Who might have killed Sara Ewes and for what reason?
As Devine digs a little deeper, he realises that someone is targeting him and trying to ensure the police do as well. Trying to gather minute pieces of evidence, Devine forges ahead with some theories of his own, only to find himself tangled in the web of his employer and a powerful man at the top. There’s no doubt that Devine is one step away from disaster, but he will have to work fast ensure he gets the answers he needs to provide a pathway for the truth.
When others begin dying as well, Devine surmises that this is more deadly than first he thought. There is someone out there, trying to silence a select few about something that could cause financial chaos should it leak. Armed with his intuition and some help from roommates he hardly knows, Devine will pull out all the stops to prove his innocence and get to the root of Sara Ewes’ murder. Another winner by Baldacci, sure to impress those who enjoy a good thriller.
One need never worry when David Baldacci is at the helm, as the story always flows with ease. Baldacci’s seemingly endless ideas weave together and provide the reader with something well worth their time. Strong characters and a developing plot keep things on pace as the story crescendos to its climax. I am eager to see if there will be more standalone novels, or if Baldacci might weave Travis Devine into some of his other writing.
Key to a successful story is the narrative that leads the reader along. Baldacci has mastered this and provides a strong foundation for a powerful piece. With characters who are as interconnected as they are individualistic, Baldacci uses them to push the story along with ease, without getting too wrapped up in minutiae. A few plot twists to keep the reader from guessing too much provide great turns for all to enjoy. While I do love the series work that Baldacci has developed, I cannot help but enjoy some of his individual books that provide something refreshing for fans. I am eager to see what’s to come in the next few months.
Kudos, Mr. Baldacci, for another great book. I know those fans will find something in here that they can enjoy.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 10, 2022
Първата ми среща с творчеството на Дейвид Балдачи се състоя през миналата година с „Комарджията“ (която харесах много), после продължи с „Dream Town“ (също я харесах ) и сега с „The 6:20 Man“, от която отново съм с прекрасни впечатления.
Може да се каже, че главният персонаж Travis Devine е една особена смесица от Джак Ричър, Алойшъс Арчър и собствена идентичност. Сюжетът в книгата протича бързо и динамично. Има множество непредвидими и вълнуващи обрати, което за мен е страхотен плюс за книга от трилър жанра и даже е силно определящо дали книгата ще ми хареса или не.
По едно време историята тръгна по една ос, която я смятам за твърде банална и клиширана.
Цитат:
„Where the hell are you, Will? Back in Moscow getting a medal from Putin?“
За щастие обаче, действието не тръгва да се развива по тази ос, а поема в ново и неочаквано направление. Като се оказва, че предишното е било заблуда (брилянтна) от страна на Дейвид Балдачи, ако не беше, книгата щеше да получи твърдо 4.00, но сега ѝ давам 4.55 ⭐
A good soldier never discounted the intervention of well-timed luck.
Redemption, a second shot, a new lease on life.
Maybe this was all of those things.
You’ll never know until you try, soldier.
He sat back, closed his eyes, and let the 6:20 train take him somewhere, one more time.
P.S. Не знам дали ще продължа с някои от по-ранните произведения на Дейвид Балдачи („Едно добро дело“ ще го чета със сигурност), но от тези трите, които прочетох до момента, останах със супер впечатления от този автор.
Изглежда не е случайно, че е толкова популярен, просто човекът може да пише добри и завладяващи трилъри.
Може да се каже, че главният персонаж Travis Devine е една особена смесица от Джак Ричър, Алойшъс Арчър и собствена идентичност. Сюжетът в книгата протича бързо и динамично. Има множество непредвидими и вълнуващи обрати, което за мен е страхотен плюс за книга от трилър жанра и даже е силно определящо дали книгата ще ми хареса или не.
По едно време историята тръгна по една ос, която я смятам за твърде банална и клиширана.
Цитат:
„Where the hell are you, Will? Back in Moscow getting a medal from Putin?“
За щастие обаче, действието не тръгва да се развива по тази ос, а поема в ново и неочаквано направление. Като се оказва, че предишното е било заблуда (брилянтна) от страна на Дейвид Балдачи, ако не беше, книгата щеше да получи твърдо 4.00, но сега ѝ давам 4.55 ⭐
A good soldier never discounted the intervention of well-timed luck.
Redemption, a second shot, a new lease on life.
Maybe this was all of those things.
You’ll never know until you try, soldier.
He sat back, closed his eyes, and let the 6:20 train take him somewhere, one more time.
P.S. Не знам дали ще продължа с някои от по-ранните произведения на Дейвид Балдачи („Едно добро дело“ ще го чета със сигурност), но от тези трите, които прочетох до момента, останах със супер впечатления от този автор.
Изглежда не е случайно, че е толкова популярен, просто човекът може да пише добри и завладяващи трилъри.
July 14, 2022
I am a huge fan of David Baldacci and always eagerly grab his books to read. I felt cheated with this one. It is SO badly written, none of the characters feel real and the purpose of the book seems confused. Many dangling threads were left, the characters were too dumb to ask basic common sense questions and the plot seemed like it was going nowhere. But I persevered only because - David Baldacci so I was hoping for redemption. Then I reached the climax and I was infuriated because it came out of left field completely and seemed SO irrelevant to the rest of the story that I wanted to ask for those hours of my life back. It really feels like he wrote this book because he wanted to buy a new car or something so he just dashed out any crap knowing that his readers will pick it up. I am very disappointed.
January 16, 2023
The Man on the Train
Review of the Grand Central Publishing Kindle eBook edition, released simultaneously with the Grand Central Publishing hardcover (July 12, 2022)
Author Baldacci often writes interesting protagonists. I especially like his cranky detective Amos Decker with his hyperthymesia (total memory recall) & synesthesia (ability to crossover senses e.g. to "feel" a "colour"). But frequently his twists and conspiracies are so over the top that you are left feeling unsatisfied by the end. He is also so prolific that you can't really keep up and you worry that quality will suffer as quantity increases. So I didn't rush to pickup The 6:20 Man when it released last summer. When it was a Kindle Deal of the Day for $2.99 on January 8, 2023, I did grab it though.
This was actually quite good almost right up until the end, when the absurd twist finally appears to provide the letdown. The twist was also pretty much un-guessable on the part of the reader (you could say there was one very slim clue), so there was the added feeling of having the rug pulled out from under you. An Unsatisfactory Ending Alert™ is the result.
Ex-Ranger Travis Devine has left the army under mysterious circumstances, despite having had a successful military career. He now works in a low-level entry position at a high-end Manhattan investment firm. He commutes daily on the 6:20 a.m. train into the city, thus the title of the book. His life begins to unravel when one of the firm's high-earners is found dead in a supply closet one morning, an apparent suicide. Travis had dated the woman in the past (not actually allowed under the firm's code of conduct) and it soon appears that he is being framed for what is quickly determined to have been a murder. His housemates all play supportive roles in attempting to assist him, but they are each perhaps not whom they seem. He has run-ins with various other workers at the firm and other associated businesses. And finally he meets the actual working partner CEO who may be a figurehead for something much more nefarious than investments. Devine has to choose his allies carefully and call upon his close combat skills (there is a recognizable Reacher-vibe to those encounters) to solve it all.
So although the twist was a let-down, I did enjoy the book for the most part. It isn't listed as the first of a series, but I suspect that Travis Devine may become another recurring character for Baldacci.
Review of the Grand Central Publishing Kindle eBook edition, released simultaneously with the Grand Central Publishing hardcover (July 12, 2022)
Author Baldacci often writes interesting protagonists. I especially like his cranky detective Amos Decker with his hyperthymesia (total memory recall) & synesthesia (ability to crossover senses e.g. to "feel" a "colour"). But frequently his twists and conspiracies are so over the top that you are left feeling unsatisfied by the end. He is also so prolific that you can't really keep up and you worry that quality will suffer as quantity increases. So I didn't rush to pickup The 6:20 Man when it released last summer. When it was a Kindle Deal of the Day for $2.99 on January 8, 2023, I did grab it though.
This was actually quite good almost right up until the end, when the absurd twist finally appears to provide the letdown. The twist was also pretty much un-guessable on the part of the reader (you could say there was one very slim clue), so there was the added feeling of having the rug pulled out from under you. An Unsatisfactory Ending Alert™ is the result.
Ex-Ranger Travis Devine has left the army under mysterious circumstances, despite having had a successful military career. He now works in a low-level entry position at a high-end Manhattan investment firm. He commutes daily on the 6:20 a.m. train into the city, thus the title of the book. His life begins to unravel when one of the firm's high-earners is found dead in a supply closet one morning, an apparent suicide. Travis had dated the woman in the past (not actually allowed under the firm's code of conduct) and it soon appears that he is being framed for what is quickly determined to have been a murder. His housemates all play supportive roles in attempting to assist him, but they are each perhaps not whom they seem. He has run-ins with various other workers at the firm and other associated businesses. And finally he meets the actual working partner CEO who may be a figurehead for something much more nefarious than investments. Devine has to choose his allies carefully and call upon his close combat skills (there is a recognizable Reacher-vibe to those encounters) to solve it all.
So although the twist was a let-down, I did enjoy the book for the most part. It isn't listed as the first of a series, but I suspect that Travis Devine may become another recurring character for Baldacci.
June 13, 2022
Hugely enjoyable thriller from the oen of David Baldacci, made for me mainly by the main character, Travis Devine, who it seems we may meet again. Hope so.
It is a mish mash of political and financial thriller with a classic murder mystery embedded in and plenty of action to keep it exciting.
Loved the writing, loved the supporting characters especially the roommates and it was beautifully done from first page to last.
Very good indeed. Recommended.
It is a mish mash of political and financial thriller with a classic murder mystery embedded in and plenty of action to keep it exciting.
Loved the writing, loved the supporting characters especially the roommates and it was beautifully done from first page to last.
Very good indeed. Recommended.
September 9, 2022
I had promised myself that I would never read another book by Baldacci but, weak-willed guy that I am, I was hooked by the high ratings and interesting summary so.... Firstly, let me say that the book was not bad, or pas mal, as is said in France. Neither was it great but I never lost interest in it and it wasn´t as formulaic as Baldacci´s books often are.
Travis has been in and out of the army where he attained the rank of Captain and was as lethal a killing machine as the organization produced. Nonetheless, he left something in which he excelled for the world of business, initially obtaining an MBA and then a position in a big time, work like a dog to try and make partner, investment house. In part, he did this to make his father, who frequently demeaned his army career, proud of him.
Strange things began to happen in the investment house like people turning up dead; people with whom Travis had a connection of some sort. He began to poke around to see what he could learn and he, surprisingly found himself sitting across the table from... well, that´d be too much to give away.
The 6:20 Man had a very interesting and somewhat compelling plot - not the best but certainly much better than mediocre. Most of the characters were interesting and fairly well developed although a few important ones were a bit thin. Baldacci´s writing, if he did, indeed, write the book himself, was straightforward and although not elegant was certainly readable and inoffensive. The twists, however, were a step too far and just not plausible, accounting for the lack of a fourth star.
I may read another Baldacci book but with so many fine writers creating such excellent books, I suspect not.
I can only recommend this book to a true Baldacci fan.
Fini
Travis has been in and out of the army where he attained the rank of Captain and was as lethal a killing machine as the organization produced. Nonetheless, he left something in which he excelled for the world of business, initially obtaining an MBA and then a position in a big time, work like a dog to try and make partner, investment house. In part, he did this to make his father, who frequently demeaned his army career, proud of him.
Strange things began to happen in the investment house like people turning up dead; people with whom Travis had a connection of some sort. He began to poke around to see what he could learn and he, surprisingly found himself sitting across the table from... well, that´d be too much to give away.
The 6:20 Man had a very interesting and somewhat compelling plot - not the best but certainly much better than mediocre. Most of the characters were interesting and fairly well developed although a few important ones were a bit thin. Baldacci´s writing, if he did, indeed, write the book himself, was straightforward and although not elegant was certainly readable and inoffensive. The twists, however, were a step too far and just not plausible, accounting for the lack of a fourth star.
I may read another Baldacci book but with so many fine writers creating such excellent books, I suspect not.
I can only recommend this book to a true Baldacci fan.
Fini
May 20, 2022
Baldacci’s latest thriller, right now a stand-alone but with all the makings of a first novel in a new series, is a blast of excitement that will push you into a nonstop readfest, blowing up any plans you might have of going to bed early. Set in Manhattan’s towering financial district among the movers and shakers of monetary trading, our story takes an ex Army ranger, Jack Reacher like in his fighting ability, and throws him kicking and screaming into a constantly changing investigation into financial fraud, murder, and international intrigue. Conspiracies are big here and are guy is about to find out what happens when you are at the center of a conspiracy and all the evidence points to him as the crazed killer and the wheels of Justice turn inexorably against him. Don’t think you know what’s really going on till you get to the end.
Not everything falls neatly into the believability camp from the hackers at hand to the 6:20 bikini princess to the secret black ops agency and even the bad guy is perhaps a bit too much out of central casting. Nevertheless, the story moved along so well and the reader wants so much to find the answers that it remains a great in-put-downable read.
Not everything falls neatly into the believability camp from the hackers at hand to the 6:20 bikini princess to the secret black ops agency and even the bad guy is perhaps a bit too much out of central casting. Nevertheless, the story moved along so well and the reader wants so much to find the answers that it remains a great in-put-downable read.
July 25, 2022
This was my first Baldacci book and my last!
I’m not sure where to start. The plot holes were enormous. The characters were cardboard cutouts. The ending was a literary dump. The killer’s motivation was just stupid.
This was not a thriller. It was a disjointed mess. Save the money and the time.
I’m not sure where to start. The plot holes were enormous. The characters were cardboard cutouts. The ending was a literary dump. The killer’s motivation was just stupid.
This was not a thriller. It was a disjointed mess. Save the money and the time.
October 1, 2023
The start of yet another series by master action thriller author David Baldacci introduces us to Travis Devine, a former army ranger who, after leaving the army earned his MBA and now works in the cut-throat world of Wall Street high finance. He has more skills than the average economist and just as well because he’s about to test every one learned while serving the nation overseas.
Every day he catches the 6:20 train from his home in Mount Kisco to get to his Wall Street office before all the other probies at his Cowl and Comley job. This morning he receives a strange email informing him that Sara Ewes, a co-worker and former lover, was dead on the 52nd floor of the building. No one else has received the email and, in fact, it turns out the email is untraceable. Who has sent it, why send it to him and, how did they know about Sara’s death which is a murder made to look like a suicide.
From this unlikely scenario, Travis’ life becomes very complicated. His past from his army days comes back to haunt him and he finds himself recruited to run an investigation on Cowl and Comley’s CEO, Brad Cowl. It becomes apparent someone’s trying to pin Sara’s murder on him. More people from in and around the company are suddenly dying.
Once again, David Baldacci proves himself to be very adept at weaving a convincing tale and, in this case, it takes us into the cut-throat world of high finance where billions of dollars are at stake every day. It just happens that one of the economists happens to be well versed in hand to hand combat and has the background to conduct covert-type missions.
The company in question is the perfect environment for fraud, money laundering and, ultimately, murder to take place. Throw in a highly decorated former army marine dealing with guilt issues and we’ve got another fast paced thriller.
There’s all kinds of spanners thrown into the works that manage to create the necessary areas of doubt that ensure we, the readers, are slightly unsure who’s on Travis’ side and who may be working against him. This injection of jeopardy heightens the sense of tension and provides the level of uncertainty necessary to hook you in to keep flipping those pages.
Ultimately, The 6:20 Man is a solid thriller that provides enough character background to serve as a good introduction for the start of yet another fast-paced series. It uses Baldacci’s tried and tested formula of focusing on a protagonist with that something special quality to carry things off.
Every day he catches the 6:20 train from his home in Mount Kisco to get to his Wall Street office before all the other probies at his Cowl and Comley job. This morning he receives a strange email informing him that Sara Ewes, a co-worker and former lover, was dead on the 52nd floor of the building. No one else has received the email and, in fact, it turns out the email is untraceable. Who has sent it, why send it to him and, how did they know about Sara’s death which is a murder made to look like a suicide.
From this unlikely scenario, Travis’ life becomes very complicated. His past from his army days comes back to haunt him and he finds himself recruited to run an investigation on Cowl and Comley’s CEO, Brad Cowl. It becomes apparent someone’s trying to pin Sara’s murder on him. More people from in and around the company are suddenly dying.
Once again, David Baldacci proves himself to be very adept at weaving a convincing tale and, in this case, it takes us into the cut-throat world of high finance where billions of dollars are at stake every day. It just happens that one of the economists happens to be well versed in hand to hand combat and has the background to conduct covert-type missions.
The company in question is the perfect environment for fraud, money laundering and, ultimately, murder to take place. Throw in a highly decorated former army marine dealing with guilt issues and we’ve got another fast paced thriller.
There’s all kinds of spanners thrown into the works that manage to create the necessary areas of doubt that ensure we, the readers, are slightly unsure who’s on Travis’ side and who may be working against him. This injection of jeopardy heightens the sense of tension and provides the level of uncertainty necessary to hook you in to keep flipping those pages.
Ultimately, The 6:20 Man is a solid thriller that provides enough character background to serve as a good introduction for the start of yet another fast-paced series. It uses Baldacci’s tried and tested formula of focusing on a protagonist with that something special quality to carry things off.
November 21, 2023
Hoping this will be the start of a NEW series! TRAVIS DEVINE is utterly DIVINE in Baldacci's latest action thriller, THE 6:20 MAN! A massive fan of the author, I would not miss a book. Travis has been added to my favorite BALDACCI list of leading men. 😎
NYT bestselling author David Baldacci delivers a TIMELY, ACTION-PACKED, COMPLEX, KILLER crime adventure thriller featuring a former soldier-turned-financial analyst who gets pulled deep into the corruption and menace of the financial world of DARK MONEY.
You may think this is a "Girl on the Train," "Rear Window," a Ryan, Reacher, and Bourne action thriller/movie, or a Bernie Madoff Ponzi financial scheme— THINK AGAIN! It is so much more—could be ripped from today's headlines.
Greed, sex, lies, money-laundering, conspiracy, and MURDER.
Former U.S. Army Ranger Travis Devine takes the 6:20 commuter train to work daily. He despises his job at Cowl and Comely, the NY firm where he is an investment analyst. He's one of many "Burners," or interns, who work more than 80 hours weekly for low pay.
Devine wants his father's approval but has always been in the shadow of his highly successful siblings. His father did not want his son to serve his country. Devine has a tormented, dark past and feels he deserves to be punished.
Devine gets up early to work out and is on the 6:20 a.m. train to Manhattan from Mount Kisco daily, where he has a shared townhouse with much younger twentysomething roommates: a law student who recently graduated, a Russian computer hacker (he is so funny/loved the audio) and a woman who runs a successful online dating service.
On the morning train, the route passes some of the country's most expensive and affluent small towns and enclaves of homes. One of those homes is the home or mansion of Cowl, the boss, where the Burners are making him rich.
There is an excellent view of the pool of Cowl's home. All the guys on the train are glued to the windows. The sexy beautiful woman is quite the exhibitionist (or so it appears) taking her morning swim with her little bikini or nothing at all—later naked. Jaws are dropping. She is quite the beauty, but Travis wonders what her story is? Is she a paid girlfriend of Cowls? He has many. She appears unaware anyone is watching.
By the time he gets to the office, he receives a cryptic text. It is anonymous and untraceable. "She is dead." None of his fellow Burners received it. "She" is Sara Ewes, a colleague with whom he had once had sex once, and they dated for a short period. He would like to have a relationship, but she called it off. They kept the dating secret since it was not allowed at the company and grounds for dismissal.
Age 28, with a great career, brilliant, she hanged herself on the 52nd floor from one of the rafters in the building, and the janitor found her. Been there for six years MBA from Columbia. But why? Was it a suicide or murder?
Shortly thereafter, Travis receives a strange visitor. Emerson Campbell Retired Army. He knows why Travis left the Army. He is with the Department of Homeland Security in a joint operation with the Department of Defense. Office of Special projects. 500 operatives.
He wants him to be a PLANT inside the company. Find out what is going on. Money laundering and more. They need proof. This is a way for Travis to redeem himself. He does not have a choice, or they will turn him over to CID. They will send him to USDB" (US Disciplinary Barracks) for an act he had committed while in the Army.
On top of this, someone is setting him up for the murders since he had been dating the one girl that turned up pregnant and had aborted the baby, so he had a motive. Devine is a suspect, but the retired Army general protects him—for a price. Devine must help them unravel the secrets at the company, and if he refuses, he knows what will happen. No choice. Now he has a second job. It was serving his country once more and keeping himself out of prison.
In the undercover investigation, the former Ranger and Army scout knew that was something off about the lovely naked woman in the pool, who turns out to be Michelle. They need to join forces to discover what is going on with Cowl. Will she be the next murder victim?
Next, more bodies turn up dead. Another girl who works there, Jennifer, has been seen having sex with Cowl. Then another girl's parents. The list dead now ranks up to five. These people are getting too close, and they are eliminated.
He turns to his Russian hacker roommate for help and the online dating gal with mad tech skills. A journalist is sneaking around wanting answers, and his boss is getting suspicious. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger he is in.
EVERYONE IS A SUSPECT!!!!
OMG! I loved this book. Baldacci is once again at the "Top of his game." He keeps you guessing to the final twist. Jaw-dropping twists to the end.
This high-powered, fascinating, multi-layered, action-packed crime thriller showcases the many dangers and far-reaching. People you least expect and the collateral damage. You cannot trust anyone! You may be a chess piece in this web of lies, conspiracy, and money laundering. As in this case, it is multi-murders. One by one.
One thing you can be assured—if anyone gets too close and learns too much, they are DEAD and ELIMINATED before you have time to catch your next breath (and covered up).
The audiobook was exceptional! Narrator Zachary Webber delivered an award-winning performance. (My favorite). His role as Will (Russian roommate was superb and funny). Christine Lakin and Mela Lee also had a satisfactory performance for the women characters, but Zachary was the STAR OF THE SHOW.
As David references in this video, over 40 trillion dollars of dark money is out there. What are they doing with it? Buying influence and securing their position. How are they doing it and getting by with it? The 6:20 Man explores the rigged financial world and the fallout.
If you have read the book Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right by Jane Mayer (back in 2016) plus other movies and books, a look at the trillion US dollars stolen from all over the world by white-collar criminals, mostly owners or CEOs of banks and corporations. The money is then laundered through offshore accounts and hidden in Western banks and funds.
From books, movies, news, and political campaigns. The Dark Money is hidden, and there is no accountability or tracing. The big guys control the world, and the government is left in the dark. I loved this book so much, seeing it from the inside out.
Action-packed, get this exceptional new thriller on your TBR list. The first financial one by the prolific author. Hope we see more of Travis Devine soon!
Check out Baldacci's FASCINATING "Behind the Scenes" Video HERE OR on my blog link below. I purchased the e-book, audiobook, and hardcover for my home library. A CLASSIC.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date:
My Rating: 5 Stars ✨✨✨✨✨
Top Books of 2022
July 2022 Must-Read Books
NYT bestselling author David Baldacci delivers a TIMELY, ACTION-PACKED, COMPLEX, KILLER crime adventure thriller featuring a former soldier-turned-financial analyst who gets pulled deep into the corruption and menace of the financial world of DARK MONEY.
You may think this is a "Girl on the Train," "Rear Window," a Ryan, Reacher, and Bourne action thriller/movie, or a Bernie Madoff Ponzi financial scheme— THINK AGAIN! It is so much more—could be ripped from today's headlines.
Greed, sex, lies, money-laundering, conspiracy, and MURDER.
Former U.S. Army Ranger Travis Devine takes the 6:20 commuter train to work daily. He despises his job at Cowl and Comely, the NY firm where he is an investment analyst. He's one of many "Burners," or interns, who work more than 80 hours weekly for low pay.
Devine wants his father's approval but has always been in the shadow of his highly successful siblings. His father did not want his son to serve his country. Devine has a tormented, dark past and feels he deserves to be punished.
Devine gets up early to work out and is on the 6:20 a.m. train to Manhattan from Mount Kisco daily, where he has a shared townhouse with much younger twentysomething roommates: a law student who recently graduated, a Russian computer hacker (he is so funny/loved the audio) and a woman who runs a successful online dating service.
On the morning train, the route passes some of the country's most expensive and affluent small towns and enclaves of homes. One of those homes is the home or mansion of Cowl, the boss, where the Burners are making him rich.
There is an excellent view of the pool of Cowl's home. All the guys on the train are glued to the windows. The sexy beautiful woman is quite the exhibitionist (or so it appears) taking her morning swim with her little bikini or nothing at all—later naked. Jaws are dropping. She is quite the beauty, but Travis wonders what her story is? Is she a paid girlfriend of Cowls? He has many. She appears unaware anyone is watching.
By the time he gets to the office, he receives a cryptic text. It is anonymous and untraceable. "She is dead." None of his fellow Burners received it. "She" is Sara Ewes, a colleague with whom he had once had sex once, and they dated for a short period. He would like to have a relationship, but she called it off. They kept the dating secret since it was not allowed at the company and grounds for dismissal.
Age 28, with a great career, brilliant, she hanged herself on the 52nd floor from one of the rafters in the building, and the janitor found her. Been there for six years MBA from Columbia. But why? Was it a suicide or murder?
Shortly thereafter, Travis receives a strange visitor. Emerson Campbell Retired Army. He knows why Travis left the Army. He is with the Department of Homeland Security in a joint operation with the Department of Defense. Office of Special projects. 500 operatives.
He wants him to be a PLANT inside the company. Find out what is going on. Money laundering and more. They need proof. This is a way for Travis to redeem himself. He does not have a choice, or they will turn him over to CID. They will send him to USDB" (US Disciplinary Barracks) for an act he had committed while in the Army.
On top of this, someone is setting him up for the murders since he had been dating the one girl that turned up pregnant and had aborted the baby, so he had a motive. Devine is a suspect, but the retired Army general protects him—for a price. Devine must help them unravel the secrets at the company, and if he refuses, he knows what will happen. No choice. Now he has a second job. It was serving his country once more and keeping himself out of prison.
In the undercover investigation, the former Ranger and Army scout knew that was something off about the lovely naked woman in the pool, who turns out to be Michelle. They need to join forces to discover what is going on with Cowl. Will she be the next murder victim?
Next, more bodies turn up dead. Another girl who works there, Jennifer, has been seen having sex with Cowl. Then another girl's parents. The list dead now ranks up to five. These people are getting too close, and they are eliminated.
He turns to his Russian hacker roommate for help and the online dating gal with mad tech skills. A journalist is sneaking around wanting answers, and his boss is getting suspicious. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger he is in.
EVERYONE IS A SUSPECT!!!!
OMG! I loved this book. Baldacci is once again at the "Top of his game." He keeps you guessing to the final twist. Jaw-dropping twists to the end.
This high-powered, fascinating, multi-layered, action-packed crime thriller showcases the many dangers and far-reaching. People you least expect and the collateral damage. You cannot trust anyone! You may be a chess piece in this web of lies, conspiracy, and money laundering. As in this case, it is multi-murders. One by one.
One thing you can be assured—if anyone gets too close and learns too much, they are DEAD and ELIMINATED before you have time to catch your next breath (and covered up).
The audiobook was exceptional! Narrator Zachary Webber delivered an award-winning performance. (My favorite). His role as Will (Russian roommate was superb and funny). Christine Lakin and Mela Lee also had a satisfactory performance for the women characters, but Zachary was the STAR OF THE SHOW.
As David references in this video, over 40 trillion dollars of dark money is out there. What are they doing with it? Buying influence and securing their position. How are they doing it and getting by with it? The 6:20 Man explores the rigged financial world and the fallout.
If you have read the book Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right by Jane Mayer (back in 2016) plus other movies and books, a look at the trillion US dollars stolen from all over the world by white-collar criminals, mostly owners or CEOs of banks and corporations. The money is then laundered through offshore accounts and hidden in Western banks and funds.
From books, movies, news, and political campaigns. The Dark Money is hidden, and there is no accountability or tracing. The big guys control the world, and the government is left in the dark. I loved this book so much, seeing it from the inside out.
Action-packed, get this exceptional new thriller on your TBR list. The first financial one by the prolific author. Hope we see more of Travis Devine soon!
Check out Baldacci's FASCINATING "Behind the Scenes" Video HERE OR on my blog link below. I purchased the e-book, audiobook, and hardcover for my home library. A CLASSIC.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date:
My Rating: 5 Stars ✨✨✨✨✨
Top Books of 2022
July 2022 Must-Read Books
October 2, 2022
The protagonist in David Baldacci's latest novel is Travis Devine, an Army veteran with tours of Iraq and Afghanistan under his belt, and now working in an entry-level job as a financial analyst at Cowl and Comely, a prestigious Wall Street investment banking firm. Every day he gets up and takes the 6:20 commuter train to Manhattan gazing out the window at the homes of the wealthy, including that of Brad Cowl. At night, on the ride home, he listens to the financial news on his phone, preparing for the next day in the cutthroat world of finance. Why did he leave the Army, which he loved, and take an entry-level job in finance, which he detests?
Then one day he gets an e-mail that a co-worker in the office building where he works is dead. An apparent suicide. But the e-mail was sent anonymously to his personal account ... not to his work e-mail. Devine had dated Sara Ewes but they had broken off the relationship. Why is someone sending an e-mail about Ewes death to him? And only him?
Then Devine gets a visit from someone who brings up secrets from his past in the Army that will be revealed unless he participates in a clandestine investigation into Cowl and Comely. And Ewes's death is not a suicide. The stakes are high in the dark world of finance and Devine is a reluctant participant.
I was on the fence about this novel. It wasn't very believable but the characters grew on me and I found myself liking Devine as he tried to learn who murdered Sara Ewes and the secrets at Cowl and Comely. Not Baldacci's best but an entertaining story. Will there be a sequel? The ending leaves open that possibility.
Then one day he gets an e-mail that a co-worker in the office building where he works is dead. An apparent suicide. But the e-mail was sent anonymously to his personal account ... not to his work e-mail. Devine had dated Sara Ewes but they had broken off the relationship. Why is someone sending an e-mail about Ewes death to him? And only him?
Then Devine gets a visit from someone who brings up secrets from his past in the Army that will be revealed unless he participates in a clandestine investigation into Cowl and Comely. And Ewes's death is not a suicide. The stakes are high in the dark world of finance and Devine is a reluctant participant.
I was on the fence about this novel. It wasn't very believable but the characters grew on me and I found myself liking Devine as he tried to learn who murdered Sara Ewes and the secrets at Cowl and Comely. Not Baldacci's best but an entertaining story. Will there be a sequel? The ending leaves open that possibility.
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