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The Lookout
After escaping near-death, Kelly Danvers, a famed writer with a dark past retreats to a remote, off-the-grid fire lookout in northern Idaho to finish her novel. But when a freak and hostile snowstorm blows in and a lost forest ranger turns up, shivering, and claiming an EMP has destroyed the power grid, trouble soon follows. As Kelly tries to make sense of the danger and make contact with the outside, she quickly finds herself at odds with the stranger, and fighting for survival.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2019
327 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Jack Hunt
116 books403 followersJack Hunt is the international bestselling author of over seventy thriller novels. He's been ranked #1 in the Amazon charts in multiple thriller, mystery, crime, and science fiction genres. He's also been named a Kindle Unlimited All-Star. He's married with two children. Jack lives on the East coast of North America.
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Website: http://jackhuntbooks.com
Join Jack's spam-free readers list to stay alert to future releases, special offers, and reader only bonus content. The readers group are usually the first to hear about giveaways. http://jackhuntbooks.com/
Jack is best reached at the following places:
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Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/jackhuntauthor/
Website: http://jackhuntbooks.com
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 2, 2020
This had all the pieces but something was missing for me. It is indeed a thriller and it had lots of action and turns that keep on coming until the very end! But I couldn't get over a sense of elementary in the overall result.
I completely agree with a lot of other reviews, this would be a great movie!
I think that's one interesting way of putting it actually. In a movie you have 2 hours to get the plot, know the characters, get attached and get through the ending. With a book you have slightly longer. This read more like the movie version. Certainly character development was done "movie quick", if at all.
Even in thrillers it doesn't have to be quite as deep for obvious reasons, but you need to have some substance of characters for the audience to connect with or quite frankly to care about the plot. Here, we got a very brief back story, one that I had a hard time connecting its relevance to the main story. So there was an attempt to make that connection to the main character, it just fell flat.
Ultimately something was missing for me, along with amateurish inner dialogue, and that failed to make this a great read. Though I believe many readers will not be held back by my misgivings, and will enjoy this just as well!
I completely agree with a lot of other reviews, this would be a great movie!
I think that's one interesting way of putting it actually. In a movie you have 2 hours to get the plot, know the characters, get attached and get through the ending. With a book you have slightly longer. This read more like the movie version. Certainly character development was done "movie quick", if at all.
Even in thrillers it doesn't have to be quite as deep for obvious reasons, but you need to have some substance of characters for the audience to connect with or quite frankly to care about the plot. Here, we got a very brief back story, one that I had a hard time connecting its relevance to the main story. So there was an attempt to make that connection to the main character, it just fell flat.
Ultimately something was missing for me, along with amateurish inner dialogue, and that failed to make this a great read. Though I believe many readers will not be held back by my misgivings, and will enjoy this just as well!
December 31, 2025
3.75 ⭐️The book started out kind of slow but then got very fast paced. I was sad with how may lives were lost but overall I really enjoyed the book. And I liked that I got to read a book that isn’t as popular but I think it it’s a great thriller read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2020
In Jack Hunt's standalone thriller "The Lookout", you follow Kelly Danvers as she recovers from recently suffering immeasurable domestic abuse from her now ex-husband a few short weeks before. And is now trying to get her life back on track by writing her next novel within the peaceful landscape of her off-the-grid lookout property. But when a stranger comes knocking for help with a claim of an EMP destroyed the power grid, all her plans become gripped with fear as the stranger is not who he claims to be. Leading to a cat and mouse pursuit between Kelly and this stranger that will have you at the edge of anticipation.
Jack Hunt is able to capture the same amount of small details that he uses in all his other writings to truly engross you into the story. And he fully captures you in the first couple minutes of reading as you immediately get right in the action in a flashback that makes you instantly root for the MC and her fight for survival. Then from then on, he does a great job building up the plot with lots of background about the different characters and situations. Until reaching a point where the action starts, and the writing becomes a heart-pumping tale of survival for the MC as she fights to survive against a terrifying stranger intent on tracking her down.
One thing that I quite liked about this story was he didn't put too much emphasis on the EMP part of the story but instead put his emphasis onto the terror that the characters felt and the thrill of their survival. Which really helped with distinguishing this novel away from his usual books that deal with EMPs by putting the focus onto the different genre that the author was going for.
Jack Hunt is able to capture the same amount of small details that he uses in all his other writings to truly engross you into the story. And he fully captures you in the first couple minutes of reading as you immediately get right in the action in a flashback that makes you instantly root for the MC and her fight for survival. Then from then on, he does a great job building up the plot with lots of background about the different characters and situations. Until reaching a point where the action starts, and the writing becomes a heart-pumping tale of survival for the MC as she fights to survive against a terrifying stranger intent on tracking her down.
One thing that I quite liked about this story was he didn't put too much emphasis on the EMP part of the story but instead put his emphasis onto the terror that the characters felt and the thrill of their survival. Which really helped with distinguishing this novel away from his usual books that deal with EMPs by putting the focus onto the different genre that the author was going for.
February 29, 2020
Jack never fails to please
This engrossing tale, although not the normal genre I've followed this author for, I've been unable to put it down since starting to read it last night. His understanding of the feeling and mindset of an abused wife is gripping and I found myself engrossed in Kelly's tale. On one hand it gives one a feeling of relief, as in "There But for The Grace of God " and on the other hand, heart-pounding fear for the next twist. A departure from the post-apocalyptic fiction I first was quite excited to read from this author, this suspenseful novel kept me engrossed, excited, and fully engaged from beginning to end.
This engrossing tale, although not the normal genre I've followed this author for, I've been unable to put it down since starting to read it last night. His understanding of the feeling and mindset of an abused wife is gripping and I found myself engrossed in Kelly's tale. On one hand it gives one a feeling of relief, as in "There But for The Grace of God " and on the other hand, heart-pounding fear for the next twist. A departure from the post-apocalyptic fiction I first was quite excited to read from this author, this suspenseful novel kept me engrossed, excited, and fully engaged from beginning to end.
January 9, 2025
This was my first time reading something thriller and I was not disappointed. In the Lookout, Jack Hunt has a great way of describing his characters emotions. This book is filled of twists, some that you can see coming, and others that you can’t.
Character emotion and though-processing mixed with some really intense action sequences kept me pretty well hooked in the Lookout that I read it in two nights.
The only semi-negative aspect of the Lookout is that it is quite short. I would have liked to have seen some more of the protagonist’s past prior to the experiences in the book.
I also think that this would make a great movie!
Character emotion and though-processing mixed with some really intense action sequences kept me pretty well hooked in the Lookout that I read it in two nights.
The only semi-negative aspect of the Lookout is that it is quite short. I would have liked to have seen some more of the protagonist’s past prior to the experiences in the book.
I also think that this would make a great movie!
September 9, 2021
The Lookout was a good read by Jack Hunt. Kelly Danvers escapes a near-death experience. She is a famed writer that takes a retreat to a remote oof the grid lookout in northern Idaho running from her past. She is hoping to take this time to finish her novel. A bad freak snowstorm brings in a lost forest ranger, shivering with some outlandish claims. Unfortunately trouble quickly follows and she finds herself fighting for survival. I enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read more by the author.
January 24, 2020
Never a dull moment
Mr Hunt I have read a handful, some purchased some unlimited, you Always capture my interest. I love the ability you have to pay a story out in the first two chapters, and hook me in as you open up about the characters. The Lookout is gripping, I read through out the day and finished it the next morning. Kelly is a very relatable women. Her PTSD tendency is very understandable , highly recommend this book, one that I will revisit in the future .
Mr Hunt I have read a handful, some purchased some unlimited, you Always capture my interest. I love the ability you have to pay a story out in the first two chapters, and hook me in as you open up about the characters. The Lookout is gripping, I read through out the day and finished it the next morning. Kelly is a very relatable women. Her PTSD tendency is very understandable , highly recommend this book, one that I will revisit in the future .
February 17, 2020
Thrilling Story
This book was impossible to put down. The story of a successful author, was Kelly starting herife over again after horrifying domestic abuse by her police officer husband. A storm sets in and with the snow comes a visitor and a chilling tale of how madness and revenge can be a battle to stay alive. A chilling tale but very well written and impossible to stop reading!
This book was impossible to put down. The story of a successful author, was Kelly starting herife over again after horrifying domestic abuse by her police officer husband. A storm sets in and with the snow comes a visitor and a chilling tale of how madness and revenge can be a battle to stay alive. A chilling tale but very well written and impossible to stop reading!
April 22, 2020
It's A Page Turner!!!
I am consistently amazed by Jack Hunt's books. I think he can write exceptional stories in ANY genre. I've been a fan for years and have read many many of his books and there has never been any to disappoint. This story was so intense but immensely satisfying to read. Thanks for another few hours of enjoyment Mr. Hunt, I will never hesitate to read any story of yours I can get my hands on.
I am consistently amazed by Jack Hunt's books. I think he can write exceptional stories in ANY genre. I've been a fan for years and have read many many of his books and there has never been any to disappoint. This story was so intense but immensely satisfying to read. Thanks for another few hours of enjoyment Mr. Hunt, I will never hesitate to read any story of yours I can get my hands on.
May 12, 2020
Not a favorite of mine
This book was not what I thought it would be. Thinking it was a post-apocalypse novel by its description, and one of the characters saying to another that an EMP had happened, it turns out not to be one. The plot was very weird, and characters was quickly killed off in unrealistic ways. I've read other Jack Hunt novels, and honestly done have been good, some not so good, but this was the worst. I'll probably give up on this author.
This book was not what I thought it would be. Thinking it was a post-apocalypse novel by its description, and one of the characters saying to another that an EMP had happened, it turns out not to be one. The plot was very weird, and characters was quickly killed off in unrealistic ways. I've read other Jack Hunt novels, and honestly done have been good, some not so good, but this was the worst. I'll probably give up on this author.
January 4, 2021
The Action is Relentless
Right from the start the action is non-stop. It is hard to put yourself in Kelly's shoes. First, you kind of envy the Lookout. Then the very things you envy are what might kill her. The secluded, peaceful escape turns into the remote, dangerous trap. Not to mention it is perfect for someone wanting to commit murder. I found this book a hypertensively entertaining read. I blew thru it in a couple of days.
Right from the start the action is non-stop. It is hard to put yourself in Kelly's shoes. First, you kind of envy the Lookout. Then the very things you envy are what might kill her. The secluded, peaceful escape turns into the remote, dangerous trap. Not to mention it is perfect for someone wanting to commit murder. I found this book a hypertensively entertaining read. I blew thru it in a couple of days.
March 26, 2021
Chilling and suspenseful
I started reading this book because I've always been interested in these "lookouts." And I will probably be doing more research about them because of this story. I read through the book within three or four hours. Iwas it first a little confused thinking that I had started in the middle of the book. It's just full of action from the very beginning. You'll be hooked!
I started reading this book because I've always been interested in these "lookouts." And I will probably be doing more research about them because of this story. I read through the book within three or four hours. Iwas it first a little confused thinking that I had started in the middle of the book. It's just full of action from the very beginning. You'll be hooked!
September 14, 2021
I really enjoyed this story. At first I thought it was a post apocalyptic story and was happy that it turned out to be something very different. I agree some of the characters were killed in unrealistic ways, but I still enjoyed the overall story. Nice twist ending too. Action filled. Goes to show, you never really know who someone is and what they are about. Don't want to give any spoilers, so just leaving my review as it stands.
January 7, 2020
Very good
I enjoyed this book very much. It is interesting and kept me turning page after page with excitement to find out what happens next. Kelly is a successful author and retreats to her lookout cabin in the forest so she can on with her new book. A sudden snow storm and forest ranger keep her from writing. Expect surprises and twists.
I enjoyed this book very much. It is interesting and kept me turning page after page with excitement to find out what happens next. Kelly is a successful author and retreats to her lookout cabin in the forest so she can on with her new book. A sudden snow storm and forest ranger keep her from writing. Expect surprises and twists.
January 22, 2020
Different
Not what I expected from Mr. Hunt, and I love his books. This was more a psychological thriller. Excellent adventure and even though not post apocalyptic fiction, still was incredible and the characters were very intense. Makes me wonder if he ever experienced a "fan" like Jarod.
Not what I expected from Mr. Hunt, and I love his books. This was more a psychological thriller. Excellent adventure and even though not post apocalyptic fiction, still was incredible and the characters were very intense. Makes me wonder if he ever experienced a "fan" like Jarod.
February 22, 2020
I love this author and have read many of his books. He is one of my favorite. But this story was just not believable enough. One abusive relationship turns into such a weird story.... just not at all like his typical stuff. Disappointed. But hey cant win them all! Still will read his stuff, but this just didn’t hit the mark like the others.
July 22, 2020
audible:Wow!This was a terrific book!It kept my attention from beginning to the end.An author,who has an abusive cop husband,goes to her cabin for some r and r.What she gets is a whol lot of death and destruction. Excellent narration by Miles Meili. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.'
April 21, 2025
One of Mr. Hunt's best! It was riveting! It was like watching a horror movie, but even better due to the fact the reader can imagine the scenes without being spoon fed them visibly. I didn't think it would be possible to have a good ending, but he managed to pull it off. I haven't read any of his books that I've been disappointed with.
December 28, 2019
This is on gripping story that grabs you. You can see inside of psychotic personality behavior, schizophrenic personality behavior. Paranoias are also possible within the boundaries laid here, as Kelly may or may not be? What about Cole - what is he, the wife beater! 5
January 6, 2020
Outstanding!
I read this in one evening. This author knows how to spin a tale and I couldn't put it down. This story is so fast and exciting, you will love it and this is an honest review not coerced. You will not regret reading this novel! I
I read this in one evening. This author knows how to spin a tale and I couldn't put it down. This story is so fast and exciting, you will love it and this is an honest review not coerced. You will not regret reading this novel! I
January 7, 2020
Exhilarating thriller
Had to finish it before bedtime or I knew I wouldn’t have been able to sleep. Very well written, it draws you in and makes you feel as though you are there. I haven’t had a thriller put me on edge like this in a long time. Sure do recommend it!
Had to finish it before bedtime or I knew I wouldn’t have been able to sleep. Very well written, it draws you in and makes you feel as though you are there. I haven’t had a thriller put me on edge like this in a long time. Sure do recommend it!
January 10, 2020
Downloaded by Accident
I downloaded this book by Accident thinking it was the type I usually like to read but this was the best thing to land in my lap! Had a GREAT time reading this.
Thanks it made my day!
I downloaded this book by Accident thinking it was the type I usually like to read but this was the best thing to land in my lap! Had a GREAT time reading this.
Thanks it made my day!
January 15, 2020
Great story
I feel like this was the author's best work so far. As much as I enjoy the TEOTWAWKI stories they were getting a bit predictable. This was a pleasant departure that was more literary and quite enjoyable.
I feel like this was the author's best work so far. As much as I enjoy the TEOTWAWKI stories they were getting a bit predictable. This was a pleasant departure that was more literary and quite enjoyable.
February 27, 2021
Well written. Just didn't like the story.
The book was well written. Very good storytelling but this story missed the mark for me. It was not what I was expecting. I thought I was reading an Emp survival story, to me it felt like a bloody slasher novel.
The book was well written. Very good storytelling but this story missed the mark for me. It was not what I was expecting. I thought I was reading an Emp survival story, to me it felt like a bloody slasher novel.
November 28, 2021
Under par
I liked the beginning of the book, but as it went on, I found it cluttered, focused on the violence while losing his usual cohesiveness to the story.
I love his books, this was tedious and certainly not his usual .
I liked the beginning of the book, but as it went on, I found it cluttered, focused on the violence while losing his usual cohesiveness to the story.
I love his books, this was tedious and certainly not his usual .
March 21, 2024
Hair raising, keep you on the edge of your seat suspense/survival-type thriller. Several things I didnt see coming in this one. I kept thinking about this book between times I could pick it up again. A real nail biter.
September 24, 2024
5✨
This is my dads book so IM definitely a little biased but as a fellow reader I definitely found myself forgetting that and getting so hooked into the final 60 percent that I binge read it in 2 hours. THRILLING FOR SURE.
This is my dads book so IM definitely a little biased but as a fellow reader I definitely found myself forgetting that and getting so hooked into the final 60 percent that I binge read it in 2 hours. THRILLING FOR SURE.
October 25, 2024
The book itself was written ok. I think it’s mostly ‘not my genre’. I appreciate being able to find pieces throughout the book for the resolution and while it didn’t come out of nowhere, there weren’t really any clues before the reveal.
December 17, 2024
Mystery and suspense at its finest.
The author has written a book with some much suspense, mystery and action that it put on that thrilling and scary journey just like Kelley. Very enjoyable redeeming.
The author has written a book with some much suspense, mystery and action that it put on that thrilling and scary journey just like Kelley. Very enjoyable redeeming.
December 29, 2019
5 stars
Another edge of your seat thriller by Jack Hunt.kept me wondering until the end. Book had a good plot, characters and dialogue.
Another edge of your seat thriller by Jack Hunt.kept me wondering until the end. Book had a good plot, characters and dialogue.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews