The Midnight Watch

When someone hacks into the Smithsonian computer system, Sigma’s chief intelligence analyst Jason Carter quickly shuts it down, but not before a hefty number of files are grabbed. Jason discovers that the target was a Smithsonian research project called “Ancient DNA” and the files belong to Dr.Sara Gutierrez. While notifying Sara of the breach, Jason realizes that she is in danger. Director Crowe sends Jason and Joe Kowalski, his only immediately available agents, to her rescue.

I love Joe, so any time he makes an appearance, I’m thrilled, even if Painter isn’t. And who wouldn’t want to pet a tiger, if the opportunity arose? I’ve only pet and played with cougars, wolves, and coyotes, so I wouldn’t turn that chance down. This is a setup for the next book in the series, so Rollins has provided a fast rescue and some immediate danger, but no answers as yet. And perhaps a greater appreciation for Kowalski by Painter! 4 out of 5.

James Rollins never disappoints, except the story was entirely too short … which is, I guess, why it’s called a short story. James Rollins books always end too soon, in my opinion. I read it on the plane on my way to Washington, D.C. and it seriously was not long enough. The Midnight Watch is no different.

It’s the Chinese hackers … of course. China spend all its time hacking into American interests. But this time, they hacked into a scientists ancient DNA archive. With Sigma Force’s chief intelligence analyst, Joe Kowalski goes to rescue the scientist and find out what the Chinese were after, and why. Dr. Sara Gutierrez was working with ancient DNA studying genetic variability in species over time. Thrown in a cranky Siberian White Tiger and you have all the makings of a James Rollins novel.

We never did find out why the Chinese wanted that research, but there is a surprise at the end that should perk you up.

James Rollins gets four stars for this short story … again, it just wasn’t long enough. I’m not a fan of short stories, and I never have been, but I’ll read anything by James Rollins. He’s one of my favorite authors, bar none.

Way too short for $.99. In theory, for that price, I should be reading close to 10% of a Rollins novel. It felt more like 1%. I was shocked how short this story was. This should be a free short story with purchase of another book. I have purchased and enjoyed all of James Rollins’ other books, but this was a waste of money. The story was OK but it was over as soon as it started. Quick summary for Rollins fans? Kowalski gets wrapped up in a case of his own, and a mystery with the Chinese stealing DNA data. As soon as the story starts to get good and additional characters are introduced, it ends. Hopefully I saved you a buck.

A fast paced novella that gives us additional information about Joe Kowalski. This one has a bit of everything you can imagine; a rescue of a researcher, computer hacking by unknowns, car chase through the streets of Washington DC, major gun shootout, a bit of science with Ancient DNA research. Yep, this 5 star Novella has it ALL! Well done Mr James Rollins! NOW, we want more

It was a pleasure to see Kowalsky “promoted” to a key character, since his insertion on James’ world during the Ice Hunt novel where Kowalsky had a felt participation, before he even joined Sigma Force, he kind of became a side character at Sigma. After The Midnight Watch, a prequel of The Bone Labyrinth it is totally different, he made his mark and will be more active, he is funny as hell. The prequel is short but full of action and very much Kowalsky type…explosion and improvisation. Well done James.

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