Out of the Dark Audiobook Review

What it's about

When darkness closes in, Evan Smoak is your last, best hope, but in Gregg Hurwitz’s Out of the Dark, that hope is tested like never before. The premise picks up with Smoak, formerly known as Orphan X, having broken away from the shadowy Orphan Program to become the Nowhere Man. In this new identity, he uses the lethal skills honed during his childhood training to assist the truly desperate when no other options exist. However, his attempt to live a quiet life of vigilantism is short-lived, as his past aggressively catches up to him, forcing him back into the crosshairs of the very organization he fled.

The catalyst for this new conflict is a ruthless campaign orchestrated by someone at the highest level of government. This unnamed figure is systematically eliminating every trace of the Orphan Program by murdering all remaining Orphans and their trainers. The violence strikes close to home when Evan’s mentor, the only father figure he has ever known, is killed. Rather than retreat further into the shadows, Evan decides to strike back against the architect of his traumatic upbringing: the man who started the Program and is now the most heavily guarded person in the world, the President of the United States.

The stakes escalate rapidly as President Bennett anticipates Orphan X’s move. Using his own arsenal of weapons and resources, Bennett launches a counter-attack, activating the first recruit of the Program, known as Orphan A. This creates a terrifying dynamic where Evan must simultaneously navigate the impenetrable layers of security surrounding the President while defending himself against the deadliest opponent he has ever faced. The narrative sets up a high-stakes confrontation described as "Orphan vs. Orphan," with the future of the country, and potentially the world, hanging in the balance.

Why the audiobook

As an instant New York Times bestseller and a title praised by critics as "one of the best thrillers of the year" and a "shocking stunner," this book promises a high-energy listening experience. Narrated by Scott Brick, the audiobook format is particularly well-suited for this genre, as Brick’s voice can effectively convey the tension, urgency, and cold precision inherent in Smoak’s world. For listeners who enjoy fast-paced narratives where every second counts, having the story read aloud can enhance the feeling of being on a relentless chase through the political and physical landscapes of the plot.

Who it's for

This audiobook is ideal for fans of intense political thrillers and action-packed espionage stories who enjoy complex protagonists with morally gray backgrounds. Listeners who appreciate the Orphan X series will find this installment a compelling continuation of Evan Smoak’s journey. However, it may not be the right choice for those who prefer slow-burn mysteries, character-driven literary fiction, or stories with happy, resolved endings. If you are looking for a lighthearted escape or a narrative that avoids high-octane violence and government conspiracies, this title might feel too heavy or relentless.

The verdict

Out of the Dark delivers on the promise of being "the perfect thriller," offering a gripping setup where personal vendetta meets global catastrophe. With Robert Crais calling it a "shocking stunner" and the Associated Press highlighting its place among the year's best, this audiobook is a strong candidate for your next Audible credit. It combines the familiar appeal of the Orphan X series with a uniquely dangerous antagonist in the form of the U.S. President, ensuring that the tension remains high from start to finish.