If you're looking for a book that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go, 'At All Costs' by John Gilstrap is it. The plot is intense, fast-moving, and complex—so much so that I found myself backtracking a few times to make sure I fully grasped every twist. The Donovans' fight to protect their family while unraveling a deep conspiracy had me hooked from start to finish.
What sets this book apart is its believable characters and well-researched scenarios. Even the supporting cast feels fleshed out, and the emotional depth of the pubescent son added a relatable layer to the high-stakes drama. Sure, there are moments where you have to suspend disbelief (like the non-human skeleton subplot), but the urgency and action make it easy to overlook.
The pacing is relentless—I literally couldn't put it down. By the end, I felt emotionally drained but thoroughly satisfied. If you're new to Gilstrap, this is a fantastic introduction. I've already bought two more of his books and plan to dive into his Jonathan Graves series next.
Minor gripes? The first half drags slightly compared to the breakneck second half, and some loose ends could've been tied up better. But these are small quibbles in an otherwise stellar thriller. Highly recommended for fans of action-packed, character-driven suspense!