Wow! Gregg Hurwitz’s Antihero is a must-read for 2026, delivering the latest adrenaline-fueled installment in the electrifying Orphan X series. This can’t-put-it-down thriller throws Evan Smoak into his most morally complex mission yet. Following the devastating events of Nemesis, Evan is still reeling emotionally and physically, a state that makes his new assignment all the more challenging.
The Nowhere Man receives a pleading call from the powerful and erratic Luke Devine to assist a young woman who was kidnapped and assaulted. The victim, however, has a single, non-negotiable condition for her rescue: Evan must show mercy and refrain from killing her attackers. This request directly clashes with Evan’s established—and lethal—methods, forcing Orphan X to find a new way to deliver justice without resorting to his typical brand of vengeance.
While Antihero provides the high-octane action fans of this series have come to expect, Hurwitz skillfully delves deep into Evan’s psyche, exploring his grief, anger, and the struggle to maintain his humanity. The plot stretches Evan's moral compass, pushing him to the brink as he navigates a world of both extreme wealth and grinding poverty, all while a sense of self-doubt threatens his legendary efficiency. I was also delighted that fan favorites Joey and Candy—aka Orphan V—are deeply involved in the storyline.
Fans will find everything they’ve come to love: brilliant action sequences, mind-boggling tech, and Hurwitz’s signature clever dialogue. Yet, Antihero also serves as a thought-provoking meditation on the meaning of justice, mercy, and what it truly takes to be a hero. By forcing Evan to confront his own principles and the possibility of a different kind of justice, Hurwitz has achieved a standout entry that is both incredibly satisfying and emotionally impactful. Antihero is a testament to Hurwitz’s skill as a writer, delivering a book that not only entertains but also will leave a lasting impression on you. I bet you can’t wait for 2026 now!
Follow Steve on Twitter or Instagram or contact him via the site.
Purchase Antihero
(Note: most indie bookstores can fulfill an order as quickly as larger retailers. Please consider contacting them for your next purchase.)
Barrington Books
Chapter 2 Books
Murder By The Book
Once Upon A Crime
The Book Dragon
The Poisoned Pen
