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Orphan X #10.5
The Code
In the latest short story from bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz, discover the teenage missions of Orphan X.
Before he was the feared black ops government assassin Orphan X, operating in the shadows and spoken about in whispers, Evan Smoak was a teenager, undergoing the most rigorous of training. At 17, Evan is sent off by his handler, ex-CIA station agent Jack Johns, to take the most intense U.S. military training course. But that is only part of the challenge before him - Evan has to get there and back, safely and quietly, maintaining operational security. And along the way, facing unexpected challenges, Evan must use everything he's learned since the day he was taken from the foster home in East Baltimore, lessons that Jack Johns has drilled into him, laws of life and death that are to become The Code.
Before he was the feared black ops government assassin Orphan X, operating in the shadows and spoken about in whispers, Evan Smoak was a teenager, undergoing the most rigorous of training. At 17, Evan is sent off by his handler, ex-CIA station agent Jack Johns, to take the most intense U.S. military training course. But that is only part of the challenge before him - Evan has to get there and back, safely and quietly, maintaining operational security. And along the way, facing unexpected challenges, Evan must use everything he's learned since the day he was taken from the foster home in East Baltimore, lessons that Jack Johns has drilled into him, laws of life and death that are to become The Code.
64 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2025
138 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Gregg Hurwitz
316 books6,720 followersGregg Hurwitz is the critically acclaimed, New York Times and internationally bestselling author of 20 novels, including OUT OF THE DARK (2019). His novels have been shortlisted for numerous literary awards, graced top ten lists, and have been published in 30 languages.
He is also a New York Times Bestselling comic book writer, having penned stories for Marvel (Wolverine, Punisher) and DC (Batman, Penguin). Additionally, he’s written screenplays for or sold spec scripts to many of the major studios, and written, developed, and produced television for various networks. Gregg resides in Los Angeles.
He is also a New York Times Bestselling comic book writer, having penned stories for Marvel (Wolverine, Punisher) and DC (Batman, Penguin). Additionally, he’s written screenplays for or sold spec scripts to many of the major studios, and written, developed, and produced television for various networks. Gregg resides in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 31, 2025
The making of an Orphan… ❌
Have you ever been curious about the training both physical and mental that went into creating one of the most lethal, yet grounded operatives?
Gregg Hurwitz gives up a peak into Evan Smoak’s (A.K.A.Orphan ❌) background. What did the over-the-top intensive training involve? What was his support system during this grueling time? Did he in fact even have one as the term orphan would imply?
This is a super-fast flying short story that you will devour in moments.
Think of it as a teaser to prepare for the latest full length installment to one of the most popular and loved series.
I’m ready…are you?
✍️ Gregg Hurwitz
⏳ 67 pages
🗓️ September 2nd 2025
💭 All things Orphan ❌
📈 5/5
👉 Novella, thriller, series #10.5
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
Have you ever been curious about the training both physical and mental that went into creating one of the most lethal, yet grounded operatives?
Gregg Hurwitz gives up a peak into Evan Smoak’s (A.K.A.Orphan ❌) background. What did the over-the-top intensive training involve? What was his support system during this grueling time? Did he in fact even have one as the term orphan would imply?
This is a super-fast flying short story that you will devour in moments.
Think of it as a teaser to prepare for the latest full length installment to one of the most popular and loved series.
I’m ready…are you?
✍️ Gregg Hurwitz
⏳ 67 pages
🗓️ September 2nd 2025
💭 All things Orphan ❌
📈 5/5
👉 Novella, thriller, series #10.5
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
September 4, 2025
The Crucible
Evan Smoake was once just a young man from the orphanage being molded for a purpose. Jack Johns, his handler and father figure is there to be certain Evan stays human with all his harsh training.
This is the story of how some of that training went, and how he became… X.
Evan Smoake was once just a young man from the orphanage being molded for a purpose. Jack Johns, his handler and father figure is there to be certain Evan stays human with all his harsh training.
This is the story of how some of that training went, and how he became… X.
September 4, 2025
This little hit of Orphan X lore was like a ristretto shot straight to the veins. Short, sharp, gone too fast, and now I’m just staring at the empty cup like, “That’s it?!” Hurwitz even dangled a sneak peek of the next book and now I’m feral, pacing around my kitchen like Joey off her meds. Evan’s back, then gone again, and I’m left counting the days until I can mainline the next full novel.
September 3, 2025
I absolutely love the world of Orphan X and getting these short stories are always full of little insights to Orphan's story. In ‘The Code’ we get to see Evan as a teenager, 17 and going through a very intense training with his handler Jack. There are several scenes that are shocking to see a 17 year old go through.
The narrator, Scott Brick is phenomenal. His voice is perfect for Evan. The tones, and inflections used are spot on for me. The emotions that Evan feels throughout the book feel real and raw with Brick’s narration.
See how Evan handles the grueling training and lives by the code we’ve come to know so well. An addicting short story that will leave you wanting more.
A very special thanks to Kaye Publicity + Macmillan Audio for the gifted audiobook.
Favorite quote:
“You have to know it. Why? So you’ll know what to do when it matters, you have to carry it. For everyone who can’t. Like a curse…”
The narrator, Scott Brick is phenomenal. His voice is perfect for Evan. The tones, and inflections used are spot on for me. The emotions that Evan feels throughout the book feel real and raw with Brick’s narration.
See how Evan handles the grueling training and lives by the code we’ve come to know so well. An addicting short story that will leave you wanting more.
A very special thanks to Kaye Publicity + Macmillan Audio for the gifted audiobook.
Favorite quote:
“You have to know it. Why? So you’ll know what to do when it matters, you have to carry it. For everyone who can’t. Like a curse…”
September 3, 2025
Man I love this series.
I absolutely LOVE being able to drop back into this world - even if we are going back in the past to when Evan was 17 years old. Even if it hurts my heart.
This is a very short story about a couple of days in the life of our favorite Orphan X during his teenage years, as he is undergoing the unbelievably awful treatment that they called training. Yes, I know that it is that training that has kept him alive for all this time and that eventually made him what he is today but man oh man is it hard to hear.
So, as much as I loved getting a glimpse of teenage Evan, I also remembered being so angry at Jack in those early books. Mr. Hurwitz is truly a genius to make me FEEL so much for a character that does not exist in real life. The mom in me wants to tell him that it is all going to be okay, while at the same time I know it is only a book. Crazy, right?
I absolutely LOVE being able to drop back into this world - even if we are going back in the past to when Evan was 17 years old. Even if it hurts my heart.
This is a very short story about a couple of days in the life of our favorite Orphan X during his teenage years, as he is undergoing the unbelievably awful treatment that they called training. Yes, I know that it is that training that has kept him alive for all this time and that eventually made him what he is today but man oh man is it hard to hear.
So, as much as I loved getting a glimpse of teenage Evan, I also remembered being so angry at Jack in those early books. Mr. Hurwitz is truly a genius to make me FEEL so much for a character that does not exist in real life. The mom in me wants to tell him that it is all going to be okay, while at the same time I know it is only a book. Crazy, right?
September 2, 2025
Bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz triumphantly returns to his acclaimed Orphan X series, THE CODE.
This action-packed and insightful prequel short story delves into the formative years of Evan Smoak. Set against a backdrop of intense training and self-discovery, this gripping tale unveils the intricate development of Evan's moral compass at the pivotal age of seventeen.
Filled with the same heart-pounding action and intricate plotting that readers have come to expect from Hurwitz, this short story not only captivates with its thrilling narrative but also includes an exciting sneak peek of the highly anticipated forthcoming novel, Antihero set to release on February 10, 2026. Prepare to dive deep into Evan's world like never before!
About...
THE CODE provides a fascinating backstory, focusing on Evan's journey and his challenging teenage training, offering insights into his early life as an orphan and the intense lessons he learned from his handler, Jack Johns.
We get a glimpse into the training of the Orphan Program. Foster kids have a particular advantage, tending to be desperate and pliable. Should they die in action, get taken hostage, or wind up murdered, there is no one to miss or mourn them.
They are given no more information than that which they require to follow orders; if they are tortured, they have nothing useful to reveal.
The Orphans are raised in silos separate from one another and the rest of humanity and trained in isolation—no friends, no teammates, no backup. When they are ready to deploy, they operate in areas the US government cannot be and do things the US government cannot do. Technically, they do not exist.
Every Orphan is overseen by handler Jack Johns, a former CIA station chief who yanked him out of East Baltimore's Pride House Group Home at the age of twelve, a semi-abduction Evan was happy to yield to, given the dismal future he was facing.
Jack was tough and the only person who ever treated Evan as if he had any worth. He had become like a father to Evan, reminding him, "The hard part isn't turning you into a killer. The hard part is keeping you human."
My reflections…
In THE CODE, readers are invited to delve into the intriguing origins of the "Code" that shapes Evan's choices, revealing the principles he absorbed throughout his formative years. This foundational set of beliefs ultimately becomes the cornerstone of his identity as the enigmatic "Nowhere Man."
A huge fan of the series since Book #1, it was exciting to learn about the early years. True to the thrilling style of the Orphan X series, the narrative maintains a relentless pace, blending heart-pounding action with profound character insights. This makes it an ideal gateway for both long-time fans and newcomers, allowing everyone to grasp the essence of Evan’s journey.
Rich with emotion and thought-provoking moments, this captivating short story masterfully explores Evan's youth, laying bare the roots of his character while simultaneously offering a glimpse into Hurwitz's latest Orphan X #11 installment, ANTIHERO. It’s a compelling exploration that deepens our understanding of Evan and the intricate world he inhabits.
Special thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Netgalley for providing a digital advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. I look forward to listening to the audiobook narrated by the fabulous Scott Brick!
blog review posted at
JudithDCollins
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Sep 02, 2025
Sep Newsletter
Sep 2025 Must-Read Books
This action-packed and insightful prequel short story delves into the formative years of Evan Smoak. Set against a backdrop of intense training and self-discovery, this gripping tale unveils the intricate development of Evan's moral compass at the pivotal age of seventeen.
Filled with the same heart-pounding action and intricate plotting that readers have come to expect from Hurwitz, this short story not only captivates with its thrilling narrative but also includes an exciting sneak peek of the highly anticipated forthcoming novel, Antihero set to release on February 10, 2026. Prepare to dive deep into Evan's world like never before!
About...
THE CODE provides a fascinating backstory, focusing on Evan's journey and his challenging teenage training, offering insights into his early life as an orphan and the intense lessons he learned from his handler, Jack Johns.
We get a glimpse into the training of the Orphan Program. Foster kids have a particular advantage, tending to be desperate and pliable. Should they die in action, get taken hostage, or wind up murdered, there is no one to miss or mourn them.
They are given no more information than that which they require to follow orders; if they are tortured, they have nothing useful to reveal.
The Orphans are raised in silos separate from one another and the rest of humanity and trained in isolation—no friends, no teammates, no backup. When they are ready to deploy, they operate in areas the US government cannot be and do things the US government cannot do. Technically, they do not exist.
Every Orphan is overseen by handler Jack Johns, a former CIA station chief who yanked him out of East Baltimore's Pride House Group Home at the age of twelve, a semi-abduction Evan was happy to yield to, given the dismal future he was facing.
Jack was tough and the only person who ever treated Evan as if he had any worth. He had become like a father to Evan, reminding him, "The hard part isn't turning you into a killer. The hard part is keeping you human."
My reflections…
In THE CODE, readers are invited to delve into the intriguing origins of the "Code" that shapes Evan's choices, revealing the principles he absorbed throughout his formative years. This foundational set of beliefs ultimately becomes the cornerstone of his identity as the enigmatic "Nowhere Man."
A huge fan of the series since Book #1, it was exciting to learn about the early years. True to the thrilling style of the Orphan X series, the narrative maintains a relentless pace, blending heart-pounding action with profound character insights. This makes it an ideal gateway for both long-time fans and newcomers, allowing everyone to grasp the essence of Evan’s journey.
Rich with emotion and thought-provoking moments, this captivating short story masterfully explores Evan's youth, laying bare the roots of his character while simultaneously offering a glimpse into Hurwitz's latest Orphan X #11 installment, ANTIHERO. It’s a compelling exploration that deepens our understanding of Evan and the intricate world he inhabits.
Special thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Netgalley for providing a digital advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. I look forward to listening to the audiobook narrated by the fabulous Scott Brick!
blog review posted at
JudithDCollins
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Sep 02, 2025
Sep Newsletter
Sep 2025 Must-Read Books
August 27, 2025
We know Orphan X as the feared black ops assassin, a lone wolf who moves silently in the shadows. This short story offers a rare, emotional glimpse into Evan Smoak’s formative training at a time when he’s more vulnerable and emotional than the hardened operative we see later. As a seventeen-year-old he is subjected to one grueling physical and mental test after another and must use every skill his mentor Jack Johns has been drilling into him. Standing at a crucial crossroad mentally, Evan has to choose what path his life will follow – and which story will unfold.
I’m not usually a novella reader, but I am so glad I didn’t miss this one. In just a few pages, it evoked so much emotion and offered powerful insight into the world of Orphan X! Now, I’m even more excited to read the next Orphan X installment, Antihero, which will be available on February 10, 2026!
I’m not usually a novella reader, but I am so glad I didn’t miss this one. In just a few pages, it evoked so much emotion and offered powerful insight into the world of Orphan X! Now, I’m even more excited to read the next Orphan X installment, Antihero, which will be available on February 10, 2026!
September 2, 2025
In this quick novella by Gregg Hurwitz, we glimpse into Evan Smoak’s past, revealing how he became an Orphan, specifically Orphan X. Just shy of 18, Evan is about to embark on rigorous SEAL training and join a top-secret black-ops agency that undertakes missions the American government cannot.
It was intriguing to witness Evan’s journey from a teenager to a trained assassin. Alongside the skills he’ll acquire, he’ll also learn the “Laws of Death.” As he approaches and completes each mission, “The Code” and “The Ten Commandments” will become pivotal guides for him.
The 11th book in the series, titled Antihero, is scheduled for release in February.
Many thanks to Minotaur and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
It was intriguing to witness Evan’s journey from a teenager to a trained assassin. Alongside the skills he’ll acquire, he’ll also learn the “Laws of Death.” As he approaches and completes each mission, “The Code” and “The Ten Commandments” will become pivotal guides for him.
The 11th book in the series, titled Antihero, is scheduled for release in February.
Many thanks to Minotaur and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
September 3, 2025
Before he was the feared black ops government assassin Orphan X, operating in the shadows and spoken about in whispers, Evan Smoak was a teenager, undergoing the most rigorous of training. At 17, Evan is sent off by his handler, ex-CIA station agent Jack Johns, to take the most intense U.S. military training course. But that is only part of the challenge before him - Evan has to get there and back, safely and quietly, maintaining operational security. And along the way, facing unexpected challenges, Evan must use everything he's learned since the day he was taken from the foster home in East Baltimore, lessons that Jack Johns has drilled into him, laws of life and death that are to become The Code.
September 5, 2025
Everything I hate in a book. Junk filler between full novels, with a short vignette about Orphan X's teenage training, and the important character-building support provided by his mentor Jack Johns (36-38 pages?), followed by chapters from the forthcoming book, Antihero, to be released in February 2026. Note: If you pay for this one, you will be sorry.
September 3, 2025
Prequel to all the Orphan X novels in which Evan is thrown into SERE training, kidnapped and dropped in the middle of nowhere and must make his way back to his handlers house where he learns the meaning of The Code.
September 5, 2025
A super short story -55pages that give a bit of background on the beginnings/training of Evan Smoak aka Nowhere Man aka Orphan X and his handler Jack Johns.
It's a blink and you miss it story that's just ok and not really necessary to the series.
Bring on the next full Nowhere Man !
It's a blink and you miss it story that's just ok and not really necessary to the series.
Bring on the next full Nowhere Man !
September 3, 2025
A nice look back at vignette from Evan’s days training with Jack. If you’re into Evan’s fondness for rare vodkas you’ll definitely want to read this one!
September 3, 2025
It got my mouth watering for the next novel, just as it was meant to. It was well written to the point I felt myself right there in the story. Loved it.
September 3, 2025
more insight into x. great story
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews