Miragem em chamas (Jack Reacher)

The vast, desolate landscape adds so much to the story's tension. I wonder if the author envisioned this setting first or if it developed organically during writing.

His decisions felt riskier and less black-and-white, which made me think more about what I would do in his position. Was that intentional to deepen his character?

The quick, punchy chapters kept me on edge, but I’m curious if there’s a specific technique or process behind maintaining that momentum.