Review by nina soledad -- The Commander
Posted: 16 Sep 2020, 04:26
[Following is a volunteer review of "The Commander" by Dan E. Hendrickson.]
The Commander serves as a prequel to Dan E. Hendrickson's The Last Enemy series. In this book, the author narrates Commander Jacob Edwards’ exploits as he assumes command of the First Responder, a United States Coast Guard ship. As Commander Edwards takes charge of the ship and begins to tackle his responsibilities, he starts to realize that he is not just dealing with illegal drug operations within his jurisdiction, but he is facing an enemy who is about to cause a more serious global threat.
I like this book because it did not solely focus on military strategies and politics, but the author included the protagonist’s relationship with his family, in-laws, and comrade. In this book, Commander Edwards was not only depicted as an officer and a leader, but the reader gets to see him as a husband, father, son-in-law, and a friend. Likewise, Dan E. Hendrickson provided an interesting background story for the antagonists and showed how they think. I also like that each chapter of the book have catchy titles and this gives the reader a feel of what to expect as the story progresses. Another thing that I like about the book is how the author was able to include a bit of history and development of the smartphone as a part of the narrative’s military operations.
I have very few issues or things which I dislike about the book. What I disliked most is the way the story unfolded. Told from the different characters’ perspectives, the reader is able to observe all of the characters’ thoughts, actions, and plans. In some way, this made the story less exciting since the reader already knows the devious plans of the villains. Taking into account the antagonists’ nefarious schemes, these could have made the story more gripping. Another issue for me is that I find the character of Commander Jacob Edwards too perfect. Although I appreciate a strong protagonist, I somehow find it hard to relate to the story’s main character. While reading the book, I was given the impression that Commander Edwards is almost capable of everything, from easily defeating villains who are experts in physical combat to smoothly navigating through politics within his organization. He seems be able to overcome challenging situations effortlessly and often comes out unscathed.
The story is written well and the pacing is likewise appropriately done for its genre. Nonetheless, as a military thriller, there are some profanities or swear words in some of the dialogues in the book. Intimate or erotic scenes were present, but these were implied and not written in a very detailed manner.
I am rating this book 4 out of 4 stars. It was an entertaining read and the author neatly wrapped up the story. I would recommend The Commander to readers who are interested in military thrillers.
******
The Commander
View: on Bookshelves
The Commander serves as a prequel to Dan E. Hendrickson's The Last Enemy series. In this book, the author narrates Commander Jacob Edwards’ exploits as he assumes command of the First Responder, a United States Coast Guard ship. As Commander Edwards takes charge of the ship and begins to tackle his responsibilities, he starts to realize that he is not just dealing with illegal drug operations within his jurisdiction, but he is facing an enemy who is about to cause a more serious global threat.
I like this book because it did not solely focus on military strategies and politics, but the author included the protagonist’s relationship with his family, in-laws, and comrade. In this book, Commander Edwards was not only depicted as an officer and a leader, but the reader gets to see him as a husband, father, son-in-law, and a friend. Likewise, Dan E. Hendrickson provided an interesting background story for the antagonists and showed how they think. I also like that each chapter of the book have catchy titles and this gives the reader a feel of what to expect as the story progresses. Another thing that I like about the book is how the author was able to include a bit of history and development of the smartphone as a part of the narrative’s military operations.
I have very few issues or things which I dislike about the book. What I disliked most is the way the story unfolded. Told from the different characters’ perspectives, the reader is able to observe all of the characters’ thoughts, actions, and plans. In some way, this made the story less exciting since the reader already knows the devious plans of the villains. Taking into account the antagonists’ nefarious schemes, these could have made the story more gripping. Another issue for me is that I find the character of Commander Jacob Edwards too perfect. Although I appreciate a strong protagonist, I somehow find it hard to relate to the story’s main character. While reading the book, I was given the impression that Commander Edwards is almost capable of everything, from easily defeating villains who are experts in physical combat to smoothly navigating through politics within his organization. He seems be able to overcome challenging situations effortlessly and often comes out unscathed.
The story is written well and the pacing is likewise appropriately done for its genre. Nonetheless, as a military thriller, there are some profanities or swear words in some of the dialogues in the book. Intimate or erotic scenes were present, but these were implied and not written in a very detailed manner.
I am rating this book 4 out of 4 stars. It was an entertaining read and the author neatly wrapped up the story. I would recommend The Commander to readers who are interested in military thrillers.
******
The Commander
View: on Bookshelves