FEARLESS: The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown

by Eric Blehm

biography (alternate cover)

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography, Military Fiction, History, War, Audiobook, Biography Memoir

Audiobook

First published May 22, 2012

About the author

Eric Blehm is the award-winning author of the New York Times bestsellers Fearless and The Only Thing Worth Dying For. His book The Last Season won the 2007 National Outdoor Book Award and was named by Outside magazine as one of the “greatest adventure biographies ever written.”

Reviews

[Trish]

*takes a deep breath*
This is going to be hard (as you can see, it took me one hell of a long time to get through this).
The motto for this reading experience: empathy sucks!

I will not give this book any stars. Not because it was so bad that 1 star would be too much but because I don't think I can quantify this book in any sort of way.

The writing was indeed bad and I understand why some reviews call it Christian propaganda. However, Adam Brown, about whom this book is, did turn to God in a rehab center and as my great-grandmother once said:
"Don't take away someone's belief that makes them happy unless you can give them something better instead."
And I can't. I am an Atheist but if faith helped Adam Brown to go from addict to Navy SEAL and do all these important deeds, then I'd say his faith was something good. Faith should be something personal anyway (which is why I don't like organized religions aka The Church or other institutions because they try to shove it down your throat).

So this is the story of a man who gave his life for his friends/brothers. Yes, it's no spoiler: Adam Brown is dead. This is a story published post mortem.
But it's not just a story about his years in the military, how he climbed the ranks. It's a deeply personal story about the man wearing the uniform, about how he hit rock bottom, about his family. And it tore me apart. It's the reason I didn't even let it show on my currently-reading shelf ... I just wasn't sure if I could finish it (I had to put it down quite often and would sit on the couch crying).

We have a man who grew up in a pretty normal way in a pretty normal neighbourhood and family. But then he became a drug and alcohol addict, hurt his parents and friends (emotionally), got arrested, hit rock bottom. In the aforementioned rehab clinic he swore to turn his life around (I think it had a lot to do with him seeing his mother break down when he got arrested, feeling that he broke her heart).
So he went to a recruitment office and said he wanted to join the Navy to, ultimately, become a Navy SEAL (because anything less wouldn't do for this guy). However, they usually don't accept people who have gotten arrested previously (a rule which I like, actually). A lucky coincidence meant that he knew someone whose picture was hanging on the wall of the office. He made the officer call that man (the father of a friend) and that guy vouched for him. Why? I have no idea. Some call it destiny/serendipity, some luck. In the end, it doesn't matter. He vouched, the Navy accepted Adam Brown and he actually became a SEAL (many could have tried and failed but he really did it).

Of course, the book also details how laboursome his way into this elite group was and it's only right since it really is crazy what these men have to go through (but it's also justifyable considering their missions).

To me, the real craziness began only then.
Because during a mission Adam Brown lost the eyesight on his right eye. He was supposed to be honourably discharged BUT REFUSED. He made them let him stay (I can't even wrap my mind around how he managed that). He went on another mission some time later and was hurt again. This time, his humvee flipped over, landing on his right hand, cutting off 4 of his fingers. They were surgically reattached but - as you can imagine - the hand never worked properly again. So they wanted to honourably discharge him again. AND HE REFUSED AGAIN. He became a leftie instead. Yeah, because that is what everyone would do. Right?! He went on to become a member of the best of this elite team - the famous SEAL Team 6 (or DEVGRU or whatever their true name is).
I mean, picture it: this guy could only see right on his left eye, had to relearn EVERYTHING with his left hand/arm (which means his stance, his balance, everything had to be relearned) and was still good enough to be a DEVGRU / SEAL Team 6 member!!!
This just blew my mind.

And then the story turns to that fateful mission that cost him his life and I can't help but think what if. What if the helicopter could have picked them up on the mountain so they hadn't had to go downhill for 1 hour? What if they had gotten him to a doctor sooner? Would he have made it? Considering how strong (and stubborn) he was, that definitely is a possibility.

What broke my heart was the fact that this man gave so much over so many years, never giving up and it still wasn't enough. It's not fair.

And then we have his wife. How my heart bleeds for her although I don't even know her. Military wives in general always have my sympathy. To me, they are warriors too. The silent ones. Having to stay behind, often raising children (almost) on their own, having to show a brave face, ensuring that their husbands have a home to come back to and give them emotional support so their husbands can do what they have to do ...
To think how much Adam Brown's wife must have suffered through all the injuries ... she might have had to live with the sense of dread that her husband's luck would have to run out soon or she might have given in to complete hope that, surely, after everything he had already survived he would not die now ... and I don't know which would have been worse.

It makes me shudder.

As a conclusion: I don't read many contemporary military books because there often is too much pathos for me (or at least pathos of the wrong sort that feels fake) or I question the accuracy (especially when the military members didn't write the books themselves or when it is about top secret stuff because I can't imagine the respective government to sign off on such data being released already). Instead, I usually focus on military history books. But this book gave a glimpse at the man Adam Brown, not just the operator - and at his unyielding will to protect, to make the world a better place, or to at least make up for the bad things he had done previously.

I don't believe in heroes (anymore) but if I did, Adam Brown would be one.
So to everyone considering reading this book: ignore the writing style and the so-called Christian propaganda if that puts you off, but read the book anyway - this man's life should be known and remembered.

[Jeff Randleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review - Fearless by Eric Blehm


Biographies have been a solid staple of my reading diet for the past few months. Looking deep into the lives of great people is educational, inspiring, and helps me become more of the person that I'm created to be. For most of my life, I dreaded reading the biographies that was assigned to read, or given by friends and families. But recently, I have discovered that learning from the lives of others has incredible benefits for my life.

Last night, in tears, I finished Fearless, a biographical work on the life of Navy SEAL Adam Brown. But the term "biographical" doesn't describe what this book really is. Fearless is a book about a man, displaying his failures as well as his successes, his patriotism, his courage, his love for his family and for his God. Fearless is better described as "inspirational", "motivational", and "life-changing".

Fearless is the story of Adam Brown, a home-grown boy from Hot Springs, Arkansas. The story details his life and activities as a child and teenager, his descent into drug abuse after high school, and his climb out of that pit into the elite world of specialized Navy warfare as a member of Navy SEAL Team SIX.

Fearless is inspirational. Reading this story will encourage you to higher levels of love and service, for your family, your friends, your country. The life of Adam Brown will inspire you to love more, like Christ did.

Fearless is motivational. As you read of the injuries, the challenges, the setbacks, that Adam Brown overcame, you'll quickly feel the confidence that you can achieve your dreams as well.

Fearless is life-changing. Very rarely do I tear up when I read a good story. Even more rarely do I cry. Fearless brought me to that point. In the life of Adam Brown, we see a man who loved everyone. His passion for his wife and children was overwhelming. His comradeship with his fellow teammates was deep and enduring. His compassion for the poor and oppressed Afghan children was incredible. And his desire to live for his Savior was awe-inspiring.

Adam Brown was living proof that "with God, all things are possible." He lived his faith for all to see.

Fearless was so captivating that it was difficult to put it down, even though I knew how it had to end. In the act of protecting his fellow Navy SEALs, and American freedom, Adam Brown gave the ultimate sacrifice. And his story is well worth reading.

Do you read biographies? What is your favorite? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

[Aaron Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last week I received a copy of a book called “Fearless” by Eric Blehm to review. Little did I know when I started this book that by the end of it, I would be moved to emotion like I rarely am. This book is a game changer on so many levels. I honestly won’t be able to find the words in this review to express how much I wish people would get a copy and read it for themselves. It is the remarkable story of one man, his story, his struggles, his humility, his family, his addictions and oh, by the way, he was a member of the “Green Team” on SEAL team six (the same SEAL team that killed Osama Bin Laden). Again, I struggle with words to give this book a full review.

Author Eric Blehm takes us to the beginning, where it all started for Adam Brown. Early on, you are pulled into his life and his story. Blehm does an incredible job of crafting words in such a way that make you feel like you know Adam too. As you read you feel like you know his entire family. His failures frustrate you. His struggle with addiction saddens you. You feel the weight of pour decisions and repeated struggles to overcome “the voice” that is addiction. Not until about halfway through the book do we begin to share in his journey to become a Navy SEAL. An entire book could be written on the unbelievable physical and mental challenge involved in making it to the elite team which Adam Brown achieved.

My emotions were moved to the point of tears at the end of the book as Adam made the ultimate sacrifice for this country, for you, for me. Because we are pulled into the story, the knock on the door to his wife to inform her felt like you were right there. He was father. He was a husband. He was a man of faith. To best describe it, I’ll share what the author wrote in his Afterward:

Despite the impact and magnitude of the bin Laden mission, Adam’s story stands on its own. Throughout his life he inspired scores of people, and his story has continued to change the lives of many – including mine. He’s reminded me to appreciate every moment with my family, to be goofy and not grumpy, to get back up no matter how hard I might get slapped down, to sometimes buy my children a cupcake when I pick up coffee in the morning but to call it a muffin “because”, as Adam would tell Savannah, “as long as you call them muffins, they’re okay to eat for breakfast.” And though I hadn’t opened a Bible in more than twenty-five years, his faith encouraged me to question my own questioning about religion.

I can’t think of a better way to describe this book than that. I too felt these same challenges after reading it. It’s fitting that I finished the final words of the book, closed it and spent the afternoon with my daughters doing crafts and played catch with my son. I did so, not out of guilt, but out of honor. I did so in a country where we are free to do whatever we dream and wish to do. I did so with the freedom of a father because the sacrifice of another. Friends, I HIGHLY recommend that you pick up a copy of this book. It will remind you how blessed we are as fathers, as wives, as Americans. Because of the fearless sacrifice of men and women like Adam Brown.

I give “Fearless” a 5 out of 5.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

I struggled like crazy to get through this book. I love Adam and Kelley and the people within this story, but the writing is horrible and trying to read through it was not unlike choking through the worst dry sandwich ever. I'm still hoping that the reason for its juvenile pacing and shallow glimpses into these extraordinary peoples' lives is because Blehm wants to get to the meat of the matter as quickly as possible. No matter, it's strange and unpalatable.

What I do want to commend, however, are the obviously beautiful souls shining brightly through this mess. Beyond the shaky structure of this poorly-told story are the genuinely admirable individuals whose hard work, failures, and triumphs culminate in the ultimate loss and sacrifice of one man: Adam Brown. His wife, Kelley Brown, their children, and Adam's parents, siblings, and entire family all had a hand in playing intricate roles in creating, defining, supporting, and loving him every step of the way.

This book is very heavy on the religion, and it's something I wasn't necessarily expecting. I wish I'd known, too, so here's a warning to anyone out there who may be considering buying the book - lots of expectation that a Christian is reading this book and I felt a little bit as if I were being forced to worship. It's difficult to explain here, but what I think I'm trying to say is that the writer, mid-sentence, stops telling the story in chronological order and suddenly transitions into an external entity who's giving his praise to Adam or the family at that given moment. It was very jarring and uncomfortable, and I was VERY put-off by it.

Overall, however, I find it very easy to separate Blehm from Adam Brown, Kelley Brown, and the family. I am a little disappointed for them that this was the person they chose/person they had to go with as the deliverer of the message. Beyond that, though, their amazing son/husband/brother/father is a hero whose light shines through and shines on.

On this day, Memorial Day, and every day: Thank you for what you did for us, thank you for our freedom, and thank you for your sacrifice, Adam Brown.

[Jack · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think a lot of people rate this as 5 starts because anything less may be considered to be not "patriotic". The fact is that this book is good, but not great. It is an interesting read at points, less than interesting at other points.

Adam Brown is certainly a hero, no doubt. He was a man with a reckless personality, shown with his addiction to drugs & alcohol, his extreme religious behavior, as well as some of the things he did in his personal life (jumping off of moving vehicles over bridges etc.). It also led to his unfortunate death in Afghanistan. He was a man with a lot of personal demons he battled.

So read this book with an open mind. The writing is decent & overall I think you will be happy to have read it. But again, I personally will not shelve this book among the greatest books I have read. Simply a good read.

[Tony · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was reluctant to begin reading this book because I know Adam's father and brother. By knowing how the story ends, I knew it was going to be very difficult for me to read.

Well, I only thought I knew the story. After reading FEARLESS, I have a whole new understanding of what drug addiction can do to a family. Seeing how Adam was able to overcome so much in his short life through his faith and hard work is greatly inspiring.

I have heard many stories of people who found renewed hope by reading Adam's story. If you know someone who would benefit from reading this book, please try to get a copy in their hands. The paperback edition is being published now and would male a perfect gift. I will be buying copies to give away.

[Greg · Rating 1 out of 5]

Right-wing Christian propaganda about zero dimensional bad boy turned do-gooder.

[Gail Welborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

***If you only read one book this year, make it this one in honor of this courageous SEAL!!!

Eric Blehm, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author’s new release, “Fearless” arrives Tuesday, May 22. It’s an amazing narrative about “SEAL Team SIX’s most legendary operator,” Adam Brown, a member of the same SEAL team “… counterterrorism unit that took down Osama bin Laden…”

Although “Fearless” is Adam’s story, it’s also the multifaceted story of an elite, little-known, fierce brotherhood of warriors who defend, protect and guard our nation’s freedom.

The story begins in Adam’s childhood with his parents, older brother, Shawn and Adam’s twin sister, Manda. They were raised by loving parents who learned to “…watch Adam like a hawk…” from an early age. Adam’s love of heights, demonstrated by frequent falls from his crib at the age of nine months made his father cut the legs off his crib so he wouldn’t have so far to fall.

His daredevil childhood antics brought him “goose eggs and bruises” and a few tears that quickly ended when he would “…be off exploring…” once again. That adventurous attitude would follow Adam into adulthood and be an advantage in the brotherhood of SEALS.

However, this “…undersized…fun-loving country boy” from Arkansas would first take a life-changing detour…Full Review: http://tinyurl.com/d8bcp4d

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know what more to say other than this was not only an excellent story, but the author did a wonderful job telling it.

I take it back, I do have a couple other things to add... Adam Brown was the kind of person that inspires others around him to want to be better people. This is not because he was a perfect person himself, far from it actually, but he tried, hard. In his efforts he motivated those around him to strive harder to become all they could. People like Adam Brown make me proud to not only be an American but his story provides us with hope that no matter how bad things are, no matter how low we sink, there is always a way out. In Adam's case he found Jesus. I can't say that I'm an overly spiritual person, but even if one doesn't have the same faith or beliefs as Adam the message is the same; keep trying and never give up.

Adam did some pretty horrible things in his short life. He hurt those he loved and those who loved him, repeatedly. His weaknesses however did not make him a bad person. I think in the end, for all his trials and failures they actually made him a better person. I for one took his story more to heart because he was not perfect. His efforts in overcoming huge obstacles, both self inflicted and those out of one's control should be a role model to us all.

[James Somahkawahho · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone has been hearing about the Navy SEAL novel "No Easy Day". I personally think the guy who wrote it may have put himself and family and other SEAL team members in harmsway.

I am going to tell you about what I think about Adam Brown (Navy SEAL) and this biography that was written about him. He started out as a high school athlete, lost his way and got hooked on; coke, crack, meth and almost anything else you can think of. He was arrested several times because of the drugs. After two years he decided to go into the Navy to try and better his life. He had a friend who was in high command and was able to get everything he did waived in order for Adam to seek out his dream of joining the Navy and becoming a Navy SEAL.

The journey he takes you on is nothing short of unbelievable. His relationship with family and God makes you want to revisit what you believe in life is important.

This story is worth reading. I gave it a four star rating only because it does get heavy into the religion and for me that dragged the story down, but, it isn't a story that tries to get you to turn to God.

If you want to read a story about a true American hero, read this.

James S.

[Daniel Threlfall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adam Brown's life ended in an isolated military clinic in the mountains of Afghanistan, his body riddled with AK-47 bullet holes from Taliban militia. However, Adam Brown's legacy lives on, described in his biography by author Eric Blehm. The book, Fearless ,released today (May 22) is a moving account of the struggles, redemption, and sacrifice of Adam Brown.

Adam Brown was a Navy SEAL operator serving in Afghanistan with the elite DEVGRU team, otherwise known as SEAL Team Six - the group that took out Osama bin Laden. Brown's journey to the top tier of military excellence is the story of a small-town American boy with a penchant for recklessness, an addiction to hard drugs, and a complete lack of fear.

Brown's life was changed when he met Jesus in a grimy Arkansas jail cell. His problems didn't disappear. But his sinful heart was changed, and his life would take a totally different direction.

Fearless chronicles the life of Adam Brown — from humble birth to tragic death. The book tells the story of his wife's courage and persistant love. The book communicates the heroism of SEAL Team Six. The book conveys the pathos of war. Most importantly, Fearless shows how the love of Jesus can change a sinner's heart.

Thoughts on Fearless
- Eric Blehm writes a good biography. He may lack the polish of an Erik Larson (Garden of the Beasts), but his style is simple and compelling. The power of his writing is its research and accuracy. Blehm set out to write a straightforward biography, not a sensational bestseller.
- Adam Brown's life is an inspiration. Ever since I was a kid, I cherished dreams of joining the Marines or Navy SEALs, just to prove to myself that I was powerful and capable. I'm probably not going to be heading into BUDS training, but I appreciated reading about someone who did. Adam Brown was the best of the best (SEAL) of the best (DEVGRU), working against unbelievable opposition and overcoming incredible obstacles to get there.
- Brown wasn't just a meathead and military machine. He was a compassionate humanitarian, a devoted husband and father, and a disciple of Jesus. I appreciated his acts of kindness toward the Afghan children, and his brave witnessing to hardened SEALs.
- I'm thankful for our military. While I am not a fan of the ra-ra-beat-em-up-kill-em-all-send-em-to-hell approach to our nation's defense, I do appreciate those who serve in the armed forces. I am especially thankful for those, like Adam Brown, who bring compassion and maturity to their task.
- Most importantly, I marvel at the grace of God. Eric Brown's life, just as it is with anyone who has been redeemed, is a testament to God's infinite love and kindness. I was encouraged to be a channel of this kindness to others, and a faithful witness of his gospel. There are Eric Browns all around us. They need Jesus, not our judgment. They need grace.

I encourage you to read Fearless for its dazzling display of God's grace, and its compelling story of sacrifice and courage.

[Kim Haight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... wow.... wow! Done and everything from halfway through is even more so now.... Love it! Gives me even more pride and gratitude in our Military and Allied Forces...

More than halfway through... I could hardly put this one down last night... I have found that what touches me the most lately in what I am reading is where the story is based on a true story.

I want more from my library than my occasional "wonderfully written" romance novels (and there are sooo many great ones, that I just have not gotten posted yet!)... I am finding I truly like the meat and potatoes book where the hero is "real, flesh and blood" and has given their all for all of us back home and all over the world... the real heroes are fighting for our freedom!

I blame my friend Author AB McKinley for this (www.Kilteddesire.com), he is one of whom I speak of... plus, so many of my United Airlines buddies who are prior military and have such pride, honor and integrity.... they have given so much for all of us... and if anyone has more of these books, PLEASE recommend them to me, I love them!

As of right now, I give Fearless (only halfway through it) five stars already!

God bless those who have served to protect all of us!

[Rcopithorne · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! Thats all that comes to mind. Alot of military memoirs (especially SEALS Books) spend the first 5 chapters covering BUD/S Training. If you have read books before you often get bored with reading the the same breakdowns of how hard,tough and grueling the training is. I am NOT taking away from this at all as these are warriors. Fearless brings you into WHO Adam really was. From a goofy kid, prankster and respectful child to his dark days battling addiction and jail time. To read about someone taking their life from the lowest point possible and giving it their all to become so committed to his wife, his family and his children let alone his brothers in arms was an amazing read. I read this book in less than 24 hours as i could not put it down.

This is well worth the read if you are interested in military true stories. It is also a good read for anyone that appreciates dedication, commitment and honesty. This book is not all red roses, it covers a wide range of emotions and just feels flat out real.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eric Blehm is a truly gifted biographer. I learned this after previously reading his book ‘The Last Season’ about missing Sierra National Park ranger Randy Morgenson.

This particular story is about Navy SEAL 6 Adam Brown. Readers may find Brown’s background similar to that of Pat Tillman as outlined in the bestselling biography by John Krakauer.

But this story is better in covering his childhood, drug addiction and imprisonment, then nearly two decades of Navy SEAL service, numerous war wounds and then his family commitment — all carefully laid out in the pages that precede the tragic end.

6 stars. Simply one of the best biographies I’ve ever read.

[Mike (the Paladin) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book will touch you. It's not the regular book about a fallen service person. Here we take a more personal look at the life of a human being...his family, their lives and how death effects them.

It can be hard to read at times (at least it was for me). I'm not sure what words can or should be used here. It's not a book I'd say I enjoyed or liked. It is a book the fills a place that needs filling.

[Vera Godley · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of Adam Brown’s final wishes, written by hand on his CACO form, was that his spiritual testimony—his complete story—be told, including “my life before I met Jesus Christ and Kelley.” You can appreciate now just how fearless Adam had been when he requested others to share that dark period [of drugs and addiction] from his past. Even in death, he selflessly and publicly risked tainting his own legacy so that others might be inspired to seek faith and overcome their own struggles. Excerpted from Fearless by Eric Blehm

About the Book (from publisher):
Fearless takes you deep into SEAL Team SIX, straight to the heart of one of its most legendary operators.

When Navy SEAL Adam Brown woke up on March 17, 2010, he didn’t know he would die that night in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan—but he was ready: In a letter to his children, not meant to be seen unless the worst happened, he wrote, “I’m not afraid of anything that might happen to me on this earth, because I know no matter what, nothing can take my spirit from me.”

Long before Adam Brown became a member of the elite SEAL Team SIX—the counter terrorism unit that took down Osama bin Laden—he was a fun-loving country boy from Hot Springs, Arkansas, whose greatest goal had been to wear his high school’s football jersey. An undersized daredevil, prone to jumping off roofs into trees and off bridges into lakes, Adam was a kid who broke his own bones but would never break a promise to his parents.

But after high school, Adam fell in with the wrong crowd and his family watched as his appetite for risk dragged him into a downward spiral that eventually landed him in jail. Battling his inner demons on a last-chance road to redemption, Adam had one goal: to become the best of the best—a US Navy SEAL.

An absorbing chronicle of heroism and humanity, Fearless presents an indelible portrait of a highly trained warrior who would enter a village with weapons in hand to hunt terrorists, only to come back the next day with an armload of shoes and meals for local children. It is a deeply personal, revealing glimpse inside the SEAL Team SIX brotherhood that also shows how these elite operators live out the rest of their lives, away from danger, as husbands, fathers and friends.

Fearless is the story of a man of extremes, whose courage and determination was fueled by faith, family, and the love of a woman. It’s about a man who waged a war against his own worst impulses and persevered to reach the top tier of the US military. Always the first to volunteer for the most dangerous assignments, Adam’s final act of bravery led to the ultimate sacrifice.

Adam Brown was a devoted man who was an unlikely hero but a true warrior, described by all who knew him as fearless.

My thoughts: First of all, a caution - There is some rough or course language at a few points. This is not prevalent and is indicative of the occasion - unredeemed.

Now about the book and the life and men it is about. This is a biography. A story of the courage of a man and of men. It is also a stronger story of redemption. A lost soul is redeemed by a Saviour, Jesus Christ. And a struggling, lost individual who is given a chance to redeem himself personally by that "second chance" repeated more than once by other men and by his work.

It is about a dark period in the life of Adam Brown. But you see his childhood. You see how he comes through and out of that dark period by the grace of God and the support and love of a woman. You see a man who seeks constantly to prove himself and who seemingly doesn't let fear get in the way of making it to the top.

I can't really say more and certainly can not say it better than the publisher has in the overview of the book (see above). I can say, though, that it awes me to think that American men can push themselves to such physical, mental, and emotion limits and still push on. It awes me the sacrifice they are making to provide a safe America and a safer World.

I would say this is basically a man's book. It will appeal mostly to men. However, it behooves all Americans to know this story. And to know the story, the book should be read. Is this "Southern Lady of-a-certain-age" glad she read it? Yes! You see, I had no concept of what our military endured and sacrificed for us until I read it. Now I've had a glimpse into that world.

About the author: Eric Blehm Eric Blehm is a bestselling and award-winning author of nonfiction books. In 2006, he won the Barnes & Noble Discover Award for The Last Season (HarperCollins), a gripping account of the disappearance of legendary National Park Service ranger Randy Morgenson; The Last Season was also named by Outside magazine as one of the ten “greatest adventure biographies ever written” in 2009. Blehm’s next book, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller The Only Thing Worth Dying For (HarperCollins, 2010), was hailed by former congressman Charlie Wilson, of Charlie Wilson’s War, as a “must read” among books about the current war in Afghanistan. (click his name above to read more...)

Disclosure: I was provided a complimentary copy of Fearless by the Publisher, WaterBrook Press and Blogging for Books in order to provide an honest review. I was in no way compensated and under no obligation to render a favorable review.

[Norm Konzelman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fearless? You would be surprised to know that this book is a love story. Every book about heroes is a love story.
Although this book would likely not attract a woman to read, it would be a mistake to think of it as a book about war or fighting, unless you would consider that war the internal one that every person faces.
I could not adequately describe all the areas of life the writer covers in the pages, the military and comradeship not even being the one most outstanding to me. It really is a love story.
It is about family, the love, work, grief, and happiness of a child who conquers himself. The sorrow, destruction, and pain of rebelliousness.
The difference you can make in someones life, if only they knew you cared.
I was listening to the first half when alone one day, and I was in tears as the writer took me through what much of my own earlier life had been. Then I thought, "I wish every young person unhappy with their dad and mom could hear this". But I know that message only belongs to those who can hear it, and most cannot until God willing, they are ready.
Sitting here writing this review, I'm glad how personal this book was to me. I think parts of it will just stay with me.
Despite the title, I wonder if there was one thing Adam Brown feared until near the end of his life. Himself.
When the Lord works in your life, you can go from the guttermost, to the uttermost. Only by His grace am I able to write about a hero who became what he was by Gods' grace also.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not your typical SEAL story, although all of them are inspiring examples of great men that sacrifice more than we can imagine to honor the patriot blood that runs through their veins to protect this great country. This story about Adam Brown is that and so much more. In the end, I could summarize that this book is about love. Love of a forgiving and strengthening God, love of a great woman, love of country, love of family, and love of the SEAL brotherhood. Love. Not a word that you would expect to describe a fierce, highly trained warrior, but it's true. Love.

I was deeply moved throughout this entire book. I hope I am a better person today from the things I learned about Adam's battle. Life is not always easy, and that is certainly true for this great man. I kept thinking about the points in time I would have given up on him and walked away. Now I have a different perspective that has enriched my mind. I truly believe I may react a bit differently if faced with the same situation. I know I would not lose hope.

Everyone should read this book. You will never regret it.

[Read-A-Book Everyday Reviews!!! · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was utterly HEARTWRENCHING
and captivating
awe-inspiring
flabbergasting
Gah. The author did an amazing job with Adam Brown's story. I felt like I knew him and everything he went through. I was so PROUD of everything that he overcame.
I fell in love with his friends and everyone in the Navy Seal community and TO KNOW that they ALL died 2 weeks after this book was written in a helicopter crash shot down absolutely rips me to pieces.
:'(
This is a MUST read for any woman or man who loves heroism or this country!

[Rick Gingrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible story. Simply a must read. Adam Brown was a true hero, a real hero with struggles and failures, yet an incredible passion for life and an incredible determination. I just finished this, and I am speechless. Read it.

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

My fiancé read this book and read many parts out loud to me. Does that count as 'read' here on my Goodreads page? He gave it 6 out of 5 stars. His review is as follows:

Great book, worth buying. Everyone should read it.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book set out to accomplish two things: 1. tell the story of SEAL Adam Brown who made the ultimate sacrifice and 2. show the human-side of SEALs. In these objectives, this book rates 5 stars in my opinion. Adam Brown was a truly remarkable individual that sank to crazy lows but then righted himself to become one of the most elite warriors in the world as part of SEAL Team SIX. His story is truly inspirational. One of the best parts about this book was that it gave a view of the human-side of SEALs. Everyone talks about SEALs' skills and accomplishments, but very few delve into the fact these men are in some ways your average Joe so to speak. They are fathers who play with their kids and husbands with a never-ending honey-do list, etc. This perspective is needed in this day and age where KIA statistics run along the bottom of the newscast ticker with little notice to just another number. The men and women in our military who have given their lives for this country are not just a number, another statistic. They were living, breathing human beings who were going about their lives until they met their fate and shattered the lives of their loved ones. I do offer a word of caution though: this book touches extensively on Brown and his family's Christian faith. While there were some statements I took personal exception to, it wasn't as off-putting in this book as some others I've read. To conclude, I recommend this book for all. Adam Brown's story is one that deserves to be told and remembered.

[Daphne Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could give this book more stars. For every praying parent of a prodigal son, this story of the part Christ and family played in the life of a drug addicted young man who overcame his addictions to become a premiere American hero is a story of hope and encouragement. It made me even more proud to be an American to read of the bravery and commitment of those who put their life on the line to go through the rigorous training necessary and to execute missions against unbelievable odds to secure freedom for America and the world. I will be praying for Kelly, Nathan and Savannah and their family and especially for the U.S. Navy Seals.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received this book as a gift from a friend of Adam Brown's parents. I was almost afraid to read it because I knew it would be sad. And it was, But it is also filled with hope, encouragement and inspiration. God took a young man whose life was in shambles and rebuilt that life, moulding Adam Brown into a man of courage and character. The title 'Fearless' means one thing at the beginning of the book, but takes on much deeper meaning by the end. The book is well-written, not too technical for those of us who know nothing about military life. I pray that God comforts and blesses Brown's family, his wife and his two children. Recommend this book very highly.

[Keenan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I asked a newly minted Navy Seal what's the one SEAL book that he would recommend and Fearless did not disappoint. Very few books have left me a better person for having read it, and Adam Brown's story did that for me. His bravery, spirituality and toughness speaks for itself. Adam Brown's example as a friend, husband and father make this a worthwhile read for anyone.

Ultimately such a sad story and one that sticks with you for days after reading it. What a guy

[Cherie Andres Draper · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’m a Christian (liberal and progressive) and a military spouse of 28 years but this entire book just came across as insincere propaganda to me. I only finished it due to it being a book club pick. If you’re not part of the religious right echo chamber you might not resonate with this book either.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

FEARLESS is typically a book you would find men reading. For some reason, I am drawn to stories of men who have sacrificed their lives or given their service for our country through the military. This is Adam Brown’s life story, from Hot Springs, Arkansas, and it has touched my heart in a million different ways. He was proud to be from the state of Arkansas, which you will see as you read through the book.

As it states in the book, Adam was born three minutes after his twin sister, Manda, and it was the last time she beat him at anything. She came out crying; he came out quiet, looking around. From an early age, he pulled off dare-devil feats that would keep his mother on pins and needles. Pain was something that didn’t bother him. What mattered to him was helping others, doing the right thing, not letting pain hold him back, and standing up for the underdog, all with deep, heartfelt compassion.

Adam’s shenanigans throughout this high school years made you wonder if he’d live to graduate. But he did. When his three best buddies went off to college, Adam seemed to lose his sense of purpose. He got into the wrong crowd and did what he never thought he’d ever do–street drugs, which led to jail time. This went on for some years, until he met his sweetheart, Kelley, whom he married, had a son and eventually a daughter, and was guided into the service. How he got into the service is a story in itself!

Eric does a spectacular job of describing the man, Adam, with all his quirkiness, fun-loving personality, dedication, failures, achievements, faith, deep compassion, and his deep love for his wife and children, as well as his dedication to the men he served with and the country he served. Even through his extensive training as a Navy SEAL (and no, I do not remember all the titles), you will find him standing out partly due to his quirky behaviors, but also because of his overcoming achievements and bravery. Never have I ‘met’ a man with the caliber of commitment to his country, fellow servicemen and family.

Your emotions will ride high and low as Adam’s life takes on the highs and lows of achievement and disappointment. This is a book of reality, and there are some crushing moments. You will find yourself rooting for Adam, but also taking stock of the steadfastness of his wife. Military wives are one of a kind and are to be commended for their own bravery while their husbands are gone on duty and encouraging them throughout. What would bring Adam and Kelley through all the struggles and deployments was their deep faith in the Lord. God worked many wonders through their lives.

The combat missions are told in such a fashion that you are going through the elements and conditions along with the men. Their tenacity and endurance make me proud to know we have men who are willing to fight for our safety at the cost of their lives if necessary. The select mission at the end will bring it full circle, though the missions have not ended. Though the book revolves around Adam, he knew that working with the SEALS was a team effort. He took no glory for himself.

The other major thing you will find in this book is what these Navy SEALS did for the women and children in the countries they were serving in that the American media did not show us on TV. That truth alone stands out to show us that Americans were not evil-doers out to just conquer another nation as we were led to believe back home.

This book will inspire young boys and men to be proud to serve in our military, holding up a standard for them to work toward. Special thanks go to Eric Blehm for writing this gutsy, true story about Naval Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Adam Brown, who overcame tremendous odds in his rise to the top tier of the U.S. military: SEAL Team SIX. The tender warrior. This story was told to Eric by Adam’s family, friends, teachers, coaches, the military, his SEAL team members, and letters and journals he wrote.

I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.

[Crown Publishing]

Fearless takes you deep into SEAL Team SIX, straight to the heart of one of its most legendary operators.

When Navy SEAL Adam Brown woke up on March 17, 2010, he didn’t know he would die that night in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan—but he was ready: In a letter to his children, not meant to be seen unless the worst happened, he wrote, “I’m not afraid of anything that might happen to me on this earth, because I know no matter what, nothing can take my spirit from me.”

Long before Adam Brown became a member of the elite SEAL Team SIX—the counterterrorism unit that took down Osama bin Laden—he was a fun-loving country boy from Hot Springs, Arkansas, whose greatest goal had been to wear his high school’s football jersey. An undersized daredevil, prone to jumping off roofs into trees and off bridges into lakes, Adam was a kid who broke his own bones but would never break a promise to his parents.
But after high school, Adam fell in with the wrong crowd and his family watched as his appetite for risk dragged him into a downward spiral that eventually landed him in jail. Battling his inner demons on a last-chance road to redemption, Adam had one goal: to become the best of the best—a US Navy SEAL.
An absorbing chronicle of heroism and humanity, Fearless presents an indelible portrait of a highly trained warrior who would enter a village with weapons in hand to hunt terrorists, only to come back the next day with an armload of shoes and meals for local children. It is a deeply personal, revealing glimpse inside the SEAL Team SIX brotherhood that also shows how these elite operators live out the rest of their lives, away from danger, as husbands, fathers and friends.

Fearless is the story of a man of extremes, whose courage and determination was fueled by faith, family, and the love of a woman. It’s about a man who waged a war against his own worst impulses and persevered to reach the top tier of the US military. Always the first to volunteer for the most dangerous assignments, Adam’s final act of bravery led to the ultimate sacrifice.

Adam Brown was a devoted man who was an unlikely hero but a true warrior, described by all who knew him as fearless.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

ISBN: 978-0-307-73069-5
WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group
Available: May 2012

When you hear about NAVY SEALS, what is the first thing you think?

Patriotism
Protection
Freedom
Family
Faith

What picture do you see in your mind?

Highly trained soldiers / sailors
fighting under the cover of darkeness




Have you ever thought about the type of men who feel called (or led) to voluntarily signing-up for the most physically challenging and dangerous career in our military? Who are these courageous men who put their lives willingly on the line daily to protect the freedoms we enjoy in America?


Fearless by Eric Blehm is an open and honest biography on Adam Brown, a Navy Seal who gave the ultimate sacrifice for his beloved country. In Adam's own hand, his desire to share his whole life story after his death was his final act of bringing glory to God - his life before Jesus Christ and his wife, Kelley.


Throughout high school, Adam was the one teenager who strove to help others. His parents knew that if he promised something, it was as good as done. When he went off to college, he lost his focus and close friendships and fell into the wrong crowd. After dropping out of college and spiraling down to drugs and jail, he reached out to Jesus Christ and committed his life to Him.


He was truly a new creation, but had many demons to overcome. Finally, he found himself being led to a life of the Navy Seal.


"Fearless is the story of a man of extremes, whose courage and determination was fueled by faith, family, and the love of a woman. It’s about a man who waged a war against his own worst impulses and persevered to reach the top tier of the US military. Always the first to volunteer for the most dangerous assignments, Adam’s final act of bravery led to the ultimate sacrifice." ~ from Publisher's description


Read Chapter One
For more information on Adam Brown and this book, click HERE or at the publishers website.




I received a complimentary copy of Fearless from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for my honest review.

[Jimmy]

An emotional biography of a SEAL TEAM SIX operator name Adam Brown, who was killed in August 2011. An incredible story: I don't think I've ever read such a real and powerful account of drug addiction than I did in this book (which is worth buying the book in of itself) and how he failed so many times; yet, it's also a story of faith and how Jesus Christ changed his life around, and through him others as well. Based upon interviews of SEALs, family members and his widowed wife, it is also balanced with official Navy record. Adam Brown was an incredible man of God, American, SEAL and human being. His battle with the inner demons of drugs, his entrance into the SEALs despite his small size is already itself an incredible story in it's own right: But then we also learned that Adam Brown went on to try out and selected for SEAL SNIPER and a member of DEVGRU/SEAL TEAM 6 (the tier one outfit that got Bin Laden) despite the disadvantage of losing an eye and crushing his dominant hand (which he had to resort to shooting with his weak hand). I appreciated how this book shared so much about the wife's journey as a NAVY wife, and how it was with the loss of her husbands with her kids. It's indeed a story of faith but the author does a good job of showing how faith doesn't sugar coat the harsh realities of this world: from disappointments and failure of kicking a drug addictions, the imperfection of believers, and the mystery of why God allow some to die and others to live. Reading this as a father of a one year old and a three month old, i can't help tearing up especially towards the end of the book. As I have said in my reviews of other SEALs book, I believe every American ought to read a book like this--especially considering the small percentage today of those who serve. You would get a better picture and a deeper appreciation for the sacrifice of those who served and their families since 9/11. I highly recommend this book.