Join the crew of the U.S.S. Sea Otter for a war patrol in the most dangerous area in the Pacific, the Sea of Japan! The last time the Otter had been there, the Japanese had set an ingenious trap for her, and, despite all the skill, courage, and luck of her captain and crew, she had nearly been sent to crush depth, but the badly battered submarine managed to limp back to Pearl Harbor after sinking seven tankers and a freighter. This time her skipper is Oliver Wirtz, who took command when Dade Bowie was made a squadron commander, in charge of not only the Sea Otter, but eleven other fleet submarines. Both COMSUBPAC and Bowie believe that this mission will be even more dangerous, a virtual suicide mission, but CINCPAC has ordered it be undertaken. Dade helps to prepare Oliver for the mission as he settles into his new job, which presents new problems. Lieutenant Ricola, a highly competent young officer who wants to return to sea duty as a diving officer, attempts to persuade Dade to approve a job swap between himself and Tom Detrick. Doing so would probably save Detrick’s life by keeping him from the Sea of Japan mission, but there are other factors Dade must consider, not the least of which is his own integrity. Oliver Wirtz is another problem. His time spent fighting with the guerrillas in the Philippines has changed him, and Dade must decide whether this change has rendered him unfit for command.
Another good story that had a lot of complexity to it which I enjoyed. A lot of the mental anguish of war as well as the actual war tactics used in fighting it. Will buy the next installment when available which should bring the warps to a close.
If you like reading historical fiction you will love this series .
This is one of the best series about WWII I have read. If you are a fan that era especially Pearl Harbor and submarine warfare it doesn’t get much better than this. The characters are so real it makes one feel like they are there. The psychological thought of war, tough decisions, and what the world was like at time makes us realize how human nature never really changes. Thanks to Mr. Roskey for a great read Historical accuracy and a very interesting and entertaining series.
I spent 6.5 years on a submarine. They were not as perilous as those depicted in these books, but I’m proud of the experience. I have read all of the books and look forward to those that will follow. I recently recommended the series to my brother. While I was reading Book 5, he finished Books 1 - 4. He’s really enjoying them and constantly asks questions. Please keep it up!
Book 5 is a classic sea tale, with all the detail that history buffs love. However, the true strength of this series is the characters, ordinary, fallible men and women forced beyond their limits. Some break, others grow, some hide their scars while the best learn to share the burden of a massive conflict they did not choose. This book and series is for anyone who has reached a breaking point, not just war veterans or history hounds. It will stick with you a long time.
I have read all of the books in this series. This was my least favorite, but is still a darn good read which says a lot about the quality of the writing. As a non-submariner, I can’t comment on the accuracy of the submarine’s technical descriptions in the series, but they feel authoritative. I am eager to see where the author takes the various relationships in the next installment as well as the new exploits of the Sea Otter.
Accurate facts, exceptional, deep characters, great plots, realistic action and philosophical conversations about war, fear, love, life, loyalty and courage!
Life continues on for Dade and Rachael along with their family. Looking forward to more of life and the adventure that goes with it. Thank you for the glimpse ahead.
I read all five books of this series Got to know the characters in the stories I enjoyed the stories of the three married couples The action of WWII as seen from a sub Hope enjoy the series as wrll
This is a really excellent series. I marvel at the bravery and selflessness of the “greatest generation “. I’m sorry to have come to the end. Hope you write more