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Dane Maddock Origins #3
Splashdown: A Dane and Bones Origins Story (Dane Maddock Origins)
1961- Space capsule Liberty Bell 7 crashes into the Atlantic Ocean and sinks in what was called an accident. But was it?
When Navy SEALs Dane Maddock and “Bones” Bonebrake are called upon to find the Liberty Bell 7 and recover its secret cargo, they find themselves caught up in a conspiracy from the Cold War era, and only they stand in the way of a powerful man bent on vengeance. Dane and Bones are back in another “Origins” adventure. Sunken ships, deadly creatures, dangerous enemies, mysteries from the past, and all the thrills your heart can stand await you in Splashdown!
When Navy SEALs Dane Maddock and “Bones” Bonebrake are called upon to find the Liberty Bell 7 and recover its secret cargo, they find themselves caught up in a conspiracy from the Cold War era, and only they stand in the way of a powerful man bent on vengeance. Dane and Bones are back in another “Origins” adventure. Sunken ships, deadly creatures, dangerous enemies, mysteries from the past, and all the thrills your heart can stand await you in Splashdown!
184 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2014
73 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
David Wood
100 books309 followersDavid Wood is the USA Today bestselling author of the Dane Maddock Adventures and many other titles and series. He also writes Science Fiction under the pen name Finn Gray and fantasy as David Debord. He is also a book reviewer, podcaster, and a member of International Thriller Writers and The Horror Writers Association. David and his family live in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Visit him online at www.davidwoodweb.com.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 18, 2014
Splashdown, a Dane and Bones Origins Story, gives us a peek back in time when Dane and Bones were still Navy Seals. In Splashdown, our two heroes are called on by the government to steal a bomb from the Liberty Bell 7 that lays on the ocean floor. Nothing every seem to be easy with Dane and Bones and their adventure in Splashdown is no different. This is a covert operation but at the scene is.... a news crew filming the raising of the Liberty 7, a treasure hunter who is after treasures of a sunken Spanish ship and ...... drum roll... the Russians who want the bomb for not so nice reason.
Dane and Bones run a muck with the Russians, fight back and escape as this is their story. In typical Dane and Bones fashion there are not only adventures but some good antics by the boys.
The Origins books are fun to read after having read the Dane and Bones series. Love the little insights into their history.
Dane and Bones run a muck with the Russians, fight back and escape as this is their story. In typical Dane and Bones fashion there are not only adventures but some good antics by the boys.
The Origins books are fun to read after having read the Dane and Bones series. Love the little insights into their history.
April 20, 2014
I just love Dane and Bones! I have read all of the books and they are just fun fast reading books. This book Dane and Bones are trying to get a nuclear bomb from a space capsule that sunk 40 years earlier. It's fun reading about their life in SEALS and their first adventures!
June 9, 2023
From space to the bottom of the sea, this book has it all and I really enjoyed it. This book did seem shorter than some of the other books in the series but the author still makes it entertaining and packs it full of daring escapes. This is an origin story so the book just features Dane Maddock and “Bones” Bonebrake, who are still part of a navy seal team and actually Dane isn't a big fan of Bones humour, seeing as they become such good buddies in later books it is fun to listen to these books and see how it all began. This book mainly takes place under water and there is no real treasure hunting (eg. Out smarting booby traps) but they still need to beat the bad guys to the prize and rescue themselves like only they can do. I liked the way the space race played a part in this book and out of all the books I have listened to so far, this one seems the most possible. Another great adventure series to sit back and enjoy.
Dane and Bones are waiting to see If they had passed there training when they get called to take part in a secret mission. In 1961 during the space race, the liberty bell 7 returning to earth crashes into the sea. The astronaut is rescued but the capsule sinks taking with it a secret the US government would rather not come out. The capsule contained a nuclear weapon that sinks to the bottom of the sea. When a tv crew discovers the Bell, the race is on to be the first to recover the weapon. The Russians want to rewrite history and Dane is tasked with retrieving it or failing that stopping it from getting into enemy hands. Can Dane and Bones get there first or will there mission sink?
I like the narrator. He really helps the story flow along and is a big reason I started listening to the series. Now I am hooked, lined and sinker.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntary left this review.
Dane and Bones are waiting to see If they had passed there training when they get called to take part in a secret mission. In 1961 during the space race, the liberty bell 7 returning to earth crashes into the sea. The astronaut is rescued but the capsule sinks taking with it a secret the US government would rather not come out. The capsule contained a nuclear weapon that sinks to the bottom of the sea. When a tv crew discovers the Bell, the race is on to be the first to recover the weapon. The Russians want to rewrite history and Dane is tasked with retrieving it or failing that stopping it from getting into enemy hands. Can Dane and Bones get there first or will there mission sink?
I like the narrator. He really helps the story flow along and is a big reason I started listening to the series. Now I am hooked, lined and sinker.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntary left this review.
May 27, 2022
I've enjoyed this series up until now but Splashdown was a disappointment. A few minor spoilers to follow. It starts off well enough but things soon devolve into silliness it feels like half a book, because there's so much here left unexplained as a result of a very abrupt ending. No mention of what happened to the Russian villain or the aftermath of the successful mission by Dane and Bones. Very disappointing.
This series has always been low on realism but it really outdoes itself here. Bones, a 6'5 Native American, is somehow able to disguise himself as a Russian sailor in amongst a bunch of average height white guys? Even worse towards the end a bunch of radioactive mutant man sized crabs show up to tussle with our heroes. Not kidding. Again, no explanation as to how or why they're in the story. They just appear for a few pages and then vanish with no mention of them ever again. Weird.
After this I probably won't continue with this series. Too bad, because I do like Dane and Bones a lot but this was just a little too silly for me.
This series has always been low on realism but it really outdoes itself here. Bones, a 6'5 Native American, is somehow able to disguise himself as a Russian sailor in amongst a bunch of average height white guys? Even worse towards the end a bunch of radioactive mutant man sized crabs show up to tussle with our heroes. Not kidding. Again, no explanation as to how or why they're in the story. They just appear for a few pages and then vanish with no mention of them ever again. Weird.
After this I probably won't continue with this series. Too bad, because I do like Dane and Bones a lot but this was just a little too silly for me.
January 2, 2021
I just love Dane and Bones! And this Origins series give us the readers a great idea how these 2 became the good friends that they are in later adventures. This time the government wants them to go retrieve a nuclear bomb that was inside the Liberty Bell 7 for 40 years on the bottom of the ocean. All seems easy until the Russians capture them. In good Dane and Bones fashion they do what they were supposed to do and get the nuke back. All’s well that ends well. But... giant crabs??! Mmmm...
February 16, 2018
Not my favorite of the David Wood books. Reading them out of order makes it apparent to me that these books get better as they go along. In this book specifically, I would have thought that Dane and Bones would have been more knowledgeable about the history of the 1960's.
March 5, 2024
The horror...
Readers beware!
The GOOD: around 350 good friends and/of family of authors (4-5 stars)
The BAD: around 350 bots rating (4-5 stars)
The UGLY: As when you've been cheated on, I'm developing trust issues about goodreaders ratings. Also, my brother will laugh at me.
Readers beware!
The GOOD: around 350 good friends and/of family of authors (4-5 stars)
The BAD: around 350 bots rating (4-5 stars)
The UGLY: As when you've been cheated on, I'm developing trust issues about goodreaders ratings. Also, my brother will laugh at me.
June 19, 2020
like all David Wood's books it get your blood moving
June 29, 2020
Another great read with Dane & Bones. Looking forward to reading the next book.
July 6, 2021
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
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August 16, 2022NOOK
April 21, 2014
Book Review: Splashdown by David Wood and Rick Chesler
Splashdown by David Wood and Rick Chesler is a Dane and Bones Origins Story that gives us another look at the early adventures that these two Navy SEALs had together. This also helps to give some background into how they learned many of their skills used in marine archaeology after their "retirement" from the Navy. This is a fast paced ride that I couldn't put down and includes a lot of interesting characters and..... creatures. I won't explain much on those since i think they are an awesome part of this story that you will just have to read to find out about.
This is the first Origins Story I have read and it gives just as much excitement as the Dane Maddock Adventure series but with more military background since both Dane and Bones and Navy SEALs. We join Dane and Bones while they are finishing up submersible pilot training in the Pacific and get to see how the two learn to work together and forge their close bond. The training comes in handy and is one reason they are picked for a special assignment to retrieve a Cold War-era nuclear bomb a few hundred miles off the coast of Florida. Excitement and mayhem are running right at the start of this adventure and it doesn't let up. From dealing with a television crew, to underwater submersible fights, to escaping from a crazed Russian submariner, Dane and Bones take us on a non-stop adventure where the fate of Washington D.C. will be decided and they will face off against some pretty deadly creatures you might find hanging out with Godzilla. You'll see. :-)
Splashdown is definitely worth a read and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. I even read it a second time right away and was still captivated by it. I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the Origins Stories. I did receive a complimentary copy of Splashdown in eBook format for the Kindle from David Wood for preview and review. The opinions in this review are mine alone and from my own personal viewpoint.
Splashdown by David Wood and Rick Chesler is a Dane and Bones Origins Story that gives us another look at the early adventures that these two Navy SEALs had together. This also helps to give some background into how they learned many of their skills used in marine archaeology after their "retirement" from the Navy. This is a fast paced ride that I couldn't put down and includes a lot of interesting characters and..... creatures. I won't explain much on those since i think they are an awesome part of this story that you will just have to read to find out about.
This is the first Origins Story I have read and it gives just as much excitement as the Dane Maddock Adventure series but with more military background since both Dane and Bones and Navy SEALs. We join Dane and Bones while they are finishing up submersible pilot training in the Pacific and get to see how the two learn to work together and forge their close bond. The training comes in handy and is one reason they are picked for a special assignment to retrieve a Cold War-era nuclear bomb a few hundred miles off the coast of Florida. Excitement and mayhem are running right at the start of this adventure and it doesn't let up. From dealing with a television crew, to underwater submersible fights, to escaping from a crazed Russian submariner, Dane and Bones take us on a non-stop adventure where the fate of Washington D.C. will be decided and they will face off against some pretty deadly creatures you might find hanging out with Godzilla. You'll see. :-)
Splashdown is definitely worth a read and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. I even read it a second time right away and was still captivated by it. I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the Origins Stories. I did receive a complimentary copy of Splashdown in eBook format for the Kindle from David Wood for preview and review. The opinions in this review are mine alone and from my own personal viewpoint.
May 5, 2014
FUN FROM BELOW !
This is my first "Origins" book featuring Dane and Bones - I enjoyed learning about Dane and Bones' history as Navy Seals . . . and ohhh so love stories with mysteries, revenge, devious Ruskies in it and so much more.
A fun and exciting read which had me reeling because of the twisting roads, a treasure hunter, Russians, reporters (lol) who were at the scene when the capsule was extracted from the ocean floor - there went the covert operation ( :) ).
I am impressed with the flow of writing and how these two Seals compliment one another, such a close, tight and endearing relationship - truly a remarkable friendship based on their experiences to save the world. I will read their first adventures because I am intrigued by "Splashdown" and want to devour all the books featuring these unique characters.
I do recommend "Splashdown" to readers who enjoy intriguing and just plain fun adventures ! Time to obtain more Dane and Bones books.
Five stars of treasure for such an enjoyable read.
This is my first "Origins" book featuring Dane and Bones - I enjoyed learning about Dane and Bones' history as Navy Seals . . . and ohhh so love stories with mysteries, revenge, devious Ruskies in it and so much more.
A fun and exciting read which had me reeling because of the twisting roads, a treasure hunter, Russians, reporters (lol) who were at the scene when the capsule was extracted from the ocean floor - there went the covert operation ( :) ).
I am impressed with the flow of writing and how these two Seals compliment one another, such a close, tight and endearing relationship - truly a remarkable friendship based on their experiences to save the world. I will read their first adventures because I am intrigued by "Splashdown" and want to devour all the books featuring these unique characters.
I do recommend "Splashdown" to readers who enjoy intriguing and just plain fun adventures ! Time to obtain more Dane and Bones books.
Five stars of treasure for such an enjoyable read.
May 8, 2015
Not too bad. I don't really know what it's like to share a story between two writers, but it can't be easy. I am a fan of Rick Chesler, though so this drew me to this story.
Look, it's easy to read, well thought out but I dunno. It didmN't grab me as much as I thought it would. The setup is great, with the Sanish Invaders finding raw uranium in the jungles of south America and nicking it then running away, tied to a mystery with the early space program. Who says it didn't happen that way, anyway. But there are bits that could have been explored a little more(mutant crabs!!!) and the partnership between the two main characters seems a little underdone.
But I liked it and hope it builds into a good series.
Look, it's easy to read, well thought out but I dunno. It didmN't grab me as much as I thought it would. The setup is great, with the Sanish Invaders finding raw uranium in the jungles of south America and nicking it then running away, tied to a mystery with the early space program. Who says it didn't happen that way, anyway. But there are bits that could have been explored a little more(mutant crabs!!!) and the partnership between the two main characters seems a little underdone.
But I liked it and hope it builds into a good series.
November 26, 2025
In this book Maddock and Bones are diving for a space shuttle that sank into the ocean. It is a little bit weird that I like these books as much as I do, but I think they are a kind of guilty pleasure. Also, they are potato chips books, as in you always want one more. The characters of Maddock and Bones are very, very stereotypical ex navy seals, and somewhat one dimensional. Each book is based on a historical myth, and they are sometimes a little bit repetitive. But the action and adventure is great and very fast paced, and the books are enjoyable.
November 9, 2014
What did you love best about Splashdown?
all the action and adventure, all the close calls, all the times there in immanent danger and could die but they prevail..
Who was your favorite character and why?
Bones he is such a Legend always getting into trouble ;)
Which scene was your favorite?
when they find the Liberty Bell
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
not in particular
Any additional comments?
these Dane and Bones Origins Story are a great read/listen I hope there are more in the future..David Wood is a very gifted writer he really bring the charters to life..
all the action and adventure, all the close calls, all the times there in immanent danger and could die but they prevail..
Who was your favorite character and why?
Bones he is such a Legend always getting into trouble ;)
Which scene was your favorite?
when they find the Liberty Bell
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
not in particular
Any additional comments?
these Dane and Bones Origins Story are a great read/listen I hope there are more in the future..David Wood is a very gifted writer he really bring the charters to life..
October 13, 2014
Entertaining short story but nothing spectacular. Plot holes abound and more than once I found myself saying "Really? That's the best you could come up with?". It's a quick read but don't expect much which is how I typically feel about these short stories that try to keep our interest between the full length novels.
March 7, 2015
Some days I don't know whether I'm reading an action/adventure novel or enjoying the Dane and Bones Comedy Hour. The boys are sent on a secret mission to recover a 40 yr. old space capsule, but things quickly get out of hand with an unhinged TV producer and then a Russian submarine. All through the adventure, the wise cracks and antics continue. Definitely a fun read for a Dane and Bones fan.
June 20, 2015
I love the Origin Series, the writing is great, the characters fun and the action is off the scale. Just what you come to expect from David Wood & Rick Chesler. This was a great match-up of authors. I would highly recommend these novellas.
May 7, 2014
Dane and Bones are back, and this time in the Origins novellas they are dealing with fallout from the Cold War, great story, great writing we are learning more and more about the main characters and what moulded them into the people they are today. Keep up the great work David.
June 12, 2015
i absolutely Dane and Bones and this adventure doesn't disappoint at all. They get to go deep sea diving in a submersible to recover a piece of history. Of course, they have to overcome challenges to survive and complete the mission.
I am looking forward to more of their adventures.
I am looking forward to more of their adventures.
July 10, 2014
Another outstanding story of our two illustrious sailors (before they were freelancers) that I could not put down and finished reading in one sitting. You have to read this series. If you like history, adventure and intrigue, then this story line is for you.
November 27, 2014
The third book in the Dane Maddock origins series, sees Dane and Bones sent on a mission to recover a nuke from the bottom of the ocean. Good quick read that continues to show how Dane and Bones met and became a team.
March 18, 2015
Not the best in the series.
This story lacked complexity and depth. Given vague orders and relying on outside unofficial information, the pair encounter a mad Russian in the course of their mission. There are too many glossed over details and I found the end unsatisfying.
This story lacked complexity and depth. Given vague orders and relying on outside unofficial information, the pair encounter a mad Russian in the course of their mission. There are too many glossed over details and I found the end unsatisfying.
September 3, 2015
OK, but.
This story got a tad off being even remotely believable. Moving from Action to Scfi/Fantasy. For those who really enjoy that genre you will like this. I was looking for a straight Military action story so was disappointed.
This story got a tad off being even remotely believable. Moving from Action to Scfi/Fantasy. For those who really enjoy that genre you will like this. I was looking for a straight Military action story so was disappointed.
June 8, 2014
Best one yet. The characters have matured since the first novel. It's about as believable as the Dirk Pitt and the NUMA novels of Clive Cussler but it could happen or did happen?
June 3, 2014
I have read all of the Dane and Bones series, enjoying everyone of them. This latest adventure is full of mystery and close shaves that only the two good friends can pull off.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews