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Running Deep: Bravery, Survival, and the True Story of the Deadliest Submarine in World War II
The true story of the USS Tang submarine in World War II and the courageous captain who survived the Tang's sinking and a deadly Japanese torture camp.
There was one submarine that sailed above all other boats in the Silent Service in World War the USS Tang. Captain Richard Hetherington O’Kane commanded the attack submarine that sunk more tonnage, rescued more downed aviators, and successfully completed more surface attacks than any other American submarine. These undersea predators were the first to lead the offensive rebound against the Japanese, but at great Submariners would have six times the mortality rate as the sailors who manned surface ships.
The Tang achieved its greatest success on October 24, 1944, when it took on an entire Japanese convoy and destroyed it. But its 24th and last torpedo boomeranged, returning to strike the Tang. Mortally wounded, the boat sunk, coming to rest on the bottom of the ocean, 180 feet down. After hours of struggle, nine of the 87 crew, including O’Kane, made it to the surface.
Captured by the Japanese, the Tang sailors joined other submariners and flyers–including Louis Zamperini and “Pappy” Boyington–at a “torture camp” whose purpose was to gain vital information from inmates and otherwise let them die from malnutrition, disease, and abuse. A special target was Captain O’Kane after the Japanese learned of the headlines about the Tang. Against all odds, when the camp was liberated in August 1945, O’Kane, at only 90 pounds, still lived. The following January, Richard O’Kane limped into the White House where President Truman bestowed him with the Medal of Honor.
This is the true story of death and survival in the high seas—and of the submarine and her brave captain who would become legends.
There was one submarine that sailed above all other boats in the Silent Service in World War the USS Tang. Captain Richard Hetherington O’Kane commanded the attack submarine that sunk more tonnage, rescued more downed aviators, and successfully completed more surface attacks than any other American submarine. These undersea predators were the first to lead the offensive rebound against the Japanese, but at great Submariners would have six times the mortality rate as the sailors who manned surface ships.
The Tang achieved its greatest success on October 24, 1944, when it took on an entire Japanese convoy and destroyed it. But its 24th and last torpedo boomeranged, returning to strike the Tang. Mortally wounded, the boat sunk, coming to rest on the bottom of the ocean, 180 feet down. After hours of struggle, nine of the 87 crew, including O’Kane, made it to the surface.
Captured by the Japanese, the Tang sailors joined other submariners and flyers–including Louis Zamperini and “Pappy” Boyington–at a “torture camp” whose purpose was to gain vital information from inmates and otherwise let them die from malnutrition, disease, and abuse. A special target was Captain O’Kane after the Japanese learned of the headlines about the Tang. Against all odds, when the camp was liberated in August 1945, O’Kane, at only 90 pounds, still lived. The following January, Richard O’Kane limped into the White House where President Truman bestowed him with the Medal of Honor.
This is the true story of death and survival in the high seas—and of the submarine and her brave captain who would become legends.
352 pages, Hardcover
Published October 21, 2025
38 people are currently reading
8995 people want to read
About the author
Tom Clavin
43 books501 followersTom Clavin is the author/coauthor of eleven books. His most recent is That Old Black Magic: Louis Prima, Keely Smith, and the Golden Age of Las Vegas.
His articles have appeared in Cosmopolitan, Family Circle, Men's Journal, Parade, Reader's Digest, and others.
He was a contributing reporter for the New York Times for fifteen years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 5, 2025
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
The USS Tang was the top-scoring U.S. submarine of World War II. Commanded by Richard O'Kane, it had a short, but spectacular, career in only five war patrols. If not for a faulty torpedo, it's quite likely the sub would have achieved even greater glory.
This book is not just the story of the Tang. It's also the story of O'Kane and the officers and men he served with, along with stories about other submarines and their commanders. The narrative is really easy to read, with short chapters which don't get bogged down. However, sometimes the narrative strays a bit and needs a few pages to get back on track. There is a complete section on the history of submarines, torpedoes and the Momsen Lung which probably could have been located in a different spot, but since all three are important to the story they definitely needed to be included.
Having read several books about American submarines, and the Tang specifically, there wasn't much new information for me. But the story of Tang' survivors in Japanese prisoner camps was really worth reading as O'Kane never really mentioned what he endured (and it was a considerable amount of punishment) in his own book, "Clear the Bridge". While some questioned his sanity during the war, no one can question his toughness and honor after reading this book.
A fine tribute to a legendary submarine and those who served with her.
The USS Tang was the top-scoring U.S. submarine of World War II. Commanded by Richard O'Kane, it had a short, but spectacular, career in only five war patrols. If not for a faulty torpedo, it's quite likely the sub would have achieved even greater glory.
This book is not just the story of the Tang. It's also the story of O'Kane and the officers and men he served with, along with stories about other submarines and their commanders. The narrative is really easy to read, with short chapters which don't get bogged down. However, sometimes the narrative strays a bit and needs a few pages to get back on track. There is a complete section on the history of submarines, torpedoes and the Momsen Lung which probably could have been located in a different spot, but since all three are important to the story they definitely needed to be included.
Having read several books about American submarines, and the Tang specifically, there wasn't much new information for me. But the story of Tang' survivors in Japanese prisoner camps was really worth reading as O'Kane never really mentioned what he endured (and it was a considerable amount of punishment) in his own book, "Clear the Bridge". While some questioned his sanity during the war, no one can question his toughness and honor after reading this book.
A fine tribute to a legendary submarine and those who served with her.
August 15, 2025
I've lost count on how many books of Tom Clavin's that I have read, but he is on a streak of absolute must reads. His streak does not die with Running Deep.
The setup for this one is simple. The USS Tang was the deadliest submarine of World War II. This was not by accident. What was an accident was how the war ended for the Tang. I'll say no more. If this sounds even slightly interesting, then go read the book.
Clavin is one of my favorites because there is no fluff. Yes, tangents at times, but they all have a purpose whether to tell you about the history of submarines or why torpedoes were the scourge of even the ships that fired them. Clavin doesn't give you page after page of musings on why Captain O'Kane was aggressive. Instead he tells the story. The action will tell you exactly who people are.
It's another winner. Go give it a read.
(This book was provided as an advance reader copy by St. Martin's Press.)
The setup for this one is simple. The USS Tang was the deadliest submarine of World War II. This was not by accident. What was an accident was how the war ended for the Tang. I'll say no more. If this sounds even slightly interesting, then go read the book.
Clavin is one of my favorites because there is no fluff. Yes, tangents at times, but they all have a purpose whether to tell you about the history of submarines or why torpedoes were the scourge of even the ships that fired them. Clavin doesn't give you page after page of musings on why Captain O'Kane was aggressive. Instead he tells the story. The action will tell you exactly who people are.
It's another winner. Go give it a read.
(This book was provided as an advance reader copy by St. Martin's Press.)
October 13, 2025
The true story of the USS Tang - one of the most prolific subs - during WWII. It earned great success and was greatly admired by the submariners. When it sinks there are few survivors, and they begin a torturous journey as prisoners of the Japanese who put them through horrific conditions. Just a great read by one of the lesser known arenas of WWII. Thanks to NetGalley for the read.
September 4, 2025
Thank you NetGalley,author,Tom Calvin and publisher,St.Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read the arc ebook of the non-fiction story,Running Deep. I had never read more than one or two nf books about any U.S. military wars before, and I am so happy that I didn’t pass up reading this one.It was so informative,exciting,written like a good novel,easy to understand,even some of the more technical info,too.
The gist of the story is about the Silent Service( the name given to the Navy’s submarine branch of the US military) and it’s most honored submarine,the USS Tang,serving in the Pacific during WW2. It’s brave and somewhat unorthodox Commander,Dick O’Kane along with his crew of sailors worked together as an expert team during the most horrendous times torpedoing the Japanese ships.Dick O’Kane was the highest decorated military person along with Audie Murphy(army). The last third of the book was about O’Kane and other survivors being held POW under horrible conditions in two different Japanese camps.It’s so hard to believe what pain humans can inflict on fellow humans! Please don’t hesitate to read this book,you won’t be disappointed.
On sale October 02,2025
The gist of the story is about the Silent Service( the name given to the Navy’s submarine branch of the US military) and it’s most honored submarine,the USS Tang,serving in the Pacific during WW2. It’s brave and somewhat unorthodox Commander,Dick O’Kane along with his crew of sailors worked together as an expert team during the most horrendous times torpedoing the Japanese ships.Dick O’Kane was the highest decorated military person along with Audie Murphy(army). The last third of the book was about O’Kane and other survivors being held POW under horrible conditions in two different Japanese camps.It’s so hard to believe what pain humans can inflict on fellow humans! Please don’t hesitate to read this book,you won’t be disappointed.
On sale October 02,2025
September 8, 2025
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC of this book. I have been long fascinated by the history of the Silent Service and this book does not disappoint. It gives a great insight into the submarine warfare of WW II. I particularly enjoyed the background given every person as they figured into the history of the silent service. It was very hard to read the portions of the book where the members of the crew of the Tang were held by the Japanese. The brutality was very upsetting. The epilogue brought this saga to a close but it was clear the survivors still suffered. An excellent retelling of World War II.
August 29, 2025
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher. (thank You!) My 75 year-old dad came to visit and saw Running Deep sitting on my coffee table. He started and finished it in one day — (literally did not move from the chair until he was finished). He was totally engrossed with the story and said it was a captivating and fantastic read. Now he’s sharing it with all his buddies.
October 16, 2025
Running Deep by Tom Clavin is an excellent account of the crucial significance of submarine warfare (known as “The Silent Service”) to the success of the U.S. Navy’s campaign in the WWII Pacific Theater and our nation’s ultimate victory. The author focuses primarily on the campaigns of the USS Wahoo and USS Tang and the career of exec officer and later captain Richard “Dick” O’Kane” whose success in commanding these vessels made him the most decorated submarine officer in U.S. Naval history.
This book is a must read for anyone interested in WWII and the importance of the Navy to the U.S. war effort. Unbeknownst to many is that the submarine fleet was crucial to cutting off supply lines to the Japanese war effort. The Pacific Submarine Force was credited with sinking 5 Million Tons of Japanese supply shipments and 600K tons of warships including eight aircraft carriers. Those numbers are simply hard to fathom! However, it is author Clavin’s exquisite description of O’Kane’s leadership as well as the combined resolve of both crew and superior officers that makes these very real statistics entirely believable.
Another strong plus about Tom Clavin’s account is that while paying homage to the development and success of the U.S. Navy submarine efforts, he also takes considerable and appropriate time to set the context within the overall campaign of the Pacific Theater. Clavin deftly connects the dots to O’Kane’s fellow officers and one of a kind personalities (e.g. Dudley “Mush” Morton”) whose individualism, O’Kane’s included, were critical for success in such a dangerous and emotionally intense line of work. Clavin doesn’t stop there. He then layers on the the historical context of the exquisite leadership of Admiral’s Charles Lockwood, Raymond Spruance, and Chester Nimitz and their importance to the success of the overall Submarine effort.
Finally, what puts this book over the top is the solid historical research that went into it, which is immediately understood by the volume and quality of historical citations and references. For Instance, in detailing the atrocities that our POWs were subjected to at Omori Camp where Dick O’Kane nearly perished, Clavin makes the connection to Olympian and war veteran Louis Zamperini (and ruthless Japanese prison guard Matsuhiro “The Bird”Watanabe) a dark part of history brought to life by Laura Hillenbrand’s book “Unbroken”.
In summary, Running Deep by Tom Clavin tells the story of many unique individuals in a stunning effort under ruthless conditions. It is a testament to his writing skill that their heroics shine bright.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at
www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
This book is a must read for anyone interested in WWII and the importance of the Navy to the U.S. war effort. Unbeknownst to many is that the submarine fleet was crucial to cutting off supply lines to the Japanese war effort. The Pacific Submarine Force was credited with sinking 5 Million Tons of Japanese supply shipments and 600K tons of warships including eight aircraft carriers. Those numbers are simply hard to fathom! However, it is author Clavin’s exquisite description of O’Kane’s leadership as well as the combined resolve of both crew and superior officers that makes these very real statistics entirely believable.
Another strong plus about Tom Clavin’s account is that while paying homage to the development and success of the U.S. Navy submarine efforts, he also takes considerable and appropriate time to set the context within the overall campaign of the Pacific Theater. Clavin deftly connects the dots to O’Kane’s fellow officers and one of a kind personalities (e.g. Dudley “Mush” Morton”) whose individualism, O’Kane’s included, were critical for success in such a dangerous and emotionally intense line of work. Clavin doesn’t stop there. He then layers on the the historical context of the exquisite leadership of Admiral’s Charles Lockwood, Raymond Spruance, and Chester Nimitz and their importance to the success of the overall Submarine effort.
Finally, what puts this book over the top is the solid historical research that went into it, which is immediately understood by the volume and quality of historical citations and references. For Instance, in detailing the atrocities that our POWs were subjected to at Omori Camp where Dick O’Kane nearly perished, Clavin makes the connection to Olympian and war veteran Louis Zamperini (and ruthless Japanese prison guard Matsuhiro “The Bird”Watanabe) a dark part of history brought to life by Laura Hillenbrand’s book “Unbroken”.
In summary, Running Deep by Tom Clavin tells the story of many unique individuals in a stunning effort under ruthless conditions. It is a testament to his writing skill that their heroics shine bright.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at
www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
November 2, 2025
I picked this up because I'm a sucker for WWII stories, but I wasn't prepared for how intense this book would be. Tom Clavin tells the story of the USS Tang and its captain, Richard O'Kane, and it's absolutely jaw-dropping from start to finish.
The Tang was the most lethal American submarine in WWII. It sunk more enemy tonnage than any other sub, rescued downed pilots, took on entire Japanese convoys. O'Kane was this brilliant, aggressive captain who pushed his crew and boat to the absolute limit. The combat scenes are incredible. You're right there in the cramped sub, listening to enemy destroyers pinging sonar overhead, holding your breath while torpedoes streak toward Japanese ships.
But here's where it gets brutal: On October 24, 1944, after destroying an entire convoy in their greatest victory, the Tang's 24th torpedo malfunctioned and circled back, hitting their own submarine. The boat sank in 180 feet of water with 87 men aboard. Only nine made it to the surface alive, including O'Kane, after hours of desperate struggle in the dark, flooded sub. The escape scenes are claustrophobic nightmare fuel.
Then the real horror begins. The Japanese capture them and send them to what was basically a torture camp. The same hellhole where Louis Zamperini (from Unbroken) and fighter ace "Pappy" Boyington were held. These prisoners were systematically starved, beaten, and abused. The guards targeted O'Kane especially hard once they realized he was the famous Tang captain they'd been reading about in the papers.
What got me was the sheer survival of it. When the camp was liberated in August 1945, O'Kane weighed 90 pounds. Ninety. Pounds. Yet he survived, and in January 1946 he limped into the White House where President Truman gave him the Medal of Honor.
Clavin really brings home the reality of submarine warfare. Submariners had six times the mortality rate of surface sailors. They were living in tin cans under the ocean with death constantly inches away. He's also great at showing O'Kane's leadership style and how he earned his crew's loyalty even when he was pushing them into danger.
The book does wander a bit at times into tangents about other submarines and general naval history, but honestly I didn't mind because those stories were fascinating too. And Clavin actually credits his sources by name throughout the book, which I appreciated. If you want to dive deeper into any part of this story, he's basically giving you a reading list.
This isn't a feel-good war story. It's brutal and honest about what these men went through. But it's also an incredible testament to human courage and endurance. If you liked Unbroken or In Harm's Way, you need to read this.
The Tang was the most lethal American submarine in WWII. It sunk more enemy tonnage than any other sub, rescued downed pilots, took on entire Japanese convoys. O'Kane was this brilliant, aggressive captain who pushed his crew and boat to the absolute limit. The combat scenes are incredible. You're right there in the cramped sub, listening to enemy destroyers pinging sonar overhead, holding your breath while torpedoes streak toward Japanese ships.
But here's where it gets brutal: On October 24, 1944, after destroying an entire convoy in their greatest victory, the Tang's 24th torpedo malfunctioned and circled back, hitting their own submarine. The boat sank in 180 feet of water with 87 men aboard. Only nine made it to the surface alive, including O'Kane, after hours of desperate struggle in the dark, flooded sub. The escape scenes are claustrophobic nightmare fuel.
Then the real horror begins. The Japanese capture them and send them to what was basically a torture camp. The same hellhole where Louis Zamperini (from Unbroken) and fighter ace "Pappy" Boyington were held. These prisoners were systematically starved, beaten, and abused. The guards targeted O'Kane especially hard once they realized he was the famous Tang captain they'd been reading about in the papers.
What got me was the sheer survival of it. When the camp was liberated in August 1945, O'Kane weighed 90 pounds. Ninety. Pounds. Yet he survived, and in January 1946 he limped into the White House where President Truman gave him the Medal of Honor.
Clavin really brings home the reality of submarine warfare. Submariners had six times the mortality rate of surface sailors. They were living in tin cans under the ocean with death constantly inches away. He's also great at showing O'Kane's leadership style and how he earned his crew's loyalty even when he was pushing them into danger.
The book does wander a bit at times into tangents about other submarines and general naval history, but honestly I didn't mind because those stories were fascinating too. And Clavin actually credits his sources by name throughout the book, which I appreciated. If you want to dive deeper into any part of this story, he's basically giving you a reading list.
This isn't a feel-good war story. It's brutal and honest about what these men went through. But it's also an incredible testament to human courage and endurance. If you liked Unbroken or In Harm's Way, you need to read this.
October 16, 2025
Dive into "Running Deep" by Tom Clavin and prepare for an underwater joyride that torpedoes boredom right out of the water!
Did you know that more than one out of five submariners died in action?
That's the highest fatality rate among all the branches of the US Armed Forces during WWII.
Did you know who said, "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!"?
Admiral David Farragut. He was referring to an underwater minefield.
Do you know why 24-year-old engine room member Clayton Decker joined the Navy?
"Your bunk and the chow hall went right along with you."
Did you know that among the nine survivors of the Tang sub, seven had wives?
And did you know that by the end of 1945, only 3 of them would still be married?
I learned that in one of the footnotes.
This book packs more wallops than a hyperactive sea otter on espresso.
With heroic submariners zipping around the Pacific like caffeinated moles, the USS Tang becomes the Chuck Norris of submarines—unstoppable until it does a somersault and high-fives itself with a wayward torpedo.
Captain O'Kane’s legendary exploits, escaping disaster and surviving as a noodle-thin POW, are remarkable. Clavin’s storytelling plunges you into cramped quarters, exploding “fish” (torpedoes!), and submarine drama so tense you’ll feel claustrophobic in your living room.
If history books usually make you snore, this one will keep you gasping for air.
So grab your periscope, chomp on some seaweed snacks, and enjoy this brilliantly written naval saga. By the time you surface, you’ll be saluting the crew, hugging your bathtub, and Googling “how not to shoot your own submarine.”
Five starfish!
DISCLOSURE: The publisher gave me an advanced copy.
Did you know that more than one out of five submariners died in action?
That's the highest fatality rate among all the branches of the US Armed Forces during WWII.
Did you know who said, "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!"?
Admiral David Farragut. He was referring to an underwater minefield.
Do you know why 24-year-old engine room member Clayton Decker joined the Navy?
"Your bunk and the chow hall went right along with you."
Did you know that among the nine survivors of the Tang sub, seven had wives?
And did you know that by the end of 1945, only 3 of them would still be married?
I learned that in one of the footnotes.
This book packs more wallops than a hyperactive sea otter on espresso.
With heroic submariners zipping around the Pacific like caffeinated moles, the USS Tang becomes the Chuck Norris of submarines—unstoppable until it does a somersault and high-fives itself with a wayward torpedo.
Captain O'Kane’s legendary exploits, escaping disaster and surviving as a noodle-thin POW, are remarkable. Clavin’s storytelling plunges you into cramped quarters, exploding “fish” (torpedoes!), and submarine drama so tense you’ll feel claustrophobic in your living room.
If history books usually make you snore, this one will keep you gasping for air.
So grab your periscope, chomp on some seaweed snacks, and enjoy this brilliantly written naval saga. By the time you surface, you’ll be saluting the crew, hugging your bathtub, and Googling “how not to shoot your own submarine.”
Five starfish!
DISCLOSURE: The publisher gave me an advanced copy.
October 2, 2025
By either tonnage sank or number of ships sank, the Tang was NOT the deadliest submarine in WWII. That would be U-48. (I have seen some suggest U-99; it was far behind U-48, but still far ahead of Tang which thus isn't even No. 2.) The deadliest single sub attack in history by types of ships sank, if not tonnage, since flattops don't weigh that much, was arguably by the Japanese I-19.. Additional note: Through at least late 1943, among the major belligerents, the Japanese generally had the best torpedoes and the Americans the worst.
Also, AFAIK, neither the crew in general nor its skipper, Commander Richard O'Kane, were sent to a "torture camp."
I've seen Clavin get facts wrong before, and engage in sensationalism as well.
The story as is may be interesting, including getting sunk by its own torpedo and how the crew escaped, but to riff on a review of another book by Soy Boy the History Nerd, who wrongly five-stars this, if you're writing what this subtitle says, you're in historical fiction or something else.
Also, AFAIK, neither the crew in general nor its skipper, Commander Richard O'Kane, were sent to a "torture camp."
I've seen Clavin get facts wrong before, and engage in sensationalism as well.
The story as is may be interesting, including getting sunk by its own torpedo and how the crew escaped, but to riff on a review of another book by Soy Boy the History Nerd, who wrongly five-stars this, if you're writing what this subtitle says, you're in historical fiction or something else.
October 16, 2025
I have read several of Tom Clavin's books and learned so much! His books are always well researched and well written.
Running Deep is the story of the USS Tang, a US World War II submarine, and its Captain, Richard Hetherington O'Kane. The Tang was an attack submarine that had the best attack record of the submarine fleet at the time, before being accidentally sunk by one of it's own torpedoes. Only 9 crewmen, including the Captain, survived the sinking.
The surviving crewmen were captured by the Japanese and sent to a prisoner of war camp.
A year later when the camp was liberated, O'Kane, weighing only 90 pounds, was rescued.
Wow! This story was intense!
I had never heard of the USS Tang or Captain O'Kane before. So glad I read this story and learned the history of the ship and its crew.
With everything going on in the world right now, I found it hard to read a story about war. Even a war that ended so long ago. But, I persevered and finished the book, because I had to know what the fate of the crew was!
The facts are presented in a very interesting way, and I enjoyed this book despite it being a very serious topic.
Eagerly awaiting the next Tom Clavin book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from St Martins Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Running Deep is the story of the USS Tang, a US World War II submarine, and its Captain, Richard Hetherington O'Kane. The Tang was an attack submarine that had the best attack record of the submarine fleet at the time, before being accidentally sunk by one of it's own torpedoes. Only 9 crewmen, including the Captain, survived the sinking.
The surviving crewmen were captured by the Japanese and sent to a prisoner of war camp.
A year later when the camp was liberated, O'Kane, weighing only 90 pounds, was rescued.
Wow! This story was intense!
I had never heard of the USS Tang or Captain O'Kane before. So glad I read this story and learned the history of the ship and its crew.
With everything going on in the world right now, I found it hard to read a story about war. Even a war that ended so long ago. But, I persevered and finished the book, because I had to know what the fate of the crew was!
The facts are presented in a very interesting way, and I enjoyed this book despite it being a very serious topic.
Eagerly awaiting the next Tom Clavin book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from St Martins Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
July 2, 2025
I am so excited I was granted an ARC for Mr. Clavin’s latest offering. I have read several of his books and this one is by far my favorite of them all. This author has a specific type of writing style, and he gives you information, he does not write a book as a normal 1st or 3rd character telling, he gives you all the information from his research on the subject he is writing about. And for this fare, it was the USS Tang submarine WWII and the history of submarine warfare. Oh, how I swallowed up everything he had to write. I loved this book.
When I read about the injustices done in the prisoner of war camps in Japan in WWII, it never ceases to infuriate me. And I am always so impressed with the determination our military prisoners used to stay alive. Captain O’Kane and his crew suffered tremendously, along with the other allied prisoners.
I also love a book that covers the “after” of how the characters continued on with life after the story. I feel that I learned so much, this one comes in with the highest 5 stars I can give. Thank you, Mr. Clavin.
This is my own opinion expressed in this review. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press.
When I read about the injustices done in the prisoner of war camps in Japan in WWII, it never ceases to infuriate me. And I am always so impressed with the determination our military prisoners used to stay alive. Captain O’Kane and his crew suffered tremendously, along with the other allied prisoners.
I also love a book that covers the “after” of how the characters continued on with life after the story. I feel that I learned so much, this one comes in with the highest 5 stars I can give. Thank you, Mr. Clavin.
This is my own opinion expressed in this review. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press.
July 23, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is the amazing story of the USS Tang submarine, which was launched in 1943. The USS Tang was the most decorated submarine, sinking more tonnage, rescuing more downed aviators and successfully completing more surface attacks than any other American submarine. That stellar record ended in 1944 when the USS Tang became a casualty of her own haywire torpedo. 78 brave men lost their lives, and 9 survivors were rescued and taken as prisoners of war.
The story recounts the USS Tang’s successes, its destruction and the aftermath for the survivors as they are beaten and starved, yet courageously still face each day with the hope the war will soon be over and rescue is on the way.
While I think the book is a 3-star based on the writing, which is sometimes unclear, the story of valor deserves more than 5 stars. The story was educational, intense and kept me engaged.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
This is the amazing story of the USS Tang submarine, which was launched in 1943. The USS Tang was the most decorated submarine, sinking more tonnage, rescuing more downed aviators and successfully completing more surface attacks than any other American submarine. That stellar record ended in 1944 when the USS Tang became a casualty of her own haywire torpedo. 78 brave men lost their lives, and 9 survivors were rescued and taken as prisoners of war.
The story recounts the USS Tang’s successes, its destruction and the aftermath for the survivors as they are beaten and starved, yet courageously still face each day with the hope the war will soon be over and rescue is on the way.
While I think the book is a 3-star based on the writing, which is sometimes unclear, the story of valor deserves more than 5 stars. The story was educational, intense and kept me engaged.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
August 11, 2025
This is a deep dive into submarine warfare in WWII. It focuses on Commander Dick O'Kane and the USS Tang which set records for ships sunk, including itself when a torpedo malfunctioned and circled back on the submarine. The commanders of the submarine fleet were a special breed: aggressive and patient, stealthy and often foolhardy. They were a small part of the naval forces, but accounted for a majority of Japanese ships destroyed in the war.
The book is detailed and well researched, as all of Clavin's books are. It gets a little slow in the middle as he describes the history of submarine warfare. (It reminded me of reading an unabridged version of Moby Dick that spent what felt like hundreds of pages describing the sperm whale and the whaling industry.) However, it picks up when the action starts.
This book revealed to me the extent to which the submarines were the predators of the Pacific. They wrecked havoc on Japanese shipping and certainly led to a quicker end to the war.
The book is detailed and well researched, as all of Clavin's books are. It gets a little slow in the middle as he describes the history of submarine warfare. (It reminded me of reading an unabridged version of Moby Dick that spent what felt like hundreds of pages describing the sperm whale and the whaling industry.) However, it picks up when the action starts.
This book revealed to me the extent to which the submarines were the predators of the Pacific. They wrecked havoc on Japanese shipping and certainly led to a quicker end to the war.
August 11, 2025
By World War II’s end, fifty-two American submarines had been lost. And 5,206 officers and enlisted men were killed—more than one out of five submariners died in action. The most prolific submarine, the Tang was one of the lost, struck by its own malfunctioning torpedo. This book gives a complete look at life aboard a sub.
From the blurb, I expected the book to be about the Tang only. It’s about a lot more. The history of submarines, torpedoes, and escape chambers are thoroughly covered. There are brief biographies of the inventors like Robert Fulton, other submariners who at one time worked with Tang captain Dick O’Kane, and even Louis Zamperini and Greg Boyington, POWs whom the Tang survivors met in captivity.
One odd comment I disagree with. In discussing Midway and the Pan Am refueling base before the war, the author says the Clipper seaplanes were nicknamed “goonies.” They were not. Pan Am’s Gooneyville Lodge was so named because of the albatrosses which populated the island. They were the goonie birds.
October 28, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 4 stars
Tom Clavin doesn’t just chronicle war; he resurrects it. Running Deep takes the claustrophobic terror of submarine combat and renders it with journalistic precision and novelist’s pulse. The USS Tang isn’t just a boat—it’s a pressure cooker of courage, fear, and mechanical genius. Captain Richard O’Kane emerges as the kind of leader who’d rather go down fighting than float in mediocrity, and by the time the Tang fires that final, fatal torpedo, you can feel every vibration through the hull.
Clavin’s pacing is surgical—first the adrenaline of attack, then the nightmare of survival. The prison-camp chapters are especially harrowing, stripped of sentiment but full of endurance. You end up respecting not only O’Kane’s heroism but the crew’s grim humor in the face of hell. Running Deep proves again why the “silent service” never gets enough credit: these were men who fought wars in total darkness, and somehow came back to tell the tale.
Tom Clavin doesn’t just chronicle war; he resurrects it. Running Deep takes the claustrophobic terror of submarine combat and renders it with journalistic precision and novelist’s pulse. The USS Tang isn’t just a boat—it’s a pressure cooker of courage, fear, and mechanical genius. Captain Richard O’Kane emerges as the kind of leader who’d rather go down fighting than float in mediocrity, and by the time the Tang fires that final, fatal torpedo, you can feel every vibration through the hull.
Clavin’s pacing is surgical—first the adrenaline of attack, then the nightmare of survival. The prison-camp chapters are especially harrowing, stripped of sentiment but full of endurance. You end up respecting not only O’Kane’s heroism but the crew’s grim humor in the face of hell. Running Deep proves again why the “silent service” never gets enough credit: these were men who fought wars in total darkness, and somehow came back to tell the tale.
October 10, 2025
This report is for the audiobook version.
An extremely well-done and intriguing story. The author does a tremendous job of capturing the horrors and hardships of the US WW2 submarine fleet in the Pacific. The story centers around Dick O'Kane the top submarine commander during the war but branches out to capture the stories of several others as well. The ordeal the officers and crew of the Tang went through is really heartbreaking. The action is fast paced and will definitely hold your attention. I highly recommend this book!
The narrator of this book was terrific. He kept you engaged and through his voice you could see what was happening. I would highly recommend listening to other audio books he does narration for.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
An extremely well-done and intriguing story. The author does a tremendous job of capturing the horrors and hardships of the US WW2 submarine fleet in the Pacific. The story centers around Dick O'Kane the top submarine commander during the war but branches out to capture the stories of several others as well. The ordeal the officers and crew of the Tang went through is really heartbreaking. The action is fast paced and will definitely hold your attention. I highly recommend this book!
The narrator of this book was terrific. He kept you engaged and through his voice you could see what was happening. I would highly recommend listening to other audio books he does narration for.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 18, 2025
Running Deep by Tom Clavin is more than a historical account of the USS Tang, the deadliest submarine of World War II. Instead, it is written like a novel that explores the trials and tribulations experienced in developing the submarine. It also explores many of the men who commanded the early submarines, or the Silent Service, as the Navy referred to them. While non-fiction is not my usual genre of choice, I eagerly picked up this audiobook because one of my daughters is a nuclear engineer who taught at the Navy's Power School and I wanted to learn more about submarines. I'm so glad that I did. This book is well written, meaningful, and heart-felt. The narrator, George Newbern, was excellent and demonstrated emotion and heartfelt agony in appropriate measure. I highly recommend this audiobook!
October 26, 2025
In the book Running Deep, author Tom Clavin writes about the Silent Service of World War II. While submarines had been used in war, World War II marked a change in tactics for the use of submarines. Before World War II subs where used mainly for reconnaissance and rescue missions. But the USS Tang. Captain Richard Hetherington O’Kane became a new breed of captains that decided to be more aggressive and seek out and destroy enemy ships. Captain O’Kane sunk more tonnage, rescued more downed aviators, and successfully completed more surface attacks than any other American submarine. This is the true story of their incredible journey and development of new war tactics that turned the course of World War II. I would recommend this book. The audio-book narration was good. I received a copy of this audio-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
Running Deep by Tom Clavin is a masterclass in narrative nonfiction, plunging listeners into the perilous world of WWII submarine warfare. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Clavin resurrects the legacy of the USS Tang and its fearless commander, Richard O’Kane.
George Newbern’s narration is a standout—steady, respectful, and emotionally attuned. His delivery honors the gravity of the subject without veering into dramatics, allowing the tension and humanity of each moment to breathe. The pacing is deliberate, giving listeners space to absorb the historical stakes and personal sacrifices.
This audiobook isn’t just a chronicle of military strategy—it’s a tribute to resilience, leadership, and the cost of heroism. Ideal for fans of Unbroken or The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors, Running Deep offers both adrenaline and introspection.
George Newbern’s narration is a standout—steady, respectful, and emotionally attuned. His delivery honors the gravity of the subject without veering into dramatics, allowing the tension and humanity of each moment to breathe. The pacing is deliberate, giving listeners space to absorb the historical stakes and personal sacrifices.
This audiobook isn’t just a chronicle of military strategy—it’s a tribute to resilience, leadership, and the cost of heroism. Ideal for fans of Unbroken or The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors, Running Deep offers both adrenaline and introspection.
October 31, 2025
Two of my favorite WWII movies are Destination Tokyo and Run Silent, Run Deep. Both involve submarines, so when I saw this book it seemed logical to read it. It tells a great a great story about on WWII submarine, the Tang (during WWII submarines were named after fish- a tang is in the family of Ray-finned fish and many are brightly colored), which sunk the most enemy ships in the Pacific theater. It also devoted a whole section to the history of submarines (that section starts with a quote from a letter Jefferson sent to Washington in 1785 in which he mentions submarines). The book is fascinating not only for telling the history of submarines and the destruction on Japanese shipping but also for the torture and abuse the men from the Tang suffered after the Tang was sunk - and the sinking is another interesting story in itself. Enjoyed the read.
October 8, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an audio ARC.
I've been trying to extend some of my historical knowledge a bit recently, as I haven't really studied beyond the early 1900's in depth. This one caught my eye and is interesting to listen to. I did like the narrator. I would also say that this is an easy read and is not difficult at all to follow along with the story that is being told. I do think there is good information presented to understand the people who were involved.. The author does stick primarily to showing the events that occurred and doesn't expand a lot beyond the information that is presented in historical sources in order to form an easy to digest narrative. Overall I did enjoy this book and getting a new perspective in history.
I've been trying to extend some of my historical knowledge a bit recently, as I haven't really studied beyond the early 1900's in depth. This one caught my eye and is interesting to listen to. I did like the narrator. I would also say that this is an easy read and is not difficult at all to follow along with the story that is being told. I do think there is good information presented to understand the people who were involved.. The author does stick primarily to showing the events that occurred and doesn't expand a lot beyond the information that is presented in historical sources in order to form an easy to digest narrative. Overall I did enjoy this book and getting a new perspective in history.
October 27, 2025
Having always been interested in learning about WW2, I was glad to receive this book. It is about the exploits of the USS Tang, the Pacific Fleet’s most successful submarine. The author told its story well, discussing its officers and their matriculation through the naval ranks as well as the difficulties of submarine warfare. He includes a brief history of submarines and an epilogue of what became of the people mentioned in the book.
Four stars. The narrator did a good job with the tale, pretty much shooting straight the entire time. This was an interesting story and a good read. My thanks to the author and Macmillan Audio.
Four stars. The narrator did a good job with the tale, pretty much shooting straight the entire time. This was an interesting story and a good read. My thanks to the author and Macmillan Audio.
July 27, 2025
Thanks to Tom Clavin, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for access to the Advanced Reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a fascinating true story of courage, tragedy, and survival in World War II focusing on the impressive career of Captain Richard O’Kane and the crews of the submarines USS Tang and the USS Wahoo.
Extensively researched and well written, this is a great insight into what life was like for submariners in World War II and the daily challenges they faced. Recommended.
This is a fascinating true story of courage, tragedy, and survival in World War II focusing on the impressive career of Captain Richard O’Kane and the crews of the submarines USS Tang and the USS Wahoo.
Extensively researched and well written, this is a great insight into what life was like for submariners in World War II and the daily challenges they faced. Recommended.
October 29, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
This is my first book by Tom Clavin, and I became interested in the bravery and suffering of this particular story.
The first ⅔ is a bit slow. Naval history, personal histories, and politics.
When the Tang started kicking butt, the story sped up. I stayed awake to read accounts of escape, capture, torture, and liberation. History already knew the ending, and Clavin did a good job pulling it together.
This is my first book by Tom Clavin, and I became interested in the bravery and suffering of this particular story.
The first ⅔ is a bit slow. Naval history, personal histories, and politics.
When the Tang started kicking butt, the story sped up. I stayed awake to read accounts of escape, capture, torture, and liberation. History already knew the ending, and Clavin did a good job pulling it together.
September 7, 2025
An excellent book, important history, told in a clear and breathtaking manner. Submarines were explained clearly to give the reader a true understanding of their value and risks. This book should be enjoyed by both history and adventure readers.
October 12, 2025
Thank you Goodreads and St Martins Press for this ARC book. What a fascinating story of the history of the USS Tang-and the battles it was in. Such an incredible story And horrifying accident that ended this wonderful submarine. History I have not ever heard before and totally enthralling.
October 17, 2025
Hi!
Your story reads like a movie I could practically see the lighting, the movement, everything.
I’m a comic & webtoon artist, and I’d love to help bring that cinematic feel to life visually.
If that sounds exciting, let’s chat! I’m on Discord (ava_crafts).
Best wishes,
Ava
Your story reads like a movie I could practically see the lighting, the movement, everything.
I’m a comic & webtoon artist, and I’d love to help bring that cinematic feel to life visually.
If that sounds exciting, let’s chat! I’m on Discord (ava_crafts).
Best wishes,
Ava
September 7, 2025
Fascinating read. Paints a detailed picture of life on a submarine during war. I received an ARC from the publisher.
September 29, 2025
More than just an account of one submarine's service in WW2, this book presents a history of undersea navigation, some of which I was not familiar with. The book, while focusing on American naval history, also traces Axis submarine events during the war. It presents a clearer picture of the naval strategy and activities across all combatants. The author is quite proficient in narrative history and builds tension and readers' expectations in the way he structures his tale. This is an excellent book for both the general reader and those familiar with military history..
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