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Jock Miles WW2 Adventure #1
Long Walk To The Sun
In this alternate history adventure set in WW2’s early days, a crippled US military struggles to defend vulnerable Australia against the unstoppable Japanese forces. When a Japanese regiment lands on Australia’s desolate and undefended Cape York Peninsula, Jock Miles, a US Army captain disgraced despite heroic actions at Pearl Harbor, is ordered to locate the enemy’s elusive command post. Conceived in politics rather than sound tactics, the futile mission is a “show of faith” by the American war leaders meant to do little more than bolster their flagging Australian ally. For Jock Miles and the men of his patrol, it’s a death sentence: their enemy is superior in men, material, firepower, and combat experience. Even if the Japanese don’t kill them, the vast distances they must cover on foot in the treacherous natural realm of Cape York just might. When Jock joins forces with Jillian Forbes, an indomitable woman with her own checkered past who refused to evacuate in the face of the Japanese threat, the dim prospects of the Allied war effort begin to brighten in surprising ways.
Audiobook
First published December 7, 2012
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About the author
William Peter Grasso
24 books75 followersA lifelong student of history, William Peter Grasso served in the US Army and is retired from the aircraft maintenance industry. His devotion to all things historical, military, and aviation remains unabated and continues to inspire his fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 8, 2016
I love it when I pull on my jeans in the morning and discover a crumpled $20 in my pocket. (Sure, I already had the twenty, but I didn't know I had it so it was a pleasant surprise.) Sure, $20 can't buy you more than a couple of good beers, but still - twenty bucks! The Long Walk to the Sun was exactly like that (other than I hadn't already read it.) It was a very unexpected and pleasant surprise.
It's an alternate history book set in the Pacific during World War II. The author's premise is that he takes one event, changes the outcome and then just lets the story unfold. The twist in this book is that the US Pacific Fleet's strategic oil reserves were destroyed in the Pearl Harbor attack. Yes, the US still had their carriers, they just couldn't project power because, you know, no gas.
Net effect of changing this one thing is that the Imperial Japanese Navy (and Army) run wild not for six months but much, much longer. In this new, alternate world, they even make a play at the wild northern reaches of Australia. A token force of GIs is sent as a gesture of support by the US. And in this force is none-other than Jock Miles, our main character. He leads an expeditionary force to target the Japanese air bases so US bombers may destroy them.
Sounds pretty cool, right? Well it is, but only it isn't. There are flashes of brilliance. Jillian (love interest) rocks. The viper's nest of Army bureaucracy is portrayed well too. The combat is fun as well. The problem is Jock. He is just too dang good. He's pretty much how I imagine Ward Cleaver was - you know, before he and June had the Beaver. He's one of those characters who is pretty good at everything, a natural leader who is always in the right place at the right time. He's also extraordinarily lucky. And he's kind to small children and puppies.
Three stars out of five. A good, fun read that alternate history / WWII buffs might enjoy more than the average reader.
It's an alternate history book set in the Pacific during World War II. The author's premise is that he takes one event, changes the outcome and then just lets the story unfold. The twist in this book is that the US Pacific Fleet's strategic oil reserves were destroyed in the Pearl Harbor attack. Yes, the US still had their carriers, they just couldn't project power because, you know, no gas.
Net effect of changing this one thing is that the Imperial Japanese Navy (and Army) run wild not for six months but much, much longer. In this new, alternate world, they even make a play at the wild northern reaches of Australia. A token force of GIs is sent as a gesture of support by the US. And in this force is none-other than Jock Miles, our main character. He leads an expeditionary force to target the Japanese air bases so US bombers may destroy them.
Sounds pretty cool, right? Well it is, but only it isn't. There are flashes of brilliance. Jillian (love interest) rocks. The viper's nest of Army bureaucracy is portrayed well too. The combat is fun as well. The problem is Jock. He is just too dang good. He's pretty much how I imagine Ward Cleaver was - you know, before he and June had the Beaver. He's one of those characters who is pretty good at everything, a natural leader who is always in the right place at the right time. He's also extraordinarily lucky. And he's kind to small children and puppies.
Three stars out of five. A good, fun read that alternate history / WWII buffs might enjoy more than the average reader.
March 24, 2025
As much fun to read the second time through as the first. I've re-read most every book in the William Peter Grasso library (besides those that I've been forced to part with given limited shelf space). This one I've avoided for years, not because I didn't like it the first time, but because of its length.
Still, once you dive in, Grasso hooks you with the classic combination of good characters, great historical accuracy, attention to detail, and gripping action.
Plus, the scenario of Long Walk to the Sun is very unique versus almost any other plot in his chronology. An alternate history premise where the Japanese hit the fuel oil reserves at Pearl Harbor leaves the American Navy crippled and unable to respond to the lightning conquest of former colonies across the Pacific. So inert is America's offensive capabilities that the Solomons are conquered (no successful defense of Port Moresby by the Australians or Guadalcanal landing by the US Marines) and an expedition is launched to establish a foothold on the northern Queensland peninsula.
Enter Jock Miles and his slim task force picked from the fledgling US Army presence in Australia, who are given the mission of locating the Japanese command post so that it may be bombed from the air.
Not only does the book offer a fascinating timeline of alternative events (a timeline it follows for the rest of the Jock Miles series), but it also provides a glimpse into the rugged jungle of northern Queensland, from the wildlife to the Aboriginal people who live among it.
Plus, who doesn't love a badass female lead?
Not sure when I'll read this one next, but I can confidently say it will take a mighty good contribution from the current Jif Miles series to knock it off its coveted spot on the shelf.
Still, once you dive in, Grasso hooks you with the classic combination of good characters, great historical accuracy, attention to detail, and gripping action.
Plus, the scenario of Long Walk to the Sun is very unique versus almost any other plot in his chronology. An alternate history premise where the Japanese hit the fuel oil reserves at Pearl Harbor leaves the American Navy crippled and unable to respond to the lightning conquest of former colonies across the Pacific. So inert is America's offensive capabilities that the Solomons are conquered (no successful defense of Port Moresby by the Australians or Guadalcanal landing by the US Marines) and an expedition is launched to establish a foothold on the northern Queensland peninsula.
Enter Jock Miles and his slim task force picked from the fledgling US Army presence in Australia, who are given the mission of locating the Japanese command post so that it may be bombed from the air.
Not only does the book offer a fascinating timeline of alternative events (a timeline it follows for the rest of the Jock Miles series), but it also provides a glimpse into the rugged jungle of northern Queensland, from the wildlife to the Aboriginal people who live among it.
Plus, who doesn't love a badass female lead?
Not sure when I'll read this one next, but I can confidently say it will take a mighty good contribution from the current Jif Miles series to knock it off its coveted spot on the shelf.
March 4, 2022
Great read
How true the operation was is hard to tell from this story but if close to reality General Mac Author was a total ass. As is often the case as in Mac Author and Patton, you have to use the best man for the job no matter how difficult they seem to be. The book moves right along and is a one day read because I couldn't put it down. The main characters are well defined and the romance was just enough to provide a break between on going mission.
I was hard to believe that the facts of the mission could be changed so easily. Enjoyed, Bill
How true the operation was is hard to tell from this story but if close to reality General Mac Author was a total ass. As is often the case as in Mac Author and Patton, you have to use the best man for the job no matter how difficult they seem to be. The book moves right along and is a one day read because I couldn't put it down. The main characters are well defined and the romance was just enough to provide a break between on going mission.
I was hard to believe that the facts of the mission could be changed so easily. Enjoyed, Bill
April 11, 2020
Good storytelling!
Thoroughly enjoyable alternative history pick. I love the author’s approach to picking one historical fact, changing it, and then developing the story from there. Author does a good job of creating a compelling story that engages you quickly and keeps you wanting more. Thanks for the great read!
Thoroughly enjoyable alternative history pick. I love the author’s approach to picking one historical fact, changing it, and then developing the story from there. Author does a good job of creating a compelling story that engages you quickly and keeps you wanting more. Thanks for the great read!
August 5, 2023
Excellent Story of Australian Early WW2
Told m several things I did not know. That’s what I love about historical novels. Even though it is fictional, there is always enough of the real thing to be interesting historically. In this book the story was gripping and the characters were believable. I didn’t want to stop reading.
Told m several things I did not know. That’s what I love about historical novels. Even though it is fictional, there is always enough of the real thing to be interesting historically. In this book the story was gripping and the characters were believable. I didn’t want to stop reading.
January 10, 2018
A Great WW2 Story
I like books that are in a series with characters that you can follow from book to book. I enjoyed this book very much and have downloaded the next 4 books in the series. Mr. Grass writes a good story with strong characters that makes a great book!
I like books that are in a series with characters that you can follow from book to book. I enjoyed this book very much and have downloaded the next 4 books in the series. Mr. Grass writes a good story with strong characters that makes a great book!
April 15, 2019
Long Walk To The Sun
Still not sure how I feel about an alternate history of WE 2, but having said that I did enjoy this story. Task Force Miles is given a nearly impossible mission with little or no support.
Still not sure how I feel about an alternate history of WE 2, but having said that I did enjoy this story. Task Force Miles is given a nearly impossible mission with little or no support.
March 10, 2022
Excellent book. Well written story that flows well. About WW2 and Australian involvement.
A war story but a lot more. Much better than I expected it to be. War and love story combined.
Already purchased the next four novels in this series. One to #2 us now!
A war story but a lot more. Much better than I expected it to be. War and love story combined.
Already purchased the next four novels in this series. One to #2 us now!
July 28, 2022
Jungle and mcarthur
Jillian vs MaCarthur. No contest. His big ego is a disgrace. As a child I was. Angry at Me. Truman for firing my hero. As an adult perhaps he should have done it sooner.
Jillian vs MaCarthur. No contest. His big ego is a disgrace. As a child I was. Angry at Me. Truman for firing my hero. As an adult perhaps he should have done it sooner.
February 6, 2023
Long Walk to the Sun
This was a great story and a love story as well. I was fascinated by all of the action. I wonder if was true. I particularly liked all of the parts with MacArthur taking all of the glory. It
This was a great story and a love story as well. I was fascinated by all of the action. I wonder if was true. I particularly liked all of the parts with MacArthur taking all of the glory. It
April 19, 2023
Keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Another great read by William Grasso. He keeps the flow of happenings in a good order and doesn’t bring in things that detract from the reading.
Another great read by William Grasso. He keeps the flow of happenings in a good order and doesn’t bring in things that detract from the reading.
April 22, 2025
DNF. I read 'bout 17% of the book and, perhaps it is me, but alternative history isn't my thing. Also I could see where a woman was going to play a major role in this book. In war. Nope, didn't care for the personalities. Reading was fine if you are looking for a romantic/war novel. I wasn't.
May 31, 2018
Good read
A little predictable but a bit like W.E.B. Giffen's " The Corp" series. Makes you realize how petty people can be even during a war.
A little predictable but a bit like W.E.B. Giffen's " The Corp" series. Makes you realize how petty people can be even during a war.
May 9, 2020
Quite enjoyable. Good alternate history.
July 28, 2020
Good read
Excellent story line and easy to read. Lots of action. Cant't waite to read more in the series. Good read !!
Excellent story line and easy to read. Lots of action. Cant't waite to read more in the series. Good read !!
August 7, 2020
Two
And that's being generous. Jock Miles should stay lost in walk about and maybe find a plot and some character development.
And that's being generous. Jock Miles should stay lost in walk about and maybe find a plot and some character development.
November 1, 2020
Entertaining alternate history. No good deed goes unpunished. I think I am going to enjoy reading about Jock.
June 22, 2021
Thia history Is really awesome.
February 23, 2022
Rick's opinion
Good story, having read the Vietnam and Korean books I wanted to read start of Jock and Jillian book life. On to book 2..
Good story, having read the Vietnam and Korean books I wanted to read start of Jock and Jillian book life. On to book 2..
June 13, 2022
very good book
This book was a fast read. It was enjoyable and the pages just flew. I will continue to read the other books of this series.
This book was a fast read. It was enjoyable and the pages just flew. I will continue to read the other books of this series.
July 20, 2022
Review
I really enjoyed Jock. Great n
Job. I was army infantry in Vietnam in 71. 1st 22'nd infantry recon 4'th division. An khe and tuy HOA . thank you again great read
I really enjoyed Jock. Great n
Job. I was army infantry in Vietnam in 71. 1st 22'nd infantry recon 4'th division. An khe and tuy HOA . thank you again great read
October 5, 2022
Outstanding
Well written but a knowledgeable author, you have done your homework on this series. A real pleasure to read, exciting from the beginning to the end. What fun!
Rock on!
Well written but a knowledgeable author, you have done your homework on this series. A real pleasure to read, exciting from the beginning to the end. What fun!
Rock on!
April 25, 2023
I picked this up on a whim. It was an amazing story. Characters were very believable. Looking forward to more of the series. Well worth the read.
Read
October 24, 2023GREAT BOOK, JOCK IS FOLLOWING IN HIS FATHER AND MOTHER'S FOOTSTEPS
November 24, 2023
Amazing start to this series
This was a great start and introduction to Jock Miles! The story was interesting and made me want to keep reading.
This was a great start and introduction to Jock Miles! The story was interesting and made me want to keep reading.
June 8, 2024
Gripping war story. Interesting characters, lots of action.
January 12, 2016
It was great to listen to this novel. I was born in and lived most of my life some of the Australian places in this novel, and got to say I found it all pretty plausible and the pronunciations quite good (in particularly Brisbane, which every other non-Aussie I've heard pronounce it gets it very wrong). The only one I wasn't sure on was Weipa - but to tell you the truth I've not been there or spoken with a resident of it, so it very is possible my pronunciation (which just comes from my interpretation of the word) may be wrong. Very possibly I'm wrong, especially as the author actually made a point of describing the alternate pronunciations in the story itself. The portrayal of the areas in the book were all to my experience as well as second hand knowledge very accurate. Also I found the dialog both appropriate and enjoyable to listen to. One of the critical reviews on Amazon had some odd complaints on the language used in the book, and I felt them a bit unfounded.
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Blast.
The book is an alternate history WW2 novel, but not in style of the more traditional WW2 alternate history novel like 1948, The Man in the High Castle, where humanity is in some depressing future due to the allies having lost the war. In this one we are looking more at a micro level of "smaller" plausible actions that didn't happen, during the war itself. I was so caught by the story I felt the need to check out the synopses of other books the author has written, and am really interested in listening to others when they are released, both the other Jock Miles ones and some of the standalone ones, in particular East Wind Returns.
The story itself was an engaging listen, the plot a very smart and well executed story, and the characters well developed and likeable where appropriate, and unlikable where not, including the horrible rear echelon military people Jock and his group were continually done wrong by. I do hope that in reality MacArthur wasn't quite like this.
The narration - well Andrew Tell did a fantastic job. I was worried I'd be hearing Brisbane mispronounced for the entire novel, and that did not happen, so an instant + for me. I've actually several books narrated by him in my library, but this is the first with Aussie characters, and fortunately it wasn't tried to be done as the common caricature of Aussie accents that you often see in movies (think of Robert Downey Jr in Natural Born Killers - ugh!!!), but more realistic.
A great read, and I'm looking forward to more audio releases by the author, Jock Miles or otherwise!
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Blast.
The book is an alternate history WW2 novel, but not in style of the more traditional WW2 alternate history novel like 1948, The Man in the High Castle, where humanity is in some depressing future due to the allies having lost the war. In this one we are looking more at a micro level of "smaller" plausible actions that didn't happen, during the war itself. I was so caught by the story I felt the need to check out the synopses of other books the author has written, and am really interested in listening to others when they are released, both the other Jock Miles ones and some of the standalone ones, in particular East Wind Returns.
The story itself was an engaging listen, the plot a very smart and well executed story, and the characters well developed and likeable where appropriate, and unlikable where not, including the horrible rear echelon military people Jock and his group were continually done wrong by. I do hope that in reality MacArthur wasn't quite like this.
The narration - well Andrew Tell did a fantastic job. I was worried I'd be hearing Brisbane mispronounced for the entire novel, and that did not happen, so an instant + for me. I've actually several books narrated by him in my library, but this is the first with Aussie characters, and fortunately it wasn't tried to be done as the common caricature of Aussie accents that you often see in movies (think of Robert Downey Jr in Natural Born Killers - ugh!!!), but more realistic.
A great read, and I'm looking forward to more audio releases by the author, Jock Miles or otherwise!
January 13, 2014
World War II yarn, alternative history. To spin it into the alternative history, during the attack on Pearl Harbor the Japanese destroy the fuel storage tanks, thereby making the undamaged carrier fleet useless for lack of bunker oil. This, of course, changes everything about the war in the Pacific and the Japanese invade northern Australia. This is the main plot of this story.
Really nothing compelling about the story and, since it's the first of a series, there was never any doubt as to how it would turn out. Other parts get to be pretty predictable as well.
Really nothing compelling about the story and, since it's the first of a series, there was never any doubt as to how it would turn out. Other parts get to be pretty predictable as well.
June 30, 2015
I don't normally read war stories, they're too depressing. This however,was an excellent one. The plot was first rate, the characters were excellent, and the plot, while fiction, was very real enough. The only reason this is not a five star rating, is the jungle section. It just seemed to seemed to drag on too long. Otherwise, this was a well done book. Even the romance was well done
March 13, 2016
Grabbed this on a whim and was happy I did. Historical fiction about WW2 has always appealed to me, and this one has it all - action, camaraderie, windbags getting deflated (including his highness, General MacArthur) and a bit of romance. Good read; I'll definitely be grabbing the next ones in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews