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Raven One #3
Fight Fight
A contemporary Air-Sea heavyweight fight...the like we haven't seen since The Pacific War.
A routine U.S. Navy Freedom-of-Navigation patrol in the South China sea turns deadly when it encounters a covert - and unauthorized - Chinese plot to lay claim to waters of the South China Sea. Misunderstanding, miscalculation, and fear lead to both sides mobilizing, with the United States moving west across the Pacific to meet and engage the People's Liberation Army (Navy) who waits with modern weaponry and determined purpose.
Through detailed research and his insight of modern naval and aerial warfare gained through personal experience, Kevin Miller takes the reader aboard a nuclear powered aircraft carrier heading across the Pacific for the South China Sea - and combat. Today, the South China Sea is one of the most important - and dangerous - bodies of water in the world, with seven countries laying claim to portions of it, and in one case, all of it. Loaded with action, from heavy seas to inbound missiles, Fight Fight explores a scenario that could lead to an unwanted and unplanned - and with today's headlines perhaps inevitable - war between an established and a rising superpower.
Known for his character development, Miller brings Flip, Weed, and Olive along on another sea adventure. Along the way they will encounter a leadership challenge as old as the sea, and the motivations of several Chinese antagonists, from 4-star leadership to front line fighter pilots, are explored.
Today's cutting-edge precision weapons - some real and some imagined - are employed to devastating effect. Could the Chinese - though relentless action or divine luck - do the unthinkable?
Fight Fight is modern techno-thriller on the order of Clancy's Red Storm Rising, a human story of geopolitics and personal failing, involving the perils and uncertainty of modern naval combat and one particular deadly sin that humans fighting such battles must deal with. And fear, of failure first, then, after witnessing it on a scale no one had imagined, of death.
If war does come, who will fight it?
“I loved "RAVEN ONE" for the authenticity and action, and "DECLARED HOSTILE" has plenty of that…but a whole lot more. Military gender politics, leadership lessons, drug cartels, and a plot that refuses to let you put the book down. One of the very best military thrillers I have read.” -- LOU DRENDEL, noted aviation artist and author
“Another great page turner by Kevin Miller. Clearly, he is an author who has been there, and anyone interested in aviation will love his detailed descriptions of carrier operations. In a manner similar to Tom Clancy, he is willing to look at frightening outcomes and new weapon technology." -- RADM PAUL TOBIN
"The author performs an impressive job in bringing to life not only the men and women of the aircraft carrier Coral Sea and its air squadrons, but also the members of the cartel and their allies. We get not only to know these individuals as people but what motivates them." -- NAVAL HISTORY MAGAZINE
“Kevin Miller has done it again. DECLARED HOSTILE puts you in the cockpit, in the ready room and at the table as the strike group leadership grapples with executing national guidance in an undeclared war. A cleverly conceived concept and an action-packed read.” -- W.D. SULLIVAN, author of SEA DETAIL and DAUNTLESS
"The author does a superlative job of weaving a narrative of personal relationships and ready room dynamics in and around captivating depictions of combat flight operations of a Super Carrier and embarked Air Win
A routine U.S. Navy Freedom-of-Navigation patrol in the South China sea turns deadly when it encounters a covert - and unauthorized - Chinese plot to lay claim to waters of the South China Sea. Misunderstanding, miscalculation, and fear lead to both sides mobilizing, with the United States moving west across the Pacific to meet and engage the People's Liberation Army (Navy) who waits with modern weaponry and determined purpose.
Through detailed research and his insight of modern naval and aerial warfare gained through personal experience, Kevin Miller takes the reader aboard a nuclear powered aircraft carrier heading across the Pacific for the South China Sea - and combat. Today, the South China Sea is one of the most important - and dangerous - bodies of water in the world, with seven countries laying claim to portions of it, and in one case, all of it. Loaded with action, from heavy seas to inbound missiles, Fight Fight explores a scenario that could lead to an unwanted and unplanned - and with today's headlines perhaps inevitable - war between an established and a rising superpower.
Known for his character development, Miller brings Flip, Weed, and Olive along on another sea adventure. Along the way they will encounter a leadership challenge as old as the sea, and the motivations of several Chinese antagonists, from 4-star leadership to front line fighter pilots, are explored.
Today's cutting-edge precision weapons - some real and some imagined - are employed to devastating effect. Could the Chinese - though relentless action or divine luck - do the unthinkable?
Fight Fight is modern techno-thriller on the order of Clancy's Red Storm Rising, a human story of geopolitics and personal failing, involving the perils and uncertainty of modern naval combat and one particular deadly sin that humans fighting such battles must deal with. And fear, of failure first, then, after witnessing it on a scale no one had imagined, of death.
If war does come, who will fight it?
“I loved "RAVEN ONE" for the authenticity and action, and "DECLARED HOSTILE" has plenty of that…but a whole lot more. Military gender politics, leadership lessons, drug cartels, and a plot that refuses to let you put the book down. One of the very best military thrillers I have read.” -- LOU DRENDEL, noted aviation artist and author
“Another great page turner by Kevin Miller. Clearly, he is an author who has been there, and anyone interested in aviation will love his detailed descriptions of carrier operations. In a manner similar to Tom Clancy, he is willing to look at frightening outcomes and new weapon technology." -- RADM PAUL TOBIN
"The author performs an impressive job in bringing to life not only the men and women of the aircraft carrier Coral Sea and its air squadrons, but also the members of the cartel and their allies. We get not only to know these individuals as people but what motivates them." -- NAVAL HISTORY MAGAZINE
“Kevin Miller has done it again. DECLARED HOSTILE puts you in the cockpit, in the ready room and at the table as the strike group leadership grapples with executing national guidance in an undeclared war. A cleverly conceived concept and an action-packed read.” -- W.D. SULLIVAN, author of SEA DETAIL and DAUNTLESS
"The author does a superlative job of weaving a narrative of personal relationships and ready room dynamics in and around captivating depictions of combat flight operations of a Super Carrier and embarked Air Win
437 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2018
500 people are currently reading
931 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Miller
6 books179 followersCaptain Kevin Miller, a 24-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, is a former tactical naval aviator and has flown the A-7E Corsair II and FA-18 Hornet operationally. He commanded a carrier-based strike-fighter squadron, and, during his career, logged over 1,000 carrier-arrested landings, made possible as he served alongside outstanding men and women as part of a winning team. Captain Miller lives and writes in Pensacola, Florida.
His first novel, RAVEN ONE, was published in June 2014 and peaked at #29 in Amazon's sales ranking. The sequel, DECLARED HOSTILE, was published in August, 2016. HIGH DESERT REFLECTIONS is an autobiographical short story of his flying experiences in the American mountain west. FIGHT FIGHT was published in 2018 followed by HIGH END in 2024 to complete the R1 series, In June 2020, his long-awaited Battle of Midway historical fiction novel, THE SILVER WATERFALL, was published going on to win five writing awards. Please follow Kevin on Bookbub:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kevin...
Raven One
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Declared Hostile
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Fight Fight
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Silver Waterfall
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
High Desert Reflections
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
His first novel, RAVEN ONE, was published in June 2014 and peaked at #29 in Amazon's sales ranking. The sequel, DECLARED HOSTILE, was published in August, 2016. HIGH DESERT REFLECTIONS is an autobiographical short story of his flying experiences in the American mountain west. FIGHT FIGHT was published in 2018 followed by HIGH END in 2024 to complete the R1 series, In June 2020, his long-awaited Battle of Midway historical fiction novel, THE SILVER WATERFALL, was published going on to win five writing awards. Please follow Kevin on Bookbub:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kevin...
Raven One
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Declared Hostile
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Fight Fight
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Silver Waterfall
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
High Desert Reflections
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
April 6, 2019
Naval Historical Foundation Book Review - Charles Bogart, March 14, 2019
This is the third Raven One book the author has written on contemporary international relationship issues facing the United States. Central to the fictional story the author tells is how quickly incidents can spin out of control even with the best intentions by all to contain the incident. People hear and see what they want to see. The book starts with a well planned and executed attack carried out on a limited non-valuable target of opportunity that, however, results in an unwanted valuable target being hit. The consequences of the valuable target being unexpectedly hit results in repercussions far beyond what was hoped for. Mix into this event too much information, which is just as bad as too little information, particularly when non-verified information gets mixed with verified information being fed to the leadership who are trying to formulate a response, and things can go wrong, very wrong.
The story line centers around a U.S. Navy pilot, Jim Wilson, and the part a U.S. Navy carrier group plays within the conflict. The writing is tight and accurately portrays the world of today’s Navy. The people encountered in the book are not cardboard persons, but instead are real people. Buried within the tales of the air and naval battles fought in the South China Sea are the foibles of human nature and of any large organization. Each nation’s attack plans crumble in action and must be modified and restructured in the heat of combat. Rewards and punishments for actions and non-actions taken are not always fair.
The book ends with the leadership of both sides contemplating the results of the war that led to the death of so many sailors and airmen and the destruction of numerous ships and aircraft. The internal dialogue within both countries raises the question in the readers mind as to who were the winners and losers in this war. Did the United States really win the war or did they just score a tactical victory and suffer a strategic defeat? Did the Chinese lose the war or did they only suffer a tactical defeat but win a strategic victory? Does one take a short-term view of history or a long-term view of history? The heart of the book is summed up in a quote of Mao Zedong at the start of the book “Fight, Fight, Talk Talk, Talk Talk, Fight Fight.” Mao’s quote is an excellent summary of the European interaction with the American Indian from the first day Europeans set foot in North America. We know who won that 500-year war. Does Mao’s quote also sum up the current relationship between the United States and China as the author seems to suggest?
In summary, this book can be read as either a very well-crafted fictional account of wartime operations or as an introduction into the complexities of leadership under stress. In the book, there are numerous questions posed at all levels of command that need immediate answers and, as in real life, it often proves impossible to ensure that the right question is being asked and the correct answered supplied. Read and enjoy.
This is the third Raven One book the author has written on contemporary international relationship issues facing the United States. Central to the fictional story the author tells is how quickly incidents can spin out of control even with the best intentions by all to contain the incident. People hear and see what they want to see. The book starts with a well planned and executed attack carried out on a limited non-valuable target of opportunity that, however, results in an unwanted valuable target being hit. The consequences of the valuable target being unexpectedly hit results in repercussions far beyond what was hoped for. Mix into this event too much information, which is just as bad as too little information, particularly when non-verified information gets mixed with verified information being fed to the leadership who are trying to formulate a response, and things can go wrong, very wrong.
The story line centers around a U.S. Navy pilot, Jim Wilson, and the part a U.S. Navy carrier group plays within the conflict. The writing is tight and accurately portrays the world of today’s Navy. The people encountered in the book are not cardboard persons, but instead are real people. Buried within the tales of the air and naval battles fought in the South China Sea are the foibles of human nature and of any large organization. Each nation’s attack plans crumble in action and must be modified and restructured in the heat of combat. Rewards and punishments for actions and non-actions taken are not always fair.
The book ends with the leadership of both sides contemplating the results of the war that led to the death of so many sailors and airmen and the destruction of numerous ships and aircraft. The internal dialogue within both countries raises the question in the readers mind as to who were the winners and losers in this war. Did the United States really win the war or did they just score a tactical victory and suffer a strategic defeat? Did the Chinese lose the war or did they only suffer a tactical defeat but win a strategic victory? Does one take a short-term view of history or a long-term view of history? The heart of the book is summed up in a quote of Mao Zedong at the start of the book “Fight, Fight, Talk Talk, Talk Talk, Fight Fight.” Mao’s quote is an excellent summary of the European interaction with the American Indian from the first day Europeans set foot in North America. We know who won that 500-year war. Does Mao’s quote also sum up the current relationship between the United States and China as the author seems to suggest?
In summary, this book can be read as either a very well-crafted fictional account of wartime operations or as an introduction into the complexities of leadership under stress. In the book, there are numerous questions posed at all levels of command that need immediate answers and, as in real life, it often proves impossible to ensure that the right question is being asked and the correct answered supplied. Read and enjoy.
January 1, 2021
Decorated Tactical Naval Aviator Kevin Miller has seen the world from the cockpit of many fighter planes. That is what makes this modern day geopolitical thriller tick from beginning to end.
The amount of detail in this is outstanding as Miller uses his countless hours of flight, hundreds of aircraft carrier landings, and combat training to produce one of the best books with aerial combat in a real life game of Battleship. The story follows military strategy worldwide with sea, land, and air assets that the United States uses to try and dissuade the perpetrators from continuing their unconventional attempt at dominance. American military units worldwide are attacked continuously and viciously. Overwhelming odds continue to build against CAG Wilson and the groups involved with trying to stop the Chinese advances to claim portions of regulated international waters. Multiple characters, hero and villain, are given plenty of facetime and this enables you to fully immerse yourself into the different locations through different perspective easily.
The South China Sea is a highly contested piece of real estate in real life. What happens when the United States is abruptly but intentionally attacked by a weapon of unknown origin? With the state of American political tension being so high, how do you think people would react to the vicious and malicious deaths of a number of American service members for a piece of land that is worlds away doesn't affect them directly? Have you ever thought about how the media is Johnny on the spot with news reporting to be the first to deliver a message to the American people? Have you thought about how this could affect the lives of the military members that are down range in peril? These are all questions that are asked, and answered but with the amazing amount of detail and authenticity Miller infuses into this one makes it one that you don't want to pass up.
The amount of detail in this is outstanding as Miller uses his countless hours of flight, hundreds of aircraft carrier landings, and combat training to produce one of the best books with aerial combat in a real life game of Battleship. The story follows military strategy worldwide with sea, land, and air assets that the United States uses to try and dissuade the perpetrators from continuing their unconventional attempt at dominance. American military units worldwide are attacked continuously and viciously. Overwhelming odds continue to build against CAG Wilson and the groups involved with trying to stop the Chinese advances to claim portions of regulated international waters. Multiple characters, hero and villain, are given plenty of facetime and this enables you to fully immerse yourself into the different locations through different perspective easily.
The South China Sea is a highly contested piece of real estate in real life. What happens when the United States is abruptly but intentionally attacked by a weapon of unknown origin? With the state of American political tension being so high, how do you think people would react to the vicious and malicious deaths of a number of American service members for a piece of land that is worlds away doesn't affect them directly? Have you ever thought about how the media is Johnny on the spot with news reporting to be the first to deliver a message to the American people? Have you thought about how this could affect the lives of the military members that are down range in peril? These are all questions that are asked, and answered but with the amazing amount of detail and authenticity Miller infuses into this one makes it one that you don't want to pass up.
November 27, 2018
Exciting and Interesting on Many Levels
First, I wish to say that there were no missing pages in this book, unlike Miller's first book. Maybe not Miller's fault but a big problem nonetheless. Next, it is rare to have such detail into aircraft carrier flight operations. I read that Miller's flight experience explains that. It is a real treat to actually feel the emotions that these pilots experience as they launch. I have observed these brave souls personally from the relative safety of the bridge (my duty station). Miller breaks down a multitude of personal experiences into separate characters that makes it easier to follow. One criticism that I have from my experience is that the book belittles the revelations of the flight-deck crew. If you ever get the chance to watch aircraft flight operations pay attention to all of the brave men and women in colored jackets. One slip and someone likely dies! Jet engines suck bodies into them like huge vacuum cleaners. They must know weight and characteristics of each aircraft. A trip over a wire or hose and they likely die from falling over the unguarded side. There is no one, in my opinion, that does any military service who does not deserve to be called, "hero". The story is almost entirely air combat. I cannot comment on accuracy other than Miller makes it seem accurate to me. I believe it could happen that way. Just imagine - a war with CHINA!!! Not good. My sincere desire would be that we ALL can abolish war. Just think what we could accomplish if we all worked together instead of fighting each other.
First, I wish to say that there were no missing pages in this book, unlike Miller's first book. Maybe not Miller's fault but a big problem nonetheless. Next, it is rare to have such detail into aircraft carrier flight operations. I read that Miller's flight experience explains that. It is a real treat to actually feel the emotions that these pilots experience as they launch. I have observed these brave souls personally from the relative safety of the bridge (my duty station). Miller breaks down a multitude of personal experiences into separate characters that makes it easier to follow. One criticism that I have from my experience is that the book belittles the revelations of the flight-deck crew. If you ever get the chance to watch aircraft flight operations pay attention to all of the brave men and women in colored jackets. One slip and someone likely dies! Jet engines suck bodies into them like huge vacuum cleaners. They must know weight and characteristics of each aircraft. A trip over a wire or hose and they likely die from falling over the unguarded side. There is no one, in my opinion, that does any military service who does not deserve to be called, "hero". The story is almost entirely air combat. I cannot comment on accuracy other than Miller makes it seem accurate to me. I believe it could happen that way. Just imagine - a war with CHINA!!! Not good. My sincere desire would be that we ALL can abolish war. Just think what we could accomplish if we all worked together instead of fighting each other.
November 4, 2024
Not as fast paced knife fight in a phone booth as previous books, but still good nonetheless.
April 4, 2022
For me this was the best novel of the series and I found it difficult to put down. As I saw the % remaining ticking down, I wondered how much more bad luck could the US have against the PRC but I’m pleased they got a few hits in before they all shook hands with no hard feelings at the end.
The end of the book felt a bit abrupt, it was wrapped up quite quickly, but it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment I had following the characters through their journey, especially the grumpy US Marine who didn’t like the dark.
The end of the book felt a bit abrupt, it was wrapped up quite quickly, but it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment I had following the characters through their journey, especially the grumpy US Marine who didn’t like the dark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2019
Fight Fight is the third novel in Kevin Miller’s, Raven One, military fiction naval aviation series. In this novel, Carrier Air Group Commander, Flip Wilson is being deployed to China after a Chinese ship accidentally poisons and kills the crew of a passing US ship. A miscalculation by a Chinese captain leads to a war of escalation that nearly destroys the economies of several world powers.
It is a shame that my readers are not naval aviation nerds like me because this book . . . was . . . awesome.
If you’ve been following my reviews, you’ll know that I have read and reviewed Miller’s previous two novels, Raven One and Declared Hostile. Long story short, I loved Raven One and disliked Declared Hostile. In fact, after Declared Hostile I was worried the series would lose its focus.
Fight Fight proved me completely wrong and is an outstanding return to form.
Once again we’re thrust back into the cockpit of an F-18 taking off from a United States aircraft carrier. Under the guidance of Kevin Miller’s excellent prose, your imagination is transported to the tumultuous South China Sea. There, enemy missiles hide within the hulls of fishing trawlers, and even innocent civilian passenger aircraft threaten to expose the location of the US naval forces.
Fight Fight, is a nail-biting thrill ride. A visceral, action-packed roller coaster ride for your imagination.
What struck me the most about Fight Fight by Kevin Miller, is how pride and nationalism caused two nations to go to war. One man’s quest for glory and recognition within his party set off a catastrophic chain of events that set two giants against each other. China vs. the United States.
Unlike Declared Hostile, where the antagonist was an inferior Venezuelan military force, China is portrayed as a formidable foe. The previous novel made it feel like the US was bullying a smaller country. In this novel, China has more than enough resources and man power to hold its own. Therefore, when these two brutes clash, it leads to an incredible conflict.
Fight Fight, like Declared Hostile, is written in third person omniscient. This allows Miller to jump into the minds of not only our protagonist Flip Wilson, but also his squadron mates and the enemy Chinese Admirals and pilots.
Therefore, you get to see what went through the minds of the Chinese when they accidentally crashed into a US plane. You also get to hear the backdoor discussions on how the conflict needed to be resolved with minimal loss to life and resources. I was also relieved to see that the Chinese were NOT portrayed as bad guys. Just as a country with different values than the US.
However, despite getting a fascinating view from different viewpoints, I did not fully enjoy the omniscient point of view.
There were many instances where the POV would switch from one character to another without any indications of an incoming switch. It was common to have a paragraph where we’re flying with Flip Wilson and then the next paragraph we’re suddenly flying with Bai the Chinese fighter pilot.
These jarring transitions needed a bit more breathing room and smoother writing, but overall this is a minor nitpick in an excellent novel.
Unlike Declared Hostile and Raven One, the characters are a little bit more one dimensional this time around. Flip and Bai get the most fleshing out, but a lot of the supporting characters are there to simply move the plot forward.
This isn’t a bad thing or a detriment to the novel. There’s more than enough conflict and high stakes action to keep this novel riveting.
And by high stakes action, I mean that I was literally gobsmacked by the precise and devastating defense the Chinese unleashed on the US forces. Kevin Miller doesn’t allow you to believe, even for a second, that any of the characters are safe. Several main characters died in previous novels and I had no idea who would survive or bite the bullet in this one.
When I tell you that this book had me on the edge of my seat, this is not an exaggeration. My eyes were darting left to right, desperately eager to find out what was going to happen next. Now that I’m writing this review, I realized something I hadn’t thought about after finishing the book.
I don’t think they ever found one of the pilots.
I’m also wondering if the marine captain was permanently reassigned.
If you read this book, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
My only regret with this book is that I can’t figure out how else to tell you to READ FIGHT FIGHT.
Personally, I hope Flip retires after this one. My fear is that if a fourth book comes out, Flip might not make it back home to his wife and kids. Ugh, I really just can’t say enough good things about Fight Fight. Please support this indie author and read his book.
If you like naval jets, action, and military fiction in general, then you can’t afford to miss this novel.
I give Fight Fight by Kevin Miller . . .
5 stars.
It is a shame that my readers are not naval aviation nerds like me because this book . . . was . . . awesome.
If you’ve been following my reviews, you’ll know that I have read and reviewed Miller’s previous two novels, Raven One and Declared Hostile. Long story short, I loved Raven One and disliked Declared Hostile. In fact, after Declared Hostile I was worried the series would lose its focus.
Fight Fight proved me completely wrong and is an outstanding return to form.
Once again we’re thrust back into the cockpit of an F-18 taking off from a United States aircraft carrier. Under the guidance of Kevin Miller’s excellent prose, your imagination is transported to the tumultuous South China Sea. There, enemy missiles hide within the hulls of fishing trawlers, and even innocent civilian passenger aircraft threaten to expose the location of the US naval forces.
Fight Fight, is a nail-biting thrill ride. A visceral, action-packed roller coaster ride for your imagination.
What struck me the most about Fight Fight by Kevin Miller, is how pride and nationalism caused two nations to go to war. One man’s quest for glory and recognition within his party set off a catastrophic chain of events that set two giants against each other. China vs. the United States.
Unlike Declared Hostile, where the antagonist was an inferior Venezuelan military force, China is portrayed as a formidable foe. The previous novel made it feel like the US was bullying a smaller country. In this novel, China has more than enough resources and man power to hold its own. Therefore, when these two brutes clash, it leads to an incredible conflict.
Fight Fight, like Declared Hostile, is written in third person omniscient. This allows Miller to jump into the minds of not only our protagonist Flip Wilson, but also his squadron mates and the enemy Chinese Admirals and pilots.
Therefore, you get to see what went through the minds of the Chinese when they accidentally crashed into a US plane. You also get to hear the backdoor discussions on how the conflict needed to be resolved with minimal loss to life and resources. I was also relieved to see that the Chinese were NOT portrayed as bad guys. Just as a country with different values than the US.
However, despite getting a fascinating view from different viewpoints, I did not fully enjoy the omniscient point of view.
There were many instances where the POV would switch from one character to another without any indications of an incoming switch. It was common to have a paragraph where we’re flying with Flip Wilson and then the next paragraph we’re suddenly flying with Bai the Chinese fighter pilot.
These jarring transitions needed a bit more breathing room and smoother writing, but overall this is a minor nitpick in an excellent novel.
Unlike Declared Hostile and Raven One, the characters are a little bit more one dimensional this time around. Flip and Bai get the most fleshing out, but a lot of the supporting characters are there to simply move the plot forward.
This isn’t a bad thing or a detriment to the novel. There’s more than enough conflict and high stakes action to keep this novel riveting.
And by high stakes action, I mean that I was literally gobsmacked by the precise and devastating defense the Chinese unleashed on the US forces. Kevin Miller doesn’t allow you to believe, even for a second, that any of the characters are safe. Several main characters died in previous novels and I had no idea who would survive or bite the bullet in this one.
When I tell you that this book had me on the edge of my seat, this is not an exaggeration. My eyes were darting left to right, desperately eager to find out what was going to happen next. Now that I’m writing this review, I realized something I hadn’t thought about after finishing the book.
I don’t think they ever found one of the pilots.
I’m also wondering if the marine captain was permanently reassigned.
If you read this book, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
My only regret with this book is that I can’t figure out how else to tell you to READ FIGHT FIGHT.
Personally, I hope Flip retires after this one. My fear is that if a fourth book comes out, Flip might not make it back home to his wife and kids. Ugh, I really just can’t say enough good things about Fight Fight. Please support this indie author and read his book.
If you like naval jets, action, and military fiction in general, then you can’t afford to miss this novel.
I give Fight Fight by Kevin Miller . . .
5 stars.
September 19, 2018
FANTASTIC Military Aviation Thriller
First let me say, I'm a disabled Air Force Vet. I have read many military aviation novels. I've also read Mr Millers previous two books in the Raven One series. They were both very good but, "Fight Fight" book #3 is by far ONE OF THE FINEST MILITARY AVIATION novels I have ever read, bar none! Several times through the story the authors description of the abject terror one of the characters feels trying to perform a night catapult launch in absolute pitch black night under EMCON and lights out conditions. You could almost smell the mans fear. His description of the political realities the military have to deal are spot on. I certainly hope there will be a #4 in the Raven One series!
First let me say, I'm a disabled Air Force Vet. I have read many military aviation novels. I've also read Mr Millers previous two books in the Raven One series. They were both very good but, "Fight Fight" book #3 is by far ONE OF THE FINEST MILITARY AVIATION novels I have ever read, bar none! Several times through the story the authors description of the abject terror one of the characters feels trying to perform a night catapult launch in absolute pitch black night under EMCON and lights out conditions. You could almost smell the mans fear. His description of the political realities the military have to deal are spot on. I certainly hope there will be a #4 in the Raven One series!
September 16, 2018
Prepare to lose some sleep
This is a tough book to put down. Kevin Miller takes you through the chess game of what happens when the South China Sea erupts.
This is the authors best book. The strategies are as fascinating as the action in the cockpits and aboard ship. This is very much like a Tom Clancy novel.
I only read one or two novels a year and I'm glad I chose this one.
This is a tough book to put down. Kevin Miller takes you through the chess game of what happens when the South China Sea erupts.
This is the authors best book. The strategies are as fascinating as the action in the cockpits and aboard ship. This is very much like a Tom Clancy novel.
I only read one or two novels a year and I'm glad I chose this one.
June 26, 2021
Riveting story
Lots of retired pilots write their stories but with no plot or real characters. Captain Miller not only brings his expertise to his writing but creates gripping plots and characters we want to love and cheer for.
Well done, sir. Need more books!
Woody McClendon
Lots of retired pilots write their stories but with no plot or real characters. Captain Miller not only brings his expertise to his writing but creates gripping plots and characters we want to love and cheer for.
Well done, sir. Need more books!
Woody McClendon
March 22, 2023
The third in the Raven series, this one a bit more speculative. The first two were based in "could be true" scenarios of the war in the Middle East and the "War on Drugs". This book unfolds the start of an "it could happen" war with China. Politics and political spin play an equal role to Naval action, making this book somewhat more complex, as the war reals out of control following a tragic accident that leave several hundred American sailors dead. With each cycle of political spin the war gets more and more out of control, leaving the U.S. service men and women at the mercy of the political mandarins on both sides of the conflict.
Another good read from Kevin Miller that will have you on the edge of your seat most of the way through;.
Another good read from Kevin Miller that will have you on the edge of your seat most of the way through;.
July 23, 2019
Great book!
If you enjoy military political thrillers, this is the book for you. Exciting and suspenseful storytelling with a realism that keeps you guessing.
If you enjoy military political thrillers, this is the book for you. Exciting and suspenseful storytelling with a realism that keeps you guessing.
June 21, 2020
Into their Hearts and Minds
As a retired Command Pilot with over 10,000 hours in jets, I am super critical of poorly considered and poorly planned books about aviation, both military and civil. So when I say this is the real deal, I mean it!. No BS, no poor research, and very good true in life character development. If you like plausable aviation fiction that rings true, I'm sure you will enjoy and appreciate this novel as much as I did.
As a retired Command Pilot with over 10,000 hours in jets, I am super critical of poorly considered and poorly planned books about aviation, both military and civil. So when I say this is the real deal, I mean it!. No BS, no poor research, and very good true in life character development. If you like plausable aviation fiction that rings true, I'm sure you will enjoy and appreciate this novel as much as I did.
March 4, 2020
Air to Air
Like the rest of the series the story line is believeable and the characters are interesting. The books grabs you pretty quick and the next thing you know it's 0200 and you have to get up at 0600 but you don't want to stop reading!
I was raised in NAVAIR and around Naval Aviators all my life . The story and the characters ring true.
Like the rest of the series the story line is believeable and the characters are interesting. The books grabs you pretty quick and the next thing you know it's 0200 and you have to get up at 0600 but you don't want to stop reading!
I was raised in NAVAIR and around Naval Aviators all my life . The story and the characters ring true.
January 29, 2021
excellent
Is there another? I enjoyed reading all three books, and when you have a great series, you always look for the next one.
Is there another? I enjoyed reading all three books, and when you have a great series, you always look for the next one.
January 27, 2022
My review
Can't wait to read the next book in this series. Got the first one as it sounded good. I have not been disappointed.
Can't wait to read the next book in this series. Got the first one as it sounded good. I have not been disappointed.
March 20, 2022
Rousing war tale
Authentic storyline where both sides make mistakes and China retreated to wait a future which may or may not amount to world domination.
Authentic storyline where both sides make mistakes and China retreated to wait a future which may or may not amount to world domination.
November 3, 2022
Pacific Turmoil
Loved the book. Gripping story, well-written and engaging. Makes you feel like you are there, on the carrier, in the ready room, and in the cockpits.
Loved the book. Gripping story, well-written and engaging. Makes you feel like you are there, on the carrier, in the ready room, and in the cockpits.
December 15, 2022
Good writing
Some military writers concentrate on the mechanics of warfare. Kevin Miller is able to spin a plot and create real suspense.
Some military writers concentrate on the mechanics of warfare. Kevin Miller is able to spin a plot and create real suspense.
September 14, 2018
A bolter unfortunately
Unfortunately this novel was a bolter for me. Clearly the author has done his homework and I enjoyed his take on a limited conflict between the two powers but the story is meandering and high level to the point of being boring. The characters are caricatures lacking nuance. I quickly skipped through sections of yet another bitter one man Air Force fighter pilot and his girlfriend which added nothing to the narrative.
The tactical scenes were few and far between and given that was what made Raven One so appealing it is a mistake to get caught up in strategy and not give enough attention to the down and dirty carrier life and fighting that is so compelling. Certain plot points fizzled out, Heavens Shield for instance. There was never mention of tactical nuclear weapons which surprised me.
The narrative focus is at times hard to follow as the viewpoint often changes within a paragraph from that of a Chinese general to a US Navy Admiral. Rather than seeing this conflict play out through the eyes of the war fighters or the commanders the novel attempts to do too much and the stories become blurred. The language is overly descriptive and reads more like a post action report than an in the moment series of events as witnessed by its participants.
I could read about life through the eyes and heart of a naval aviator all day so a shift to these roots for the next novel would be far more compelling in my opinion.
Unfortunately this novel was a bolter for me. Clearly the author has done his homework and I enjoyed his take on a limited conflict between the two powers but the story is meandering and high level to the point of being boring. The characters are caricatures lacking nuance. I quickly skipped through sections of yet another bitter one man Air Force fighter pilot and his girlfriend which added nothing to the narrative.
The tactical scenes were few and far between and given that was what made Raven One so appealing it is a mistake to get caught up in strategy and not give enough attention to the down and dirty carrier life and fighting that is so compelling. Certain plot points fizzled out, Heavens Shield for instance. There was never mention of tactical nuclear weapons which surprised me.
The narrative focus is at times hard to follow as the viewpoint often changes within a paragraph from that of a Chinese general to a US Navy Admiral. Rather than seeing this conflict play out through the eyes of the war fighters or the commanders the novel attempts to do too much and the stories become blurred. The language is overly descriptive and reads more like a post action report than an in the moment series of events as witnessed by its participants.
I could read about life through the eyes and heart of a naval aviator all day so a shift to these roots for the next novel would be far more compelling in my opinion.
October 12, 2018
This came out to be a story that I could not put down, and I don't go around saying that. I almost wish I could forget it and reread it brand new. That being said, there are some pitfalls that detract from the completeness of the story. Two that I can boil down to: I would have liked to see a stealth fighter party. Seems like a missed opportunity to me, since both sides were flying them this time. And: what happened with Heaven's Shield? It went from the most terrifying thing to fly into, to an afterthought. If it was "almost totally lost" by the ending, I would have liked to hear more about how that happened. Also a missed opportunity.
Now here are the things I enjoyed: the chaotic suspense in the first couple of chapters, the detailed description of how easily simple events can snowball and become a fiery armed conflict, and last but not least, the intense, harrowing moments when cruise missiles and ballistic missiles start flying with human beings on the receiving end. Most war narratives are about fighting. This story is more like a constant battle to get to where you're supposed to be fighting. Could have done with more action sequences though, instead of leaving them to the reader's imagination as the author appears to have done in a handful of places.
Now here are the things I enjoyed: the chaotic suspense in the first couple of chapters, the detailed description of how easily simple events can snowball and become a fiery armed conflict, and last but not least, the intense, harrowing moments when cruise missiles and ballistic missiles start flying with human beings on the receiving end. Most war narratives are about fighting. This story is more like a constant battle to get to where you're supposed to be fighting. Could have done with more action sequences though, instead of leaving them to the reader's imagination as the author appears to have done in a handful of places.
March 18, 2021
Kevin Miller has written another military thriller that grabs readers with surprises, authentic aviation scenes, and plenty of human conflicts. As with the first two Raven One novels, readers are in the cockpit of a navy strike fighter for black night cat shots, dogfights, and pitching deck recoveries. Miller’s compact prose shows that carrier aviation is unique, a pursuit in which the takeoff and landing on a combat mission sometimes demand as much courage that the combat itself.
Also in this book, Miller steps back from the techno-military stuff to take a fictional look at a real problem facing the United States: the possibility of “limited” but large-scale war with China over control of the South China Sea. He conveys the stakes and the challenges of such a conflict more compellingly than a “think tank” study and more realistically than belligerent tweets or talk radio fantasies.
In this, his third book, Miller displays a talent for the military novel that begins to approach that of best-selling authors like P.T. Deutermann and David Poyer. If you like their work, don‘t miss this series!
Also in this book, Miller steps back from the techno-military stuff to take a fictional look at a real problem facing the United States: the possibility of “limited” but large-scale war with China over control of the South China Sea. He conveys the stakes and the challenges of such a conflict more compellingly than a “think tank” study and more realistically than belligerent tweets or talk radio fantasies.
In this, his third book, Miller displays a talent for the military novel that begins to approach that of best-selling authors like P.T. Deutermann and David Poyer. If you like their work, don‘t miss this series!
December 26, 2023
Author Miller obviously has tactical and strategic grasp of international affairs as well as technical knowledge of the F/A-18. He describes in detail the switches in the cockpit--booooring! I can imagine how much a non military aviator would struggle with the high-tech details. About 2/3 of the way through the book, I almost put it down because I did not need that much knowledge! That said, the book describes high end peer-to-peer combat in the Southeast Asia neighborhood. Viewpoint is from both sides, and he did a great job with the US Navy, but did not research the People's Army Navy of the PRC enough, as his USA patriot shows thorough quite a bit. Finally, his US Navy parochialism is also on display as he debauches a Marine on board the carrier. That tribal view of the US military is also on display as the other Services roles are downplayed in word and deed. For example, there was no Army play and the Chairman of thee JCS was also an Admiral. I liked this book less than the first two, and if a third of the technical jargon were eliminated, the book would be much better. Two stars is generous.
December 7, 2023
Kevin Miller’s books are the most exciting novels I have ever read. His characters are alive. The action is believable and nail-biting. His deft ability to describe in detail the fascinating daily routines of fighter jet pilots aboard a nuclear powered aircraft carrier can only have come from the fact that here is a writer who’s been there, done that. Yet beyond God-given talent and the personal experience of having been a career Navy fighter pilot, Kevin Miller has a grasp of all things global when it comes to how, why and where International conflicts and World Wars actually start. In Fight Fight, the third novel in the Raven One series, he depicts such a scenario with amazing knowledge and insight. These are novels every intelligent high school or college student should read and discuss with their history teacher. They are also the perfect ticket for any General Aviation pilot or retired airlines pilot who wants to land or take off from the pitching deck of an aircraft carrier without leaving his living room.
April 16, 2019
Very very good
The accuracy of describing life at sea in the Navy is refreshing. If, "you ain't been there and done that,"you can only assume. CAG Miller writes a gripping story from both sides of a conflict. It would be nice if it were the last. Unfortunately lit probably won't be. The news will distort and demean the men and women on who chose to serve their country and defend an u grateful and backstabbing press and so called educated elite. It is only by the choices of young people to serve that the parasites can enjoy freedom. It is not a sacrifice to serve, it is an honor that most would repeat if needed. From an old E5, thanks for your service and these three books. Fair winds and following seas.
The accuracy of describing life at sea in the Navy is refreshing. If, "you ain't been there and done that,"you can only assume. CAG Miller writes a gripping story from both sides of a conflict. It would be nice if it were the last. Unfortunately lit probably won't be. The news will distort and demean the men and women on who chose to serve their country and defend an u grateful and backstabbing press and so called educated elite. It is only by the choices of young people to serve that the parasites can enjoy freedom. It is not a sacrifice to serve, it is an honor that most would repeat if needed. From an old E5, thanks for your service and these three books. Fair winds and following seas.
August 19, 2022
A fun read but not Miller’s best. While this novel has a larger scope compared to the previous entries in the series, it seems he bit off more than he could chew. The flying scenes were fantastic as always and Miller certainly is knowledgeable about the F-18 and carrier operations. However, Miller struggles with the rest of the book. Major plot points like Heaven’s Shield are introduced and then forgotten. The Chinese characters are laughable caricatures and many American characters aren’t much better. Several times, Miller’s political views are curiously injected into narration: a major distraction.
Overall, I think that Miller’s experience in the cockpit allows him to write gripping flying and combat scenes, while he struggles to make the book work outside of the cockpit.
Overall, I think that Miller’s experience in the cockpit allows him to write gripping flying and combat scenes, while he struggles to make the book work outside of the cockpit.
November 22, 2022
Get this book!! Aircraft carrier based stories rank high on my reading list. I loved Kevin Millers first two Raven One books and have enjoyed similar books from other authors. Stories like these typically give you the flavor of life on an aircraft carrier and include a few air battles and emergency landing situations. But in Fight Fight, the USA is in a full out naval air and sea battle with China. I enjoyed this story so much that I found myself reading way past the points where I'd typically put the book down. This story continues with some characters that we've come to know in the first two Raven One books like 'Flip' Wilson, Olive and Weed. Now I'm hoping that there are other stories out there that have the same excitement and enjoyment as Fight Fight.
December 23, 2025
DNF at 43%. I think this author had a good plot in mind, but unfortunately the pages were so heavily laced with military jargon that it was quite hard to follow what was happening. Add to that the detailed description of mundane tasks of life onboard a carrier, and I felt like I was getting action only once every several pages.
There was a glossary that was rather incomplete, and I didn’t feel like googling multiple terms or acronyms per page to follow the rather sparse plot. I assume if you are in the Navy, you may be able to follow it better than I did.
Also could have used an editor to clean up some grammar. Lots of language that felt typical of the situation.
Skipped to the end and felt like I didn’t miss much.
There was a glossary that was rather incomplete, and I didn’t feel like googling multiple terms or acronyms per page to follow the rather sparse plot. I assume if you are in the Navy, you may be able to follow it better than I did.
Also could have used an editor to clean up some grammar. Lots of language that felt typical of the situation.
Skipped to the end and felt like I didn’t miss much.
January 17, 2019
Naval aviation at it's finest!
I read Hunt For Red October by Clancy and had my face author. I now have my new favorite author in Kevin Miller. This book blends action, angst, techno detail, thrilling moments, and dynamic tension of warfare. Throw in day to day relationships and you are set! From Ravens 1 to Fight Fight Kevin Miller has shown the evolution of James "Flip" Wilson and his fighting aviators. I have never served, and now have a glimpse into such a venture in life. Thank you Captain Miller for a great book (and set of books!). Can't wait for your next installment!!
I read Hunt For Red October by Clancy and had my face author. I now have my new favorite author in Kevin Miller. This book blends action, angst, techno detail, thrilling moments, and dynamic tension of warfare. Throw in day to day relationships and you are set! From Ravens 1 to Fight Fight Kevin Miller has shown the evolution of James "Flip" Wilson and his fighting aviators. I have never served, and now have a glimpse into such a venture in life. Thank you Captain Miller for a great book (and set of books!). Can't wait for your next installment!!
January 16, 2021
As someone compared it to Tom Clancy’s Red Storm Rising at first I said no but after completing the book it can see the comparison. On the technical side it is spot on. I got a great feel for what life is like on an aircraft carrier during war. Kevin added some good real life situations that added good value. My biggest issue with the book that hurt the overall rating was some of the extra small side stories. Too many extra words or lines that he could left off. I feel the book could of been 75 less pages and been a great book to read and could of still conveyed what the author was trying to get out. Again I can feel his passion for the story which is a huge plus.
May 11, 2021
I wish I would have liked it as much as the other books but sadly that was not the case at all. I really struggled to finish it. Way too much focus on the Chinese side and not enough Wilson. He definitely takes the back seat in this one, to a point where I feel he could have just been left out all together. What I enjoyed most in the other books was the life on and around the carrier. Not much of that in this book which makes it feel like a huge departure in the series. Seeing the other reviews I feel like I am in the minority on this one so I'll let it slide and look forward to the next one if it ever comes out.
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