What do you think?
Future War #2
Okinawa
Winner Best Political Thriller, 2020 Readers' Favorite Book Awards.
In 1942 US Fighting Tigers squadron commander John Chen comes face to face with his enemy, Japanese pilot, Tadao Kato. Ninety years later, in 2033, their great grandchildren are serving on the same side as part of Operation Red Dove, the first joint naval exercises between China and Japan to mark the signing of a new Sino-Japanese mutual defense treaty.
China is determined to forge a new empire in the East with Japan by its side. Its determination is about to be put to the test.
IN SHANGHAI, the cyber warfare personnel of Advanced Persistent Threat Team 23 are about to fire the first shot in a new global war.
ON OKINAWA, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency drone pilot, 'Bunny' O'Hare prepares for the last field trial of the US Navy's next undersea stealth platform.
AND IN HER PRIVATE RESIDENCE inside Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Princess Mitsuko Naishinno prepares to fulfil her dying father's wish, and wrest back control of Japan from a government which has sold her country's soul to China.
OKINAWA by FX Holden is a fast paced, action packed look at a near future where the next arms race will take place in cyberspace, where wars will be fought in secret above and below the seas, and the alliances of today will be upended by new geopolitical realities.
In 1942 US Fighting Tigers squadron commander John Chen comes face to face with his enemy, Japanese pilot, Tadao Kato. Ninety years later, in 2033, their great grandchildren are serving on the same side as part of Operation Red Dove, the first joint naval exercises between China and Japan to mark the signing of a new Sino-Japanese mutual defense treaty.
China is determined to forge a new empire in the East with Japan by its side. Its determination is about to be put to the test.
IN SHANGHAI, the cyber warfare personnel of Advanced Persistent Threat Team 23 are about to fire the first shot in a new global war.
ON OKINAWA, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency drone pilot, 'Bunny' O'Hare prepares for the last field trial of the US Navy's next undersea stealth platform.
AND IN HER PRIVATE RESIDENCE inside Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Princess Mitsuko Naishinno prepares to fulfil her dying father's wish, and wrest back control of Japan from a government which has sold her country's soul to China.
OKINAWA by FX Holden is a fast paced, action packed look at a near future where the next arms race will take place in cyberspace, where wars will be fought in secret above and below the seas, and the alliances of today will be upended by new geopolitical realities.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2019
About the author
F.X. Holden
27 books201 followersFX Holden writes action thrillers (The 'Aggressor' and 'Future War' Series) and Science Fiction (The 'Coruscant' and 'Red Legion' Series). He has been awarded two US Publishers' Weekly Stars (the Michelin Star of publishing), the US Readers' Favorite award for Best Political Thriller (twice, including in 2025), and the US Book Excellence award for Best Military Fiction!
FX Holden is a pen name for author Tim (TJ) Slee, winner of the HarperCollins Banjo Prize for Australian fiction and the US Publishers Weekly BookLife Prize for Fiction.
FX Holden is a pen name for author Tim (TJ) Slee, winner of the HarperCollins Banjo Prize for Australian fiction and the US Publishers Weekly BookLife Prize for Fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 1, 2019
Interesting futuristic look at cyber warfare. Aircraft with AI that saves a pilot’s life by preventing the pilot from using his instinct. A super submersible drone with AI that is hyper-defensive against perceived threats, including a whale. The world order is changing and China and Japan have just signed a pact making them allies. What could go wrong?
The names and descriptions of various ships, aircraft, drones, weapons, etc. might numb the brains of some readers. If you can get beyond that, there are theories and speculation that make this a worthy read.
The names and descriptions of various ships, aircraft, drones, weapons, etc. might numb the brains of some readers. If you can get beyond that, there are theories and speculation that make this a worthy read.
March 6, 2020
Fast paced and wide ranging storytelling. Great historical prelude.
December 2, 2020
Grabbed me immediately and didn't let go!
Reading this book is like experiencing the effect of a first time ride on a rollercoaster. Fast moving, exciting and sadly, believable in this day and age. Neatly encapsulates what seems to be China's growing intention to become the world's most powerful nation and uses a credible idea as its base. Enough of the analysis; In a nutshell, I thoroughly enjoyed this book (and the previous Bering Strait). "Bunny" O'Hare is a great character. Encore!
Reading this book is like experiencing the effect of a first time ride on a rollercoaster. Fast moving, exciting and sadly, believable in this day and age. Neatly encapsulates what seems to be China's growing intention to become the world's most powerful nation and uses a credible idea as its base. Enough of the analysis; In a nutshell, I thoroughly enjoyed this book (and the previous Bering Strait). "Bunny" O'Hare is a great character. Encore!
February 16, 2022
Wonderful
I greatly enjoyed reading this and the writers other fantastic stories. I held my breath during the night battles. Simply one of the best.
I greatly enjoyed reading this and the writers other fantastic stories. I held my breath during the night battles. Simply one of the best.
December 9, 2019
I read Bering Strait, the first book in F.X. Holden's Future War Series and really enjoyed it and so had no hesitation in getting this, the second book to read. I wasn't disappointed. This book again features Karen 'Bunny' O'Hare and the action this time is set in Japan.
China is determined to forge a new empire in the east and with a Japanese government which has sold its country's soul to the Chinese, as an ally and a USA withdrawing its forces from the Pacific theatre, it looks like it could be achieved.
However, they hadn't reckoned on some very determined women standing in their way. Bunny O'Hare and the future Japanese Empress, Princess Mitsuko Naishinno . I won't spoil the plot, but it's a real page turner and a book I've no hesitation in recommending.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
China is determined to forge a new empire in the east and with a Japanese government which has sold its country's soul to the Chinese, as an ally and a USA withdrawing its forces from the Pacific theatre, it looks like it could be achieved.
However, they hadn't reckoned on some very determined women standing in their way. Bunny O'Hare and the future Japanese Empress, Princess Mitsuko Naishinno . I won't spoil the plot, but it's a real page turner and a book I've no hesitation in recommending.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
December 10, 2019
An excellent and engaging read. As someone who works on the fringes of the UAV systems world, I was impressed with the author's knowledge and insights. He has done an excellent job of extrapolating the present level of technology into the future and realistically envisioning how that will impact both tactics and policy.
Recommended read for anyone interested in speculations about future autonomous weapon systems. Plus it is a good story and the author does a nice job of interweaving multiple storylines into a coherent theme.
Recommended read for anyone interested in speculations about future autonomous weapon systems. Plus it is a good story and the author does a nice job of interweaving multiple storylines into a coherent theme.
March 14, 2020
While not as compelling as Bering Strait, Okinawa still held my attention throughout. The Future War series with it's focus on drone warfare, cyber warfare and AI rings true These novels may be ahead of their times but I've got a feeling they are predictive of the path we are traveling. As such, they are worthwhile reads in addition to being highly entertaining.
January 14, 2020
Great story.
This work opens the door on a great many possibilities. More room for all the characters in other story lines. I was able to relate to the theme of history repeating itself for my own reasons. Looking for more.
This work opens the door on a great many possibilities. More room for all the characters in other story lines. I was able to relate to the theme of history repeating itself for my own reasons. Looking for more.
March 18, 2020
Okinawa
Very believable story with all the backgrounds of the participating countries utilized fully to explain the actions taken. Kamikaze tie-in particularly effective. This may well be the future.
Very believable story with all the backgrounds of the participating countries utilized fully to explain the actions taken. Kamikaze tie-in particularly effective. This may well be the future.
May 9, 2020
Future maybe
A great story that is pretty plausible in this World we live in. Draws you in an is fast paced, keeps you on the edge of your seat and entertain s from beginning to end. I couldn't put it down and am eagerly awaiting the next book
A great story that is pretty plausible in this World we live in. Draws you in an is fast paced, keeps you on the edge of your seat and entertain s from beginning to end. I couldn't put it down and am eagerly awaiting the next book
May 12, 2020
Excellent follow up to Bering Strait. Continuing lead character is believable, enjoyable and funny. Bunny is a bit of a misnomer for this young lady but is an anti-hero's hero. Plausible plot, combat scenes are realistic. Definitely looking forward to the next novel.
December 26, 2019
Hard to put down.
Just read it and you will see why I could not put this down. Researched and constructed by a master. FX Holden has outdone himself.
Just read it and you will see why I could not put this down. Researched and constructed by a master. FX Holden has outdone himself.
January 12, 2020
If you liked Bering you will like this too
Very technical but a well written future war novel that moves along at a good pace
Very technical but a well written future war novel that moves along at a good pace
March 3, 2020
Great Book
This is a really Great book in the series. I found it exceptionally hard to put it down. I can not wait for the next book to come out.
This is a really Great book in the series. I found it exceptionally hard to put it down. I can not wait for the next book to come out.
April 4, 2020
Well done
Character development is done very nicely. The story is plausible. Have read 2 books by this author and will most definitely read more!
Character development is done very nicely. The story is plausible. Have read 2 books by this author and will most definitely read more!
May 16, 2020
Excellent story involving geopolitical action, air ,naval,army insights.
I ready it in two days! Could not put it down. I am sorry to see the sequel only receive 3 1/2 stars
I ready it in two days! Could not put it down. I am sorry to see the sequel only receive 3 1/2 stars
September 11, 2021
Another masterpiece of fiction writing.
Yet again the author brings together various characters that come from diverse backgrounds and binds them together in a storyline that although fiction is not without the ability to become reality.
His characters are all very believable and in this world we live in today they stand together to try and bring tyranny to an end.
World events today point in a direction that this storyline could possibly happen in the future.
Yet again the author brings together various characters that come from diverse backgrounds and binds them together in a storyline that although fiction is not without the ability to become reality.
His characters are all very believable and in this world we live in today they stand together to try and bring tyranny to an end.
World events today point in a direction that this storyline could possibly happen in the future.
December 21, 2020
Addictive
I have read the first two books in this series, loved them both. Well written believable, can't put down. Characters all seem to do things that make sense. I don't find myself saying " nobody would ever do that" . I really like the way this guy writes. Don't want to go to crazy, but he's close to Clancy.
I have read the first two books in this series, loved them both. Well written believable, can't put down. Characters all seem to do things that make sense. I don't find myself saying " nobody would ever do that" . I really like the way this guy writes. Don't want to go to crazy, but he's close to Clancy.
October 26, 2021
Having lived on Okinawa during the late 1960's and early 1970's (before ceding control back to Japan), this was very interesting to me. Although it is a fictional book, it has a high degree of reality in its political nature.
November 8, 2021
A good read!
The writer is very technical but always comes up with a very good and readable story. If you think his books a little slow at the beginning, don't give up on him. You will be glad you continued reading!
The writer is very technical but always comes up with a very good and readable story. If you think his books a little slow at the beginning, don't give up on him. You will be glad you continued reading!
January 5, 2023
Another great work from Mr. Holden!
Tons of action, characters who come alive, and great suspense.
It is (along with the others in the series) stand-alone. Contrast this with some authors who just stop in the middle of the action so that you might buy their next book. I hate this. If you agree skip the Monroe Doctrine series by Rosone.
The only negative for me was the beginning with events from WWII, for me it didn't add much to the novel.
Tons of action, characters who come alive, and great suspense.
It is (along with the others in the series) stand-alone. Contrast this with some authors who just stop in the middle of the action so that you might buy their next book. I hate this. If you agree skip the Monroe Doctrine series by Rosone.
The only negative for me was the beginning with events from WWII, for me it didn't add much to the novel.
September 15, 2020
Enjoyed this one. Interesting take on cyber warfare and artificial intelligence taking place real time between the warring parties. The story moves along quickly enough to keep you interested with out getting bogged down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2020
Good read
An Interesting read. Started a bit slow, but really picked up pace. I wish it was as long as Bering strait.
An Interesting read. Started a bit slow, but really picked up pace. I wish it was as long as Bering strait.
January 1, 2021
No drop off
Those who enjoyed Bering Straight will appreciate the second book in the series.
Looking forward to many more!
Ready to read Orbital
Those who enjoyed Bering Straight will appreciate the second book in the series.
Looking forward to many more!
Ready to read Orbital
June 18, 2021
Definitely a barnburner of a thriller.
August 25, 2021
Great read
Good mix of present fact and future fiction?
Going straight into another FX Holden.Can't wait.
Enjoyed reading this every night before bed.
Good mix of present fact and future fiction?
Going straight into another FX Holden.Can't wait.
Enjoyed reading this every night before bed.
September 8, 2021
I enjoyed this one, but it wasn't quite as good as Bering Strait. Looking forward to book #3
May 1, 2022
Gripping
From to woe, this story had me by the throat and would not let go. Great character development; excellent plot. FX Holden is very moreish!
From to woe, this story had me by the throat and would not let go. Great character development; excellent plot. FX Holden is very moreish!
July 4, 2021
Most Interesting Read on High Tech Future Warfare
Incredible insight into technology impact on future conflicts. A new "Clancey" type author on possible and realistic warfare and political scenarios.
Incredible insight into technology impact on future conflicts. A new "Clancey" type author on possible and realistic warfare and political scenarios.
December 11, 2019
Hi, not my review! (That would be immodest...) OKINAWA was just given an 'Editor's Choice' rating by Publishers Weekly BookLife so I thought I would repost the review here:
Takeaway: Any fan of military thrillers will be riveted by this near-future novel that sets Japan, China, and the U.S. at the brink of war.
Holden’s intense second Future War novel (after Bering Strait) is a riveting take on the near future of warfare and global politics, peopled by a large cast of well-written characters. In 1942, Chinese-American soldier John Chen interrogates captured Japanese pilot Tadao Kato. In 2033, Japan and China sign a landmark treaty, and Chen and Kato’s great-grandchildren, Li Chen and Takuya Kato, are both pilots ordered to participate in the first-ever Sino-Japanese joint military exercises. But the supposedly peaceful Operation Red Dove turns deadly when a secret government-funded Chinese hacking group takes control of a DARPA drone and targets American Navy assets on Okinawa. Takuya’s friend Mitsuko, a political radical, may be the only person who can stave off a global war—because the death of her father has just made her Japan’s first empress.
This page-turner is filled with extensive cultural, interpersonal, and tactical detail, from the unspoken meaning in a cup of tea to the military decisions that move battleships. Holden (a pen name for Australian journalist Tim Slee) dispenses with stereotypes and crafts well-defined characters from multiple countries. Particularly memorable are the many richly characterized women, including outspoken, driven Mitsuko; brassy Australian drone pilot Karen “Bunny” O’Hare; conflicted hotshot Li Chen; brilliant hacker Frangipani; and big-hearted 103-year-old gardener Noriko Fukada. The human face they put on the conflict makes each development feel real and evoke powerful emotions.
The crisp dialogue is a pleasure to read and balances the tension with genuine laughs. (“Don’t lose those,” Bunny tells a sonar tech taking custody of her facial piercing jewelry. “I’m both sentimental and violent.”) Readers will be on the edges of their seats as Holden ratchets up the danger to civilians as well as sailors and pilots. This military thriller, which honors servicepeople while strongly questioning the value of war, is both highly enjoyable and deeply thought-provoking.
Great for fans of Hiroshi Sakurazaka’s All You Need Is Kill, Clive Cussler’s Oregon Files.
Takeaway: Any fan of military thrillers will be riveted by this near-future novel that sets Japan, China, and the U.S. at the brink of war.
Holden’s intense second Future War novel (after Bering Strait) is a riveting take on the near future of warfare and global politics, peopled by a large cast of well-written characters. In 1942, Chinese-American soldier John Chen interrogates captured Japanese pilot Tadao Kato. In 2033, Japan and China sign a landmark treaty, and Chen and Kato’s great-grandchildren, Li Chen and Takuya Kato, are both pilots ordered to participate in the first-ever Sino-Japanese joint military exercises. But the supposedly peaceful Operation Red Dove turns deadly when a secret government-funded Chinese hacking group takes control of a DARPA drone and targets American Navy assets on Okinawa. Takuya’s friend Mitsuko, a political radical, may be the only person who can stave off a global war—because the death of her father has just made her Japan’s first empress.
This page-turner is filled with extensive cultural, interpersonal, and tactical detail, from the unspoken meaning in a cup of tea to the military decisions that move battleships. Holden (a pen name for Australian journalist Tim Slee) dispenses with stereotypes and crafts well-defined characters from multiple countries. Particularly memorable are the many richly characterized women, including outspoken, driven Mitsuko; brassy Australian drone pilot Karen “Bunny” O’Hare; conflicted hotshot Li Chen; brilliant hacker Frangipani; and big-hearted 103-year-old gardener Noriko Fukada. The human face they put on the conflict makes each development feel real and evoke powerful emotions.
The crisp dialogue is a pleasure to read and balances the tension with genuine laughs. (“Don’t lose those,” Bunny tells a sonar tech taking custody of her facial piercing jewelry. “I’m both sentimental and violent.”) Readers will be on the edges of their seats as Holden ratchets up the danger to civilians as well as sailors and pilots. This military thriller, which honors servicepeople while strongly questioning the value of war, is both highly enjoyable and deeply thought-provoking.
Great for fans of Hiroshi Sakurazaka’s All You Need Is Kill, Clive Cussler’s Oregon Files.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews