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Matt Drake #4
Forgotten War
"A fascinating, action-packed thriller from one of the genre's most talented authors. Don Bentley delivers a blistering adventure loaded with excitement and fabulous characters. You will not want it to end!"—Brad Thor, New York Times #1 bestselling author of Dead Fall
A brotherhood born in battle is endangered by a deadly secret in the latest astonishing thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of Tom Clancy Zero Hour and Hostile Intent.
As a team, Matt Drake and his partner, Frodo, have watched each other's backs through some very dark days. But one thing they've never doubted was their commitment to each other...until now.
Frodo has been accused of a war crime ten years after leaving Afghanistan. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but what will he do when he finds that his closest friend has secrets he won't share?
A brotherhood born in battle is endangered by a deadly secret in the latest astonishing thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of Tom Clancy Zero Hour and Hostile Intent.
As a team, Matt Drake and his partner, Frodo, have watched each other's backs through some very dark days. But one thing they've never doubted was their commitment to each other...until now.
Frodo has been accused of a war crime ten years after leaving Afghanistan. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but what will he do when he finds that his closest friend has secrets he won't share?
451 pages, Hardcover
First published April 25, 2023
171 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
About the author
Don Bentley
11 books854 followersDon Bentley is the NYT bestselling author of FORGOTTEN WAR, Tom Clancy WEAPONS GRADE, and Vince Flynn's MITCH RAPP series (2024). Former FBI Special Agent and Army Apache pilot. Learn more at www.donbentleybooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
April 24, 2023
Don Bentley has created another action-packed and suspenseful novel,
Forgotten War
. This fourth book in the Matt Drake thriller series has an intensity that few writers can achieve. This book, which can be categorized as a political thriller, technothriller, and a military thriller has aspects of all three and is mainly set in Afghanistan and Texas. Matt Drake, Frodo Cates, and Frodo’s girlfriend Katherine are waiting on Matt’s wife Laila to arrive at a restaurant when Frodo is arrested by two members of the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division for a murder that took place 10 years ago in Afghanistan in 2011. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but Frodo isn’t talking. At the same time, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan is occurring.
Matt is full of wit and sarcasm, and has an aptitude for languages. He wants to make the world safer and often sacrifices his own well-being to achieve this. He shows character growth despite the large amount of action in this novel, which I’ve come to expect from this author. The other characters have a variety of depths in their supporting or opposing roles. Some are new to the series and others provide the reader continuity with the prior books in the series.
Fluid writing, great characterization, and fantastic world building, as well as an excellent, fast-paced plot will keep readers engaged. It takes a little while for readers to understand how the strong prologue fits in with the rest of the story. However, pay close attention to it. There is also some shifting in time between 2021 and 2011. Despite this, the action and drama are compelling . While there are descriptions of weapons and gear, it is only enough to engage the reader. I believe this approach makes Bentley’s novels appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, this fantastic novel is shocking, emotionally-charged, and riveting. Be aware that there is plenty of danger, death, intrigue, and violence in this story. Additionally, with the current situation and the actual 2021 events in Afghanistan, this one seemed very realistic. There are a few threads that were left open for the next book in the series, but the main plot line is fully resolved. Themes include political maneuvering, teamwork, friendship, bravery, patriotism, war, honor, differences in operational philosophies, murder, and much more.
This is the second book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back and reading the first two. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers will want to read this book. The author’s note at the end of the novel provided some additional insight on the fall of Afghanistan and where the book diverges from actual events.
Berkley Publishing Group and Don Bentley provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 25, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------------
My 4.66 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Matt is full of wit and sarcasm, and has an aptitude for languages. He wants to make the world safer and often sacrifices his own well-being to achieve this. He shows character growth despite the large amount of action in this novel, which I’ve come to expect from this author. The other characters have a variety of depths in their supporting or opposing roles. Some are new to the series and others provide the reader continuity with the prior books in the series.
Fluid writing, great characterization, and fantastic world building, as well as an excellent, fast-paced plot will keep readers engaged. It takes a little while for readers to understand how the strong prologue fits in with the rest of the story. However, pay close attention to it. There is also some shifting in time between 2021 and 2011. Despite this, the action and drama are compelling . While there are descriptions of weapons and gear, it is only enough to engage the reader. I believe this approach makes Bentley’s novels appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, this fantastic novel is shocking, emotionally-charged, and riveting. Be aware that there is plenty of danger, death, intrigue, and violence in this story. Additionally, with the current situation and the actual 2021 events in Afghanistan, this one seemed very realistic. There are a few threads that were left open for the next book in the series, but the main plot line is fully resolved. Themes include political maneuvering, teamwork, friendship, bravery, patriotism, war, honor, differences in operational philosophies, murder, and much more.
This is the second book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back and reading the first two. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers will want to read this book. The author’s note at the end of the novel provided some additional insight on the fall of Afghanistan and where the book diverges from actual events.
Berkley Publishing Group and Don Bentley provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 25, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------------
My 4.66 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
April 25, 2023
Don Bentley has up the game, his best yet!
Love the last novel which was set in Ukraine and I'm excited to follow Matt Drake and his partner Frodo on the next adventure. As the story opens, Frodo is arrested by Army CID agents for war crime during Bagram raid in 2011. Drake was there on that operation and believes this is all BS. The more he looks into it, the stranger it gets.
Other operators are dead, another is unreachable and someone is attempted to have Drake killed. At the same time, the US is withdrawing from Afghanistan, is there a link?
When Drake's inlaws ask for his help to get a family member out of Kabul before it falls, he has another good reason to defy his DIA boss's order and return to Afghanistan.
Although I was looking forward to seeing Frodo again, he was very much absent in Forgotten War BUT readers will love new (temporary?) addition to this mission; Captain Ngoy, Frog, Dog, Bone, Duke, and Professor. Drake's tactical transportation specialist is a badass, LOVE her! Dee's a strong female character, likable and genuine. Please if you read this review Mr. Bentley, you need to bring her back!
Forgotten War takes place in Austin Texas and Afghanistan and with flashbacks to 2011. It's a very well-written military action thriller and fast-paced. I also enjoy history lessons along the way. I didn't expect to get emotional and teary-eyed but Don Bentley's Forgotten War did just that. A must-read if you're into the genre.
4.5⭐
Thank you Berkeley Publishing for my DRC.
Published April 25, 2023!
━━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━━
Yesss, super excited for this!
Love the last novel which was set in Ukraine and I'm excited to follow Matt Drake and his partner Frodo on the next adventure. As the story opens, Frodo is arrested by Army CID agents for war crime during Bagram raid in 2011. Drake was there on that operation and believes this is all BS. The more he looks into it, the stranger it gets.
Other operators are dead, another is unreachable and someone is attempted to have Drake killed. At the same time, the US is withdrawing from Afghanistan, is there a link?
When Drake's inlaws ask for his help to get a family member out of Kabul before it falls, he has another good reason to defy his DIA boss's order and return to Afghanistan.
Although I was looking forward to seeing Frodo again, he was very much absent in Forgotten War BUT readers will love new (temporary?) addition to this mission; Captain Ngoy, Frog, Dog, Bone, Duke, and Professor. Drake's tactical transportation specialist is a badass, LOVE her! Dee's a strong female character, likable and genuine. Please if you read this review Mr. Bentley, you need to bring her back!
Forgotten War takes place in Austin Texas and Afghanistan and with flashbacks to 2011. It's a very well-written military action thriller and fast-paced. I also enjoy history lessons along the way. I didn't expect to get emotional and teary-eyed but Don Bentley's Forgotten War did just that. A must-read if you're into the genre.
4.5⭐
Thank you Berkeley Publishing for my DRC.
Published April 25, 2023!
━━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━━
Yesss, super excited for this!
May 5, 2023
Once I saw that the new Don Bentley book--Forgotten War--had dropped, I eagerly delved into it. His Matt Drake series has quickly become one of my favorite thriller outings due to Bentley's research capability, the mindset he brings to the writing as a former FBI Special Agent and Apache helicopter pilot, the kinetic action, and the snappy and humorous dialogue that fills the pages.
What I was not expecting was for the whole book to leave me putting it down in the end, letting out a heavy sigh, and only being able to mutter, "Damn," all while trying to maintain my composure and bearing.
The fall of Afghanistan is the driving force of this novel. To adequately explain my thoughts, I'll have to open up a bit about myself. It's going to be meandering, so bear with me.
I'm an Iraq veteran. Served in Baghdad in 2008 and 2009 with 4th Infantry Division. I believed in the war at the time.
After a routine patrol near the end of my deployment, we returned to our Joint Security Station and found the Iraqi Policeman who was supposed to be on watch completely racked out, his AK leaned against the guard tower. I remember seeing this from my Humvee and telling myself, "Well, that's it. It's for nothing. Once we pull out, Iran's going to run the show here."
While Baghdad certainly leans towards Tehran, they haven't completely devolved like Afghanistan has. Sure, the folks who supplied plenty of EFPs to blow up American servicemembers have a considerable say in Baghdad. And sure, ISIS (the descendant of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi's al-Qaeda in Iraq) is still causing trouble.
Sure, my personal feelings are that we never should have been in Iraq to begin with.
That said, despite feeling like we largely wasted time and lives in Iraq, I can also see where the United States had some positive impact. I'm also a firm believer that the individual soldiers on the ground can and should strive to conduct themselves in an honorable fashion and help the civilians trapped in the middle. I know I did that while I was there.
My biggest regret of my nine years and change as an Army infantryman was that I never got to deploy to Afghanistan. While terribly mismanaged (and the field grade and general officers who lied to Congress about the progress of the country should absolutely be incarcerated for the rest of their lives, in my opinion), it was an undeniably justified war. Al-Qaeda attacked us, and the Taliban aided and abetted them.
I'd look to my fellow servicemembers who had deployed to Afghanistan and say, "At least they're fighting the good fight, the undeniably justified fight."
Then, overnight, twenty years of mismanagement and political ineptitude rendered a lot of that moot.
The Global War on Terror continues, but as it stands, we're 0-2.
I manage the majority of days. Every once in a while, the feelings described above nag at me and dampen my spirits.
I imagine the Afghanistan veterans feel what I feel, only amplified many-fold. Just the thought of how soul-crushing it has to be to watch a country where one spilled blood, experienced trauma and loss, and poured their every fiber into doing their job and trying to better things despite the odds...I'm at a loss for words.
I suspected Bentley wrote Forgotten War as a way to process his feelings. He confirmed as much in the author's note at the end.
As we approach the two year anniversary of the fall, I simply want to remind my compatriots who served in that theater that the fall was not your fault. You were given a task that was made impossible echelons above your level. You did everything you could. Take what pride and solace you can from that fact.
The officers and politicians who contributed to Afghanistan's fall should never be forgiven for their machinations, for putting their careers above the mission and the servicemembers. Perhaps someday, we'll see some accountability. I won't hold my breath, though.
I'll get off my soapbox now. Good job, Mr. Bentley. I look forward to the next novel.
What I was not expecting was for the whole book to leave me putting it down in the end, letting out a heavy sigh, and only being able to mutter, "Damn," all while trying to maintain my composure and bearing.
The fall of Afghanistan is the driving force of this novel. To adequately explain my thoughts, I'll have to open up a bit about myself. It's going to be meandering, so bear with me.
I'm an Iraq veteran. Served in Baghdad in 2008 and 2009 with 4th Infantry Division. I believed in the war at the time.
After a routine patrol near the end of my deployment, we returned to our Joint Security Station and found the Iraqi Policeman who was supposed to be on watch completely racked out, his AK leaned against the guard tower. I remember seeing this from my Humvee and telling myself, "Well, that's it. It's for nothing. Once we pull out, Iran's going to run the show here."
While Baghdad certainly leans towards Tehran, they haven't completely devolved like Afghanistan has. Sure, the folks who supplied plenty of EFPs to blow up American servicemembers have a considerable say in Baghdad. And sure, ISIS (the descendant of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi's al-Qaeda in Iraq) is still causing trouble.
Sure, my personal feelings are that we never should have been in Iraq to begin with.
That said, despite feeling like we largely wasted time and lives in Iraq, I can also see where the United States had some positive impact. I'm also a firm believer that the individual soldiers on the ground can and should strive to conduct themselves in an honorable fashion and help the civilians trapped in the middle. I know I did that while I was there.
My biggest regret of my nine years and change as an Army infantryman was that I never got to deploy to Afghanistan. While terribly mismanaged (and the field grade and general officers who lied to Congress about the progress of the country should absolutely be incarcerated for the rest of their lives, in my opinion), it was an undeniably justified war. Al-Qaeda attacked us, and the Taliban aided and abetted them.
I'd look to my fellow servicemembers who had deployed to Afghanistan and say, "At least they're fighting the good fight, the undeniably justified fight."
Then, overnight, twenty years of mismanagement and political ineptitude rendered a lot of that moot.
The Global War on Terror continues, but as it stands, we're 0-2.
I manage the majority of days. Every once in a while, the feelings described above nag at me and dampen my spirits.
I imagine the Afghanistan veterans feel what I feel, only amplified many-fold. Just the thought of how soul-crushing it has to be to watch a country where one spilled blood, experienced trauma and loss, and poured their every fiber into doing their job and trying to better things despite the odds...I'm at a loss for words.
I suspected Bentley wrote Forgotten War as a way to process his feelings. He confirmed as much in the author's note at the end.
As we approach the two year anniversary of the fall, I simply want to remind my compatriots who served in that theater that the fall was not your fault. You were given a task that was made impossible echelons above your level. You did everything you could. Take what pride and solace you can from that fact.
The officers and politicians who contributed to Afghanistan's fall should never be forgiven for their machinations, for putting their careers above the mission and the servicemembers. Perhaps someday, we'll see some accountability. I won't hold my breath, though.
I'll get off my soapbox now. Good job, Mr. Bentley. I look forward to the next novel.
August 27, 2023
Forgotten War is the fourth and latest in this series and Matt Drake is a great addition to the thrillerverse and Don Bentley is becoming one of those authors that we already feel like he has been around for a long time, but he is actually a rather new writer and it's amazing what he has achieved in such a short time. He has his own Matt Drake series and he writes in the Clancyverse and soon we will enjoy his version of the legendary Vince Flynn character Mitch Rapp. I have only read his Matt Drake stuff and it is marvellous and fast paced with a lot of humor in it, all things I like. In this book I also recognised some names I usually don't encounter as characters in books and that is so cool. I really enjoy this series and apart from the first book this is probably the best so far, I really recommend that you try it out. I also must thank Kim “KC” Campbell for picking me as the winner of this copy, it's my first physical Don Bentley book but not the last. Maybe I even can get a signed one some day?
April 29, 2023
Book Review – Forgotten War – Don Bentley
Former FBI Special Agent and US Army Apache helicopter pilot turn bestselling author Don Bentley has penned another great military thriller in the Matt Drake series. “Forgotten War,” the fourth book in the series just might be one of his best novels yet. The story is set during the hasty withdrawal of the US forces from Afghanistan. Bentley gives voice to the hurt, frustration, and despair felt by many servicemen and women from the sudden retreat from Afghanistan. His storytelling accurately describes what active service members and veterans were feeling during the sudden exit. He tastefully addresses this complex, geopolitical issue with class and grace without bashing politicians or political parties. This was a well written nonpartisan geopolitical, adrenaline-fueled, action-packed military thriller! Hopefully, other authors of political/military thrillers can take note of Bentley’s astonishing skill and not continue to feed the divide that the country is experiencing right now. Bentley ‘nails’ this story! Main character Matt Drake and a band of former military friends return to Afghanistan for numerous reasons, but the overall basis of the tale was mainly about relationships. Drake and his teammates demonstrate a willingness to bend the rules to go back to Afghanistan to save their Afghan friends and allies. The emotions of the characters and the importance of their relationships/friendships was expertly told. The storytelling of the complicated relationships and the geopolitical consequences as it relates to foreign relations of the Afghan war all added up to an impressive and exciting thriller novel. I really liked this book! This is definitely a 5-star read! Well done, Don Bentley! I highly recommend Forgotten War to any fans of thriller novels. Thank you NetGalley, Don Bentley, and Berkley Books for the digital eBook Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest review.
Former FBI Special Agent and US Army Apache helicopter pilot turn bestselling author Don Bentley has penned another great military thriller in the Matt Drake series. “Forgotten War,” the fourth book in the series just might be one of his best novels yet. The story is set during the hasty withdrawal of the US forces from Afghanistan. Bentley gives voice to the hurt, frustration, and despair felt by many servicemen and women from the sudden retreat from Afghanistan. His storytelling accurately describes what active service members and veterans were feeling during the sudden exit. He tastefully addresses this complex, geopolitical issue with class and grace without bashing politicians or political parties. This was a well written nonpartisan geopolitical, adrenaline-fueled, action-packed military thriller! Hopefully, other authors of political/military thrillers can take note of Bentley’s astonishing skill and not continue to feed the divide that the country is experiencing right now. Bentley ‘nails’ this story! Main character Matt Drake and a band of former military friends return to Afghanistan for numerous reasons, but the overall basis of the tale was mainly about relationships. Drake and his teammates demonstrate a willingness to bend the rules to go back to Afghanistan to save their Afghan friends and allies. The emotions of the characters and the importance of their relationships/friendships was expertly told. The storytelling of the complicated relationships and the geopolitical consequences as it relates to foreign relations of the Afghan war all added up to an impressive and exciting thriller novel. I really liked this book! This is definitely a 5-star read! Well done, Don Bentley! I highly recommend Forgotten War to any fans of thriller novels. Thank you NetGalley, Don Bentley, and Berkley Books for the digital eBook Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 26, 2022
I received this ARC from NetGalley in return for a review.
Another great thriller in the Matt Drake series. The story is set during current events taking place in Afghanistan. The action takes place as Matt and a small group head into danger to rescue a young girl, and a former US ally and interpreter from behind the Taliban lines. The team is made up of former military who had spent time in Afghanistan. The emotions of the characters when they saw the withdrawal and the enemy taking control were explored by the author. It all adds up to an impressive thrill ride of a novel.
Another great thriller in the Matt Drake series. The story is set during current events taking place in Afghanistan. The action takes place as Matt and a small group head into danger to rescue a young girl, and a former US ally and interpreter from behind the Taliban lines. The team is made up of former military who had spent time in Afghanistan. The emotions of the characters when they saw the withdrawal and the enemy taking control were explored by the author. It all adds up to an impressive thrill ride of a novel.
May 9, 2023
TITLE: FORGOTTEN WAR
AUTHOR: Don Bentley
PUB DATE: 04.25.2023 Now Available
WOWSERS! I just finished this amazing thriller, the fourth book of the Matt Drake novel which reads well as a stand alone, from Don Bentley - author of Tom Clancy Zero Hour and Hostile Intent and it was fantastic! What a ride this book was with amazing characters that had my pulse beating so fast, then my heart breaking, and rooting for the wrongly accused, with equal parts funny and poignant moments that made me turn those pages to the wee hours of the night.
FORGOTTEN WAR “As a team, Matt Drake and his partner, Frodo, have watched each other's backs through some very dark days. But one thing they've never doubted was their commitment to each other...until now. Frodo has been accused of a war crime ten years after leaving Afghanistan. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but what will he do when he finds that his closest friend has secrets he won't share?”
I really enjoy an action packed political thriller with the backdrop of the war in Afghanistan and the poorly executed withdrawal as the premise of this unputdownable and edge of the seat suspenseful read. Don’t miss out on this one - it’s just that good.
AUTHOR: Don Bentley
PUB DATE: 04.25.2023 Now Available
WOWSERS! I just finished this amazing thriller, the fourth book of the Matt Drake novel which reads well as a stand alone, from Don Bentley - author of Tom Clancy Zero Hour and Hostile Intent and it was fantastic! What a ride this book was with amazing characters that had my pulse beating so fast, then my heart breaking, and rooting for the wrongly accused, with equal parts funny and poignant moments that made me turn those pages to the wee hours of the night.
FORGOTTEN WAR “As a team, Matt Drake and his partner, Frodo, have watched each other's backs through some very dark days. But one thing they've never doubted was their commitment to each other...until now. Frodo has been accused of a war crime ten years after leaving Afghanistan. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but what will he do when he finds that his closest friend has secrets he won't share?”
I really enjoy an action packed political thriller with the backdrop of the war in Afghanistan and the poorly executed withdrawal as the premise of this unputdownable and edge of the seat suspenseful read. Don’t miss out on this one - it’s just that good.
June 17, 2023
FORGOTTEN WAR delivers on every level. It features Don Bentley’s trademark wit, “damn the torpedoes” attitude, and jaw-dropping action set pieces, but Matt Drake’s fourth outing drips pathos from every page. Set against the fall of Afghanistan and the Pineapple Express, it strikes the balance between the profound sorrow of a hopeless situation and the heroic men and women who decided to do something about it. Rendered beautifully the author, it really got to me. His finest work, which is really saying something.
January 20, 2023
I really did enjoy this book and Don is becoming one of my favorite thriller authors around. There’s a TON of action and the beginning of this book felt like a Jack Reacher novel. Don also has a funny side to him that’s on display in all of his books but it’s never over the top just enough to lighten the mood.
One last thing, it’s clear the author has some thoughts and feelings about current events and I appreciate how tastefully he addressed them here. Instead of bashing politicians he gives the perspective from those who served (if you follow him on social media he gives some more details about his thoughts). Hopefully authors take note of this in the future and allow the readers a chance to make their own conclusions. Well done, Don.
One last thing, it’s clear the author has some thoughts and feelings about current events and I appreciate how tastefully he addressed them here. Instead of bashing politicians he gives the perspective from those who served (if you follow him on social media he gives some more details about his thoughts). Hopefully authors take note of this in the future and allow the readers a chance to make their own conclusions. Well done, Don.
July 30, 2023
I picked up this series because I heard the author was going to be taking over the writing of the late Vince Flynn's Mitch Rapp series. Boy am I glad I did.
As with the first 3 books in this series the author's military background shines through in this one. As Afghanistan is falling and US troops and civilians are being evacuated, Frodo is taken into custody for murder by Military police.
A long forgotten one off mission 10 years earlier where Drake and Frodo assisted SOF has reared its ugly head.
For the life of him Drake can't figure what significance a 10 year old mission has for the present.
As with the first 3 books in this series the author's military background shines through in this one. As Afghanistan is falling and US troops and civilians are being evacuated, Frodo is taken into custody for murder by Military police.
A long forgotten one off mission 10 years earlier where Drake and Frodo assisted SOF has reared its ugly head.
For the life of him Drake can't figure what significance a 10 year old mission has for the present.
January 15, 2023
READ MY FULL REVIEW AT Best Thriller Books
Make sure to check out the full review
Make sure to check out the full review
April 25, 2023
This is my favorite Matt Drake story, no question! The unbreakable bond of men and women
who serve in our Military is second to none, and in this 4th Matt Drake installment Author
Don Bentley does a masterful job blending the believable with his well set fictional events
that will keep readers alive and awake from beginning to end.
When Matt learns his closest friend, really more like his brother, is accused of a murder said
to have taken place a decade ago in Afghanistan, he knows he must figure out what he’s
actually being accused of before things get worse. To be able to help, he will have to agree
to help others, making this a full operation. With the backing of an unknown along with an
untested, but battle proven team , help for Frodo is on the way.
The story is well set up with a lot of Military jargon, but it’s fairly easy to catch on- and I
learned a few things and found it enjoyable to expand my vocabulary of all things field
related.
I read this during the week that China was flying a balloon over our Country, which made
what I was reading even more interesting. The Chinese satellite was real, of course, and
some of the scenes in the.book might have been vaguely fictional.
I want to read this book again knowing what I now know about the complicated relationships
and the geopolitical consequences to our homeland as it relates to foreign relations at the
highest levels of our Government.
I highly recommend this book- Don is at the top of his game and has. become a major player
in the genre. This book can be read as a stand-alone because each book sports its own
theme and story, but you might want to learn more about Matt, and also Frodo,
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review..
who serve in our Military is second to none, and in this 4th Matt Drake installment Author
Don Bentley does a masterful job blending the believable with his well set fictional events
that will keep readers alive and awake from beginning to end.
When Matt learns his closest friend, really more like his brother, is accused of a murder said
to have taken place a decade ago in Afghanistan, he knows he must figure out what he’s
actually being accused of before things get worse. To be able to help, he will have to agree
to help others, making this a full operation. With the backing of an unknown along with an
untested, but battle proven team , help for Frodo is on the way.
The story is well set up with a lot of Military jargon, but it’s fairly easy to catch on- and I
learned a few things and found it enjoyable to expand my vocabulary of all things field
related.
I read this during the week that China was flying a balloon over our Country, which made
what I was reading even more interesting. The Chinese satellite was real, of course, and
some of the scenes in the.book might have been vaguely fictional.
I want to read this book again knowing what I now know about the complicated relationships
and the geopolitical consequences to our homeland as it relates to foreign relations at the
highest levels of our Government.
I highly recommend this book- Don is at the top of his game and has. become a major player
in the genre. This book can be read as a stand-alone because each book sports its own
theme and story, but you might want to learn more about Matt, and also Frodo,
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review..
February 14, 2023
Don Bentley’s latest Matt Drake novel, Forgotten War, is a very visceral heart wrenching story. Forgotten War is set around the withdraw from Afghanistan, and it paints the most heart wrenching picture of what our service men and women must have been feeling during that time frame.
I did not serve in the military, but reading the despair that Bentley wrote created such a pit in my stomach. Don Bentley has been gracious enough to share is story with us on Social Media of his thoughts on the withdraw, and reading his latest novel takes us to a whole other level of understanding.
Forgotten War takes Matt Drake and Frodo on this path of “what if” that can lead to nowhere good. It leads both warriors to question there past actions, and the “was it worth it” bunny holes. At the end of the day, this novel showcases the brotherhood that is created. After the withdraw, the one thing that will always be worth it is the brotherhood.
All though the plot is dark, Matt Drakes humor and sarcasm is second to none! This style of writing always makes me breeze through these books. Forgotten War is one for the ages, and will go down in the history books.
I did not serve in the military, but reading the despair that Bentley wrote created such a pit in my stomach. Don Bentley has been gracious enough to share is story with us on Social Media of his thoughts on the withdraw, and reading his latest novel takes us to a whole other level of understanding.
Forgotten War takes Matt Drake and Frodo on this path of “what if” that can lead to nowhere good. It leads both warriors to question there past actions, and the “was it worth it” bunny holes. At the end of the day, this novel showcases the brotherhood that is created. After the withdraw, the one thing that will always be worth it is the brotherhood.
All though the plot is dark, Matt Drakes humor and sarcasm is second to none! This style of writing always makes me breeze through these books. Forgotten War is one for the ages, and will go down in the history books.
October 20, 2023
Forgotten War
By: Don Bentley
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my second by Bentley and his books are action packed with scenarios in war and back home with spouses and friends.
I come from a long line of military and live in Texas. I love the references to towns near me like Austin, Fredericksburg along with Fort Hood. (Now Fort Cavasos)
I have know several pilots and airborne rangers and can visualize the scenarios in this book. Matt Drake and his partner Frodo are back. Ten years later Frodo is accused of a war crime from Afghanistan. Will Matt be able to help his friend?
This is book #4 in the Matt Drake series. Looking forward to more by Bentley. I had a chance to meet him a couple of times and he is such a nice person and humble. He has shared stories with audiences and I truly appreciate his service to keep our country safe. This picture was taken at his book launch at Lark & Owl in Georgetown, Texas.
#forgottenwar, #donbentley, #berkley, #mattdrake, #military, #bookreview, #bookstagram, #stamperlady50
By: Don Bentley
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my second by Bentley and his books are action packed with scenarios in war and back home with spouses and friends.
I come from a long line of military and live in Texas. I love the references to towns near me like Austin, Fredericksburg along with Fort Hood. (Now Fort Cavasos)
I have know several pilots and airborne rangers and can visualize the scenarios in this book. Matt Drake and his partner Frodo are back. Ten years later Frodo is accused of a war crime from Afghanistan. Will Matt be able to help his friend?
This is book #4 in the Matt Drake series. Looking forward to more by Bentley. I had a chance to meet him a couple of times and he is such a nice person and humble. He has shared stories with audiences and I truly appreciate his service to keep our country safe. This picture was taken at his book launch at Lark & Owl in Georgetown, Texas.
#forgottenwar, #donbentley, #berkley, #mattdrake, #military, #bookreview, #bookstagram, #stamperlady50
May 3, 2023
A Story That Needed To Be Told
Matt Drake at his best and keeps getting better. Don Bentley brings readers a story that parallels the events of the shameless surrender of Afghanistan, that cost the lives on both sides. Without giving away keys points, every American concerned with the direction our military is heading, should make this story a “must read.”
Don knows how to draw you into the story and make you feel as though you’re living it. I’ve reading every book he’s written and forward to more Drake, Jack Ryan Jr, and his future Mitch Rapp…!
Matt Drake at his best and keeps getting better. Don Bentley brings readers a story that parallels the events of the shameless surrender of Afghanistan, that cost the lives on both sides. Without giving away keys points, every American concerned with the direction our military is heading, should make this story a “must read.”
Don knows how to draw you into the story and make you feel as though you’re living it. I’ve reading every book he’s written and forward to more Drake, Jack Ryan Jr, and his future Mitch Rapp…!
May 7, 2023
Another amazing book by this author. This one is ripped from the headlines and feels real. It’s easy to wonder if you are reading a real story or true fiction. The pace is perfect and the surprises in the plot are perfect. What a great book!
May 12, 2023
Matt Drake is my favorite action hero and this one was tense, twisty, heartfelt, and exciting.
January 1, 2023
I received this book from the author, the fine folks at Net Galley and Berkley Publishing Group in return for an honest review.
I have been a reader of the Tom Clancy/Jack Ryan universe for nearly thirty-five years, but this is my first foray into Don Bentley/Matt Drake universe and I think I can summarize my reaction in basically one word: "Wow!!".
In the summary of the book/author's notes, Bentley says that he took some artistic license insofar as apparently the previous novel references the Russia/Ukraine war and took place prior to the events in this novel (the distasteful American withdrawal takes place in 2021 and the Russia/Ukraine conflict began in early 2022.)
The premise of this novel is during the disgraceful and rapid exit of the American armed forces from Afghanistan - a conflict that has lasted two decades in length - serves as the background and the catalyst to a unique, high-flying, seat-of-your-pants thriller with equal amounts of heart. The news of the withdrawal hits our protagonist, Matt Drake, and his wounded/disabled partner Frodo especially hard as the evacuation crisis precipitated by the Taliban's swift takeover of Afghanistan following the rapid withdrawal of American troops is further exacerbated as Frodo is charged with murder following the death of a special forces comrade during a TDY with ODA3324 ten years ago.
Drake and his motley crew of special forces veterans attempt to find a way to prove that Frodo is innocent of the charges by traveling to Afghanistan to get the testimony of their Afghan interpreter (this is particularly brought to the forefront with the death of other members of ODA3324).
It is obvious that two decades of violent conflict in Afghanistan have bled the U.S. far more than it could handle. Bentley gives a voice to the hurt, frustration, and despair felt by servicemen and women, and rightly so, for the shockingly mismanaged retreat from Afghanistan.
The suggestion here is that America must take ownership of the lives affected when it decides to invade and administer a foreign territory. A team of American heroes, led by Matt Drake, demonstrate a willingness to bend the rules to save their Afghan friends and allies.
Following the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989 (with the conclusion of the Soviet-Afghan War which began in 1979) and the completion of the American withdrawal in August 2021, the maxim "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it" readily came to mind as I read this exciting novel.
The Afghani locals there have a saying: ‘You have the watches. We have the time.’
One of the first thoughts that I had upon my completion of Forgotten War was how impressed I was with this author (I don't believe that I had read any of the Tom Clancy universes since his demise in 2013 with the exception of maybe a Mark Greaney novel or two) and would definitely recommend this book to any fans of complex, adrenaline-fueled military novels.
As far as rating this book I found the story to be both riveting and exciting, as Don Bently explores the geopolitical realm as there are frequent references to America's previous defeat in Vietnam (Operation Frequent Wind) as the American armed forces attempt the evacuation of U.S. citizens, embassy staff, and allied Afghan nationals (Operation Allies Refuge), and would easily give this book a solid five stars out of five.
As with all of my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
I have been a reader of the Tom Clancy/Jack Ryan universe for nearly thirty-five years, but this is my first foray into Don Bentley/Matt Drake universe and I think I can summarize my reaction in basically one word: "Wow!!".
In the summary of the book/author's notes, Bentley says that he took some artistic license insofar as apparently the previous novel references the Russia/Ukraine war and took place prior to the events in this novel (the distasteful American withdrawal takes place in 2021 and the Russia/Ukraine conflict began in early 2022.)
The premise of this novel is during the disgraceful and rapid exit of the American armed forces from Afghanistan - a conflict that has lasted two decades in length - serves as the background and the catalyst to a unique, high-flying, seat-of-your-pants thriller with equal amounts of heart. The news of the withdrawal hits our protagonist, Matt Drake, and his wounded/disabled partner Frodo especially hard as the evacuation crisis precipitated by the Taliban's swift takeover of Afghanistan following the rapid withdrawal of American troops is further exacerbated as Frodo is charged with murder following the death of a special forces comrade during a TDY with ODA3324 ten years ago.
Drake and his motley crew of special forces veterans attempt to find a way to prove that Frodo is innocent of the charges by traveling to Afghanistan to get the testimony of their Afghan interpreter (this is particularly brought to the forefront with the death of other members of ODA3324).
It is obvious that two decades of violent conflict in Afghanistan have bled the U.S. far more than it could handle. Bentley gives a voice to the hurt, frustration, and despair felt by servicemen and women, and rightly so, for the shockingly mismanaged retreat from Afghanistan.
The suggestion here is that America must take ownership of the lives affected when it decides to invade and administer a foreign territory. A team of American heroes, led by Matt Drake, demonstrate a willingness to bend the rules to save their Afghan friends and allies.
Following the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989 (with the conclusion of the Soviet-Afghan War which began in 1979) and the completion of the American withdrawal in August 2021, the maxim "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it" readily came to mind as I read this exciting novel.
The Afghani locals there have a saying: ‘You have the watches. We have the time.’
One of the first thoughts that I had upon my completion of Forgotten War was how impressed I was with this author (I don't believe that I had read any of the Tom Clancy universes since his demise in 2013 with the exception of maybe a Mark Greaney novel or two) and would definitely recommend this book to any fans of complex, adrenaline-fueled military novels.
As far as rating this book I found the story to be both riveting and exciting, as Don Bently explores the geopolitical realm as there are frequent references to America's previous defeat in Vietnam (Operation Frequent Wind) as the American armed forces attempt the evacuation of U.S. citizens, embassy staff, and allied Afghan nationals (Operation Allies Refuge), and would easily give this book a solid five stars out of five.
As with all of my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
March 13, 2024
Amazing writing
Bentley really is an amazing writer. Matt Drake is one of my all time, favorite characters. He's half badass and half every man. Bentley is an intelligent writer that knows how to keep his audience clinging to his next sentence. No Hollywood, gruff stupidity, just edge of your seat writing that puts you in Matt's head and makes you a passenger in his life. I really hope we get more Matt Drake. He is a character that I absolutely am invested in.
Bentley really is an amazing writer. Matt Drake is one of my all time, favorite characters. He's half badass and half every man. Bentley is an intelligent writer that knows how to keep his audience clinging to his next sentence. No Hollywood, gruff stupidity, just edge of your seat writing that puts you in Matt's head and makes you a passenger in his life. I really hope we get more Matt Drake. He is a character that I absolutely am invested in.
December 15, 2023
This was the best one so far in the series. I thought the narrative was timely and really showed how much Bentley has grown as an author working in the Clancyverse. I can't wait for what comes next and I think Bentley is here to stay in the thriller game.
I would like to see him expand beyond first person in future, solo, books. I'd love more about the duo.
He has crafted a unique protag in Frodo...and I'm here for it.
I would like to see him expand beyond first person in future, solo, books. I'd love more about the duo.
He has crafted a unique protag in Frodo...and I'm here for it.
May 15, 2023
Another compelling read in the Matt Drake series. Incredibly challenging to wrestle with the emotional impact of the withdraw from Afghanistan, but Bentley managed to weave it in a deeply moving manner. (And, for those wishing to read an action-packed narrative, this certainly won't disappoint. Drake, Frodo, and some new characters joined the adventure crossing the continents.)
April 25, 2023
When the good folks at Kaye Publicity offered to send me a review copy of Don Bentley’s new Matt Drake novel, Forgotten War, I jumped at the offer.
Forgotten War is centred around the real-life 2021 Fall of Kabul and the disastrous end of the war in Afghanistan when the Taliban seized control of the government. In America, Matt Drake’s closest friend Frederick “Frodo” Cates is arrested for war crimes somehow connected to a past operation. As Drake investigates the truth, he uncovers an unsettling mystery connected to Frodo’s arrest and a series of suspicious murders, and realizes that the one person who may have answers is currently trapped in Afghanistan, and is also a target of the Taliban. Since the American military is withdrawing, and travel to the war-torn nation is impossible, it’s up to Drake to find a way to uncover the truth before his best friend is sent to prison.
Bentley is a military veteran with firsthand experience and a bestselling author for Tom Clancy’s Ryanverse, and that really shows in the muscular confidence of the book’s depiction of the military world. Not just that, but he describes the psychological impact of the Fall of Kabul on veterans with heartbreaking depth and empathy.
While the book, at its heart, is an action thriller, I was really impressed at the level of emotional nuance and genuinely touching character beats. So many thrillers rely solely on spectacle populated by fairly flat characters, but this one felt much more gripping because it’s wasn’t merely an explosion-filled power fantasy. It actually had something important to say.
Now that’s not to say that there wasn’t plenty of action. This book was engrossing, and I devoured it in three days, frantically reading every chance I could get. Drake is a fun protagonist, equal parts goofy and serious, and the cast of characters is diverse, well-rounded, and memorable. And, without spoilers, I can confidently say that there’s a moment right near the end that actually shook me and made me go, “Holy…”
This was the first Matt Drake novel I’ve read, and I genuinely want to go back and read the other three in the series. Like all thrillers, it has a tendency to simplify things into pure evil bad guys and perfectly virtuous good guys, but honestly, that’s been a staple of action stories since the days of black and white hats in old westerns, so it didn’t bother me much. It’s a military thriller, and so of course it’s going to highlight all the best aspects of the American armed forces and the ideals that drive them. This book had a LOT more depth than many other similar thrillers owing, no doubt, to the author’s first-hand knowledge of what it’s like to actually serve in the military.
Overall, this was an excellent read, and I highly recommend it. I’m looking forward to reading more of the author’s works, and continuing on with this series!
Forgotten War is centred around the real-life 2021 Fall of Kabul and the disastrous end of the war in Afghanistan when the Taliban seized control of the government. In America, Matt Drake’s closest friend Frederick “Frodo” Cates is arrested for war crimes somehow connected to a past operation. As Drake investigates the truth, he uncovers an unsettling mystery connected to Frodo’s arrest and a series of suspicious murders, and realizes that the one person who may have answers is currently trapped in Afghanistan, and is also a target of the Taliban. Since the American military is withdrawing, and travel to the war-torn nation is impossible, it’s up to Drake to find a way to uncover the truth before his best friend is sent to prison.
Bentley is a military veteran with firsthand experience and a bestselling author for Tom Clancy’s Ryanverse, and that really shows in the muscular confidence of the book’s depiction of the military world. Not just that, but he describes the psychological impact of the Fall of Kabul on veterans with heartbreaking depth and empathy.
While the book, at its heart, is an action thriller, I was really impressed at the level of emotional nuance and genuinely touching character beats. So many thrillers rely solely on spectacle populated by fairly flat characters, but this one felt much more gripping because it’s wasn’t merely an explosion-filled power fantasy. It actually had something important to say.
Now that’s not to say that there wasn’t plenty of action. This book was engrossing, and I devoured it in three days, frantically reading every chance I could get. Drake is a fun protagonist, equal parts goofy and serious, and the cast of characters is diverse, well-rounded, and memorable. And, without spoilers, I can confidently say that there’s a moment right near the end that actually shook me and made me go, “Holy…”
This was the first Matt Drake novel I’ve read, and I genuinely want to go back and read the other three in the series. Like all thrillers, it has a tendency to simplify things into pure evil bad guys and perfectly virtuous good guys, but honestly, that’s been a staple of action stories since the days of black and white hats in old westerns, so it didn’t bother me much. It’s a military thriller, and so of course it’s going to highlight all the best aspects of the American armed forces and the ideals that drive them. This book had a LOT more depth than many other similar thrillers owing, no doubt, to the author’s first-hand knowledge of what it’s like to actually serve in the military.
Overall, this was an excellent read, and I highly recommend it. I’m looking forward to reading more of the author’s works, and continuing on with this series!
January 7, 2023
It’s fantastic. I wish I could give this more than five stars. Definitely the best Matt Drake book yet.
The book takes place during the Afghanistan withdrawal. Matt puts together a team to rescue a family member and interpreter from Afghanistan. Frodo has been arrested for murder so he’s no help. This is such an emotional book. Bentley accurately describes what I imagine veterans were feeling during our exit from Afghanistan. The action doesn’t come until later in the book and it is definitely worth the wait. My husband works for Boeing so I especially love the Sikorsky/Boeing thing at the end. Not sure if that is intentional but that doesn’t make me love it any less. I also love Matt’s dry humor. The delivery is great.
So thankful I received this book from Netgalley. Can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with this book!
The book takes place during the Afghanistan withdrawal. Matt puts together a team to rescue a family member and interpreter from Afghanistan. Frodo has been arrested for murder so he’s no help. This is such an emotional book. Bentley accurately describes what I imagine veterans were feeling during our exit from Afghanistan. The action doesn’t come until later in the book and it is definitely worth the wait. My husband works for Boeing so I especially love the Sikorsky/Boeing thing at the end. Not sure if that is intentional but that doesn’t make me love it any less. I also love Matt’s dry humor. The delivery is great.
So thankful I received this book from Netgalley. Can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with this book!
January 10, 2023
First, thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and the author for sending me this ARC.
As per other books by this author, the book featured relentless action from beginning to end; however, what set this book apart for me is the thoughts/feelings of our servicemen who have fought in Afghanistan for so long. I do not think we civilians can quite grasp how those brave men and women must have felt/must feel to see us abandon Afghanistan like we did. This human element is often missing from this genre, and I gave this book a 5-star rating because of it.
Lastly I know Mr Bentley has 2 other books coming out this year so I really look forward to reading those as well.
As per other books by this author, the book featured relentless action from beginning to end; however, what set this book apart for me is the thoughts/feelings of our servicemen who have fought in Afghanistan for so long. I do not think we civilians can quite grasp how those brave men and women must have felt/must feel to see us abandon Afghanistan like we did. This human element is often missing from this genre, and I gave this book a 5-star rating because of it.
Lastly I know Mr Bentley has 2 other books coming out this year so I really look forward to reading those as well.
December 31, 2022
What a great book. The author does an excellent job of continuing Matt Drake and Frodo's story and also the struggles from their past. Mr. Bentley relates and tells the struggle many vets felt with how Afganistan ended and how they felt seeing their brothers in arms left behind.
The story continues to show the bond between Frodo and Drake and the loyalty between the two. It also introduces several new characters that i look forward to seeing in future stories.
Highly recommend this book for those who have read Don Bentley before or those looking for a new author. Can't wait for the series to continue
The story continues to show the bond between Frodo and Drake and the loyalty between the two. It also introduces several new characters that i look forward to seeing in future stories.
Highly recommend this book for those who have read Don Bentley before or those looking for a new author. Can't wait for the series to continue
November 28, 2022
Good gravy was this good. Forgotten War, the 4th book in Don Bentley's Matt Drake series, utilizes the U.S.'s disgraceful exit from Afghanistan as the catalyst to a unique, highflying, seat-of-your-pants thriller with equal amounts of heart. The news of the withdrawal from Afghanistan hits Matt Drake and his partner/best friend Frodo hard. Ten years earlier, Matt and Frodo joined a raid in Afghanistan at the last minute, almost by accident. Since they returned to base from said op they haven't thought of it since. That is until Frodo is arrested for murder and Matt survives an assassination attempt. Vowing to do whatever it takes to exonerate Frodo, Drake will face nearly impossible odds, bureaucratic b.s. logistical nightmares and enemies with unusual allies.
Every word Bentley has penned has been great. Forgotten War is next level. Switching up the formula a bit from previous Drake books by having Frodo indisposed, Bentley allows the reader to see Matt in a new light. The biggest impact from Frodo's absence are the characters Bentley introduced. They will be instant fan favorites. I hope this isn't the last time we see some of them. In a way Forgotten War feels like an ode to the men and women who fought, bled and died in Afghanistan. And deservedly so.
Forgotten War isn't just your normal thriller. Bentley gives a voice to the hurt, frustration, despair felt by servicemen and woman due to the Afghanistan withdrawal. By focusing on the disgraceful way we left Afghanistan and the people who risked their lives to help the U.S., Bentley shines a spotlight on the very best of the us.: The brave, selfish and heroic actions of men and women who did what the U..S. government refused to do. I cannot recommend Forgotten War enough!
My eternal thanks to Don Bentley, Berkley Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Forgotten War!
Every word Bentley has penned has been great. Forgotten War is next level. Switching up the formula a bit from previous Drake books by having Frodo indisposed, Bentley allows the reader to see Matt in a new light. The biggest impact from Frodo's absence are the characters Bentley introduced. They will be instant fan favorites. I hope this isn't the last time we see some of them. In a way Forgotten War feels like an ode to the men and women who fought, bled and died in Afghanistan. And deservedly so.
Forgotten War isn't just your normal thriller. Bentley gives a voice to the hurt, frustration, despair felt by servicemen and woman due to the Afghanistan withdrawal. By focusing on the disgraceful way we left Afghanistan and the people who risked their lives to help the U.S., Bentley shines a spotlight on the very best of the us.: The brave, selfish and heroic actions of men and women who did what the U..S. government refused to do. I cannot recommend Forgotten War enough!
My eternal thanks to Don Bentley, Berkley Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Forgotten War!
February 7, 2024
Exception storyline. Sad because of the subject matter but also uplifting because of the commitment of our veterans. Don is an excellent author, and Matt Drake is an excellent lead character. This is number 4 in the series, and they’re all good. I believe this is the best so far though.
April 26, 2023
Wow. Just Wow. Don Bentley wrote an incredible book. You won’t regret reading it.
So the Matt Drake series gets better with every new book, but this one set a bar for Bentley that is going to be tough to measure up to next year. It is utterly fantastic.
This book like author/Uber driver Josh Hood’s recent Adam Hayes book use the travesty that is the Afghanistan withdrawal as a backdrop, and of the three books this year that have done so, this one is BY FAR the best.
The book starts out with Frodo and Matt having a beer, and out of nowhere Army CID shows up and arrests Frodo for murder. At the same time any and all details around the charge are inaccessible, even to those with a necessary clearance. On top of that Frodo seems unwilling to participate in his defense.
Matt suspects this and other events are related to a raid in Afghanistan he and Frodo participated in, and sets off to track down the other raid participants to try and get some answers. On the flight out we meet pilot Dee(call sign Bone) who I very much hope remains a part of the series.
Eventually Drake realizes that all roads lead to Afghanistan, but as the US is only removing assets from the AO he is forced to go it alone as a civilian. To find the teams missing member and the answers that will gain Frodo his freedom.
Whatever your politics are, to those who served the withdrawal from Afghanistan was the ultimate slap in the face. For those men and women who fought and bled for our country, for the gold star parents whose children gave the ultimate sacrifice, and the Afghani’s who believed in the promises of the US how it went down was nothing less than a betrayal. Good men’s deaths and untold suffering amounted to nothing in the interest of political expediency and this book harnesses that emotion in a way that could only be written by someone who gave a part of themselves to Afghanistan. This book is a work of fiction, but the background events were VERY real.
I cannot say enough good things about this book, and I love the tone it sets. It’s about a bunch of good men and women who refuse to do nothing.
What’s really mind boggling is that this is the first of three books Bentley has being released this year. He has two Jack Ryan Jr. Books being published, AND he’s taking over the Mitch Rapp series. For a guy whose first novel was published after the COVID lockdown begun that rise is nothing less than meteoric, and he deserves it.
So the Matt Drake series gets better with every new book, but this one set a bar for Bentley that is going to be tough to measure up to next year. It is utterly fantastic.
This book like author/Uber driver Josh Hood’s recent Adam Hayes book use the travesty that is the Afghanistan withdrawal as a backdrop, and of the three books this year that have done so, this one is BY FAR the best.
The book starts out with Frodo and Matt having a beer, and out of nowhere Army CID shows up and arrests Frodo for murder. At the same time any and all details around the charge are inaccessible, even to those with a necessary clearance. On top of that Frodo seems unwilling to participate in his defense.
Matt suspects this and other events are related to a raid in Afghanistan he and Frodo participated in, and sets off to track down the other raid participants to try and get some answers. On the flight out we meet pilot Dee(call sign Bone) who I very much hope remains a part of the series.
Eventually Drake realizes that all roads lead to Afghanistan, but as the US is only removing assets from the AO he is forced to go it alone as a civilian. To find the teams missing member and the answers that will gain Frodo his freedom.
Whatever your politics are, to those who served the withdrawal from Afghanistan was the ultimate slap in the face. For those men and women who fought and bled for our country, for the gold star parents whose children gave the ultimate sacrifice, and the Afghani’s who believed in the promises of the US how it went down was nothing less than a betrayal. Good men’s deaths and untold suffering amounted to nothing in the interest of political expediency and this book harnesses that emotion in a way that could only be written by someone who gave a part of themselves to Afghanistan. This book is a work of fiction, but the background events were VERY real.
I cannot say enough good things about this book, and I love the tone it sets. It’s about a bunch of good men and women who refuse to do nothing.
What’s really mind boggling is that this is the first of three books Bentley has being released this year. He has two Jack Ryan Jr. Books being published, AND he’s taking over the Mitch Rapp series. For a guy whose first novel was published after the COVID lockdown begun that rise is nothing less than meteoric, and he deserves it.
March 28, 2023
Forgotten War was my initial foray into the world of Matt Drake and Co., and believe me when I tell you that you're in for one helluva ride. The military/technothriller genre is a sprawling one and it can be difficult to suss out what stories are worth reading, given the abundance of fish in this sea, but Don Bentley has pulled off the improbable and created a truly unique voice in the form of the aforementioned Matt Drake. Interestingly, the author alternates between first- and third-person narration, allowing you to hear Drake's thoughts and breathe his air. You'll not only laugh and cheer with him during moments of levity, but pursue the impossible alongside him, feeling every ounce of his grief, resolve, and at times, pure moral rage.
"Ripped from the headlines" is a cliché at this point, but when the shoe fits, it fits: Drake's adventures take you to the darker corners of our world. Weapon and technology fans will appreciate the attention to detail--which the author includes just enough of to keep you grounded in reality while keeping pace with the story--and anyone who enjoys a good story will feel the flesh-and-blood characters reaching out from the page, inviting you to join them in a race against time. (Speaking of time, don't be surprised if you read the whole thing in one sitting!)
From the book's powerful opening declaration to the final page, there is not a single moment that doesn't ring true. Forgotten War is a labor of love and a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who have answered our nation's call to service, and tells a compelling story against the backdrop of the last 20 years. Don't hesitate--you need to get this book ASAP. Yesterday, if you can manage it.
"Ripped from the headlines" is a cliché at this point, but when the shoe fits, it fits: Drake's adventures take you to the darker corners of our world. Weapon and technology fans will appreciate the attention to detail--which the author includes just enough of to keep you grounded in reality while keeping pace with the story--and anyone who enjoys a good story will feel the flesh-and-blood characters reaching out from the page, inviting you to join them in a race against time. (Speaking of time, don't be surprised if you read the whole thing in one sitting!)
From the book's powerful opening declaration to the final page, there is not a single moment that doesn't ring true. Forgotten War is a labor of love and a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who have answered our nation's call to service, and tells a compelling story against the backdrop of the last 20 years. Don't hesitate--you need to get this book ASAP. Yesterday, if you can manage it.
July 1, 2023
"Forgotten War" by Don Bentley is an exceptional addition to the gripping Matt Drake series that should not be missed. Once again, we witness Matt's unwavering dedication to standing up for his loved ones, strangers, and the United States of America. His character remains consistently compelling from the very first book to this latest installment.
Don Bentley's masterful writing shines brightly in "Forgotten War," providing readers with a rich and emotional experience through the portrayal of Matt Drake. The author's ability to infuse such depth of emotion into the character is truly remarkable. Moreover, the action-packed sequences are just as impactful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout the entire story.
I cannot recommend this book enough, awarding it a well-deserved five-star rating. However, beyond this specific book, I must emphasize that the Matt Drake series as a whole deserves an even higher rating of six out of five stars. This series has secured its place firmly among my top five favorite book series of all time.
For those seeking captivating storytelling, unforgettable characters, and adrenaline-pumping action, the Matt Drake series is an absolute must-read. Don Bentley's expertly crafted narrative and the unwavering heroism of Matt Drake make this series an immersive and thrilling experience. Do yourself a favor and dive into this incredible series—it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and solidify its position as one of your all-time favorites.
Don Bentley's masterful writing shines brightly in "Forgotten War," providing readers with a rich and emotional experience through the portrayal of Matt Drake. The author's ability to infuse such depth of emotion into the character is truly remarkable. Moreover, the action-packed sequences are just as impactful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout the entire story.
I cannot recommend this book enough, awarding it a well-deserved five-star rating. However, beyond this specific book, I must emphasize that the Matt Drake series as a whole deserves an even higher rating of six out of five stars. This series has secured its place firmly among my top five favorite book series of all time.
For those seeking captivating storytelling, unforgettable characters, and adrenaline-pumping action, the Matt Drake series is an absolute must-read. Don Bentley's expertly crafted narrative and the unwavering heroism of Matt Drake make this series an immersive and thrilling experience. Do yourself a favor and dive into this incredible series—it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and solidify its position as one of your all-time favorites.
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