The Academy

Dan Lenson #22

by David Poyer

With high ethical stakes and a suspenseful past-and-present narrative, The Academy is David Poyer's capstone novel in the Dan Lenson series.

In his final tour of duty after a remarkable career at sea, Dan Lenson is appointed Superintendent of the US Naval Academy at Annapolis. He begins at a difficult Congress is cutting military budgets in the wake of the devastating world war with China, calls for radical reform are upending traditions, and Dan himself faces legal jeopardy for his actions during the war. And when a Category 5 hurricane threatens to overwhelm the coast, Dan must fight to rescue the Academy itself.

Parallel to this narrative runs the dramatic story of Dan's years as a first class midshipman, 40 years ago. An Academy classmate commits suicide, and Dan is drawn into the investigation. The decisions he makes will affect his entire career and shape how he comes to lead troops in battle and at peace.

Genres: Fiction, Military Thriller

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

Aka D.C. Poyer.

DAVID C. POYER was born in DuBois, PA in 1949. He grew up in Brockway, Emlenton, and Bradford, in western Pennsylvania, and graduated from Bradford Area High School in 1967. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis in 1971, and later received a master's degree from George Washington University.

Poyer's active and reserve naval service included sea duty in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Arctic, Caribbean, and Pacific, and shore duty at the Pentagon, Surface Warfare Development Group, Joint Forces Command, and in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. He retired in July 2001.

Poyer began writing in 1976, and is the author of nearly fifty books, including THE MED, THE GULF, THE CIRCLE, THE PASSAGE, TOMAHAWK, CHINA SEA, BLACK STORM, THE COMMAND, THE THREAT, KOREA STRAIT, THE WEAPON, THE CRISIS, THE CRUISER, TIPPING POINT, HUNTER KILLER, DEEP WAR, OVERTHROW, VIOLENT PEACE, ARCTIC SEA, and THE ACADEMY, best-selling Navy novels; THE DEAD OF WINTER, WINTER IN THE HEART, AS THE WOLF LOVES WINTER, THUNDER ON THE MOUNTAIN, and THE HILL, set in Western Pennsylvania; and HATTERAS BLUE, BAHAMAS BLUE, LOUISIANA BLUE, and DOWN TO A SUNLESS SEA, underwater diving adventure.

Other noteworthy books are THE ONLY THING TO FEAR, a historical thriller, THE RETURN OF PHILO T. McGIFFIN, a comic novel of Annapolis, and the three volumes of The Civil War at Sea, FIRE ON THE WATERS, A COUNTRY OF OUR OWN, and THAT ANVIL OF OUR SOULS. He's also written two sailing thrillers, GHOSTING and THE WHITENESS OF THE WHALE. His work has been published in Britain, translated into Japanese, Dutch, Italian, Hugarian, and Serbo-Croatian; recorded for audiobooks, iPod downloads, and Kindle, and selected by the Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Club and other book clubs. Rights to several properties have been sold or optioned for films, and two novellas appeared in the Night Bazaar series of fantasy anthologies.

Poyer has taught or lectured at Annapolis, Flagler College, University of Pittsburgh, Old Dominion University, the Armed Forces Staff College, the University of North Florida, Christopher Newport University, and other institutions. He has been a guest on PBS's "Writer to Writer" series and on Voice of America, and has appeared at the Southern Festival of Books and many other literary events. He taught in the MA/MFA in Creative Writing program at Wilkes University for sixteen years. He is currently core faculty at the Ossabaw Writers Retreat, a fellow of the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, and a board member of the Northern Appalachia Review.

He lives on Virginia's Eastern Shore with novelist Lenore Hart.

Reviews

[Ron Wroblewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is the last of the 22 books of the Dan Lenson series and I loved them all. This book covers the 1st year as superintendent of the Naval Academy at Annapolis, and the problems he faces. It also goes back to when he was a midshipman there. I learned a lot about Annapolis, especially that it is very low to sea level, and it is subject to flooding, especially during a hurricane. Highly recommended, the entire series,

[Bruce Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meandering

I've followed this series from the beginning. Overall, worth it. I'm unsure of the value of incorporating sea level rise, diversity, etc, into the story line. Still, bringing Dan Lenson's story to a close was important.

[Doug Yonce · Rating 5 out of 5]

After 22 books in the series, you’d expect an author to run out of ideas, but David Poyer knows how to keep it fresh. In this entry we get parallel stories with Midshipman Dan and Admiral Dan going through their first class year and first year as the superintendent. Lots of great insights into Academy life through the ‘experiences’ of our special hero. The years have served him well. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.

[Bob · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was wary of “The Academy” because it isn’t a sea story. But, the sea is in the story. Along with the trademark David Poyer action, careful plotting, Navy lore, cliffhangers and mental puzzling over sticky issues. Embrace his people: Heroes, villains, misfits and weasels. He answers all of your “whatever happened to….?” questions. This, to use Poyer’s term, capstone novel is a “clean sweep”, the Navy term for victory, symbolized by lashing a broom to the periscope shears of a submarine, or the mast of a surface ship, as they returned home from a successful war tour. Poyer does not mail in this final installment. I found it likable, and satisfying and will read it again, along with the full Dan Lenson series, twenty two books, published over 33 years.
A word about the series. Don't think of it as over. Think of it as complete, like the hot rod you built in your garage, or a famous painting that you love. It is whole now. Hold it, turn it over, admire and question it. Learn about Navy order, restrictions, integrity and honor. Be horrified by how closely the war novels track with real present day domestic and geopolitical tensions and how easily that could lead to truly atomic terror. The series is the sum of its parts, thoughtful, sprawling, a literary masterpiece. Now, to revisit them in the recommended order: “Honey, where’s my copy of “The Circle…..”?

[Susan McAulay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC of this book. I rated this 3 stars at first but increased to 4 because although I did not enjoy the book, I think it is good, just not my cup of tea. I also think that this was a case where reading earlier in the series would have helped.
If you are into reading books about the military, this is for you. I loved The Great Santini by Pat Conroy. But that was less about the military or there were more details about the military in Conroy's book. Hence, this book is right for someone who wants that level of detail and authenticity, but it is not me. I can easily see this book being a 5 star book for some. It had a good plot, suspense and characterization but I got lost in the military of it.

[David Rubin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! David Poyer wrote two books in one: Dan Lenson as Superintendent of the Naval Academy and as his younger self when a student at the Academy. Poyer's weaving of the two stories is masterful. At the same time he develops two separate but related and exciting plot lines for the two selves. Finally, Poyer references events and challenges from his prior Lenson books. The Academy constitutes a fugal development of Dan Lenson's life.

For those who have enjoyed reading the entire Lenson saga this final chapter of his life is a wonderful literary achievement. And, for those of you who have not been part of the journey, go back and read the older books. You will not be disappointed.

[Saul Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who doesn't typically delve into mystery novels, The Academy was a pleasant surprise. The characters are well-crafted, and their dynamics add depth to the narrative. The plot, though not the most complex, is peppered with unexpected turns that kept me engaged. What sets this book apart is the author's knack for infusing humor seamlessly into the mystery. It's like enjoying a good laugh with friends while navigating through the twists and turns of a captivating story. The writing style is approachable, making it an excellent choice for readers looking to dip their toes into the mystery genre

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a great book if you love naval stuff. This is also my first time reading this author and I overall I did enjoy this novel and learned a lot of stuff about the navy and the academy. However I was overwhelmed with all the characters and had difficulty remembering them all. I also did not like the sudden move into the past to tell the protagonist's own experiences at the Academy. And then you were in the present. The plot was excellent and dealt with many issues that are important to all of us. The characters were all very well developed and I especially like the protagonist who had to be fair at all times. I may try another of his novels.

[David Tindell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lenson sails into retirement...?

A fine finale to the saga of Daniel V. Lenson, USN, relling the story of Year 1 if his final posting, as Superintendent of the Naval Academy. Since it's never smooth sailing for Lenson, his year is filled with challenges, man-made and natural, but he comes through again, as we want him to. With flashbacks to his own time as a midshipman, we learn kore about what shaped the naive young man into the seasoned warrior-leader. And, there's a hint that his USNA posting may not be his last, after all.

[Julie Pint · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book in the series so I’m coming in a bit late at number 22. That said, I did enjoy much of the story and could tell a few missing pieces from the earlier novels. Dan becomes the Admiral at the Naval Academy to round out his career. He inherits a multitude of issues while encountering others along the way, all while reminiscing about his own time there. It is a very introspective book and I’m grateful to NetGalley and the publisher for the read.

[Todd Buegler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciated this final (I think?) chapter in the Dan Lenson story.

While the story lacked the gravity of past story lines (a campus surviving a hurricane vs. nuclear war?) it was still a good story. The flashback sequences didn't always seem to connect with the "current" story, but provided good character development. In fact, I wish those pieces had appeared early in the series to help understand the protagonist.

It is a worthwhile read.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much better than his last 4 books. Mr. Poyer is one of several authors who have started shoehorning obligatory LGBTQ+ side plots into his books, daring anyone to object, and I am going to call him out. His gay characters cause a lot of trouble that's kinda counter-productive to the cause. Anyway. Maybe retire Dan Lenson and write history like fellow academy grad PT Deutermann?

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[Bill Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent ending to a fantastic series. I have absolutely loved this series from Artic Sea to The Academy. Interesting how David Poyer told us about Admiral Lemson's last years in the Navy combined with his last year at the Academy. These books covered most of the major issues facing the Navy during the late Cold War to the fictional war with China and Opposing Powers, limited nuclear exchange and the final rebuilding of the country after it fell apart. Highly recommend the Dan Lemson series.

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story is about Vice Admiral Daniel Lenson, USN, who is made superintendent of the Annapolis Navy Academy. He inherits plenty of problems, including the fact that the Academy could be flooded during the next hurricane. He is also being held accountable for his actions during the last war. I could not help but think of two of my brothers in law who were both highly ranked in the Navy. I can't imagine the stress and responsibilities they faced.

[Irish Brassil · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must Read Thriller

David Poyer's new novel "The Academy" is the capstone of a 22-book series. #GoNavy

Poyer has a spooky prescience regarding the next threats to America & turns them into #thillers

Dan Lenson is in the twilight of his career, or is he? He returns to where it all started.

#USNavy #NavalAcademy

[John Sheridan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fitting end to the series

A love letter to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis but nevertheless a solid conclusion to the Lenson saga, Poyer sends Dan and the crew off to satisfying finish. Although, perhaps there is room for a final cruise as CNO? Fair winds and following seas to them all. Very highly recommended.

[Gary Weinman · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Lenson saga comes to an end. I've read them all. Many were great, some were excellent. This one is kind of average. A lot of things happen, some of them are very implausible. I was really disappointed in the ending with Nan as it should have been better or cut from the book. However, I did chuckle at the chairs being removed from the kneelers. Ha Ha.

[Marnie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book kept me entertained but I don't think the series is for me. I won the novel in a Goodreads giveaway, a way I have been introduced to new authors.

I don't regret winning this book, but I do not think I will seek out additional Dan Lenson stories.

[Sam Wilbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner!

The same artful prose, fantastic juxtaposition of Dan as a cadet and the superintendent. The underlying themes of honor, duty and integrity make this note just entertaining, but something WORTH reading and savoring.

[Robert Kirsch · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not a real Dan Lenson

Dan Lenson a career Navy officer head of the Naval Academy did not do justice to Lenson. Mr Poyer this book was a waste of your talents as a writer. The last Lenson book should have ended with the war.

[Kevin Collett · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed previous books in the Dan Lenson series and David Poyer is a good author.

That being said: this book is a novel about an academic administrator combined with a flashback story from their time at the same military academy.

Not the book I was expecting.

[Darren Sapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Dan Lenson novel so I don't know a lot of the background but as someone with a deep interest in Annapolis, I loved all the detail and storytelling on that. I plan to read more of Poyer's works.

[Alan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although workmanlike, the book lacked zing. I’m not sure if it marks the end of the Dan Lenson series. Except for the first couple I haven’t read most of them and have gone back to look at The Circle.

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up to 3

[J J · Rating 3 out of 5]

No real plot

No real plot. Just flashbacks of his time at naval academy, taken while he now leads it. Basically a review of a time in his life when nothing book worthy happened.

[Mike Mengel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fitting ending of a continuing series that first started in 1988 and has lasted for 35 years.

[Robert Knorr · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ rating.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read the Dan Lenson novels since the beginning, and this makes a nice coda to Dan's career. I have enjoyed each book, and this one continues the tradition.

[Bill Martimucci · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is sadly , the final book in the " Dan Lenson" Series, an amazing fictional account of a a naval officer over many years and crises.

[Jerry Karasinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent way to wrap up this series. I hope you enjoy reading it.