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Editorial Reviews
Pressed into service when World War II breaks out in the Pacific, the US Walker?a Great War-era destroyer?finds itself retreating from pursuing Japanese battleships. Its captain, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Patrick Reddy, desperately leads the Walker into a squall, hoping it will give them cover?only to emerge into an alternate world. A world where two species have evolved: the cat-like Lemurians and the reptilian Griks?and they are at war.
With its power and weaponry, the Walker?s very existence could alter the balance of power. And for Reddy and his crew, who have the means to turn a primitive war into a genocidal Armageddon, one thing becomes clear. They must determine whose side they?re on. Because whichever species they choose is the winner.
With its power and weaponry, the Walker?s very existence could alter the balance of power. And for Reddy and his crew, who have the means to turn a primitive war into a genocidal Armageddon, one thing becomes clear. They must determine whose side they?re on. Because whichever species they choose is the winner.
Related Reviews
good military SF, but with weak characters
Consider a person or group from modern times, who somehow get transported to an earlier time, or to a parallel universe inhabited by technologically less advanced peoples. Heck. Stretch this a little and include another case, where the modern group gets dropped on another planet, of backward inhabitants. In all cases, our heroes have an edge in weapons and tactics, but are sorely pressed in numbers. Typically, they ally with local friendlies against dreadful hordes of enemies. Familiar? Think Piper's Lord Kalvan of Otherwhen (Ace SF, F-342). Pournelle's Janissaries. Stirling's Island in the Sea of Time. Forstchen's Lost Regiment. Or, more recently, Birmingham's Weapons of Choice (The Axis of Time Trilogy, Book 1). So Anderson continues a long and popular tradition.
Superficially, this book seems to bear closest resemblence to Birmingham's account of American ships from 2020 plunged into World War 2. But actually Forstchen's works are the nearest prior art. He placed a Civil War regiment on another world, with backward humans oppressed by another vicious race. The regiment mobilises and tries to modernise the humans by industrialising them in the forge of war. Essentially what goes on in Anderson's book. The unique aspects here include the presence of 2 non-human sentient races. The Americans side with the lemurs, against the merciless reptiles. We mammals have to stick together, I suppose. He invokes a hypothesis made in recent years that if dinosaurs did not become extinct, some of them [the raptors] might evolve intelligence. (Cf. Harrison's West of Eden (Eden Trilogy) for a related take.)
Another distinguishing feature is the choice of terrain. Indonesia. With scenes in Borneo, Java and the local seas. I cannot recall the last science fiction story I read placed here. Makes a difference from North American or Euro-centric locales often used by other authors.
For those of you acquainted with the other stories, it can be interesting seeing how Anderson plays out "our" side and their frantic efforts to arm their allies. At some strategic level, you've read this before. So how will the tactics hold up?
The book does have a problem. Its American characters are rather uninspired. The brave commander, struggling with awesome decisions. A few errant but basically decent crewmen. And statutory love interests with some American nurses. The latter romances are by far the weakest of the character interactions. Brings to mind Robert Ludlum's widely derided love scenes for his characters.
In this wise, the book also continues one of the oldest of science fiction traditions. The characters are not especially memorable. Anderson goes through the motions with perfunctory development. So that he can turn to the science fictional themes and narrate the battle scenes.
The second book in this series is due out in a few months. Probably already fully written. Anderson appears very competent in his knowledge of warfare. But can he flesh out his characters more fully?
Superficially, this book seems to bear closest resemblence to Birmingham's account of American ships from 2020 plunged into World War 2. But actually Forstchen's works are the nearest prior art. He placed a Civil War regiment on another world, with backward humans oppressed by another vicious race. The regiment mobilises and tries to modernise the humans by industrialising them in the forge of war. Essentially what goes on in Anderson's book. The unique aspects here include the presence of 2 non-human sentient races. The Americans side with the lemurs, against the merciless reptiles. We mammals have to stick together, I suppose. He invokes a hypothesis made in recent years that if dinosaurs did not become extinct, some of them [the raptors] might evolve intelligence. (Cf. Harrison's West of Eden (Eden Trilogy) for a related take.)
Another distinguishing feature is the choice of terrain. Indonesia. With scenes in Borneo, Java and the local seas. I cannot recall the last science fiction story I read placed here. Makes a difference from North American or Euro-centric locales often used by other authors.
For those of you acquainted with the other stories, it can be interesting seeing how Anderson plays out "our" side and their frantic efforts to arm their allies. At some strategic level, you've read this before. So how will the tactics hold up?
The book does have a problem. Its American characters are rather uninspired. The brave commander, struggling with awesome decisions. A few errant but basically decent crewmen. And statutory love interests with some American nurses. The latter romances are by far the weakest of the character interactions. Brings to mind Robert Ludlum's widely derided love scenes for his characters.
In this wise, the book also continues one of the oldest of science fiction traditions. The characters are not especially memorable. Anderson goes through the motions with perfunctory development. So that he can turn to the science fictional themes and narrate the battle scenes.
The second book in this series is due out in a few months. Probably already fully written. Anderson appears very competent in his knowledge of warfare. But can he flesh out his characters more fully?
A Military ship goes thru a menacing storm and comes out either (a) back in time or (b) in a parallel dimension where their technology allows them to aid the indigenous life forms there. How many times have we seen this? Seriously, the final countdown movie with Kirk Douglas, the series about the civil war ship that goes into another world and joins the fight, there are soooo many of these books its almost eye-rolling funny.
But, guess what, Taylor Anderson does a really good job with this. His detail on the WW2 front really set the mood well. I understood well the capabilities of the Walker & her crew and by the time we pass thru the big storm into the other world, we understand the Walker really is on her last leg, this is an old, battered ship. She's low on fuel, low on ammo, leaking like a vegetable strainer and really almost a rust bucket.
Where Anderson really makes this shine is the creation of the Lemurians, rather than give us the usual humans-that-have-been-cut-off-back-in-time that populate our new parallel earth, he gives us 2 alternate races that have evolved on a earth populated with Dinosaurs. A vicious, sleestak like reptilian race and a sea faring mammalian race of evolved Lemurs. I found his depiction of the Lemurs' huge traveling ships colorful and delightful. Seeing the gruff WW2 seamen interact with the Lemiurians was a hoot, especially when romance starts to bloom. I found myself rooting for the Lemurs and looking forward to the next 2 books. Ironically, the humans seem more 2 dimensional that the Lemus characters, lets hope the author can flush them out some in the next books.
If you are looking for some fun summer escapism, this won't let you down.
But, guess what, Taylor Anderson does a really good job with this. His detail on the WW2 front really set the mood well. I understood well the capabilities of the Walker & her crew and by the time we pass thru the big storm into the other world, we understand the Walker really is on her last leg, this is an old, battered ship. She's low on fuel, low on ammo, leaking like a vegetable strainer and really almost a rust bucket.
Where Anderson really makes this shine is the creation of the Lemurians, rather than give us the usual humans-that-have-been-cut-off-back-in-time that populate our new parallel earth, he gives us 2 alternate races that have evolved on a earth populated with Dinosaurs. A vicious, sleestak like reptilian race and a sea faring mammalian race of evolved Lemurs. I found his depiction of the Lemurs' huge traveling ships colorful and delightful. Seeing the gruff WW2 seamen interact with the Lemiurians was a hoot, especially when romance starts to bloom. I found myself rooting for the Lemurs and looking forward to the next 2 books. Ironically, the humans seem more 2 dimensional that the Lemus characters, lets hope the author can flush them out some in the next books.
If you are looking for some fun summer escapism, this won't let you down.
There are plenty of alternative histories about and quite a lot of time/alternative reality stories where a bunch of people are plucked form our universe and history and fine themselves somewhere...else. And yes, this is indeed one of them.
During a WW2 sea battle with the Japanese an elderly US warship (The Walker) is transported into an alternative reality where the landscapes are the same but man does not appear to have evolved. Almost immediately they have to take sides in a conflict between two races...with overwhelming power but dwindling resources, has the crew of the Walker picked the right side, and can they survive?
Although a theme we may have seen before, this is well delivered and more thoughtful then most. It certainly moves with pace and although you can see where it is going and what is likely to happen over the next few books, it is still written with enough intelligence to lift it above the standard for these types of books.
During a WW2 sea battle with the Japanese an elderly US warship (The Walker) is transported into an alternative reality where the landscapes are the same but man does not appear to have evolved. Almost immediately they have to take sides in a conflict between two races...with overwhelming power but dwindling resources, has the crew of the Walker picked the right side, and can they survive?
Although a theme we may have seen before, this is well delivered and more thoughtful then most. It certainly moves with pace and although you can see where it is going and what is likely to happen over the next few books, it is still written with enough intelligence to lift it above the standard for these types of books.
What a truely fantastic suprise!!! I talked about this book so much my father decided to read it too. He got very upset with about thirty to twenty pages to go. I asked why, and he told me he had figured out this book was part of a series, and now he would have to WAIT and WONDER as to the continuation and conclusion. I must say I agree with him. Very frustrating and exciting to be kept "on the hook" for several months. But in my opinion well worth the wait!!! Thank you Mr. Anderson.
Into the Storm: Destroyermen, Book I (Destroyermen)
As a retired bookstore owner of 19 years, I would recommend this book as a fun and enjoyable read. "Into the Storm" mixes action adventure, sci-fi, and WWII history without botching the history end.
The storyline pits a battle worn destroyer crew into an unreal situation in an alternative plane of existence without knowing how they got there or more important, how to get home. The crew encounters dangerous "Sea Monsters" that sailors in legends would find at the ends of the earth, along with dinosaurs roaming the pacific islands where people should be. Soon they find themselves in another war with very unusual allies and everything at stake.
Also of interest is the author's website [...] which has drawings and diagrams, that did not make it into the book, that gives perspectives of the different ships.
I can't wait for the other 2 books in the Destroyermen series and for other books by this author, Taylor Anderson.
As a retired bookstore owner of 19 years, I would recommend this book as a fun and enjoyable read. "Into the Storm" mixes action adventure, sci-fi, and WWII history without botching the history end.
The storyline pits a battle worn destroyer crew into an unreal situation in an alternative plane of existence without knowing how they got there or more important, how to get home. The crew encounters dangerous "Sea Monsters" that sailors in legends would find at the ends of the earth, along with dinosaurs roaming the pacific islands where people should be. Soon they find themselves in another war with very unusual allies and everything at stake.
Also of interest is the author's website [...] which has drawings and diagrams, that did not make it into the book, that gives perspectives of the different ships.
I can't wait for the other 2 books in the Destroyermen series and for other books by this author, Taylor Anderson.
fantastic alternate history novel
I listened to the audio version of this book, and at first it seemed like it was going be a World War II novel. Not knowing what the novel was about, it took me by surprise when it turned out to be an alternative history novel as a US destroyer under heavy attack by the Japanese navy got sucked into a maelstrom. They then set sail to Bali and find an island inhabited by lizard like dinosaurs. They also run into Lemurians, who are mammalian in nature and more peaceful. The Americans must decide who's side they are on, while trying to figure out a way home.
There was a lot to like about Into the Storm. The naval warfare part at the beginning is really well done, as is the world building that occurs when they arrive in this alternate reality. Captain Reddy and his crew find themselves in a sticky situation, and I could really empathize with them as Reddy had to make difficult choices to keep his men alive and at the same time do the right thing in this new world. The novel is well written, well paced and filled with action and tension. The first in a series, this is the best alternate reality book I've ever read.
Carl Alves - author of Two For Eternity
There was a lot to like about Into the Storm. The naval warfare part at the beginning is really well done, as is the world building that occurs when they arrive in this alternate reality. Captain Reddy and his crew find themselves in a sticky situation, and I could really empathize with them as Reddy had to make difficult choices to keep his men alive and at the same time do the right thing in this new world. The novel is well written, well paced and filled with action and tension. The first in a series, this is the best alternate reality book I've ever read.
Carl Alves - author of Two For Eternity
I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by this book, indeed, this series. I picked it up to kill time between releases of "my" authors. What I ended up with was an all consuming need to find out what happens next, something I did not think I was going to find. These Characters are very well defined, the story leads itself, virtually opening doors to further tales at nearly every turn. I find the authors humor to be very quick, and germain. The mixture of sorrow and ferocity is unmatched in my estimation. I'll not run any spoiler information in here, but I will say, that if you are a sci-fi and or fantasy reader, you should try these. The books are not hard reading, not overly filled with useless details, there is some middleing science invloved, nothing overtly egg-headed though, and there is enough fierce action to keep even the most devoted war sci-fi junky happy. I feel as if I'm a pretty finicky reader, I was weened on Heinlien, Tolkein, and Asimov, I have moved in to some mainstream authors in the recent past Bucher, Harrison, sargent, this book has craft that, if not matches all of the above authors, is most asuredly near or in the same class.
Read it!
Read it!
I discovered Taylor Anderson last year while looking for new reads, and I am glad I did. Destroyermen is the story of a pair of World War II destroyers at the beginning of World War 2 that are sucked into a dimensional rift to a world where dinosaurs didn't die out. Instead they evolved into an intelligence that threatens to destroy the other intelligent race of the planet, the Lemur like Lemurians. Enter the men from our Earth and their obsolete warships, which are ages ahead of anything the two extant cultures on the planet possess. Lt. Commander Matthew Reddy and the crew of the Walker are everyman thrown into an incomprehensible situation and doing the best they can. Reddy, who is over his head as a ship commander, is now tasked with raising a culture and industrial base to 20th Century standards, planning a war, or watching the men he loves go down before the tide of Grik that threatens to consume the world. But the Grik have a secret weapon as well, the Japanese battle cruiser that has also come to this world. A very well written book by a man that understands history and naval warfare, and a great introduction to an interesting series. Highly recommended.
I picked up this book after I got into a fury of buying alternative universe books that were mainly about war. I had read Weapons of Choice, which was one of the best books I have ever read but this series is getting close to topping that. The Author has really come into his self writing this series and I can't get enough of his books. The story is all about a discarded ship and it's crew who is sucked into an alternative universe where evolution was radically different than what happened to us. Just like that storm that sucked up the characters in this story, you to will be sucked up into it.
i am normally a fan of high tech military sci-fi not alternate reality naval books. I bought this book cause it was something different and had very decent reviews. I was not disappointed. Its an excellent story that is face paced and hard to put down. The slow parts( all books have them) don't go rambling on forever. The author doesn't bore you to death trying to justify how some things work in the story. Like how they break down a language barrier, how you refine oil into fuel for a destroyer and does not get bogged down in politics or religion{both are present}. He makes it work and keeps the story moving. the characters are enjoyable even lovable and whats a good book without heroes. i found the book extremely entertaining and order the second book before i finished this one. not hard to get engrossed in the story
I am not a literary critic. I read books for the fun of it. I found this book an exciting and a fun read. give it a try i doubt you will be disappointed.
I am not a literary critic. I read books for the fun of it. I found this book an exciting and a fun read. give it a try i doubt you will be disappointed.
A great and unique tale that captures your imagination immediately
This was a crazy good book in my opinion. It is set in World War 2 in the seas around Java. A small group of Allied vessels survives a Japanese attack and is on the run. The Japanese fleet tracks them down and manages to sink all but two Destroyers. These two ships should already have been decommissioned, as they both date back to WW1, but instead find themselves fleeing faster and more powerful Japanese ships. The Japanese track them down again, and in desperation, the American ships make a last ditch effort to get past the Japanese and into a squall, where they can hide. During the maneuver, they manage to sink a Destroyer and seriously damage a larger battleship before all the ships get drawn into the squall, which actually moves to swallow them up. Inside the squall, time seems to stop, then all of a sudden, there is a free-fall, and when they exit the squall, the Japanese ships are nowhere to be seen. Soon, they notice a ship ahead of them. As they pull closer, they realize that it is not a ship, but rather a Plesiosaur, eating the Japanese sailors from the Destroyer they sank. That is when things start to sink in....that possibly, they aren't where they thought they were. I wont go any further in the description, but everything that happens afterwards is very exciting, as they get drawn into a war between the two dominant species of the area they ended up in. A definite must read. I'm about to order the second book, so I'll review that after i get done with it.
Nicely done all around!
A well told tale by an author who both knows his subject and knows how to tell a tale told well of that subject.
The technical details are fascinating. The "alien" cultures intriguing. And the "new world" the crew of the Walker encounters is a fascinating thing.
This is another one of those "lost in the sea of time" (sort of) tales but it's handled well. You take one part 1942 US Navy destroyer on the run from the Japanese, mix an unexplained interdimensional "squall," throw in some "dinosaurs," shake real well and you come out with a very intriguing book.
Anderson does a good job handling his characters and they come across as being real enough. I think his "aliens" can come off as being a tad stock but he's worked on that as the book progresses. The environment they find themselves in is a bit on the extreme side but that's explainable within the criteria he's set for the tale. And it all works well.
In reading this book I found myself imagining what I would do were I in the same spot as the characters. That, to me, is the mark of an engaging tale and this book does it in spades. After taking the chance on reading this first installment I then immediately went out and bought all the other books in the series. And then I burned through all of them in turn!
Yeah, it's that worthwhile.
Highly recommended and a great read.
A well told tale by an author who both knows his subject and knows how to tell a tale told well of that subject.
The technical details are fascinating. The "alien" cultures intriguing. And the "new world" the crew of the Walker encounters is a fascinating thing.
This is another one of those "lost in the sea of time" (sort of) tales but it's handled well. You take one part 1942 US Navy destroyer on the run from the Japanese, mix an unexplained interdimensional "squall," throw in some "dinosaurs," shake real well and you come out with a very intriguing book.
Anderson does a good job handling his characters and they come across as being real enough. I think his "aliens" can come off as being a tad stock but he's worked on that as the book progresses. The environment they find themselves in is a bit on the extreme side but that's explainable within the criteria he's set for the tale. And it all works well.
In reading this book I found myself imagining what I would do were I in the same spot as the characters. That, to me, is the mark of an engaging tale and this book does it in spades. After taking the chance on reading this first installment I then immediately went out and bought all the other books in the series. And then I burned through all of them in turn!
Yeah, it's that worthwhile.
Highly recommended and a great read.
I wish I could give four and a a half stars to this fun book
Alternate universes can be a lot of fun to read about. They are also a source of infinite imagination and bizarre constructs, if written by the hands of good writers. This book counts as one of the better treatments of this genre and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole storyline, plot, and scenarios described. All is not perfect in this book even though I am giving it five stars. There are too many predictable plot effects, and too many unanswered questions that require too much faith in the author.
The basic plot is that during the early stages of World War 2 in the Pacific; right after Pearl Harbor; the U.S. Navy is outgunned and outnumbered by the Japanese who are taking over the Southeast Asian waters. We start this book on the deck of a World War 1 destroyer that is participating in a doomed battle (that actually happened, but without that particular destroyer). To give it some time to avoid a sure pounding by the Imperial Japanese Navy, the destroyer hides in a rain squall - however this rain squall actually acts as a transfer conduit to a parallel universe. A universe where the geography is exactly the same is the world we are used to, but it diverged some thousands or millions of years ago from our path and therefore the development of its flora and fauna was different than ours. Hence, once the destroyermen enter the stage, they encounter beasts, fish, and trees never seen before by them. As it turns out the sentient beings in this universe are tribes of lemur-like animals that travel in immense sailing islands and are peaceful, and some lizark-like animals that travel in Eighteenth Century style sailing ships and eat anyone and anything they come across. The main story is how the 20th century Americans adapt themselves to this strange environment they find themselves in.
So, what is wrong here? Well, for starters, the initial chapter introduces the main characters and we are immediately told that an Australian naturalist of renown is on the destroyer along with his books and papers as well as six nurses who are trying to escape from Java that is being overrun by the Japanese. How convenient to have someone who can explain much of what they see, and who has the knowledge to point the destroyer to resources that it needs to be able to continue to function. The nurses - all females - are beautiful and their commander immediately falls in love with the Captain of the ship - and vice versa. Etc. In addition, once the Americans decide which race of beings they want to array themselves with, those beings immediately find a way to learn English while the Americans make no effort to learn their language. These beings are so smart that within a few short weeks, many of them become absolutely fluent in English. Hmmm... There are many such minor faults in the storyline. I could also point out that several times the author takes on a preachy tone about how much superior American culture is to others, but I will refrain as it will give the wrong impression.
The good stuff in this book is legion. The battle descriptions ring true and are very exciting. The way the story unfolds makes a kind of sense and we really start to care for all the people that we meet - of whatever kind of race they might be. The clash of technologies and the various people's responses to them are believable for the most part. The writing style is very appropriate to this story and it really flows well. At almost every chapter break I was always tempted to continue reading just a little bit more which is always a great sign from an author new to me.
I heartily recommend this book as a fun read which you do not want to analyze too closely. Enjoy if for what it is - a quick romp in a very imaginative world that is a hoot to read and one that makes you happy that this is the introductory volume in a series. I can only hope that the future volumes in this sers will be as fun to read as this one is. Recommended.
The basic plot is that during the early stages of World War 2 in the Pacific; right after Pearl Harbor; the U.S. Navy is outgunned and outnumbered by the Japanese who are taking over the Southeast Asian waters. We start this book on the deck of a World War 1 destroyer that is participating in a doomed battle (that actually happened, but without that particular destroyer). To give it some time to avoid a sure pounding by the Imperial Japanese Navy, the destroyer hides in a rain squall - however this rain squall actually acts as a transfer conduit to a parallel universe. A universe where the geography is exactly the same is the world we are used to, but it diverged some thousands or millions of years ago from our path and therefore the development of its flora and fauna was different than ours. Hence, once the destroyermen enter the stage, they encounter beasts, fish, and trees never seen before by them. As it turns out the sentient beings in this universe are tribes of lemur-like animals that travel in immense sailing islands and are peaceful, and some lizark-like animals that travel in Eighteenth Century style sailing ships and eat anyone and anything they come across. The main story is how the 20th century Americans adapt themselves to this strange environment they find themselves in.
So, what is wrong here? Well, for starters, the initial chapter introduces the main characters and we are immediately told that an Australian naturalist of renown is on the destroyer along with his books and papers as well as six nurses who are trying to escape from Java that is being overrun by the Japanese. How convenient to have someone who can explain much of what they see, and who has the knowledge to point the destroyer to resources that it needs to be able to continue to function. The nurses - all females - are beautiful and their commander immediately falls in love with the Captain of the ship - and vice versa. Etc. In addition, once the Americans decide which race of beings they want to array themselves with, those beings immediately find a way to learn English while the Americans make no effort to learn their language. These beings are so smart that within a few short weeks, many of them become absolutely fluent in English. Hmmm... There are many such minor faults in the storyline. I could also point out that several times the author takes on a preachy tone about how much superior American culture is to others, but I will refrain as it will give the wrong impression.
The good stuff in this book is legion. The battle descriptions ring true and are very exciting. The way the story unfolds makes a kind of sense and we really start to care for all the people that we meet - of whatever kind of race they might be. The clash of technologies and the various people's responses to them are believable for the most part. The writing style is very appropriate to this story and it really flows well. At almost every chapter break I was always tempted to continue reading just a little bit more which is always a great sign from an author new to me.
I heartily recommend this book as a fun read which you do not want to analyze too closely. Enjoy if for what it is - a quick romp in a very imaginative world that is a hoot to read and one that makes you happy that this is the introductory volume in a series. I can only hope that the future volumes in this sers will be as fun to read as this one is. Recommended.
Sometimes I just read books to see what happens. I just read it to get through it. But sometimes a book is so good and its plot so interesting that I find myself imagining myself in the shoes of the characters. I get so engrossed in the book that I find myself thinking about it on the way to work, etc. This is one of those books! Very cool battle scenes, very original and interesting plot, and very likeable characters. This is a must read!
I just finished Taylor's book "Destroyermen, Into The Storm" and totally loved it. I have been reading every book by Clive Cussler as they come out, and Taylor's writing is a step above. Sorry, Mr. Cussler. Taylor's approach to character definition is unparalleled. The historical representation of the 4 Stackers and the brave men that served on them is great. The representations of what they found on the other side of the storm is beyond belief. I have already pre-ordered the next two books of his series. Please don't stop with just this series. I have known for years that Taylor is a great 19th century artilleryman, and now I am glad to know how good a writer he is.
Into The Storm - All a good story should be and more.
Into the storm is the first of Taylor Anderson's fictional books I have read and it is quite a well placed first shot into a crowded field of literary talent.
From the moment you meet the tired little boat and her crew you immediately get the sense that they are in over their heads. Escaping from one fight against overwhelming odds only to find themselves thrust into another battle against an enemy so far removed from anything they have experienced before that it might drive lesser men mad.
The theme of a parallel world is nothing new but the author keeps it interesting by placing it in a part of the world little is ever heard of causing me to break out a map again and again to capture the feel of the area in which the action is set.
Being somewhat familiar with Mr. Anderson's previous literary accomplishments I am glad to see him jump into the world of fiction. Though it is not surprising to see the same desire for historical accuracy he always strives for. Making the little destroyer come alive but without the O'Brian like attention to every sheet and stay and transplanting her into a world as imaginative as it is deadly. The characters and story are infused with the feel of a book written closer to the 1940's rather than today recalling some of the style from a more golden age of science fiction.
I am looking forward to the next of what I hope is a long line of novels from Mr. Anderson.
From the moment you meet the tired little boat and her crew you immediately get the sense that they are in over their heads. Escaping from one fight against overwhelming odds only to find themselves thrust into another battle against an enemy so far removed from anything they have experienced before that it might drive lesser men mad.
The theme of a parallel world is nothing new but the author keeps it interesting by placing it in a part of the world little is ever heard of causing me to break out a map again and again to capture the feel of the area in which the action is set.
Being somewhat familiar with Mr. Anderson's previous literary accomplishments I am glad to see him jump into the world of fiction. Though it is not surprising to see the same desire for historical accuracy he always strives for. Making the little destroyer come alive but without the O'Brian like attention to every sheet and stay and transplanting her into a world as imaginative as it is deadly. The characters and story are infused with the feel of a book written closer to the 1940's rather than today recalling some of the style from a more golden age of science fiction.
I am looking forward to the next of what I hope is a long line of novels from Mr. Anderson.
In the growing sub-sub-genre of "a ____ from ____ is suddenly transported to ____," this series is more derivative than most. It owes vast props to William Forstchen's "Lost Regiment" novels, in which a Yankee Civil War unit being transported on a ship finds itself on an alien planet populated by hordes (in the Mongolian sense) of aliens who Eat People.
The similarities are impossible to ignore:
There are the commanders, noble and upright square-jawed white men who agonize over the tough decisions that force them to put their men in harm's way;
Their love interests, the beautiful young, unattached, age-appropriate women who just happens to have boarded the ship just before the portal opened;
The fearsome, insatiable, inhuman foes who Eat People;
The peaceable allies who have lived in fear of the Implacable Foe until the mighty humans arrive to put steel into their spines and make them face their destiny;
The descendants of Other Humans From the Past (not major players in the current Destroyermen books, but we know they're there);
The members of the human unit who just happen to understand the necessary technologies to industrialize the peaceable allies in order to fight the implacable foe.
Etc., etc.
If you have not read Forstchen's series, or any of the other series by Sterling, Turtledove, Birmingham, etc. that riff on the same theme, you'll enjoy this story of an American WWII destroyer and its crew, suddenly transported to an alternate earth where the descendants of giant lemurs (the Peaceable Allies) struggle against the descendants of velociraptors (the Implacable Foe) in the waters of the Java Sea. The writing is workmanlike, the characters are stock, the situations are simple and straightforward. It's reasonable fun.
But the more of the genre you've already read, the more you'll find the back of your mind ticking off the points of congruence between this book and its predecessors in the field, and for the most part this one comes up short.
The similarities are impossible to ignore:
There are the commanders, noble and upright square-jawed white men who agonize over the tough decisions that force them to put their men in harm's way;
Their love interests, the beautiful young, unattached, age-appropriate women who just happens to have boarded the ship just before the portal opened;
The fearsome, insatiable, inhuman foes who Eat People;
The peaceable allies who have lived in fear of the Implacable Foe until the mighty humans arrive to put steel into their spines and make them face their destiny;
The descendants of Other Humans From the Past (not major players in the current Destroyermen books, but we know they're there);
The members of the human unit who just happen to understand the necessary technologies to industrialize the peaceable allies in order to fight the implacable foe.
Etc., etc.
If you have not read Forstchen's series, or any of the other series by Sterling, Turtledove, Birmingham, etc. that riff on the same theme, you'll enjoy this story of an American WWII destroyer and its crew, suddenly transported to an alternate earth where the descendants of giant lemurs (the Peaceable Allies) struggle against the descendants of velociraptors (the Implacable Foe) in the waters of the Java Sea. The writing is workmanlike, the characters are stock, the situations are simple and straightforward. It's reasonable fun.
But the more of the genre you've already read, the more you'll find the back of your mind ticking off the points of congruence between this book and its predecessors in the field, and for the most part this one comes up short.
A must read for Sci-Fi and History buffs!
This book starts out in a battle scene and soon transports you to a different dimension where nothing is as it should be. The characters are torn between what their fate would have been had they stayed where they were (probably death),and accepting the fact that they must adapt to their new "world". The characters are unique, and the author is very effective with his descriptions. I would highly recommend this book, especially if you are a Sci-Fi reader. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
A Former Destroyerman's Review
When it comes to my own preferences for fictional Navy stories, I've a tendency to avoid those dealing with the supernatural. However, I will continue to read Anderson's "Destroyerman" series and glean what I can of them. There's no question that this book is well written and held my interest. My own experience is with Fletcher Class destroyers, not four-pipers. So, I cannot gauge the accuracy of their description. Anderson has a good grasp of the early events of WWII in the Pacific and folds them neatly into the plot. When younger, I was heavily involved with sci-fi, but dropped it, in favor of real history. I would have preferred a fictional account of a destroyer in the Battle off Samar, of destroyers at Omaha Beach or those in the Battle of the Atlantic. But, having my own way would have defeated the very purpose of the story. As it stands, the tale is a very worthy sci-fi destroyer adventure.
I couldn't put it down!
Can't wait for book 2 the "Crusade" to come out in October.
I think its refreshing for a new author to skillfully combine WWII era descriptions, men, boats and planes with a different dimension, monsters and race, but still make it all flow effortlessly together in a fast paced great read.
This well told tale is obviously a great candidate for Peter Jackson or George Lucas to put on the big screen.
Taylor's author's notes on several items in the book were great.
Can't wait for book 2 the "Crusade" to come out in October.
I think its refreshing for a new author to skillfully combine WWII era descriptions, men, boats and planes with a different dimension, monsters and race, but still make it all flow effortlessly together in a fast paced great read.
This well told tale is obviously a great candidate for Peter Jackson or George Lucas to put on the big screen.
Taylor's author's notes on several items in the book were great.
A first rate military Science Fiction
I am not a fan of most of what passes for science fiction in recent years, but I must acknowledge that this book struck a strong cord with me, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I made the mistake of taking a peak at it immediately after leaving the post office, with the result that almost an hour later I found myself still in the parking lot, and was hard-pressed to put it down and go about more pressing chores. First, it is a very good read on virtually every level. Second, the author understands the critical details of the units and vessels in the U.S. Navy in the Second World War, and naval combat in particular. But what stunned me was his ability to take a first rate war narrative and then convert the story into a very well-crafted piece of science fiction, by simply transporting (and his description of this transition is particularly well crafted in my view) men and vessels to another "world"/time or reality. From that point forward the action only builds,and the entire story-line is written in a manner that is surprisingly fresh. When Anderson writes of the horror of battle, you feel the intensity; when expressing the reactions of men confronting the unimaginable, you feel their anxiety and panic; and most interestingly, at least to me, regardless of how "bizarre" the other "creatures" encountered by the "human" characters may be, Anderson makes them memorable and rather (at least some of them) sympathetic. So, obtain a copy and sit back for an enjoyable and well written story, and like me, I trust you will find yourself wanting more of this saga.
Cool read for alternate history lovers
In some ways, this book reminded me of Birmingham's books but without politically correct nonsense that flood Birmingham story. I loved Taylor Anderson's descriptions of conflict and different races involved. His style of writing is quite vivid and it made for easy and enjoyable read. I won't go into description of the story but needless to say this is a must for sci-fi and alternate history lovers.
I loved this book. This is the first book and can't wait for the other books. If you like military sci-fi/alternate history this is a good book to buy. It is well worth your money.
The Destroyermen series is the best series of books I have read in a long time. I am totally captivated and would recommend them to all.
I found this book lying on a shelf one day and picked it up. I'm a fan of alternative history, which this basically is, and the back cover had enough there to hold my interest.
Overall I liked the book and the story. The only real issue I have with the book is that there are few places to stop when you're reading. He has a high tendency to have paragraphs that take a whole page (I'd say a good 3/4 of the book is like this). Plus, there's only like 5 "chapters" in the whole book. I personally like to stop at the top of a page or when a new chapter happens. Unfortunately, far to often the end of a paragraph will occur in the middle of a page. So when I'm reading at night I have a hard time finding a convenient place that I can stop.
Overall I liked the book and the story. The only real issue I have with the book is that there are few places to stop when you're reading. He has a high tendency to have paragraphs that take a whole page (I'd say a good 3/4 of the book is like this). Plus, there's only like 5 "chapters" in the whole book. I personally like to stop at the top of a page or when a new chapter happens. Unfortunately, far to often the end of a paragraph will occur in the middle of a page. So when I'm reading at night I have a hard time finding a convenient place that I can stop.
Nice surprise with this one. I was expecting historical fiction from the first few pages I read... then discovered it was more than just that. What happens when a WWII destroyer in the Pacific enters a storm and emerges in an alternative reality? Have a read and find out.
This book was a great fast paced read, very exciting and is definately a quick read.
The book follows the crew of 2 beaten up WWII naval destroyers who start out getting battered by Japanese warships in the Asian theater of the war. While fighting a much larger Japanese warship themselves and their companion decide to head into a storm for cover. Instead of emerging from the storm they wind up in a parallel universe in which human beings have not evolved, but instead other species have. After sailing around they find a primitive civilization who are them selves at war with a more powerful, more develop enemy.
The book is definately a fascinating twist on the routinely used parallel universe genere. The book definately is action packed and is very quick the read through as I finished it in two days. I definately dont think you will be able to put the book down as most of it is pretty exciting. The book really had everything, from different societies, to attempts at diplomacy to attempted genocide. Read it, I think you will like it. Oh just as a warning, the ending is not really that well done. The final climatic scene is absolutely phenominal, but the overal conclusion of the book was quite disappointing and it seems like the author ran out of steam.
Just one complaint.. really? they are teaching mutants how to speak english in a matter of days? I want to know what language program they use, I would like to buy it.
Anyway.. awesome book, buy it!
The book follows the crew of 2 beaten up WWII naval destroyers who start out getting battered by Japanese warships in the Asian theater of the war. While fighting a much larger Japanese warship themselves and their companion decide to head into a storm for cover. Instead of emerging from the storm they wind up in a parallel universe in which human beings have not evolved, but instead other species have. After sailing around they find a primitive civilization who are them selves at war with a more powerful, more develop enemy.
The book is definately a fascinating twist on the routinely used parallel universe genere. The book definately is action packed and is very quick the read through as I finished it in two days. I definately dont think you will be able to put the book down as most of it is pretty exciting. The book really had everything, from different societies, to attempts at diplomacy to attempted genocide. Read it, I think you will like it. Oh just as a warning, the ending is not really that well done. The final climatic scene is absolutely phenominal, but the overal conclusion of the book was quite disappointing and it seems like the author ran out of steam.
Just one complaint.. really? they are teaching mutants how to speak english in a matter of days? I want to know what language program they use, I would like to buy it.
Anyway.. awesome book, buy it!
Before I was a third of a way through this I'd ordered it's three sequels.
The basic premise is a U.S Destroyer in WW2 falls through an unexplained phenomenon into a world that, we learn, appears to have diverged from ours millions of years in the past where dinosaurs did not die out but instead evolved into dangerous competitors with other species for survival.
And the crew must now survive in a world where the highest technology is a bit more than a hundred years behind theirs, giving them an edge in conflict but a problem in missing industry to resupply from.
It's a rip roaring yarn told at a good pace with colourful characters, interesting new species and frightening challenges for our protagonists - who make for good steadfast heroes I was happy to root for but the author makes clear will not all survive.
I shan't bother reviewing the rest - I'm confident anyone who reads this first one will buy the rest, which I can confirm keep the standard up (for at least the first four books).
The basic premise is a U.S Destroyer in WW2 falls through an unexplained phenomenon into a world that, we learn, appears to have diverged from ours millions of years in the past where dinosaurs did not die out but instead evolved into dangerous competitors with other species for survival.
And the crew must now survive in a world where the highest technology is a bit more than a hundred years behind theirs, giving them an edge in conflict but a problem in missing industry to resupply from.
It's a rip roaring yarn told at a good pace with colourful characters, interesting new species and frightening challenges for our protagonists - who make for good steadfast heroes I was happy to root for but the author makes clear will not all survive.
I shan't bother reviewing the rest - I'm confident anyone who reads this first one will buy the rest, which I can confirm keep the standard up (for at least the first four books).
This book has quite a bit going for it. First, who has ever heard of a "four stacker" destroyer. I hadn't until I read this book. That was a bit of history that I didn't know before. Second, it is set in the South Asian area which up until now I didn't really consider as a background for any story. Third, it is set in an alternate universe. These things combined kept me reading long in to the evening.
I also read the caveat at the back of the book that the author, Taylor Anderson, wrote concerning the choice of ships and personnel. He makes no claims to actual ships that were "there" in WW2 but that there were representatives of those ships in the area. He took something obscure and put it in an obscure setting which ended up being a quality piece of entertainment. I am looking forward to the next two books which as I understand are at the publisher now.
If you have never read an "alternative history" but like sci-fi I think you will be surprised at the outcome of this book and that you will be drawn in quickly.
I also read the caveat at the back of the book that the author, Taylor Anderson, wrote concerning the choice of ships and personnel. He makes no claims to actual ships that were "there" in WW2 but that there were representatives of those ships in the area. He took something obscure and put it in an obscure setting which ended up being a quality piece of entertainment. I am looking forward to the next two books which as I understand are at the publisher now.
If you have never read an "alternative history" but like sci-fi I think you will be surprised at the outcome of this book and that you will be drawn in quickly.
AFTER I READ THE FIRST BOOK, I COULDN'T WAIT TO READ THE REST! NOW THAT I HAVE, I'M ONLY DISSAPOINTED IN ONE THING. THE DELAY UNTIL THE NEXT BOOK COMES OUT! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, ONLY KEEP IT UP FASTER. AND THANKS!!!
This book and this series is really an enjoyable read, I read the whole series in a week and my only regret is that I must now wait for the next book to come out. Well written and interesting details. Truly a great story. The author really takes the time to build up a great story while keeping you interested and involved the whole time. Character development is also great. If you find the summary of the book interesting then you really will enjoy this book and series.
I was very suprised at how much I enjoyed this book (can I give it 6 stars?). This book is SciFi meets Fantasy meets History meets Alternate Reality. The language was a little ruff (they are Navy men after all) though not crude. A few slight sexual references (IE, "boobies" no sexual acts), though not that bad (I've seen a lot worse on TV). It was refreshing to read a book that is not filled with unnecessary sex, extremely crude language, vampires, and such. Funny, exciting, sad. Great adult read, would be a great read for older teens as well. I also listened to the Audible version and with William Dufris' narration it took the story to the next level. I will finish the rest of this series on Audible
The item was delivered in perfect condition and in a timely manner. I bought the first three books of this series (in paperback) of what promised to be a very good saga. If I like it, I'll buy the hard covers version and the fourth book in hard cover as well.
I found this first book by chance, and it sucked me in immediately. Familiar premise, but very, very well told. All three books should be read back-to-back, as they flow seamlessly into each other. I hope there is more to come!
I wasn't sure about buying this book, but...
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, but was worried that it might prove too similar to the 1980 movie called "The Final Countdown." In that movie a modern aircraft carrier is transported back to December 1941. That was an interesting idea, but the movie left me somewhat disappointed. I bought the "Into the Storm: Destroyermen, Book 1" and am glad that I did. After only ten pages I got up and ordered the remaining two books in the series because I didn't want to wait to find out what happened after the end of the first. Taylor Anderson always leaves me wanting to know what "what happens next". I spent several days staying up far past my bedtime because I did not want to leave the story and the people in it. The Author's characters live, breath, and speak like real three-dimensional people. Anderson knows his history and knows ships, too. He skillfully bent our time line in a manner that the disappearance of a couple of old four-stack destroyers made no difference to our 1941. In truth if those two ships had actually been where he placed them 1941 they and the lives of the people aboard them would truly have made not a bit of difference what-so ever - wasted ships and wasted lives. Anderson plucks them from time and drops them into a strangely familiar world where they can truly make a huge difference in the timeless and epic struggle between good and evil. Now I have two more books to read.
I was hesitant to buy this at first, and had been looking at this novel on and off for the better part of two years, wondering if I should take the chance and just buy it. Unfortunately(or Fortunately, I suppose), novels from my favorite authors were released and I bought those instead. As I was already following those series, and wanted to read the new novels badly.
I finally bought this novel - the first of a series - about a month ago. I started reading it the very day it arrived, and I couldn't put it down. I read it in less than 24hrs. It was an amazing read. A mixture of World War 2 naval history, alternate universe/timeline, and fiction.
It takes place aboard an old "four-stacker" destroyer - a left-over from World War One. The name is derived from the four smoke stacks(and the engines) they carry. They were light, fast, and rolled like a dead whale in rough seas, but the brave men who served aboard them fought them well when it counted.
This story takes place near the beginning of America's involvement in World War Two. The United States is woefully unprepared for the war, having to use older mothballed ships - like the four-stacker destroyers of World War One. The United States even sent quite a few to Great Britain during the Lend-Lease Program under orders from President Roosevelt. They weren't much, but that was all that could be done at the time.
Anyway, this story takes place in the Java Sea. The Allied Forces in the area are almost all older warships, the Pacific being the dumbing ground for many of the older ships and 'bad eggs'. The actions of many of the battles mentioned at the beginning of the book are almost all factually correct, however, the author took a creative license to write his story - as many fiction authors do.
The ships our main characters are aboard are the USS WALKER and USS MAHAN - both being the four-stackers I mentioned in the previous paragraphs. However, the USS WALKER and USS MAHAN(both ships were indeed real) never served in World War Two. The USS WALKER was scuttled(sunk) seventeen days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the USS MAHAN was scrapped in 1931.
Another ship that was mentioned as being in the battle in and around the Java Sea was the Imperial Japanese Ship AMAGI. She also, never saw action in World War Two. She was scrapped by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1922 after an earthquake badly damaged her during construction. If she had been completed, as some of her sister ships were, then she would have been about the same size as the IOWA-class battleship - very powerful ship. The AMAGI's sister ships were converted to carriers before the war, just incase you were wondering.
Now, in this story, all three ships are in use by their respective governments. The American four-stackers are escorting the British cruiser HMS EXETER - along with several other destroyers - to Australia(eventually), however, they are being followed by a Japanese force(including the AMAGI) that is hell-bent on stopping them. A series of attacks by the force behind(a combined attack from the air and sea) are able to slow the EXETER down enough for the force behind them to get closer.
With that, the Japanese ships are able to use more of their guns to attack the beliegered fleet. The destroyers turn to make a smoke screen between the EXETER and the Japanese force. Now the Japanese are firing blind at the Allied Fleet. Eventually, the enemy closes and wounds the EXETER badly. The commander of the EXETER orders the rest of the destroyers to make a run for it while the EXETER fights it out with the Japanese. But the gesture is futile. Eventually the four-stackers find a squall - a bad patch of weather that they hope to hide in and lose the Japanese. But the AMAGI and a Japanese destroyer stand in the way.
The American destroyers can think of only one thing to do. It's dangerous, and they most likely won't survive, but they do it anyway. They attack, firing everything they have, and then firing torpedoes at close range at the Japanese ships. The Japanese destroyer is hit by torpedoes meant for the AMAGI - the commander of the destroyer having ordered his ship to take the hits instead - and is destroyed. Both American destroyers are damaged now, the MAHAN severely - her bridge destroyed and much of her forward section useless junk and is now commanded by the ship's engineer(all other officers having been killed).
The WALKER orders another attack, the ships splitting up and moving along either side of the AMAGI, firing away. Soon after, they are into the squall, but it's unlike any squall they had ever been in. The wind and rain begin to act funny, and then there is a falling sensation. Then bam, they aren't in Kansas anymore Toto. =P
Takes them a bit to figure out they aren't in their world any longer, but they figure it out when they see dinosaurs on an island that once held humans.
This story was fantastic. I will be reading it again shortly, as I read it so fast the first time. I highly recommend it for those who like alternate history, alternate universe, fiction-type novels.
I finally bought this novel - the first of a series - about a month ago. I started reading it the very day it arrived, and I couldn't put it down. I read it in less than 24hrs. It was an amazing read. A mixture of World War 2 naval history, alternate universe/timeline, and fiction.
It takes place aboard an old "four-stacker" destroyer - a left-over from World War One. The name is derived from the four smoke stacks(and the engines) they carry. They were light, fast, and rolled like a dead whale in rough seas, but the brave men who served aboard them fought them well when it counted.
This story takes place near the beginning of America's involvement in World War Two. The United States is woefully unprepared for the war, having to use older mothballed ships - like the four-stacker destroyers of World War One. The United States even sent quite a few to Great Britain during the Lend-Lease Program under orders from President Roosevelt. They weren't much, but that was all that could be done at the time.
Anyway, this story takes place in the Java Sea. The Allied Forces in the area are almost all older warships, the Pacific being the dumbing ground for many of the older ships and 'bad eggs'. The actions of many of the battles mentioned at the beginning of the book are almost all factually correct, however, the author took a creative license to write his story - as many fiction authors do.
The ships our main characters are aboard are the USS WALKER and USS MAHAN - both being the four-stackers I mentioned in the previous paragraphs. However, the USS WALKER and USS MAHAN(both ships were indeed real) never served in World War Two. The USS WALKER was scuttled(sunk) seventeen days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the USS MAHAN was scrapped in 1931.
Another ship that was mentioned as being in the battle in and around the Java Sea was the Imperial Japanese Ship AMAGI. She also, never saw action in World War Two. She was scrapped by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1922 after an earthquake badly damaged her during construction. If she had been completed, as some of her sister ships were, then she would have been about the same size as the IOWA-class battleship - very powerful ship. The AMAGI's sister ships were converted to carriers before the war, just incase you were wondering.
Now, in this story, all three ships are in use by their respective governments. The American four-stackers are escorting the British cruiser HMS EXETER - along with several other destroyers - to Australia(eventually), however, they are being followed by a Japanese force(including the AMAGI) that is hell-bent on stopping them. A series of attacks by the force behind(a combined attack from the air and sea) are able to slow the EXETER down enough for the force behind them to get closer.
With that, the Japanese ships are able to use more of their guns to attack the beliegered fleet. The destroyers turn to make a smoke screen between the EXETER and the Japanese force. Now the Japanese are firing blind at the Allied Fleet. Eventually, the enemy closes and wounds the EXETER badly. The commander of the EXETER orders the rest of the destroyers to make a run for it while the EXETER fights it out with the Japanese. But the gesture is futile. Eventually the four-stackers find a squall - a bad patch of weather that they hope to hide in and lose the Japanese. But the AMAGI and a Japanese destroyer stand in the way.
The American destroyers can think of only one thing to do. It's dangerous, and they most likely won't survive, but they do it anyway. They attack, firing everything they have, and then firing torpedoes at close range at the Japanese ships. The Japanese destroyer is hit by torpedoes meant for the AMAGI - the commander of the destroyer having ordered his ship to take the hits instead - and is destroyed. Both American destroyers are damaged now, the MAHAN severely - her bridge destroyed and much of her forward section useless junk and is now commanded by the ship's engineer(all other officers having been killed).
The WALKER orders another attack, the ships splitting up and moving along either side of the AMAGI, firing away. Soon after, they are into the squall, but it's unlike any squall they had ever been in. The wind and rain begin to act funny, and then there is a falling sensation. Then bam, they aren't in Kansas anymore Toto. =P
Takes them a bit to figure out they aren't in their world any longer, but they figure it out when they see dinosaurs on an island that once held humans.
This story was fantastic. I will be reading it again shortly, as I read it so fast the first time. I highly recommend it for those who like alternate history, alternate universe, fiction-type novels.
An enjoyable read of the scifi genre. Focusing on a WWII destroyer puts the story in a frame of reference I could relate to (as opposed to a more far fetched story line).
Entertaining alternate history story
Novel take on the alternate history theme. Alternate history based on a change millions of years in the past, not just a change in how HUMAN history progressed.
Into the Storm: Destroyermen, Book I (Hardcover)
Just a few words to say that Taylor Anderson has done a wonderful job of creating a story that is fun and interesting to read. It is a must for Sci-Fi and WWII alternate history fans. Their is never enough, so I am hopeful for further books in this series (beyond the 3 so far). Please!
This book was a suprisingly good read. I grabbed it as something to fill up the space between books while I was waiting for some to come in the mail. I enjoyed it so much I ordered the hardback of this and the other 2 in the trilogy (so far, but I hope there is more!) Anderson does an excellent job of making the characters real to the reader without spending 5 chapters telling us what the name of everyone's pet fish from elementary school. The action stars pretty much from the first chapter as Anderson does a good job of getting you up to speed from the first pages. I have a little bit of military experience so the book was pretty easy to read when the arthor talk in Navy lingo. I think he does a great job of explaining all the Navy terms and customs for people that might not have a high level of familurarity. The only thing that might make a reader say "hmmm" is the fact that many of the characters have additional skills that are crucial in the book but... that is the same senario in Star Wars; if everything didn't line up perfect, there wouldn't be a story. Plus, if you can believe in the existence of a portal that will take a ship into another 'dimension,' than it's not a far stretch that 2 crew members were ex-oildrillers. Bottom line; this is an excellent book.
Into the Storm is a book where military forces from our universe a transferred to a parallel Earth. This is something that when done well (as Mr. Pournelle did in Janissaries and Mr. Turtledove did in The Misplaced Legion) makes for a fun read that you enjoy coming back to. What caused me to be interested in this book is that Mr. Anderson was dealing with two things I like, the Southwest Pacific in WWII and flush deck destroyers (if you're curious about what a flush deck destroyer is, Wikipedia has a nice description, use USS Wickes for the search). Story wise Mr. Anderson starts out with a good historical situation and then throws the crew to a parallel Earth where humans are not the norm (Mr. Anderson doesn't mention any, but we only get to see a small portion of the planet).
Rating wise Into the Storm is a weak 4 star novel for me. The opening was very nice with Mr. Anderson doing a good job of describing the situation the units in ABDA (American - British - Dutch - Australian Command) were going thru and the general feeling of the men serving there (for those interested I'll suggest reading The Fleet the Gods Forgot: The U.S. Asiatic Fleet in World War II (Bluejacket Books), Ship of Ghosts: The Story of the USS Houston, FDR's Legendary Lost Cruiser, and the Epic Saga of her Survivors, Dutch Naval Air Force Against Japan: The Defense of the Netherlands East Indies, 1941-1942, or The Ghost That Died at Sunda Strait (Blue Jacket Books) to understand this better). As for once the USS Walker and USS Mahan (actual ships, Mr. Anderson does a commendable job explaining in the back about adding two additional destroyers to ABDA and how they would have had a nominal impact on the outcome) get to the parallel Earth, things slow down for awhile. This was best shown by the somewhat flat dialog and the large number of people we're introduced too. Because of this, none of the characters stood out (LCDR Reedy was a poor CAPT. Kirk at best) it was difficult to feel or like them. Probably the most memorable for me are Silva and Chack and their relationship. Plot wise this was average fare for parallel Earth things. I commend Mr. Anderson for picking the Southwest Pacific, however he did make some minor mistakes with the set-up; the USS Houston and HMAS Perth were not known to have been sunk by the Japanese at the time the Walker and Mahan set out on their adventure. I'm also questionable about how perfect things work out for the destroyermen in their brave new world. While not unbelievable, I tend to view this as something that would be very fortunate for the crew. Despite these perceived weaknesses, Mr. Taylor's action scenes are nicely done with a similarity to the Hornblower series that is fitting for heroic nautical tale.
Rating wise Into the Storm is a weak 4 star novel for me. The opening was very nice with Mr. Anderson doing a good job of describing the situation the units in ABDA (American - British - Dutch - Australian Command) were going thru and the general feeling of the men serving there (for those interested I'll suggest reading The Fleet the Gods Forgot: The U.S. Asiatic Fleet in World War II (Bluejacket Books), Ship of Ghosts: The Story of the USS Houston, FDR's Legendary Lost Cruiser, and the Epic Saga of her Survivors, Dutch Naval Air Force Against Japan: The Defense of the Netherlands East Indies, 1941-1942, or The Ghost That Died at Sunda Strait (Blue Jacket Books) to understand this better). As for once the USS Walker and USS Mahan (actual ships, Mr. Anderson does a commendable job explaining in the back about adding two additional destroyers to ABDA and how they would have had a nominal impact on the outcome) get to the parallel Earth, things slow down for awhile. This was best shown by the somewhat flat dialog and the large number of people we're introduced too. Because of this, none of the characters stood out (LCDR Reedy was a poor CAPT. Kirk at best) it was difficult to feel or like them. Probably the most memorable for me are Silva and Chack and their relationship. Plot wise this was average fare for parallel Earth things. I commend Mr. Anderson for picking the Southwest Pacific, however he did make some minor mistakes with the set-up; the USS Houston and HMAS Perth were not known to have been sunk by the Japanese at the time the Walker and Mahan set out on their adventure. I'm also questionable about how perfect things work out for the destroyermen in their brave new world. While not unbelievable, I tend to view this as something that would be very fortunate for the crew. Despite these perceived weaknesses, Mr. Taylor's action scenes are nicely done with a similarity to the Hornblower series that is fitting for heroic nautical tale.
rejoice for new series of adventures insifi land.
When I started reading INTO THE STORM I was immediately struck by how close it resembled William R. Forstchen's series THE LOST REGIMENT. That series is one of the best alternate world series around and I thought if INTO THE STORM was half as good as that series , I would be happy. Mr. Anderson has created a beginning novel to series that I will look forward to reading. It is a real treat to review this book and let me say this is a well written novel in every sense. The attention to detail is first shown in the opening battle scene. The description of the ship USS Walker is historically accurate along with the tactics used by the battle group. The background of the sailors on the Walker is in keeping with the times. The sailors of the 1930's stationed in Manila did marry local women with in idea of retiring in Manila. Mr. Anderson has created two very distinct races. He sets up clans and religions for each race. He even goes to the extra mile to make thease races different from what one would expect. The "Cats" are even given a tie with the Americans that was a pleasant surprise.. Mr. Anderson does one other thing that I found different from others series, he keeps a link between both worlds and histories that is comforting to reader and interesting at the same time.
I have noticed that some reviewers have complained that the characters are not developed, I found them to be evolving as I read the book. I am sure that they will become more complex with each new novel in the series. The battle scenes in the middle of the book are exciting and well written in great detail. Mr. Anderson even puts in bits of humor to lighten the novel. This humor is not left to the Americans but to the "cats' as well.
In short this is the beginning of a wonderful trip that I hope has many adventures.
I have noticed that some reviewers have complained that the characters are not developed, I found them to be evolving as I read the book. I am sure that they will become more complex with each new novel in the series. The battle scenes in the middle of the book are exciting and well written in great detail. Mr. Anderson even puts in bits of humor to lighten the novel. This humor is not left to the Americans but to the "cats' as well.
In short this is the beginning of a wonderful trip that I hope has many adventures.
I like the way the author mixes a historical setting with an alternate world. He really nailed the way the characters all react to things and keeping their knowledge and attitudes firmly entrenched in WW2. I also appreciate the icky bugs he creates for his alternate world. The setting, plot, and outcome were all satisfying.
My only beef is the writing style. How this guy ever got past an editor is a mystery to me. Grammatically, the writing was top notch, as I don't remember a single typo. However, his constant head hopping, many times within the same paragraph, let alone each scene, was annoying at times. It was more annoying because if it were me trying to sell this manuscript to an agent, I never would have got past the first round and my rejection letter would have read something like "You need to clarify your POV's. No head hopping." Yet this guy gets his book published. He is either really lucky or knows someone. That all being said, it was not enough for me to dislike what I read.
I almost didn't pick the book up, as when I glanced through random pages, I noticed long paragraphs and almost no dialogue. It gave me the impression the book rambled a lot, but in actually reading it, I found it moved along nicely, despite many long paragraphs.
To a non-writer, my criticism is meaningless, and in that respect, as a just a reader, I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to continuing the series. If you like high-seas adventure with a huge twist of sci-fi, this is the book for you. Highly recommended.
My only beef is the writing style. How this guy ever got past an editor is a mystery to me. Grammatically, the writing was top notch, as I don't remember a single typo. However, his constant head hopping, many times within the same paragraph, let alone each scene, was annoying at times. It was more annoying because if it were me trying to sell this manuscript to an agent, I never would have got past the first round and my rejection letter would have read something like "You need to clarify your POV's. No head hopping." Yet this guy gets his book published. He is either really lucky or knows someone. That all being said, it was not enough for me to dislike what I read.
I almost didn't pick the book up, as when I glanced through random pages, I noticed long paragraphs and almost no dialogue. It gave me the impression the book rambled a lot, but in actually reading it, I found it moved along nicely, despite many long paragraphs.
To a non-writer, my criticism is meaningless, and in that respect, as a just a reader, I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to continuing the series. If you like high-seas adventure with a huge twist of sci-fi, this is the book for you. Highly recommended.
As someone who likes science fiction, but not usually the military aspect of the genre, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I truly enjoyed reading Destroyermen: Into The Storm. I found the military story engrossing and realistic. The creature descriptions were spot on. I didn't feel that characterization was lacking as some others commented. There were just many characters in which to be introduced. Pacing was good and some parts made me laugh out loud. It was clear at the end that this book is just one in a series. I can't wait to move on to book #2.
I liked book two better but this is also a darn good book. It really sets the stage for book two, I hope book three lives up to the first two.
I frequently start books and then drift around to others that I'm in different stages of reading and then drift back. But both these books caught me, I did what I haven't done in years and stayed up half the night reading.
I frequently start books and then drift around to others that I'm in different stages of reading and then drift back. But both these books caught me, I did what I haven't done in years and stayed up half the night reading.
This is a well done WW2 naval action and sci-fi twist novel. The characters on an ancient WW1 era steam powered destroyer and are in the thick of a losing naval battle in which they are about to be destroyed by a modern Japanese battle-cruiser. They escape into a strange and violent squall and fall through a weird vortex into a parallel world and thus the adventure begins. It's well researched and I found it hard to put down. The main complaint I have is that this book finishes "to be continued" and does not end cleanly. You are required to buy the sequel to find out what happens, which I did, only to have "Crusade" end the same way. I don't care for these kinds of games with my time and money and Taylor Anderson needs to learn how to create a solid stand-alone ending for a series book that leaves the reader satisfied while still encouraging purchase of the next book.
Best New Alternate History in quite a while!
I always love to get my hands on the first book in a new alternate history series. Taylor Anderson has really started out well with the saga of an old worn out Great War "4-stacker" destroyer, USS Walker, and it's iron crew.
Anderson accurately depicts the desperate state of the US Asiatic Fleet in the early days of W.W. II: worn out equipment and ships, dud ammunition, torpedoes that don't work, and confused leadership. Lt. Commander Matthew Reddy, a recalled-to-duty Annapolis graduate, is placed in command of the destroyer as the tensions leading up to the events of 7 December, 1941 are increasing. Other interesting characters emerge in the telling of the tale--Chief Bosun's Mate Fitzhugh Gray, Gunners Mate Dennis Silva, to name a few. After a vividly described battle between a Japanese battlecruiser, Amagi, and Walker accompanied by Mahan, the damaged destroyer enters a strange squall that shifts the ship and crew into an alternate universe at the same time and place.
The Walker emerges into a new world populated by bizarre and very alien creatures: a species of peace-loving mammals called "lemurians" by pseudo-naturalist Courtney Bradford (a former petroleum engineer), and a voracious race of reptilian predators, the "Grik." The Walker and Captain Reddy are reluctantly drawn into yet another war in the new universe.
Several well drawn battles take place amd the Lemurians emerge as an effective ally in a struggle against the Grik; many well developed Lemurian characters also emerge: Adar, the "sky priest," Keje, commander of the Sallisa home, and Chack Sab-At, a recruit into the U.S. Navy and liason between the races. A romantic interest is provide in the guise of Lt. Sandra Tucker of the U.S. Navy nurse corps.
Most of my reviews don't belabor plots and slavishly reiterate the story line--I generally tend to focus on writing style, technical accuracy, chaacter development, and overall readability. I am pleased to report that this is a very nicely executed work in all of these regards. Author Anderson is to be commended on his first novel; a solid *5-star* effort. Highly recommended.
Anderson accurately depicts the desperate state of the US Asiatic Fleet in the early days of W.W. II: worn out equipment and ships, dud ammunition, torpedoes that don't work, and confused leadership. Lt. Commander Matthew Reddy, a recalled-to-duty Annapolis graduate, is placed in command of the destroyer as the tensions leading up to the events of 7 December, 1941 are increasing. Other interesting characters emerge in the telling of the tale--Chief Bosun's Mate Fitzhugh Gray, Gunners Mate Dennis Silva, to name a few. After a vividly described battle between a Japanese battlecruiser, Amagi, and Walker accompanied by Mahan, the damaged destroyer enters a strange squall that shifts the ship and crew into an alternate universe at the same time and place.
The Walker emerges into a new world populated by bizarre and very alien creatures: a species of peace-loving mammals called "lemurians" by pseudo-naturalist Courtney Bradford (a former petroleum engineer), and a voracious race of reptilian predators, the "Grik." The Walker and Captain Reddy are reluctantly drawn into yet another war in the new universe.
Several well drawn battles take place amd the Lemurians emerge as an effective ally in a struggle against the Grik; many well developed Lemurian characters also emerge: Adar, the "sky priest," Keje, commander of the Sallisa home, and Chack Sab-At, a recruit into the U.S. Navy and liason between the races. A romantic interest is provide in the guise of Lt. Sandra Tucker of the U.S. Navy nurse corps.
Most of my reviews don't belabor plots and slavishly reiterate the story line--I generally tend to focus on writing style, technical accuracy, chaacter development, and overall readability. I am pleased to report that this is a very nicely executed work in all of these regards. Author Anderson is to be commended on his first novel; a solid *5-star* effort. Highly recommended.
I can imagine this as either a movie for all ages or a kick a$$ bloody good thriller!
engaging military science fiction
At the onset of World War II, the desperate allies put into the navy several warships that have seen their better days. Commander Matthew Reddy leads one of them; a destroyer that he fears will fail. When the enemy engages his vessel, Matthew realizes how helpless they are; he orders his men to steer into the eye of a nasty storm to elude their foes.
However, Matthew fully understands what it means to jump from the frying pan into the fire when the storm abates; he and his crew find themselves in a world where dinosaurs live and humans are non existent. However Matthew learns of two sentient races at war; each side demands he join them as his junk ship is superior by far to what either side possesses.
With a nod to Star Trek and DC comics, INTO THE STORM is an engaging military science fiction parallel earth thriller. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action. On the plausible side is this alternate earth with dinosaurs and sentient races and the crew entering the "portal"; on the doubtful column is the impact of a broken down destroyer on a world war (potential technological leaps in the long run aside). Still fans will appreciate Taylor Anderson's fine tale.
Harriet Klausner
However, Matthew fully understands what it means to jump from the frying pan into the fire when the storm abates; he and his crew find themselves in a world where dinosaurs live and humans are non existent. However Matthew learns of two sentient races at war; each side demands he join them as his junk ship is superior by far to what either side possesses.
With a nod to Star Trek and DC comics, INTO THE STORM is an engaging military science fiction parallel earth thriller. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action. On the plausible side is this alternate earth with dinosaurs and sentient races and the crew entering the "portal"; on the doubtful column is the impact of a broken down destroyer on a world war (potential technological leaps in the long run aside). Still fans will appreciate Taylor Anderson's fine tale.
Harriet Klausner
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Anderson is a gifted writer. The book is very readable; the story flows; the dialogue is first rate; and the plot is well-conceived with enough twists to keep it interesting without being outlandish.
Anderson has created a fascinating alternate world with two races of non-human sentient beings who are involved in a death struggle. Into this alien world falls an American destroyer from the Asiatic fleet in the early, desperate days of World War II. The use of an obsolete destroyer from the early 1940s was a great idea. No jets flying off a modern day aircraft carrier; just some modest sized guns on a beat-to-hell ship. Anderson does a nice job of filling in some details of the Lemurian society, which gives the book a realistic feel.
Why not five stars? A few reasons. The lemurs are intelligent, fair-minded, inquisitive and peaceful at heart. The Grik are evolved raptors who have gained intelligence but lost none of the viciousness that marked their ancient ancestors. They are the epitome of evil. That is perhaps not far-fetched, but it is rather predictable. There is virtually no description of Grik society other than they are evil killers. It isn't clear that they have language, although they clearly must. The only true criticism is that everything is a bit too convenient. Need oil? No problem. Just happen to have picked up an Australian oil engineer and there are two crew members who worked on the Texas oil rigs. Can't speak to the Lemurians? No problem. They can learn English in about a week. These are really minor criticisms, and don't really detract from the overall quality of the book.
Bottom line: Buy it. Read it. You'll enjoy it.