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Pacific Rim #2
Fire of the Raging Dragon
In the very near future, China, now the world’s largest industrial producer and consumer of Mideast Oil, passes a law that all new cars manufactured in that nation will be operated on natural gas. Beneath the floor of the South China Sea, around the contested Spratly Islands, billions of gallons of natural gas wait to be mined. But at the center of the Spratlys, the remote but strategic island of Itu Aba is occupied by China’s historic enemy, Taiwan. When the new, power-hungry Chinese President, Tang Qhichen, orders Chinese Naval forces to attack Taiwanese forces on Itu Aba, U.S. President Douglas Surber responds, ordering the U.S. Seventh Fleet to try and quell a burgeoning naval showdown between the two Chinas. Aboard the submarine tender U.S.S. Emory S. Land , one of the first ships in the naval war zone, is Ensign Stephanie Surber, a recent Naval Academy graduate who is also the First Daughter of the United States. As the Emory S. Land steams into harm’s way, Ensign Surber’s life is gravely threatened. The President must make a decision. Will he take a stand against evil? Or will he save the life of his daughter?
381 pages, Paperback
First published November 20, 2012
67 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Don Brown
23 books114 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
DON BROWN, a former U.S. Navy JAG Officer, is the author of Zondervan’s riveting NAVY JUSTICE SERIES. a dynamic storyline chronicling the life and adventures of JAG officer ZACK BREWER. In 2003, Don began writing TREASON, his first novel in the NAVY JUSTICE SERIES. After TREASON was published to rave reviews in 2005, drawing comparisons to the writing style of John Grisham, DON BROWN was named as co-chairman of national I Love To Write Day, an event recognized by the governors of nine states to promote writing throughout the nation, and especially among the nation’s schools. HOSTAGE and DEFIANCE, the second and third novels in the series, were published in 2006 and 2007. BLACK SEA AFFAIR, was released in June of 2008, and with a bonechilling plot and precipient accuracy of international events, has been called the “Novel that Predicted the Russian-Georgian War,” which broke out just two months later, in August of 2008! Don is now penning his fifth novel, entitled THE MALACCAN CONSPIRACY, to be released in June of 2010. Paying no homage to political correctness, DON BROWN’S writing style is described as “gripping,” casting an entertaining and educational spin on a wide-range of current issues, from radicalIslamic infiltration of the military, to the explosive issue of gays in the military, to the modern day issues of presidential politics in the early 21st Century. The Charlotte World Newspaper described TREASON as “A DAVID VERSUS GOLIATH STORY FULL OF ACTION, INTRIGUE, AND THE KIND OF CALCULATED TYRANNY THAT YOU COULD FIND IN THE HEADLINES OF ANY MAJOR DAILY AT ANY MOMENT.” The Romance Reader’s Connection described Don’s novels as “fascinating and fresh.” In November of 2009, four years after it was released, and in the wake of Fort Hood, TREASON rocketed to the top-selling in the nation on the Amazon.com bestseller list for fiction, and remained there for over a week. On Thanksgiving Day of 2009, all four of Don’s novels were ranked in the top 5 on the Amazon bestseller list for fiction! DON BROWN graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1982, and after finishing law school, continued his post-graduate studies through the Naval War College, earning the Navy’s nonresident certificate in International Law. During his five years on active duty in the Navy, Don served in the Pentagon, was published in the Naval Law Review, and was also a recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.'
DON BROWN, a former U.S. Navy JAG Officer, is the author of Zondervan’s riveting NAVY JUSTICE SERIES. a dynamic storyline chronicling the life and adventures of JAG officer ZACK BREWER. In 2003, Don began writing TREASON, his first novel in the NAVY JUSTICE SERIES. After TREASON was published to rave reviews in 2005, drawing comparisons to the writing style of John Grisham, DON BROWN was named as co-chairman of national I Love To Write Day, an event recognized by the governors of nine states to promote writing throughout the nation, and especially among the nation’s schools. HOSTAGE and DEFIANCE, the second and third novels in the series, were published in 2006 and 2007. BLACK SEA AFFAIR, was released in June of 2008, and with a bonechilling plot and precipient accuracy of international events, has been called the “Novel that Predicted the Russian-Georgian War,” which broke out just two months later, in August of 2008! Don is now penning his fifth novel, entitled THE MALACCAN CONSPIRACY, to be released in June of 2010. Paying no homage to political correctness, DON BROWN’S writing style is described as “gripping,” casting an entertaining and educational spin on a wide-range of current issues, from radicalIslamic infiltration of the military, to the explosive issue of gays in the military, to the modern day issues of presidential politics in the early 21st Century. The Charlotte World Newspaper described TREASON as “A DAVID VERSUS GOLIATH STORY FULL OF ACTION, INTRIGUE, AND THE KIND OF CALCULATED TYRANNY THAT YOU COULD FIND IN THE HEADLINES OF ANY MAJOR DAILY AT ANY MOMENT.” The Romance Reader’s Connection described Don’s novels as “fascinating and fresh.” In November of 2009, four years after it was released, and in the wake of Fort Hood, TREASON rocketed to the top-selling in the nation on the Amazon.com bestseller list for fiction, and remained there for over a week. On Thanksgiving Day of 2009, all four of Don’s novels were ranked in the top 5 on the Amazon bestseller list for fiction! DON BROWN graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1982, and after finishing law school, continued his post-graduate studies through the Naval War College, earning the Navy’s nonresident certificate in International Law. During his five years on active duty in the Navy, Don served in the Pentagon, was published in the Naval Law Review, and was also a recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.'
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 23, 2015
In the near future (a convenient timeframe that allows the author to change make the presidents of China, Taiwan and U.S. fictional characters) the Chinese invade the Spratlys islands in the middle of the South China Sea. Vietnam, China and Taiwan all claim these islands and the natural gas that are under them. China has control, Taiwan is preparing ships to strike back and the US are rushing ships in to calm things down. One of the two American ships already on station is the submarine tender, with the daughter of the US president aboard as an ensign. As tensions mount, the Taiwanese find a Chinese marine merchant with an shocking cargo.
Why I started this book: Thunder in the Morning Calm the first book in this series, was good enough, that I wanted to keep reading and bad enough that I wasn't expecting much.
Why I finished it: Realistic tensions, actions and reactions from the three super powers. Brown understands the military side of it, the nationalistic forces that are pushing all sides into a confrontation. I loved the historical finger pointing as both Bushes and Obama, at their missteps and the consequences of their policies on the Navy's job and the stability of the region. The wooden nature of his stock characters didn't bother me that much as he painted all the actors into a corner. The deus ex machine ending was lame, but I can appreciate that it is easier to write about military tensions and actions than political maneuvering and international diplomacy. I'm going to continue listening to the series with low expectations so that I can enjoy it!
Why I started this book: Thunder in the Morning Calm the first book in this series, was good enough, that I wanted to keep reading and bad enough that I wasn't expecting much.
Why I finished it: Realistic tensions, actions and reactions from the three super powers. Brown understands the military side of it, the nationalistic forces that are pushing all sides into a confrontation. I loved the historical finger pointing as both Bushes and Obama, at their missteps and the consequences of their policies on the Navy's job and the stability of the region. The wooden nature of his stock characters didn't bother me that much as he painted all the actors into a corner. The deus ex machine ending was lame, but I can appreciate that it is easier to write about military tensions and actions than political maneuvering and international diplomacy. I'm going to continue listening to the series with low expectations so that I can enjoy it!
December 26, 2024
“China, now the world’s largest industrial producer and consumer of Mideast Oil, passes a law that all new cars manufactured in that nation will be operated on natural gas. Beneath the floor of the South China Sea, around the contested Spratly Islands, billions of gallons of natural gas wait to be mined. But at the center of the Spratlys, the remote but strategic island of Itu Aba is occupied by China’s historic enemy, Taiwan. When the new, power-hungry Chinese President, Tang Qhichen, orders Chinese Naval forces to attack Taiwanese forces on Itu Aba, U.S. President Douglas Surber responds, ordering the U.S. Seventh Fleet to try and quell a burgeoning naval showdown between the two Chinas. Aboard the submarine tender U.S.S. Emory S. Land , one of the first ships in the naval war zone, is Ensign Stephanie Surber, a recent Naval Academy graduate who is also the First Daughter of the United States. As the Emory S. Land steams into harm’s way, Ensign Surber’s life is gravely threatened.”
March 19, 2019
As a military/political thriller, the storyline is mediocre, the characters shallow, and the plot paper-thin. There's very little intrigue, the language is very proper, and even the slight hint of any romance is quickly stifled. Which makes sense when you realize the author is a born-again evangelical, and this affects the book's tone. The "heroes" frequently surrender their agency, throwing their hands up and praying for Jesus to take the wheel and solve the problem. The reader is reminded every chapter that the "bad guys" are godless heathen communists who murder babies.
After the author wrote himself into a corner, I had to finish the book just to see how everything was pulled back together. Spoiler: it doesn't, not even with unsubtle help from the deux ex machina.
After the author wrote himself into a corner, I had to finish the book just to see how everything was pulled back together. Spoiler: it doesn't, not even with unsubtle help from the deux ex machina.
October 23, 2017
This could have been an interesting story, except for the errors in fact. Conflict in the South China Sea is an every day thing and it could blow up. Stir in a megalomaniac and the formula is set. Things that irked me: the cheezy Chinese accent of the reader and badly researched facts: 1. One of the ships steamed on a course of 375, while there are only 360 degrees on a compass rose. 2. Operational messages to ships included only Navy low level commands--most of them administrative. Yet, in the final chapter, an event took place at CINCPAC. Maybe the author's experience as Navy JAG limits his perspective? Not very well written, but an interesting pol-mil drama.
January 17, 2018
Light reading as a thriller
The buildup of tension is good. I appreciated the lack of crude language and the introduction of ethical decisions in the plot.
The moral choices that the president and officers need to make, are described well.
The realism is somewhat tempered by the maniacal nature of the Chinese leader. This gives the book a more patriotic ring, as China is not really taken seriously as an opponent.
The personalities in the book do not get enough depth according to my taste.
The buildup of tension is good. I appreciated the lack of crude language and the introduction of ethical decisions in the plot.
The moral choices that the president and officers need to make, are described well.
The realism is somewhat tempered by the maniacal nature of the Chinese leader. This gives the book a more patriotic ring, as China is not really taken seriously as an opponent.
The personalities in the book do not get enough depth according to my taste.
April 9, 2025
The storyline of the President's daughter, an Annapolis grad assigned aboard a Navy vessle in a combat situation is a little worn out. Don Brown could benefit from a decent copy editor. In two chapter titles, one on page 315 and another on page 318, we are told that a J11 fighter is on course 375 degrees. Last time I checked, the compass maxes out at 360 degrees. Also, a J11 fighter uses a stick for flight controls, not a yoke as was written. So, aside from some technical faux pas, the story starts out a little slow, but picks up well to a satisfying end.
July 20, 2018
The second book in the series and I loved it just as much as the first. I was truly hooked on the tensions between Taiwan, China, and the United States. I like the strong Christian faith of the characters and the relationships that develop. I'm excited to listen/read to more!
December 15, 2019
DNF. It was just such an intensely western-centric narration that I was kind of like... is this.. supposed... to be satire??? But also I didn't care about the people or the plot by page 50 so... yeah.
February 22, 2018
Exciting page turner
If you like action on the high seas and modern military intrigue, this is the book for you. Turn off the tv and enjoy!!
If you like action on the high seas and modern military intrigue, this is the book for you. Turn off the tv and enjoy!!
January 1, 2019
A good story of how a leader can unleash chaos. The character of Tang reads very much lie a current sitting president.
August 9, 2021
This book reads like a made for TV movie. A good book if you enjoy novels involving the navy.
April 20, 2013
Heavy on US history, Chinese government, the military, and current American politics, Fire of the Raging Dragon was not an easy book for me. It's well written and well researched but lacks fluidity and definitely isn't composed in layman's terms. I have to be honest: a lot of what I read just passed over my head. I didn't know what I was reading, which may be more a demonstration of my horrendous lack of knowledge on anything to do with the Navy, than a critique on the author's style.
I did not like the tone, probably why I couldn't get into this second installment of the Pacific Rim series. It's very emotionally detached and dry. All I remember of it is a jumble of sentences; I felt dyslexic for about 230 pages, then I finally succumbed and had to put it down. I was a bit intimidated, and thoroughly distressed, as this was the first book I've ever reviewed that I haven't been able to finish. I am disappointed in myself because usually I'm a very determined reader and usually have no problem finishing and heavily criticizing a book I didn't like, but I'm also patting myself on the back for even getting through three-fifths of it. This was not easy on me!
The riveting legal dilemma surrounding recent smoking-gun evidence on a previously only-rumored black market did impress me, though. The crimes against humanity and dismissal of human rights demonstrates the horrific lengths some people would do for money under the Communist rule. Further, the US's dependence on China leaves the country in stalemate; President Surber can either address a moral issue and get his daughter back, or cut diplomatic ties with China forever—leaving his country to ruin.
Faith in the Lord is a big topic in Don Brown's novel, but it's not overly preachy. Aside from the random shouts to God during attack or fighting scenes, the Christian aspect hardly bothered me. There's also a misplaced (and unrequited) romance between Stephanie and hotpants Commander Bobby Roddick. Not sure why this had to be included, seemed strange for a Christian "man's novel," but it's the only thing I could even remotely connect to.
Pros
Realistic, expert political setting // A sure hit for US Armed Forces and Chinese government enthusiasts
Cons
Hard to understand most of it // Dense // Unintelligible political and military slang, including coordinates and commands that sounded like code... and in fact were code // Stylistically unimpressive // Very very very slow-paced
Verdict
On top of the advanced legislative lingo, there are various related characters and subplots in Fire of the Raging Dragon, rather than one solid story; these are extremely confusing and hard to keep track of. Unless you're like the author and have served in the Navy or have some other design of substantial experience, you'll have trouble following it too. I can think of many people whom this book would have thrilled, but unfortunately I am not one of them. The only military stories I seem to be able to handle are the ones with the chiseled abs of emotionally damaged but rock-hard soldier heroes *swoon*.
2 out of 10 hearts (1 star): Not completely a lost cause, but could not finish; I did not enjoy this book.
Source: Complimentary copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you!).
I did not like the tone, probably why I couldn't get into this second installment of the Pacific Rim series. It's very emotionally detached and dry. All I remember of it is a jumble of sentences; I felt dyslexic for about 230 pages, then I finally succumbed and had to put it down. I was a bit intimidated, and thoroughly distressed, as this was the first book I've ever reviewed that I haven't been able to finish. I am disappointed in myself because usually I'm a very determined reader and usually have no problem finishing and heavily criticizing a book I didn't like, but I'm also patting myself on the back for even getting through three-fifths of it. This was not easy on me!
The riveting legal dilemma surrounding recent smoking-gun evidence on a previously only-rumored black market did impress me, though. The crimes against humanity and dismissal of human rights demonstrates the horrific lengths some people would do for money under the Communist rule. Further, the US's dependence on China leaves the country in stalemate; President Surber can either address a moral issue and get his daughter back, or cut diplomatic ties with China forever—leaving his country to ruin.
Faith in the Lord is a big topic in Don Brown's novel, but it's not overly preachy. Aside from the random shouts to God during attack or fighting scenes, the Christian aspect hardly bothered me. There's also a misplaced (and unrequited) romance between Stephanie and hotpants Commander Bobby Roddick. Not sure why this had to be included, seemed strange for a Christian "man's novel," but it's the only thing I could even remotely connect to.
Pros
Realistic, expert political setting // A sure hit for US Armed Forces and Chinese government enthusiasts
Cons
Hard to understand most of it // Dense // Unintelligible political and military slang, including coordinates and commands that sounded like code... and in fact were code // Stylistically unimpressive // Very very very slow-paced
Verdict
On top of the advanced legislative lingo, there are various related characters and subplots in Fire of the Raging Dragon, rather than one solid story; these are extremely confusing and hard to keep track of. Unless you're like the author and have served in the Navy or have some other design of substantial experience, you'll have trouble following it too. I can think of many people whom this book would have thrilled, but unfortunately I am not one of them. The only military stories I seem to be able to handle are the ones with the chiseled abs of emotionally damaged but rock-hard soldier heroes *swoon*.
2 out of 10 hearts (1 star): Not completely a lost cause, but could not finish; I did not enjoy this book.
Source: Complimentary copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you!).
January 27, 2013
** i should note that this review is coming from someone who isn't into political thrillers. i got this book for free to read AND REVIEW. there weren't many options for books, so i thought i would branch out and give it a try. i didn't end up liking it. and i wrote my honest opinion / review. if you LIKE this genre, i'd read someone else's review. **
Fire of the Raging Dragon by Don Brown follows the brink of a possible WWIII, as conflict between China and Taiwan heats up to a boiling point. The race is on for control of the island of Itu Aba and after the overly ambitious and power hungry Chinese President orders an attack on the island, the US President responds in an attempt to avoid an all-out war between the two Chinas.
Aboard a submarine tender in the area, the US President's daughter assists the efforts to divert this impending conflict. As her ship gets closer to danger, she finds herself a potential pawn in what now looks like China's attempt at becoming a global dominating force. The President is forced to decide between acting to save his daughter, or taking action against an evil far greater than anyone imagined.
Honestly, I couldn't stand this book. I should have known better than to read a military based book with political overtones. While likely very well written, as Brown has an extensive history in both fields, I found myself completely bored with the military lingo, war strategy, and political crap that droned on an on. The actual characters were underdeveloped and seemed second to the very drawn out and elaborate plot. I imagine that is preferable to some readers, but I enjoy getting to know my characters and developing a sense of relationship with them and their plight.
There was hint of attraction between Stephanie and another officer, but that went absolutely nowhere….and i mean NOWHERE. A little time for some sort of romantic side story might have kept me a tad more interested. As it was, it just felt out of place since it was so utterly underdeveloped and pointless to the entire story. The military lingo was completely overwhelming and boring. The political agenda was so obvious and overdone.
Overall, I am sure this sort of novel is ideal for those interested in military-political sorts of plots. I, however, am SO VERY MUCH NOT that sort of reader.
thank you to thomas nelson publishing / booksneeze for the free copy of this book for review.
Fire of the Raging Dragon by Don Brown follows the brink of a possible WWIII, as conflict between China and Taiwan heats up to a boiling point. The race is on for control of the island of Itu Aba and after the overly ambitious and power hungry Chinese President orders an attack on the island, the US President responds in an attempt to avoid an all-out war between the two Chinas.
Aboard a submarine tender in the area, the US President's daughter assists the efforts to divert this impending conflict. As her ship gets closer to danger, she finds herself a potential pawn in what now looks like China's attempt at becoming a global dominating force. The President is forced to decide between acting to save his daughter, or taking action against an evil far greater than anyone imagined.
Honestly, I couldn't stand this book. I should have known better than to read a military based book with political overtones. While likely very well written, as Brown has an extensive history in both fields, I found myself completely bored with the military lingo, war strategy, and political crap that droned on an on. The actual characters were underdeveloped and seemed second to the very drawn out and elaborate plot. I imagine that is preferable to some readers, but I enjoy getting to know my characters and developing a sense of relationship with them and their plight.
There was hint of attraction between Stephanie and another officer, but that went absolutely nowhere….and i mean NOWHERE. A little time for some sort of romantic side story might have kept me a tad more interested. As it was, it just felt out of place since it was so utterly underdeveloped and pointless to the entire story. The military lingo was completely overwhelming and boring. The political agenda was so obvious and overdone.
Overall, I am sure this sort of novel is ideal for those interested in military-political sorts of plots. I, however, am SO VERY MUCH NOT that sort of reader.
thank you to thomas nelson publishing / booksneeze for the free copy of this book for review.
December 24, 2012
In order to further its national interests and nefarious designs of world hegemony, the new power-hungry president of China, Tang Qhichet, also known as Raging Dragon, unleashes the might of its naval forces on the hapless Taiwanese forces on Itu Aba Island, which is located in the South China Sea. Beneath the floor of this sea, billions of gallons of natural gas wait to be mined. And China is hell-bent on mining this natural resource.
Though the Chinese gained control of the Itu Aba Island, the Taiwanese forces capture a Chinese civilian freighter Shemnong which was used for carrying weapons to reinforce communist forces. The crew members are also critically wounded. The US responds to Shemnong’s urgent request for medical assistance and to investigate crimes against humanity aboard the ship.
When the medical team boarded Shemnong, they made a shocking discovery, which even the strong stomach of steel that all doctors possess, the callous resistance to the grotesque, could not withstand. The ship’s manifest lists them as “medical supplies.”
The U.S. President Douglas Surber orders for the ship to be captured and placed in the care of the United States. A fuming Chinese president Tang Qhichet retaliated by attacking USS Vicksburg. As the situation spirals out of control, president Surber send the U.S. Seventh Fleet into the area. USS Emory S. Land, the first to respond, is captured by the Chinese. And aboard the submarine is Ensign Stephanie Surber, who is also the First Daughter of the United States. The Chinese demand the release of Shemnong or they would kill everyone on board USS Emory S. Land.
It is a difficult situation for the U.S. but the bridge must be crossed. The President must make a decision. Will he take a stand against evil? Or will he save the life of his daughter?
One thing that comes to mind as one reads the book is the vast knowledge that the author, Don Brown, exhibits all throughout the story which is simply incredible. The novel explores the history of both sides in the conflict.
Fire of the Raging Dragon by Don Brown is the second book in the Pacific Rim series. It is a political thriller like no other. Don who served five years in the U.S. Navy writes a fast-paced book making good use of his knowledge about the military and their operations, which is guaranteed to engage the reader to the very end. The book may well turn out to be a warning and a prophecy!
Though the Chinese gained control of the Itu Aba Island, the Taiwanese forces capture a Chinese civilian freighter Shemnong which was used for carrying weapons to reinforce communist forces. The crew members are also critically wounded. The US responds to Shemnong’s urgent request for medical assistance and to investigate crimes against humanity aboard the ship.
When the medical team boarded Shemnong, they made a shocking discovery, which even the strong stomach of steel that all doctors possess, the callous resistance to the grotesque, could not withstand. The ship’s manifest lists them as “medical supplies.”
The U.S. President Douglas Surber orders for the ship to be captured and placed in the care of the United States. A fuming Chinese president Tang Qhichet retaliated by attacking USS Vicksburg. As the situation spirals out of control, president Surber send the U.S. Seventh Fleet into the area. USS Emory S. Land, the first to respond, is captured by the Chinese. And aboard the submarine is Ensign Stephanie Surber, who is also the First Daughter of the United States. The Chinese demand the release of Shemnong or they would kill everyone on board USS Emory S. Land.
It is a difficult situation for the U.S. but the bridge must be crossed. The President must make a decision. Will he take a stand against evil? Or will he save the life of his daughter?
One thing that comes to mind as one reads the book is the vast knowledge that the author, Don Brown, exhibits all throughout the story which is simply incredible. The novel explores the history of both sides in the conflict.
Fire of the Raging Dragon by Don Brown is the second book in the Pacific Rim series. It is a political thriller like no other. Don who served five years in the U.S. Navy writes a fast-paced book making good use of his knowledge about the military and their operations, which is guaranteed to engage the reader to the very end. The book may well turn out to be a warning and a prophecy!
November 26, 2012
How might our President react to a blossoming war between China and Taiwan? What actions might he take if his daughter were on board a Navy vessel in the South China Sea as tensions escalate - and what if she were taken as a prisoner of war? If he had the power to save her life, would he? How might such a war - and its implications - affect the US?
Fire of the Raging Dragon is a political thriller like no other. Fast-paced, technical, and full of military maneuvers, this book is guaranteed to keep you up late turning pages. It sure did for me - by the end.
The end of this book came rather abruptly, but by then I wanted to know what happened to each of the main characters, and so I couldn't put it down. The beginning, however, took me a while to get into. I think that's because I was waiting to experience a character connection, and that took a bit of time - most of the book, actually.
I wanted to like this book. I really wanted to like this book, but there was just one problem with that: I think it was written for a man. It was definitely written by a super-intelligent, great writer with vast stores of knowledge about the US military and their operations. The wide cast of characters allowed the reader to see each event from a myriad of angles, getting really into the action - but not the characters.
The characters are my favorite part of the story. I want to feel what they're feeling, see what they're seeing, smell the cookies as they bake them. Brown writes in a smooth and engaging way, but the reader changes perspective on most pages throughout the book, allowing little time to connect with a character's emotions before hopping on to the next. As a woman, I want to close the last page on a book feeling as if I've made new friends, whereas with Fire of the Raging Dragon I felt as if I'd finished watching an action movie.
If you are connected with the military in some way, or if you enjoy reading about guns and wars and great big what-ifs, then this is the book for you. It's well written, well researched, and full of facts, figures, numbers, and men trying to one-up each other with their weapons.
As for me ... I think I'm on weapon overload. I think I'll go find a romance. :-)
I received a free copy of Fire of the Raging Dragon from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.
Fire of the Raging Dragon is a political thriller like no other. Fast-paced, technical, and full of military maneuvers, this book is guaranteed to keep you up late turning pages. It sure did for me - by the end.
The end of this book came rather abruptly, but by then I wanted to know what happened to each of the main characters, and so I couldn't put it down. The beginning, however, took me a while to get into. I think that's because I was waiting to experience a character connection, and that took a bit of time - most of the book, actually.
I wanted to like this book. I really wanted to like this book, but there was just one problem with that: I think it was written for a man. It was definitely written by a super-intelligent, great writer with vast stores of knowledge about the US military and their operations. The wide cast of characters allowed the reader to see each event from a myriad of angles, getting really into the action - but not the characters.
The characters are my favorite part of the story. I want to feel what they're feeling, see what they're seeing, smell the cookies as they bake them. Brown writes in a smooth and engaging way, but the reader changes perspective on most pages throughout the book, allowing little time to connect with a character's emotions before hopping on to the next. As a woman, I want to close the last page on a book feeling as if I've made new friends, whereas with Fire of the Raging Dragon I felt as if I'd finished watching an action movie.
If you are connected with the military in some way, or if you enjoy reading about guns and wars and great big what-ifs, then this is the book for you. It's well written, well researched, and full of facts, figures, numbers, and men trying to one-up each other with their weapons.
As for me ... I think I'm on weapon overload. I think I'll go find a romance. :-)
I received a free copy of Fire of the Raging Dragon from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2012
Fire of the Raging Dragon by Don Brown is a warning and a history lesson in fiction.
Tang Qhichen is China’s new president. He is hungry for world domination, to be the next world super-power. He feels no fear towards America. In the beginning of the book, we read how China takes Taiwan’s other island, Itu Aba. Itu Aba is a valuable source of natural gas.
Meanwhile, President Surber’s daughter is on the Emory Land—a refueling ship in the South China Sea. They are ill-equipped for battle. Stephanie Surber is a weapons officer, chafing at being put in a safe position. Her relation to President Surber is kept secret for more than just political reasons. As relations between Taiwan and China spark into a war, the United States races to intervene and stop the war. Don Brown throughout the novel explores the history in both connections.
The United States is called to see a captured Chinese civilian freighter by the Taiwanese for “Crimes Against Humanity.” This is where the novel gets preachy. While I am pro-life all the way, even I found the pages dedicated to informing us of China’s one child policy a little long. I did not deduct a star for it because I believe the information is necessary. One can also verify it’s truth by simple research online.
Fire of the Raging Dragon is a fast-paced military battle with no real, main character. It’s a typical Don Brown novel that focuses on every point of view involved in the skirmish. Any male who enjoys guns, blood, and battles will find this novel enthralling. The women might find it wanting in the romance area. The novel gets faster as things escalate between China, the United States, and Taiwan as Chinese President Tang loses his mind, hungering for more of the world. The end is happy.
However, the book is a warning to what we can expect as we go deeper into Chinese debt. Don Brown nicely ends the novel with a history lesson of the Communist Party. Overall, I gave this novel five stars.
*Book given by publisher to review.
Tang Qhichen is China’s new president. He is hungry for world domination, to be the next world super-power. He feels no fear towards America. In the beginning of the book, we read how China takes Taiwan’s other island, Itu Aba. Itu Aba is a valuable source of natural gas.
Meanwhile, President Surber’s daughter is on the Emory Land—a refueling ship in the South China Sea. They are ill-equipped for battle. Stephanie Surber is a weapons officer, chafing at being put in a safe position. Her relation to President Surber is kept secret for more than just political reasons. As relations between Taiwan and China spark into a war, the United States races to intervene and stop the war. Don Brown throughout the novel explores the history in both connections.
The United States is called to see a captured Chinese civilian freighter by the Taiwanese for “Crimes Against Humanity.” This is where the novel gets preachy. While I am pro-life all the way, even I found the pages dedicated to informing us of China’s one child policy a little long. I did not deduct a star for it because I believe the information is necessary. One can also verify it’s truth by simple research online.
Fire of the Raging Dragon is a fast-paced military battle with no real, main character. It’s a typical Don Brown novel that focuses on every point of view involved in the skirmish. Any male who enjoys guns, blood, and battles will find this novel enthralling. The women might find it wanting in the romance area. The novel gets faster as things escalate between China, the United States, and Taiwan as Chinese President Tang loses his mind, hungering for more of the world. The end is happy.
However, the book is a warning to what we can expect as we go deeper into Chinese debt. Don Brown nicely ends the novel with a history lesson of the Communist Party. Overall, I gave this novel five stars.
*Book given by publisher to review.
December 18, 2012
Fire of the Raging Dragon is the second novel in the series Pacific Rim Series.
The Chinese president, Tang Qhichen, also called the Raging Dragon, ordered his military forces to attack and conquer the island Itu Aba, Spratly Islands. Itu Aba belongs to Thailand. The Chinese gained control of the island. And the Taiwanese captured the Chinese ship Shemnong which is carrying military weapons. Many lives were lost and some of the remaining people on board the ship needed medical help. Shemnong requested medical assistance from the USS Vicksburg. The United States President Douglas Surber granted the request and ordered the ship to help the people on board. They discovered crimes against humanity on board the ship Shemnong. President Surber ordered for the ship to be captured and placed in United States care. This upset President Tang Qhichen and he attacked USS Vicksburg. USS Emory S. Land was near the ships and the Chinese captured the ship and demanded the United States to release Shemnong or they would kill everyone on board the ship. President Surber was torn in making a decision to let Shemnong go and ignore the crimes he saw on the ship or let Vicksburg be destroyed. But a major factor was his own daughter was a marine on board USS Vicksburg.
I immensely enjoyed reading this novel. It had a breathtaking plot and action that kept me hooked in. The novel had me feeling like this could truly happen. The crimes against humanity that was revealed in the novel could really be happening and we have no idea. It’s shocking and heartbreaking that something like this could exist. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves adventures and suspense. It would leave you entertained and thankful for the military that are committed to serving their country. They know the dangers and risks and still faithfully protect. If you’re looking for a great gift for someone, then this is the new series they will enjoy to receive!
“I received this book for free from Zondervan for this review”.
The Chinese president, Tang Qhichen, also called the Raging Dragon, ordered his military forces to attack and conquer the island Itu Aba, Spratly Islands. Itu Aba belongs to Thailand. The Chinese gained control of the island. And the Taiwanese captured the Chinese ship Shemnong which is carrying military weapons. Many lives were lost and some of the remaining people on board the ship needed medical help. Shemnong requested medical assistance from the USS Vicksburg. The United States President Douglas Surber granted the request and ordered the ship to help the people on board. They discovered crimes against humanity on board the ship Shemnong. President Surber ordered for the ship to be captured and placed in United States care. This upset President Tang Qhichen and he attacked USS Vicksburg. USS Emory S. Land was near the ships and the Chinese captured the ship and demanded the United States to release Shemnong or they would kill everyone on board the ship. President Surber was torn in making a decision to let Shemnong go and ignore the crimes he saw on the ship or let Vicksburg be destroyed. But a major factor was his own daughter was a marine on board USS Vicksburg.
I immensely enjoyed reading this novel. It had a breathtaking plot and action that kept me hooked in. The novel had me feeling like this could truly happen. The crimes against humanity that was revealed in the novel could really be happening and we have no idea. It’s shocking and heartbreaking that something like this could exist. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves adventures and suspense. It would leave you entertained and thankful for the military that are committed to serving their country. They know the dangers and risks and still faithfully protect. If you’re looking for a great gift for someone, then this is the new series they will enjoy to receive!
“I received this book for free from Zondervan for this review”.
July 2, 2013
I'm dating myself here: but FIRE OF THE RAGING DRAGON, by Don Brown, reminded me of Alastair MacLean's fiction--only cleaner, of course. Although the book opened with a dramatic battle scene, it took several plodding chapters for the author to develop his characters and get back into the action. Then he took you for a fast-paced ride that didn't quit, until a harrowing confrontation near the very end.
The plot was believable--current affairs projected about two presidential terms into the future. It was great to see top-ranking administrators and advisers in the US and China grappling with tough decisions: One a Christ-following US president who depended on God's wisdom and prayer; the other an atheistic megalomaniac who believed himself to be a reincarnation of a famous Chinese warlord. The author does a fine job of handling the sanctity of human life angle, too.
What I didn't like was that Brown had quite a few point-of-view characters, but only stuck with a few to the end. Were it not for the section headings that gave the time and location of each character, I would not have been able to keep track of them all.
Another frustrating aspect was the author's tendency to assign American figures of speech to Chinese and Taiwanese characters, who would never have thought or said such a thing in real life! Let's be real: Does a Chinese national even know what a pumpkin is? Why in the world would he liken the rising/setting sun to something he's probably never seen, when an orange is a more likely choice?
Nevertheless, FIRE OF THE RAGING DRAGON would be an entertaining read for anyone who enjoys action, intrigue and adventure. Get a copy for the military man or vet in your life.
The plot was believable--current affairs projected about two presidential terms into the future. It was great to see top-ranking administrators and advisers in the US and China grappling with tough decisions: One a Christ-following US president who depended on God's wisdom and prayer; the other an atheistic megalomaniac who believed himself to be a reincarnation of a famous Chinese warlord. The author does a fine job of handling the sanctity of human life angle, too.
What I didn't like was that Brown had quite a few point-of-view characters, but only stuck with a few to the end. Were it not for the section headings that gave the time and location of each character, I would not have been able to keep track of them all.
Another frustrating aspect was the author's tendency to assign American figures of speech to Chinese and Taiwanese characters, who would never have thought or said such a thing in real life! Let's be real: Does a Chinese national even know what a pumpkin is? Why in the world would he liken the rising/setting sun to something he's probably never seen, when an orange is a more likely choice?
Nevertheless, FIRE OF THE RAGING DRAGON would be an entertaining read for anyone who enjoys action, intrigue and adventure. Get a copy for the military man or vet in your life.
July 19, 2016
This was a decent book, but I could have done without all of the religious proselytizing throughout the book. I have no problems with a statement of faith, or understanding that the characters are religious, but I do not need to be beat over the head with religiosity fervor every damn page.
Some minor gun mistakes in the story such as an old 1911 pistol holding 15 rounds and a character somehow getting his hands on a 1911 with a suppressor that magically appears in his arms. Must have been delivered by God or something because a suppressed 1911 is not mentioned until the character uses it. An old rust bucket like the USS Emory S. Land is not likely to have such a weapon like a suppressed 1911 in its inventory, unless they have a SpecOps team aboard. Another weapon point the author missed is that all anti-ship Tomahawks were removed from US naval service several years ago. Tomahawks are also not beam riders and would not need a drone to direct them to target.
Other than nitpicking the story for weapon inaccuracies (what do you expect from a former JAG officer?) the story is well written with good suspense and pacing. If you want military fiction that is clean (not even one piece of profanity), and lacks the graphic sex, violence and other typical trappings in this genre, you might want to read Don Brown's books.
Some minor gun mistakes in the story such as an old 1911 pistol holding 15 rounds and a character somehow getting his hands on a 1911 with a suppressor that magically appears in his arms. Must have been delivered by God or something because a suppressed 1911 is not mentioned until the character uses it. An old rust bucket like the USS Emory S. Land is not likely to have such a weapon like a suppressed 1911 in its inventory, unless they have a SpecOps team aboard. Another weapon point the author missed is that all anti-ship Tomahawks were removed from US naval service several years ago. Tomahawks are also not beam riders and would not need a drone to direct them to target.
Other than nitpicking the story for weapon inaccuracies (what do you expect from a former JAG officer?) the story is well written with good suspense and pacing. If you want military fiction that is clean (not even one piece of profanity), and lacks the graphic sex, violence and other typical trappings in this genre, you might want to read Don Brown's books.
February 15, 2013
The best political thrillers can eject the most twisted political ideas, and show a writer's penchant for paranoia, and the reader still loves the book. That reader probably would prefer said writer won't ever be his neighbor, lest reader be confronted by writer about mind controling radio signals emanating from reader's lawn mower.
Those are my feeling after reading this book, the first I've read of Don Browns (and there's a long list of them). Just like with me and Clancy I sometimes wanted to deck the guy on principle. No President is that ignorant, more likely he just doesn't give a crap. And no culture is so monstrous as to . . . well I'm not going to give the plot away.
The upside here is that I kept reading, so it's fiction that works on all cylinders. Hell, maybe Don Brown had an Obama lawn sign up and this is just his act. Don't know, don't care. The point is on two levels, first the gritty political conspiracy and monstrocity, and second the sub plot involving the President's daughter on the captured ship, the book works as fiction worthy of the top shelf at the grocery store check-out line.
Those are my feeling after reading this book, the first I've read of Don Browns (and there's a long list of them). Just like with me and Clancy I sometimes wanted to deck the guy on principle. No President is that ignorant, more likely he just doesn't give a crap. And no culture is so monstrous as to . . . well I'm not going to give the plot away.
The upside here is that I kept reading, so it's fiction that works on all cylinders. Hell, maybe Don Brown had an Obama lawn sign up and this is just his act. Don't know, don't care. The point is on two levels, first the gritty political conspiracy and monstrocity, and second the sub plot involving the President's daughter on the captured ship, the book works as fiction worthy of the top shelf at the grocery store check-out line.
December 4, 2014
Don Brown's Raging Dragon was a modern action thriller with suspenseful scenarios between the two Chinas (Peoples Republic of China on the mainland; Republic of China island (Taiwan) and the United States of America). As a retired Navy chief, I could easily identify with the jargon and sequence of events unfolding as a sailor that has deployed to the western pacific on three occasions. The cast of characters displayed the courage and patriotism required of an effective commander-in-chief and all members of our military in its quest to maintain freedom and be a light for democracy in the global stage. I remember that green shirted "shooter" launching aircraft off the cat while deployed twice on the carrier America during Operation Desert Storm/Shield. I witnessed first hand the tenacious resolve in the fighter pilots face sitting in the cockpit of their F18s seconds from launch and salute their courage as well as that of ship's company personnel that facilitate the end result. An amazing chronology describing the various functions of a Naval battle group delivers breath-taking suspense all the way to the last page.
November 28, 2012
America is trillions of dollars in debt to China, what would happen if China called in the loan? Brown's latest novel has a gripping storyline that will give you plenty to think about. I love his writing style, he draws you deep into the story and gets your adrenaline going!
Well written, fast paced, the kind of novel I enjoy reading! 5 out of 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exhange for an honest review.
Well written, fast paced, the kind of novel I enjoy reading! 5 out of 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exhange for an honest review.
May 28, 2015
Excellent read!
Those story could happen today with the two Chinas and the USA pitted against one another. The issue of American in debt to China is more than ever a threat to our country. Well written, an excellent read!
Those story could happen today with the two Chinas and the USA pitted against one another. The issue of American in debt to China is more than ever a threat to our country. Well written, an excellent read!
March 17, 2016
Very well done
I have read several of Don Brown's novels and find them well written with a strong moral compass. I would recommend them to anyone who has an interest in the workings of the US military
I have read several of Don Brown's novels and find them well written with a strong moral compass. I would recommend them to anyone who has an interest in the workings of the US military
January 27, 2015
Brown has crafted a terrific military thriller with just the right amounts of navy facts to clue in readers while still maintaining the suspense. Worth reading.
April 9, 2013
War between the China's ROC vs PRC, will inevitably involve the US, and this fast paced war novel lets you jump several viewpoints while the short and bloody battles happen.
May 7, 2013
Fun read, barely Christian. But there are good people working to bring good out of horror. You'll like the story.
July 13, 2014
This is the best book of the series. Stayed up too late finishing the book as i could not put it down. Hit all the right spots.
April 17, 2016
The storyline was tense and the ending had you guessing right to the epilogue. I was disappointed to find some words in there that I consider to be swearing though.
August 4, 2016
Fascinating, couldn't put this down
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