The Living Legend

The Last Enemy #0.3

by Dan E. Hendrickson

Tommy Williams is the son of Mr. Rodney Williams, the 187 th African American to be appointed as a United States ambassador to a foreign country also retired Annapolis Naval Academy Grad Commander /JAG Lawyer. In the summer of 1975 Tommy has just finished graduating from Annapolis and is ready to follow in his dad's footsteps. Graduating number 2 in his class at the academy Tommy is primed and set to enter an Ivy League law school and emerge a JAG just like his father. One fateful day while meeting with his father at a downtown café in Tokyo Japan where his father serves as Ambassador Tommy witnesses his father's execution by one of the most lethal assassins in the world. One minute his father is laughing at him for coughing and gagging while trying to swallow the cup of Saki he was toasting with his dad, and the next thing he sees is his dad's corps falling back in his chair with a round bullet hole in his forehead. That single moment changes Tommy Williams life forever. Now bent on revenge he seeks opportunity that will pit him against his dad's killer. Though he has considerable expertise with revolver pistols from competition in high school and has solid military training while attending the academy it is soon made clear to him that he is in no way ready to confront the assassin whom he later learns is code named, the Chameleon. This path leads him to joining the Navy's newly formed special forces branch called the SEALs. Three years later he emerges a highly trained and formidable special forces officer. He never dreamed that his very first assignment would pit him and his team against non-other than the Chameleon himself. Makenna Aalee is the great granddaughter of Tumaini Aalee. Tumaini was the famous Kenyon hero who a century earlier stood up to the slavers from east Asia who raided his country and stole young girls to serve in sheiks harems. He with his brave warriors would pursue these vile men across the Red Sea into Saudi Arabia where under cover of night attack the caravans and liberate his people from being enslaved. The people of Kenya came to call him The Legend , the slavers knew him as, The Devil who comes in the Night . Tumaini and his brave warriors have faded away. Bu today though using different methods, the easterners still come in and steal young people from Kenya and bring them to their own lands for their cursed service and restock their leaders' harems. The government calls it human trafficking. Makenna recognizes it for what it has always been, slave trading. She decides to take up her ancestors cause and build a movement that will once again stand up to this vile practice. Makenna and Tommy though living in different parts of the world in lives that have nothing in common will have paths that dramatically collide because of the assassin known as the Chameleon. Both must now learn to make Tumaini Aalee's legend live again if they are to beat him and save those that they love.

248 pages, Paperback

Published January 30, 2022

About the author

Born in Sheridan Wyoming in 1962 near the rustic Big Horn mountain range , to Carl and Helen Hendrickson. Dan went to school in the Sheridan School District graduating from Sheridan High School in 1981. He was an avid participator in boxing, martial arts, wrestling and a little track. His father Carl owned a small eight lane bowling alley that he ran until Dan was 12 years old. Carl also had a masters degree in English and loved to write poetry and plays. Dan picked up on his fathers love for the written word and enrolled in Casper Community College in 1982 majoring in journalism. Although he found that he had an aptitude for investigative reporting he decided that his desires lied in other areas. He went on to do much volunteer Christian ministry work throughout the United States most of his adult life and continues to pursue those endeavors to this day. During that time he gained another degree in Practical Theology and throughout his many ministry assignments worked several secular jobs. Some of his work experience led him to being in law enforcement, security, emergency medical technician, and fire fighting. He also helped run a Martial Arts School where he was a senior instructor. Most notable of his work experience is his auto detailing endeavors. He and his wife Cheryl have owned three different detailing businesses throughout the country the last of which they still run to this day.

Reviews

[Shatana]

The author skillfully shifts the narrative to explore an entirely different subject, setting, and era, delving into a humanitarian crisis that spirals into chaos. This transition leads readers on a thrilling journey filled with political intrigue and action, showcasing the strategic brilliance of a military protagonist. The diverse cast of characters enhances the story, with some embodying corruption and fear, while others stand for justice and integrity. Overall, the book provides a profound glimpse into the military career of a man on a mission to challenge a corrupt regime, culminating in a beautifully unexpected conclusion. It stands out as a premier choice for enthusiasts of action and military themes.

[Andra Shaw]

The Living Legend is a phenomenal, historically base novel that masterfully weaves together action, drama, and raw emotional depth to tell the powerful origin story of a hero whose legacy defies time. From the very first page, the narrative plunges readers into the world of the Living Legend, not only tracing the roots of his mission but also highlighting how his legacy wasn't merely preserved — it was fought for, tested, and ultimately became a cornerstone in the ongoing battle against modern-day slavery and human trafficking.

This isn’t just a story — it’s a visceral experience. The author has brilliantly captured the weight of patriotism in its truest form, one not often glorified but deeply respected. The characters are compelling and incredibly human. Lt. Tommy Williams and the Naval Intelligence team are more than just fictional figures — they breathe, bleed, and believe in something bigger than themselves. Their triumphs feel like ours, and their losses hit like a punch to the gut.

The realism throughout the novel keeps you rooted in every scene. Whether it’s a tense operation or a quiet moment of reflection, the emotional stakes never waver. The betrayals cut deep, the tragedies leave lasting impressions, and the sense of honor carries through every chapter. It’s a rare thing to find a story that blends historical insight, thrilling conflict, and emotional authenticity so seamlessly.

The Living Legend is not only a thrilling read but also a profound reminder of the unseen battles still being fought today. I sincerely hope this is only the beginning of what Lt. Tommy Williams and his team have to offer. I’d follow them anywhere.

I highly recommend that you read The Living Legend. It is storytelling with purpose and passion, and most of all it speaks of the legacy that you may be called to uphold. They laid the foundation for us, and we have to to persevere and carry on the intent today.

[Abhinav Bhatnagar]

Mystic Pages Unbound:
In the enthralling novel, “The Living Legend,” the lives of Tommy Williams and Makenna Aalee intertwine in a tale of passion, purpose, and a shared enemy-the elusive assassin known as the Chameleon.
Tommy, the son of a respected United States ambassador, is driven by tragedy when he witnesses the ruthless execution of his beloved father. This fuels his desire for justice, leading him to join the Navy’s elite special forces, the SEALs. Through rigorous training and unwavering determination, Tommy becomes a formidable warrior ready to confront the embodiment of evil that stole his father’s life.
Makenna Aalee, the great-granddaughter of Kenyan hero Tumaini Aalee, fights against modern-day slavery and human trafficking. Inspired by her ancestor’s bravery, Makenna dedicates herself to reclaiming the freedom of the oppressed. As fate would have it, her quest intertwines with Tommy’s, both seeking vengeance against the Chameleon.
Through vivid prose and rich character development, the author transports readers from the Kenyan coast to the streets of Tokyo. Amidst shadow and deception, Tommy and Makenna’s struggles, triumphs, and growth come alive, capturing hearts along the way.
“The Living Legend” celebrates courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of humanity. It explores the legacy of ancestors and the indomitable will to combat injustice. Tommy and Makenna’s journey becomes a testament to the redemptive power of love and unity, as their lives become entwined.
In this tale of honour, sacrifice, and retribution, readers will be captivated by the epic clash between legends. Tommy and Makenna’s unwavering determination and the resurrection of Tumaini Aalee’s legend serve as a beacon of hope. Their story inspires us all to stand tall in adversity, fighting for what we believe in.

[Luz]

“The Living Legend” by Dan Hendrickson is an absolute masterpiece that grips you from the very first page and refuses to let go. This captivating novel combines elements of revenge, international intrigue, and the pursuit of justice in a thrilling narrative that will leave you breathless.

The story revolves around Tommy Williams and Makena Aalee, two individuals driven by their personal missions. Lt. Williams seeks revenge for his father's assassination, while Makena Aalee is determined to put an end to human trafficking in Kenya. As circumstances draw them together, they find themselves facing a common enemy, the Chameleon.

One of the remarkable aspects of “The Living Legend” is the way the author seamlessly weaves together different timelines and locations. From the Russian invasion of Afghanistan to the takeover of the US Embassy in Tehran, these historical events serve as a backdrop to the protagonists' gripping journey. It requires concentration to follow the intricate plot and not miss any of the carefully crafted details.

Dan Hendrickson's expertise in narrating action is evident throughout the novel. Every scene bursts with heart-pounding suspense and pulse-quickening excitement. The author's ability to create intense and adrenaline-fueled sequences is truly commendable. From high-stakes missions to breathtaking confrontations, the book is a rollercoaster ride of non-stop thrills.

I found myself completely absorbed in the world Hendrickson created. Once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down. The suspenseful twists and turns kept me guessing until the very end.

If you're a fan of gripping thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, this is a must-read.

[Jessi Bone]

The premise of Dan Henrickson's newest book, The Living Legend is that Lt. Commander Tommy is out to avenge his father’s death by a paid assassin, The Chameleon. He gets asked to assist in the removal of Muslim terrorists, who are trafficking women and children in Kenya who have now kidnapped Bosher Arachar, Makena Aalee, and her daughters Chineye and Adimu. Kenya's little issue does not appear to be on the world’s radar because Iranians have just overtaken the US Embassy in Tehran.
Now you know the background let me tell you. At first, I was like no way when this book was first recommended to me because I was alive during the Tehran uprising and the fall of the US Embassy. Now, I can say with certainty that Dan Hendrickson took some liberties in his writing of history because this fiction book but nothing he wrote was out of the world of possibilities. The nations in the book did exist during this time period and the tools, weapons, etc, and time period were accurate. Being a fan of history and not a huge fan of military history probably assisted me in liking Dan's book. I can say the characters are realistic and you honestly pray that the hero makes it to the end and takes out The Chameleon. That being said I think he did leave us longing for more and there were parts I wish he had expanded on as an avid reader I can say he probably was avoiding the wordy content but I want more. It is only two hundred and forty-three pages and takes less than five hours to read. You need to take the time and pick this up for your summer reading. It would be a good read for anyone who is into history both military and not and enjoys a good action-packed story.

[Justin Harris]

I am a huge fan of political and war-based thrillers. Much like Tom Clancy and Brad Thor, Dan Hendrickson absolutely delivers in this fantastic story about conflict, vengeance, and the determination of good to triumph over evil. The story follows Tommy Williams, a Navy SEAL seeking to get retribution for his dad's assassination. I really enjoyed the character origins and development of Tommy, showing him early on from his training to building up to becoming a badass SEAL. His character arc is complemented well by Makena, a Kenyan woman whose goal is to end the corruption of human trafficking in her country. Although they have completely different motivations, they find themselves brought together by an assassin known as the "Chameleon". The dynamic and chemistry between them work very well and allowed me to empathize with each of their missions, even when I had personal objections to their methods. Although the book goes through different periods of time, it is primarily set in the late '70s. I prefer stories set in the past because of the way characters have to use the resources of their time and their ingenuity to accomplish things that modern technology makes all the easier. Hendrickson does a great job of describing the various settings, as he takes us all over the world from D.C., Afghanistan, and Tehran. He keeps the story going and although a lot is happening, you are never overwhelmed with the suspense and drama that is unfolding. The only real "downside" I had was that when I was finished with it, it left me wanting more. But I think that is probably a good thing.

[Megan]

This is my first Dan E. Hendrickson thriller, and I am hooked. He opens “The Living Legend” in 1891 Saudi Arabia. Tumaini Aalee, the new chief of his Kenyan village, leads his men to retrieve their women who have been kidnapped by Muslim raiders and avenge the murder of his father. Then we flash forward to the main timeline of the novel, the 1970s. Tommy Williams witnesses the murder of his father by a notorious assassin. His drive for revenge is set free of its restraints when the assassin is reported to be involved in the kidnapping of Kenyan women, children, and officials with the intention of human trafficking.

I’m a sucker for an historical flashback/establishing of a legend, and I loved the parallels drawn between Tumaini Aalee and Tommy Williams throughout the novel. It was a fun ride through history and politics, and military connections. Strangely, I really enjoyed the respect The Chameleon feels for Tommy and his skill. I like it when an author can draw his characters well enough to give them multiple levels of thought and action. It makes them more human. It would be easy for The Chameleon to be just a shallow, uncaring murderer. But he also has fear and respect. And I think Hendrickson has left the door open for a sequel, which also makes me happy.

[K Watson]

The Living Legend sets out from the perspective of a noble ruler, Tumaini Aalee, who plots to rescue his mother and sisters from Muslim raiders who attacked his people and killed his father. Defeating the brutal slavers from Asia, Tumaini Aalee earns the name, "The Legend" among his people and his legacy lives on for years to come. Years later, the son of a US Ambassador, Tommy Williams, witnesses his father's tragic assassination and thereafter dedicates his life to finding the murderer, the Chameleon, one of the top assassins in the world. With a vengeance, Tommy decides to train to become a Navy Seal to gain the combat skills he’ll need to take down his father's killer. On a mission to rescue a Kenyan diplomat, Tommy uncovers the country's history, remnants of Tumaini Aalee's legacy, and crosses paths with his greatest enemy. Underlying Tommy's drive is not only a fight for justice, but a desire to make his father proud. An enigma among his peers, Tommy remains determined to save lives and ultimately fulfills his father's last words by exceeding expectations and becoming the man his father had always envisioned him being. If you are looking for an adventurous, action-packed story, this is a terrific book to read.

[Trix]

The Living Legend by Dan Hendrickson is a military action fiction prequel to his bestselling book, A Last Enemy. This is about two people living in different parts of the world coming together to fight for their loved ones – one seeking vengeance and the other seeking freedom – as their worlds converge in one dramatic action-packed story. This is a well-written book with a charming main character, consistent characterization, well thought-out plot, and balanced pace. It tackled corruption, modern-day slavery, and politics in a way that is realistic and grounded. I enjoyed following the main character, Tommy, who was highly intelligent, persistent, and a man of principle. I also liked seeing his strategic mind in the War Games during his SEAL Qualification Training. The part nearing the end of the story where Tommy was finally able to come face-to-face with the man he’s been dreaming to kill provided an especially good long look into who Tommy is as a person. Tommy is a main character I’d definitely rally behind.

Read the full review here : https://thestoryhaven.wordpress.com/2...

[Eliz B.]

Calling all Tom Clancy and Vince Flynn Fans. There's a new obsession waiting for you. THE LIVING LEGEND is a timeless kind of read.

Navy Seal Tommy Williams seeks revenge for his dad's murder. Far away, Makena is on a ruthless mission to stop human trafficking in Kenya, her home country. But distance is no match for a common enemy. When they join forces, this action-packed read pulls no punches about how far people are willing to go to conquer evil no matter the means or consequences.

I loved the foreign locales and the well-developed, life and death stakes of the main characters. Hendrickson does a remarkable job of keeping an already exciting book even more exciting with surprising twists and troubles you don't quite know how his characters are going to navigate. There's nothing predictable about his plot, and therefore, heart-pumping and sweaty palms are almost guaranteed. I love this sort of suspense that is so hard to realistically master. I was rushing through the pages to see how it would end!!!

So, dive headfirst into heady, heavy themes and great characters with this intense ride. I feel confident in saying that YOU won't be disappointed.

[Alice Grace]

This is one of the first historical fiction books I’ve liked! Hendrickson’s amazing attention to detail and rich story takes us back in history to set the stage for high-stakes adventure through past and present. His characters were fantastic, and you absolutely have to root for Tommy—especially after learning about his father’s murder. This is the best political/historical thriller, and the perfect introduction to a genre I didn’t even know I needed.

What I loved most about this, though, was that it was so easy to get invested in Tommy’s quest for justice after his father was murdered in front of him alongside Makena’s determination to get revenge. I was hooked from the first page. The lengths they were willing to go for two intensely different motives were so interesting and it was fascinating to see them come from the same place.

Political intrigue, historical elements, and the military aspect gave his thriller an edge that works beyond anything I was expecting. I’m absolutely obsessed and hope to see these characters again. For now, I’ll have to content myself with reading his other work.

[C. Madison]

Tommy Williams witnessed the death of his father, Ambassador Rodney Williams, when an assassin by the name of Chameleon, shot him in the head while they were celebrating Tommy’s graduation in a café in Tokyo, Japan. After his father’s tragic death and with revenge in his mind, Tommy joined the US Navy SEAL, and because of his exceptional skills and intelligence he was able to join in just five months. In Kenya, Makena Aalee, great-granddaughter of Tumaini Aalee, was doing her best to end human trafficking in her home country.

Overall, the story is well written and easy to follow. Even though the story revolves around two different people, the inclusion of dates and places surely helps in the turn of events, and readers will be guided throughout the story. I enjoyed the story and the development of each character, and I loved the thrill fueled by revenge that the story provided. I found the plot very interesting, and the information provided in the book surely came from thorough research. This is an enthralling read, and I recommend it!

[C.J. Wills]

A very interesting and eye opening book. The author develops the main character very well; spending the first few chapters on how he was trained. The description of the environment and amazingly detailed events of the training was excellent.

I loved how the author then turned the story to focus on a completely different subject, place, and time. Touching on a humanitarian issue that turns into a nightmare.

The writer takes us on a political and action filled ride showcasing the talent and strategic mind of a military hero. The array of characters in the book is excellent as well. Some showing corruption and fear while others portray righteousness and justice.

All around this book gives the reader insight into the military career of a man by highlighting a mission that would make changes to a corrupt government. As well as having a beautiful and surprising ending. A top choice for action and military fans.

[Jodi]

This is a well-written military action novel written from the perspective of each character in the story. As the chapters bounce back and forth between all the players, the author doesn’t hesitate to jump right into the action; the different viewpoints keep the book moving at a great pace. The book begins back in the late 1800s and introduces the great-grandfather of one of the main characters, Makena Aalee, who endeavors for justice while putting an end to human trafficking in her home country of Kenya. Fast forward to the 1970s, the author introduces Makena and her fight against a human trafficker. At the same time, U.S. Navy SEAL Tommy Williams is looking for revenge against the same antagonist who assassinated his father Ambassador Rodney Williams while the two met in a café in downtown Tokyo. This page-turner gave me insight into a part of history that I didn’t know much about. While the story is fiction, the plot is convincing, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, start to finish!

[Tammy ♥️GFB♥️ Prieto]

Let me start by saying I loved the way this book is written. I believe the author did an amazing job in the writing, explaining what was going on as well as the back story. There were a few cuss words throughout the book but to me that is a given, as this is a military book. A few of the characters have a strong military background. They learn to work together to accomplish their mission even though their missions/motivations are a little different in their own way. Pride has to be put aside to accomplish everyone's goals . I'm impressed with the way the main characters do very well at working together and thinking of each other. Tommy goes through a lot and loses people close to him. But he's truly never left alone to figure things out by himself.

[Jessica]

A legend

Navy Seal Tommy is on a mission when he is approached by Kenyan Makena who need his help to save her people when the world's attention is on a different country. Noone is listening to her so she concoct a new plan that hinges upon Tommy's cooperation. Reluctantly agreeing, the pair set out to save people from the Chameleon by resurrecting a fabled Kenyan freedom fighter. This book was fast paced, full of action and witty dialogue. This was a great book and I enjoyd reading it immensely. You will find yourself embroiled in the wilds of Africa and more when you open this book.