A ship haunted by a stain on her honor. . . A captain torn between his love for two women, and between his loyalty to his best friend and to the Navy in which they have spent their lives. . . These... This description may be from another edition of this product.
I came across this book overseas 12+ years ago. It is a great read for anyone who enjoys WWII books and likes well written stories. Other reviewers have described the plot enough so I won't waste space. Suffice it to say that Fleming captures the spirit of the times and has a true gift for filling out characters. Writing as a Navy veteran, I can say that he got this right. I would recommend this without reservation.
What a page turner...
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
I read this book a while back. I just saw it in the library today. I remember it so well that I felt compelled to right a review.Anyone that is familiar with WW II and the naval campaigns will want to read this book. This is the story of a light cruiser with a new captain. The previous captain (if I remember correctly) was court martialed for cowardice. He was a close friend of the new captain. That's the first sub plot in this book.There are other plots that that happen throughout the book. The book is so well written and the character so well developed that I can still remember the pleasure of reading it. There were good guys and bad guys, creeps and regular Joes. The ship is like a small town.Oh, I left out the battle sequences. Wow! Incredible. Even the aftermath and cleanup after the battles was well handled. The cruiser limping back to port for a refit and overhaul.The ending is a little sad. But, after you read the book, you will understand why it had to be so. If you at all enjoy WW II naval action, this is a must read book.
One of, if not THE finest novel I've ever read.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
I just finished "Time and Tide" this morning and perhaps I'm still "under the influence" but I don't think so. I've read hundreds of novels...many about the Navy/military/WWII. This is truely a cut above the rest. I agree with the other reader/reviewer that this reminded me a lot of Herman Wouk only a little better. This is my first book by Flemming but it sure won't be the last. As a mustang Captain I could see myself and former shipmates in so many of the characters. They were alive for me. They were so real I find it hard to realize I must bid them "fair winds and following seas".
Gritty Gut-Wrenching Fiction
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
You almost have to have been A U.S. Navy Sailor to appreciate this book fully. Those who have "gone down to the sea in ships" through the years will understand what I mean. This book combines all the elements of good fiction (in my humble opinion). Good characters, most niether good noe evil, but human: war, love, honor, deciet, and friendship. My favorite aspect of this book is the air of mysticism applied to the sea nad the ship, you either have been to sea and understand it or you haven't and probably don't. The characters are very good, it is obvious that Mr. Fleming read Herman Wouk, the parallels between Arthur McKay and "Pug" Henry cannot be missed, but I believe this is a plus and as a long time member of the Pug Henry fan club I cannot fault him for it.If you are or have ever been on a Navy Combat vessel at sea READ THIS BOOK. If you haven't, read it anyway, and perhaps you will see what it is about this duty that forever changes those of us who have.
Great Book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
All Navy. Should be read by anyone with blue and gold in their veins.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.