Phantom Leader

Rating:
Summary: As real as it gets
Review: PHANTOM LEADER is the third in Berent's five book saga of fighting men in Vietnam. Berent's series gets better as this author gains experience and insight into the lives of his characters. This book is probably the first one in the series I would consider a "must read". The reason is the story of Major Algeron "Flak" Apple who is shot down in his F-4 fighter early in the book and is captured by the North Vietnamese. His story gives the reader a shocking look at life as a prisoner of war inside the Hao Lo prison, known more commonly as the "Hanoi Hilton". His story continues through the final two volumes. Berent agonizing portrayal of Apple's life of misery and torture inside the prison is dramatic and moving. The story also contains the continuing story of Court Bannister, an Air Force pilot that I believe Berent uses to tell his own story. Wolf Lochert also continues his battle as a US Army Special Forces Lt. Colonel. Berent writes with a similar style to Tom Clancy. This book is really five seperate stories that all intersect at one time or another. Berent's books are much easier to read and have more action than technical detail. The reader does, however, recieve enough explanation of military terms and acronyms to understand the sometimes complex language used by military persons. This books is a surperb action novel, but what makes it great is the amazing and horrifying look inside a prison camp of North Vietnam.