South by Java Head/Audio Cassettes/Unabridged

Rating:
Summary: Well-executed adventure
Review: I always loved Alistair MacLean novels. For adventure, I found him to be one of the most consistent and satisfying authors out there. This is one of his best. It has twists and turns, as always, but is also a bit more harrowing than some of his other novels. All of which sets everything up nicely for a great denouement.

Rating:
Summary: Not the best one
Review: I don't think it was one of his best books. The tale seemed to drag on for me. Yes, it had MacLeans normal twist and turns but I don't think the story was as strong or as interesting as it has been in many of his other books. I feel each time he started a new chapter it lost its flow entirely, and it took several pages to get reinterested in the story. I think most all of his books start off real slow, but once you're in, you are hooked. Not so with this one. He is an entertaining author so that's why the 3 stars, and because he has written worse. I still recommend "Puppet on a Chain", "Where Eagles Dare" or "Satan Bug" among others.

Rating:
Summary: Escapism
Review: I have to agree with one of the other reviewers that this is not one of MacLean's best. Realistic story lines have never been one of MacLean's strong suits, but this one can get a little ridiculous at time. The plot never really seems to go anywhere, and in my opinion, the ending is very disappointing. The book is entertaining, however, and an easy read. If you are a MacLean fan, this book would be alright for you. However if you are new to the author's works, start somewhere else: "Where Eagles Dare" or "Guns of Navarone".