Attack on the Queen

Rating:
Summary: a real steamer
Review: Despite some exciting moments, overall this is one of the most ridiculous and contrived books I've ever read (or listened to on tape in this case). Time after time, the author sets up situations only to have the characters act in the most absurd manner imaginable. A perfect example of this comes from the several times in which the protagonists have a gun trained on a terrorist but do not fire, instead allowing the terrorists to raise their own guns and open fire. I don't know about you, but if I was facing terrorists that had already killed several people I would shoot first and ask questions later.

Lets not forget the completly obvious way in which the terrorists infiltrate the boat; right under the noses of the so-called security personnel that are supposed to be protecting the VIPs. Again, even a certifiable moron would have supsected terrorists were afoot. This book just isn't believable.

Finally, the first half of the book is comprised of mindless backstory that feels completly unecessary to the rest of the story. What shlock. Don't waste your time.

Rating:
Summary: The crossing from hell!
Review: I liked this book regardless of several contrived action scenes. Something tells me that Mr. Henrick was writing for the camera, especially when describing the martial arts battles. I sense that there were others advising him where to go in this book, as his usual instinctive story telling abilities are a bit stretched in this one. All in all an interesting read, with fascinating descriptions of the QE2. It should indeed make a hit movie.

Rating:
Summary: SOLID EFFORT
Review: I liked this novel, in spite of the often contrived martial arts scenes that were most likely written w/ film in mind. The book was extensively researched, and I found myself learning much about China and of course, the QE2. The Kellogg brothers made interesting heroes, and I'm reading more about them in NIGHTWATCH. I would of liked Mr. Henrick to get the action moved to the QE2 sooner. The last of the great ocean liners is the real star of this book, and I couldn't get enough of this great ship.

The submarine action was a real surprise, and fit in well w/ the story. Of course, what would you expect from the author of one of my favorite movies, CRIMSON TIDE. If you find yourself w/ some spare time on your hands, pick up this book and give it a try. I guarantee you that it will take you to several places that you've never been before, that being one of my definitions of a good read.

Rating:
Summary: The next best thing to an actual trans-Atlantic crossing!
Review: I've always been fascinated w/ the QE2, and Henrick's book only made me more interested in this last of the great ocean liners. I certainly see a movie in this fast paced story, that captures all the class and ambiance of a real live ocean crossing. And even if I can't afford a real sea going voyage, at least I have this marvelous book to read once again.

Rating:
Summary: SOLID EFFORT
Review: Once i started, i found myself difficult to put it down. The plot recalls some movie scenes from Jackie Chan's, Speed 2, and The Hunt for Red October, but it's believable and well-thought out. Henrick did his sound analysis on China's accession to the status of a world power. One thing from the book-- Chinese subs have successfully infiltrated the US Kitty Hawk's Carrier battle group in the Pacific Ocean...wow!