Book Review: "Act of War" by Dale Brown.....

Dale Brown is the John Grisham of the techno-thriller. He writes engrossing, fast moving novels and he has a knack for characterization. He is also one of the most prolific writers working today. “Act of War” is Brown’s seventeenth novel but not his best.

What works in “Act of War”?

• The premise is a good one. When terrorists explode a nuclear weapon on US soil a new generation of elite trooper is needed. Major Jason Richter and his team are introduced as Brown’s new heroes.
• One of the most entertaining aspects of all of Brown’s novels is his ability to combine combat action with political brinksmanship and infighting. “Act of War” is no exception.
• The characters are well written and likeable. You care what happens to these people and feel it when a character dies, which Brown has a habit of doing in his novels and not only to minor characters.
• Not to sound creepy but Brown knows how to write a death scene.
  

What does not work in “Act of War”?

• Seems a bit too much like “Robocop” at times.
• The ending is a bit rushed.
• Would a Sergeant Major treat an officer the way Jefferson treats Richter? I think not.
• Would a beautiful television reporter fall for a techno-geek like Richter? I think not.
• Major characters disappear midway through the book never to return.
• The terrorist mastermind is a bit obvious.
• The ending is a bit corny and too feel good.
  

The ending of “Act of War” makes it clear that Brown intends for this to be the start of a new series of novels; much in the same way that “Flight of the Old Dog” spawned many future novels set in the same universe with many of the same characters. This is not necessarily a bad thing provided Brown can correct some the of the short comings of “AoW”.

If you are looking for a quick reading action novel “Act of War” is good choice but you might want to wait for the paperback.