MWSA Review

In his book Against All Enemies, author Thomas Wing has provided us with a fascinating tale of what may happen if the Chinese committed a limited, surprise attack against the United States. The Chinese believed that a non-nuclear attack that significantly destroyed our ability to respond would force a wounded US to accept an immediate cease fire agreement. They were wrong, and elements of the Pacific fleet took the fight right back to them. Outnumbered, and for the most part fighting without communications and satellite assistance, Commander Bill Wilkins and the crew of the USS Nicholas wreak havoc on the Chinese navy. The author's portrayal of the naval combat kept my attention throughout the book. Anyone who enjoys reading military fiction should enjoy this book.

Review by Bob Doerr ( February 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

When the People’s Republic of China unleashes a devastating attack on the United States, newly appointed Navy Commander Bill Wilkins and his crew are suddenly alone, deep in the enemy’s backyard, and unable to communicate with naval or national leadership.

At home in Washington, the president is detached from reality. Survivors of his cabinet contend with military leadership for control, some to save the nation they serve, others in pursuit of personal power.As America becomes alienated from her allies, Russia begins a campaign that creates heightened fears of nuclear annihilation.

Bill must navigate a political minefield to find friends among China’s neighbors while undertaking a role that demands he take unimaginable risks and wrestle with the question, What losses are acceptable in order to win?

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Mystery/Thriller/Crime

Number of Pages: 461

Word Count: About 112,000