U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Robinson sets this saga of naval misadventure in the South China Seas within the near future of the year 2004; the futurism is evident only in the arsenal employed. Otherwise, this is a straightforward spy-and-action tale, replete with detail. Events evolve in the form of reports (date and time heading each occasion with fine military precision); their starkness is contrasted with the excellent characterizations for which George Guidall is known. He animates the profane intensity and casual bigotry of men "in charge" in ways that are often achingly funny. From action at sea to the desires for action in Washington, Guidall performs a tour de force of vocal gymnastics. Long, detailed, and brutal, this becomes a "good read." S.B.S. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 01]