Title: Dauntless
Author: Jack Campbell
First published June 27, 2006
293 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780441014187 (ISBN10: 0441014186)
Rating: 3.96
Overview
The war between the Alliance and the Syndics has been raging for a century, with the Alliance constantly on the losing end. After being stranded in enemy territory with a crippled fleet, their only hope is a man who has emerged from a century-long hibernation.
Captain John “Black Jack” Geary is a legendary hero, known to every schoolchild for his heroic “last stand” in the early days of the war. Presumed dead, Geary miraculously returns and reluctantly takes command of the Alliance fleet.
Despite being uncomfortable with the hero-worship around him, Geary is a man who will do his duty. He knows that the Alliance’s only chance to win the war is to bring the stolen Syndic hypernet key safely home.
But to do so, Geary must live up to his impossibly heroic reputation as “Black Jack”.
About the Author
John G. Hemry is an American science fiction author who has written several military science fiction novels.
As a retired officer of the United States Navy, he has drawn from his experience to create compelling stories. His notable works include the Stark’s War and Paul Sinclair series under his real name.
He has also written four books in the Lost Fleet series under the pseudonym Jack Campbell, with two more to come. In addition, he has authored over a dozen short stories, many of which have been published in Analog magazine, and has written non-fiction texts.
Growing up, John had the privilege of living in various places, including Pensacola, San Diego, and Midway Island. He graduated from Lyons High School in Lyons in 1974 before attending the US Naval Academy, where he was known as ‘the un-midshipman’ among his roommates.
John currently resides in Maryland with his wife and three children, two of whom have been diagnosed with Neuro immune dysfunction syndrome (NIDS), an auto-immune ailment. Despite this, they are progressing well under treatment.
John is a member of the SFWA Musketeers, an organization whose motto is, ‘The Pen is Mightier Than the Sword, but the Wise Person Carries Both.’
Editoral Review
Dauntless by Jack Campbell is a tale of space warfare set in a futuristic world. Published in 2006, it is the first book in the author’s “The Lost Fleet” series.
Jack Campbell is the pen name of John G. Hemry, a retired US Navy officer, who brings his own unique perspective of military life to the book.
The book is classified as science fiction and military fiction, and it provides a thrilling adventure for readers who enjoy stories about interstellar battleships and political intrigue. The world of Dauntless is complex and detailed, with a plethora of different factions vying for power in a future where humanity has colonized the stars.
The book’s protagonist, Captain John “Black Jack” Geary, is a war hero who has been lost in suspended animation for a century. He is awakened to find that he is still revered by the fleet and is now the only hope of defeating a mysterious enemy known as the Syndicate Worlds.
Geary must navigate the treacherous waters of military politics while leading the fleet to success. The setting is in space, which provides ample opportunities for imaginative descriptions of futuristic technology and dramatic battles.
The clashes between different fleets are particularly well-written and are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seat. The characters are well-rounded and relatable, with complex relationships and motivations.
The themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and duty are explored in-depth throughout the book. The author delves into the psychological toll that war can take on those involved, and how the politics of military command can affect those on the front lines.
These themes are still relevant today, and the book’s commentary on the nature of warfare is sure to resonate with readers. One of the book’s strengths is its pacing.
The story moves quickly, with plenty of action interspersed with character development and political intrigue. The plot is well-structured and logical, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing.
The writing style is clear and accessible, making it easy to follow the story. However, there are some weaknesses.
The book relies heavily on military jargon, which can make it difficult for readers who are not familiar with military terminology. There are also some plot points that stretch the bounds of believability, which may take some readers out of the story.
Overall, Dauntless is a well-crafted space opera that explores complex themes and provides plenty of thrills. The book’s strengths outweigh its weaknesses, and it is sure to please fans of military and science fiction.
Jack Campbell’s experience in the Navy adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. I would recommend this book to fans of military fiction and science fiction.
Its themes of loyalty and duty are still relevant today, and the thrilling battles and complex characters are sure to keep readers engaged. I would give Dauntless a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, based on its exciting plot, well-drawn characters, and exploration of timely themes.
