Dunedin, FL, United States | Member Since 2010
"Mystery and Intrigue at the Military Academy"
I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes mysteries and military stories. Since these are 2 of my favorite genres, I was quite drawn to the story. The protagonist is Will McLean, a young man who is going through a major military "rite of passage" as a cadet at a famous military academy. As a senior cadet, Will's "plebe" year still haunts him and now he is selected for the daunting task of protecting the academies' first black cadet. His challenges don't stop there, however. He has also begun a relationship with a young lady who is pregnant out of wedlock with unknown man's child. He doesn't struggle alone, he has 3 roommates - 2 Yankees and a "honey prince" of dubious sexual orientation - to whom he has sworn unquestionable loyalty. But as the story unfolds, it becomes obvious to Will that "trust, loyalty and honor" can take on different meanings in the cloistered world of military cadets.
As a product of the "South" - The Carolina Military Institute is steeped in tradition and produces tough young military officers - or does it? Just what is it the "makes the man" - the questions answered by the end of story will challenge the way you look at all "traditional" institutions and what creates a sense of belonging within them.
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There is a book I read many years ago called, "The Long Grey Line" which is similar to the "Lords of Discipline". Likewise, the eloquent writing style will, of course, remind one of the "The Great Santini", also written by Pat Conroy.
I liked the narration pretty well except that I felt the female character's voices sounded a bit strained. I guess this is natural when the narrator is a male. Luckily, there are few female characters in this story. Otherwise, the dialogue is witty and quick. The narrator does a good job of bringing the appropriate amount of emotion to the characters.
"A Question of Honor"? "Honor and Discipline"? "Ring of Honor"?
"Better than I thought it would be!"
This was a "freebie" for me and I wasn't disappointed - thanks, Audible for the gift of this book.
Yes, it's "pop" psychology, if you want to call it that, but it presents some interesting theories and, in all, is very "listen-worthy".
It made me take a closer look at my relationships - some are good, some are great and some need work! If you truly want to do some self-analysis, get this book. It's worth the time.
"Unusual story! Human, touching!"
Probably, although I found there were parts to the story that I just "didn't get" - there were also moments that were beautiful. The writing style is very different and when it's at it's best, completely engaging.
I enjoyed it when the protagonist met the elderly gentleman while on his quest to find an object left behind by his Dad who was killed in 911. The man was so querky, sweet and unforgettable.
Unfortunately, that ship has sailed and I don't think it helped this story become any more popular - in fact, it probably did it an injustice.
Be patient through the difficult parts, so will make more sense in time -
"Funny in a twisted-way!"
I liked that Fobbit was a "real" story - hey, not everyone is cut out to be a hero! Doesn't that make the heroes among us even more special, anyway? I did find myself fully engrossed in this book. The tale had more emotion than I expected despite it's humorous approach. Also, I must say - even the "Fobbits" of this world do a difficult job during times of war. I ended up feeling their pain (if not actual physical pain, well - at least, mental anguish and boredom, punctuated by moments of sheer terror!) It's a good story with an easy-going approach and I think there are some moments of real surprise!
This story is so character-driven - I can't imagine NOT listening to it!
Absolutely - held my interest all the way through.
Get it - excellent for those who like off-beat characters, satire or military tales.
"Learn more about what makes a Fighter Pilot!"
Perhaps.
I think just overall - getting the perspective of a different kind of warrior. If you think being a pilot is easy, think again! I think the author did a good job of describing the challenges of learning the craft as well as actually performing in combat.
yes, a good narrator
No, I think the story was told in a complete way. This man is a hero - he did what his country asked of him in a very admirable way.
Worth a listen if you like military or combat stories.
"A classic with a Gary Sinise twist!"
Gary Sinise - we all know the story, but his performance of it was flawless and not to be missed!
Lenny's character is always so heartbreaking. He means well, but just can't help himself.
No, but I would seek him out as a performer - he's awesome!
a Steinbeck CLASSIC!
very credit-worthy!
"Don't Miss This One!"
I loved hearing all the stories - it was so touching and HUMAN! What a great project with amazing potential
I remember many of the stories - a woman who worked nights in a shipyard during WWII to make ends meet for her family, a woman with cancer whose husband stood by her throughout all of her difficulties, a young man who tells his grandfather how much he means to him, a man who honors his father hard work in a steel mill - the list goes on!
My favorite story was the one told by the woman with cancer - she and her husband were so dedicated to each other and she realized this when he stood by her, even at her worst moments! So touching and beautiful!
I cried mostly happy tears!
Get it, don't miss it - you won't be sorry.
"Not as Funny as it was advertised to be!"
it's not that funny. I found Rachel to be somewhat whiney - I mean, after all - we all have problems and challenges in life. The trick is to not take ourselves too seriously and I thought this book was going to more light-hearted than it was.
Not use the term "bull dyke" - I mean, really Rachel, the 60's are over and they want their hurtful terminology back. I'm not suggesting you need to be politically correct all the time, but "bull dyke"? Really? you're a comedian and an entertainer, not a grizzled veteran of the Vice Squad!
Her performance wasn't bad, but it really didn't add much to the story. Really, i don't think anyone else would want their name associated with this gig!
A bit of anger and definite disappointment.
Don't bother getting this unless you're an overpaid entertainer who likes to whine and call other people names.
"Beautiful Story of Courage and Friendship"
This would definitely be in my Top Ten!
My favorite character was Maggie, the German Shepard. She is loyal, beautiful, loving and brave. Just like the Shepard I once had. It's a unique perspective that she shares as one of the main characters of the story.
I thought the performance was very good for all the characters. I liked the audio.
A few tears were shed in the the 1st Chapter when Maggie gets hurt while serving in Afghanistan. After all, Maggie is a Marine just as dear and proud as any who have served. Her trust and loyalty to her handler is very touching and I found that this first chapter really pulled me in to the story.
A great book for dog-lovers! A sweet story - Ok, maybe a little corny at times, but hey! aren't we all just a little "sappy" when it comes to our dogs!
"Just in Time for the Election!"
I have not had the pleasure of reading the print version, but I did find this book to be very intriguing and entertaining.
Yes! I kept wondering "who dun it"! I thought the story was interesting, yet convincing.
no - I haven't, but I would certainly listen to him again.
no extreme reactions- just an interesting story about a lawyer who gets involved with a political campaign in order to solve a murder.
good listen, highly-recommended
"Don't Get It"
a story
not write it
The performance wasn't the problem - just not my type of story.
No
not my thing at ALL! a mistake for me.