Sheppard of the Argonne

Alternative History Naval Battles of WWII

By: G. William Weatherly

Narrated by: Lee Alan

Length: 13 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

Captain Sheppard McCloud, an American naval hero from the attack on Pearl Harbor, struggles to overcome both his physical and psychological injuries when he is selected for a new command on a vital mission. He must tackle the demons in his mind and the painful, lingering, injuries he suffered when Japan attacked on December 7. McCloud's been tapped to command the US Navy's latest capital ship, the Argonne, in the early phases of World War II. He needs to follow his new orders while keeping his fears secret.

A commander's life isn't easy; McCloud faces a host of challenges and decisions as he assumes total responsibility for the ship and crew. He's aware that his every move, behavior, and decision influences the men he leads in battle; for it is their performance as the sum total of the ship's character that is the weapon deciding outcomes. Carefully researched to accurately depict the US Navy during World War II, Sheppard of the Argonne follows the exploits of Sheppard McCloud during a hypothetical war at sea. It presents rare insight into the command of a capital ship at war, showing how it tests the captain's leadership as enemy submarines and aircraft attack, culminating in that rarest of historical actions, a gun duel between capital ships.

©2014 George W. Jackson (P)2015 George W. Jackson

A captivating story of naval warfare!

Would you listen to Sheppard of the Argonne again? Why?

Yes, I enjoyed listening to the naval battles fought between the Americans, British and Germans.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Sheppard of the Argonne?

The flashback to Sheppard in Command of the Shenandoah at the Battle of Pearl Harbor. The detail of the description of events and perspective from the main character felt better than seeing it play out on the big screen.

What does Lee Alan bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

He provides excellent sound effects and good believable accents for the various character nationalities. The background music Lee Alan adds builds on the suspense, making you eager to listen to how the battles will unfold.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The Battle of Cape Vilan, the author's attention to detail and ability to keep the listener in suspense as to what the outcome would be are commendable.

Any additional comments?

This book is definitely worth listening to if you are a fan of military fiction or of flawed heroes/protagonists needing to rise to the occasion. This is no John Wayne or Robert Mitchum tough as nails action thriller, it is a story with characters that can easily play out in the real world.

Inconsistent Sound

Decent story but the inconsistent sound level was distracting. Either too loud or too soft. Instead of narrative it was like a bad one man radio play.

Fantastic music and sound effects!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, I would recommend this audiobook. The story is exciting and it is filled with characters that keep you wanting to listening.

What other book might you compare Sheppard of the Argonne to and why?

This audiobook is in the same style as "The Hunt for Red October", with unfolding events from the different perspectives of the characters.

What does Lee Alan bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Lee Alan brings sound effects, music and different voices and accents. It feels as if you are listening to real events unfolding.

Who was the most memorable character of Sheppard of the Argonne and why?

Sheppard was the most memorable character because of his complex struggles with PTSD and yet needing to lead his men in order to accomplish his mission.

Any additional comments?

This would be a great gift for a veteran or active duty sailor. Anyone who appreciates or wants to learn about World War II history at sea.

Perhaps a true naval fan would appreciate...

the story is good. the performance is, to me, overly excessive. the story moves very slow due to allowing for every form of naval protocol. a good story does not need all the minutiae, especially when it's fiction. if someone can appreciate protocol and ship board minutiae, then they would enjoy it.
lastly, the narrator's voice is too deep. it's a novel, not a Barry White song.