Book Review: Target Lock

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Target Lock     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
James H. Cobb
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Military   Thriller
Series: Amanda Garrett # 4
Putnam, Feb 2002, $25.95, 419 pp.

In 2008, when modern day pirates steal a satellite with military information from a US research ship, the American navy sends Commander Amanda Garrett and her USS Cunningham "Sea Fighters" crew to retrieve the stolen item. However, Amanda quickly realizes that these thugs are not some solo Jolly Roger, but belong to massive conglomerate led by the charismatic Makara Harconan.

The chase goes awry and the dynamic Makara captures Amanda. He takes her to his secret hideaway where she sees he has stored the stolen satellite. Though she finds herself falling for her host, Amanda knows her crew will soon come to save the day and rescue her from the brink.

Normally a Sea Fighters novel is action packed and plenty of fun for the reader. Though the history including biological of the Indonesian archipelago is fascinating, even hard core fans will believe TARGET LOCK sinks to the ocean floor and it is not a submarine of bathysphere. Amanda acts more like a high school girl with her first crush than the intrepid intelligent Commander she normally is. As humongous, powerful, and brilliant Makara and his followers are, the Sea Fighters are never truly challenged. To read James H. Cobb at his best, the audience should target SEA FIGHTER, SEA STRIKE, or especially the incredible CHOOSERS OF THE SLAIN.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.