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The Deserter   By: (1844-1933)

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In Charles King's gripping military thriller, readers are thrown into a world of espionage, betrayal, and high-stakes action in his latest novel, The Deserter. Set against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan, this riveting tale explores the murky depths of duty, honor, and conscience.

King expertly crafts an intriguing narrative that follows Sergeant Major Scott Ward, a decorated soldier torn between loyalty to his country and his moral compass. Ward, a seasoned Special Forces operative, finds himself entangled in a web of deception when he learns of a covert mission gone awry. As he delves deeper into the truth, he confronts a chilling reality that shakes the very foundations of his beliefs.

One of the book's strengths lies in King's meticulous attention to detail. From the rugged landscapes of Afghanistan to the intricate workings of military operations, the author seamlessly weaves his knowledge and expertise into the story. King's own background as a former army officer lends an authentic voice to the narrative, allowing readers to truly immerse themselves in the world he creates.

The characters in The Deserter are memorable and well-developed, each driven by their own motivations and struggles. Ward, in particular, undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the book. As he grapples with conflicting loyalties, the internal turmoil he experiences is palpable. King artfully portrays Ward's emotional journey, making it easy for readers to empathize with his predicament.

Furthermore, the pacing of the novel is relentless, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the plot unfolds. King seamlessly blends heart-pounding action sequences with moments of quiet introspection, creating a well-balanced story that never loses momentum. Each chapter leaves readers yearning for more, easily turning pages late into the night.

While The Deserter excels in many aspects, it does occasionally fall victim to predictable plot twists and character stereotypes. Some readers may find themselves able to anticipate certain developments, detracting slightly from the element of surprise. Nevertheless, King's masterful storytelling and strong character development more than make up for these minor shortcomings.

In conclusion, The Deserter is a gripping and thought-provoking military thriller that combines pulse-pounding action with complex moral dilemmas. Charles King's expertise and attention to detail shine throughout, ensuring an immersive and entertaining read. Fans of the genre will not be disappointed, and newcomers will undoubtedly be drawn into the thrilling world that King has so skillfully crafted.

First Page:

THE DESERTER,

BY

CAPT. CHARLES KING, U.S.A.,

AUTHOR OF "THE COLONEL'S DAUGHTER," "MARION'S FAITH," "KITTY'S CONQUEST," ETC., ETC.

PHILADELPHIA: J.B. LIPPINCOTT COMPANY.

1890

Copyright, 1887, by J.B. LIPPINCOTT COMPANY.

THE DESERTER.

PRELUDE.

Far up in the Northwest, along the banks of the broad, winding stream the Sioux call the Elk, a train of white topped army wagons is slowly crawling eastward. The October sun is hot at noon day, and the dust from the loose soil rises like heavy smoke and powders every face and form in the guarding battalion so that features are wellnigh indistinguishable. Four companies of stalwart, sinewy infantry, with their brown rifles slung over the shoulder, are striding along in dispersed order, covering the exposed southern flank from sudden attack, while farther out along the ridge line, and far to the front and rear, cavalry skirmishers and scouts are riding to and fro, searching every hollow and ravine, peering cautiously over every "divide," and signalling "halt" or "forward" as the indications warrant.

And yet not a hostile Indian has been seen; not one, even as distant vedette, has appeared in range of the binoculars, since the scouts rode in at daybreak to say that big bands were in the immediate neighborhood. It has been a long, hard summer's work for the troops, and the Indians have been, to all commands that boasted strength or swiftness, elusive as the Irishman's flea of tradition... Continue reading book >>




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