Brian Pooley

This novel put to rest any fears I may have had that the Executioner series had run its course. Douglas has a true fan's appreciation of the history of the series, and a writer's sense of characterization, dialogue and narrative. What a novel! These are what I consider to be the main strengths of the novel: 1) Mack was a REAL HUMAN BEING: getting real wounds, joking around with Wazdi and Kowalski, thinking about why he continues his War Everlasting. 2) Great action. The action on board the boat and the final fight with Laud were vintage Bolan. 3) Continuity. Douglas played to the series' greatest strength: its rich history. He included references going all the way back to the original mafia wars. 4) Good enemies. The Divine Sword, and Laud in particular were worthy opponents. Of course I knew Bolan would win, but I had doubts about whether Wazdi and Kowalski would make it. 5) Style. Although nobody will ever do better than Pendleton, Doug updated Pendleton's "blitzkrieg" Bolan, hitting fast and furious, in a way perfectly suited to fighting terrorists. I can't wait for Doug's next book!