
After immensely enjoying Day of Wrath by Larry Bond, I couldn't wait to read another novel by this author. Dangerous Ground was an equally enjoyable experience. This novel manages to combine the self doubting protagonist of the David Poyer "tales of the modern navy" novels, with the submarine knowledge and action of the Patrick Robinson novels. The mix is excellent and a real page turner.
The story focuses on Jerry Mitchell, a junior grade lieutenant in the US Navy. After an unfortunate accident during flight school, Mitchell is forced to retart in the Navy. Against all odds, and with some political string pulling, he is able to secure himself a spot in the Navy's "silent service," on a submarine. The rest of the crew is less than thrilled to have him on board, and they let him know it at every opportunity.
Also on the discontented boat are several other crew members. Captain Hardy, a veteran sub commander, is slated for an easy shore command, but gets pressed into duty one more time on an aged sub that was supposed to be decommissioned. The second in comand, the XO named Bair was due to get his own comand, and he's upset to be working under the strictest captain since Ahab. As if this wasn't enough, the chief working under Mitchell can't stand him either, and resents his presence. Just for good measure, and to grit the gears even more, two woman scientists are on board as well, and they think they're calling the shots. Could you ask for a more motley crew of discontents?

Add in to this they have a new experimental device on board. It's called a "Manta" and it's a remote controlled type of mini sub. This is cutting edge technology by anyone's measure. If the Navy doesn't have one of these yet, they should order up a few after reading this novel!

If you are looking for a well plotted, and superbly charactered novel of the sea, this is a true winner. Larry Bond has written a great military novel, and well done technothriller in Dangerous Ground. It is well worth a read, and I hope the start of a longstanding series of novels as we trace the progress of Lt. Mitchell rise through the ranks!
Overall Grade: A+
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