When war returns to the high seas, history’s greatest warship will sail again…
Lieutenant Moses Redding’s career is dead in the water. Having defied orders in a doomed attempt to save innocent lives, he’s been reassigned—not to a warship, not to the front lines, but to the USS Constitution, a floating museum on a diplomatic goodwill tour. The glory of the U.S. Navy in its time, the 200-year-old wooden frigate is now a mere relic of history. No missiles. No radar. No chance of survival if war comes calling.
Also onboard is the sharp-witted, strongly independent Dr. Miriam Hannah, a historian of the Navy and Vice President Virginia Mitchell’s closest advisor, the woman leading the U.S. delegation in the Middle East peace negotiations. Redding and Miriam clash and connect, but their battle of wills is cut short when Vice President Mitchell is kidnapped by terrorists in a brazen act to torpedo the negotiations and launch a global jihad. With inaccurate information clouding intelligence reports, the U.S. military is highly disadvantaged. The only one close enough to act is Redding—and the only ship within range is the Constitution.
With nothing but wind, wits, and a crew that has to turn back the clock to an age of naval warfare long gone, Redding prepares the Constitution for what appears to be a suicide mission. The enemy has missile destroyers, machine guns, and satellite recon, while the Constitution has broadsides, black powder cannons, and cutlasses – but nonetheless, it was designed for war.
Intrepid Spirit by David Tunno is a high-stakes naval thriller that blends historical warfare with modern combat, political intrigue, and non-stop action. Tunno’s character development is robust and engaging. Lieutenant Redding is portrayed as a complex figure, grappling with past mistakes and seeking redemption. His interactions with Dr. Miriam Hannah introduce a dynamic blend of professional tension and personal chemistry, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. The USS Constitution emerges as a character itself, with Tunno’s meticulous research and vivid descriptions bringing the ship to life and allowing readers to appreciate its legacy and the challenges of operating a historic vessel in modern times.
Themes of courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of naval tradition tie the work together in a memorable way, offering readers a thought-provoking perspective on the cyclical nature of conflict and heroism.
Packed with razor-sharp strategy, explosive battles, and a warship brought back to life for one final fight, this novel is perfect for fans of military fiction, history enthusiasts, and action- adventure readers alike.
