Adventure, romance, racism and loyalty are set against a backdrop of life aboard a U. S. naval vessel during the early 60s in Rick Ainsworth's exciting first novel Thunder and Storm: The Haverfield Incident. The narrative revolves around the lives of new recruits as they embark on a journey that will be a life changing experience. R. J. Davis is a brash young sailor determined to excel in life. R. J. and his friends, the Sample brothers, Rafer and Andy, two young African Americans from Alabama, cope with the rigors of hard work and authority, enduring harassment and racism, living through the fateful day of President Kennedy's assassination, battling with the elements, enduring the equator crossing initiation, and learning the history of the U. S. Navy. The shipmates forge meaningful friendships and lasting bonds. R. J. shares a sense of camaraderie with one and all. He is especially a source of great comfort to Rafer and Andy whose feelings and crusade for equal rights he can well understand. A dramatic and unprecedented incident occurs on the very night that the Haverfield must combat a surprise attack by North Vietnamese PT boats. The horrific event, which later comes to be known as the Haverfield Incident, lingers on forever in the memories of R. J. and the Sample brothers, leaving them scarred for life. Thunder and Storm: The Haverfield Incident is a compelling page-turner that combines deftly portrayed characters, a gripping plot and meticulously researched historical details. Apart from being clear and crisp, the narrative also captures the exciting atmosphere aboard a U. S. naval ship. By interweaving Edgar Allan Poe's poems into the thought process of R. J. , Rick Ainsworth adds an interesting touch to the narrative. This riveting book will appeal to fans of naval forces as well as a wider audience. (Excerpted and inspired) National Indy Excellence Winner - 2007 Book Awards

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