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Admiral Arnold Morgan #2
Kilo Class
It's one of the stealthiest, most dangerous underwater warships ever built.and it's about to set off World War III.Silent at less than five knots and capable of a massive nuclear warhead punch, it's the 240-foot Russian Kilo Class submarine. Strapped for hard cash, the Russians have produced ten new Kilos for Beijing. The Chinese have already received three of the subs and now the last seven are ready to be delivered—a code-red situation the Pentagon must avert. Armed with a full strike force of Kilos, China can cripple American interests, shatter the balance of power, and successfully achieve the unthinkable in the Pacific Rim. But not if the newly appointed National Security Adviser, wily Texas admiral Arnold Morgan, can stop them—using the navy's deadliest covert forces. In a breathtaking race against time, a team of Navy SEALs penetrates deep inside the remote waters of northern Russia on a daring mission of destruction. And in the icy darkness of the North Atlantic, a brave U.S. captain takes his 7,000-ton nuclear vessel on a hair-raising trip beneath the polar ice cap to head off a powerful Russian cordon determined to transport the Kilos at any cost. Horns locked in a tense game of geomilitary survival, each of the world' three most powerful nations knows that one mistake will mean all-out war.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 1998
157 people are currently reading
634 people want to read
About the author
Patrick Robinson
105 books341 followersPatrick Robinson was a journalist for many years before becoming a full-time writer of books. His non-fiction books were bestsellers around the world and he was the co-author of Sandy Woodward's Falklands War memoir, One Hundred Days.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
December 4, 2010
'Kilo Class' by all means is a very specific military (Navy) action-thriller that catered to that very reader(ship) group. Which leaves about almost all of us a bit alienated by the terms and turn of events that unfold in the story. I am not really sure if Robinson was trying to appeal to a wider demographic or bigger scope of readers with this book, because reading through it, I cannot help but to be confused with many things, except if I were a serviceman. As of any other books, the first few front pages were dedicated to excepts of 'great' reviews. Which were fine, except that many of these seems to include many military-influenced/related sources. You can guess well who will love this book.
THE MAIN PLOT: The Russians are preparing an order of the remaining seven out of ten Kilo Class nuclear powered submarines to China. Three had been delivered and patrolling (or docking) near the Chinese waters. The real intent of the huge placement of order was in the interest of capturing Taiwan, and the territory around it. Which also, in effect - would weaken or demolish altogether the American presence in the Pacific. Of course, the US of A will not succumb to that. A Black Operation was ordered to make sure that the remaining seven will never make its way home.
-------------------------------
Now here comes the problem. At many instances, the pace and flow of the story intersect between the author's self-indulgent comprehension, before returning to a path of general readership depth. Robinson seemed to be engrossed in explaining a tale by his own knowledge of naval navigation and military terms at one point - while the rest of us pondered what the hell was going on. And then, at one point - he became 'nicer' and kindly introduced or explained a few terms or facts that helped in the understanding. There were a few maps of coastal margin, submarine routes and even a list of central characters - that ensured the reader will not be confused. I however, did not agree on that. 80% of the time, I got a good idea of what's going on. 20% of the other time, I just skipped all the other finer details. Thankfully, doing so did not affect the understanding of the story very much.
It didn't help to know that a US Navy Admiral was approached upon by Robinson to be the military advisory of technical matters. I was hoping that maybe a proof-reading by someone outside of the 'circle' - might improve the book for a more general audience.
----------------------------------
I describe Kilo Class as nothing more than a skimmed-through affair. Too many central characters was not a problem. Shifting focus was. Going back and forth to the perspective of the American, Chinese, Russian side - then moving to the smaller events, was brilliant story-telling. But on whom should we be 'sympathetic' with and which sides are we reclining on? There seems to be no emotional elaboration worth noticing. And for the rest of the time it was all about the progression of the tale, rather than the characters! You will not put yourself in the place of the situation - but read the book as if you are a watching a movie. Military action-thriller author do not make good romance books?
--------------------------------------
The biggest issue however, was the idea of USA being too effective and omnipotent. Seven Kilo Class, brand new submarines being sunken or destroyed one American sub and a few NAVY SEALS? Being able to do so with no detection by either the Russian or the Chinese until it's too late. Infiltrating deep enough into enemy territory without being caught, all plans going rather smoothly without much glitch. No casualty on the American side. Are you kidding me?
The funny part was that: the Russians and the Chinese were depicted as being more careful and (gulp!) - more humane in their approach to declaring a counter attack. Robinson crafted the story of how both sides measured the cost-and-effect of retaliation, the implication of hastily triggering a possible World War III, and global reaction, should an evident military approach was initiated.
In contrast - the Americans were nothing more than a determined bunch who were so sure of their objectives. The military heads and The President passing on the Green Light for the attacks so swiftly without an elaborate discussion of repercussions. NAVY SEALS who killed civilian characters in order to get a job done without detection. And let's not forget - in all but one military aggressions depicted in this book: the American was the first trigger. They fired first, they killed first. Not even once in the story that an American was killed by a Russian or a Chinese.
I also cannot help but to detect a hint of American favouritism of Robinson's in the detailing of certain events and characters. The elaborated macabre history of Russia's forced labour and the violent tendency of a Chinese Navy Command - all seemed to suggest that the action is appropriate to the 'suggested' nature. That America is the Good Guy doing all peace-keeping actions.
-------------------------
There were many plot holes and 'what ifs' moments that I hoped were discussed greatly
- a few central figures was explained in the beginning but somewhat disappeared throughout until the very end.
- Taiwanese actions and roles was introduced but again abruptly killed - acting more as a filler
- Coincidence of 'a sighting' by one central character that lead to the main plot is just absurd
In the end, I decided on a 3 solid stars for the rating of this book. It was too much fiction based on factual idea. I am sure that military purist may have enjoyed this book better than I would, but I am also sure than the rest of us would think otherwise.
THE MAIN PLOT: The Russians are preparing an order of the remaining seven out of ten Kilo Class nuclear powered submarines to China. Three had been delivered and patrolling (or docking) near the Chinese waters. The real intent of the huge placement of order was in the interest of capturing Taiwan, and the territory around it. Which also, in effect - would weaken or demolish altogether the American presence in the Pacific. Of course, the US of A will not succumb to that. A Black Operation was ordered to make sure that the remaining seven will never make its way home.
-------------------------------
Now here comes the problem. At many instances, the pace and flow of the story intersect between the author's self-indulgent comprehension, before returning to a path of general readership depth. Robinson seemed to be engrossed in explaining a tale by his own knowledge of naval navigation and military terms at one point - while the rest of us pondered what the hell was going on. And then, at one point - he became 'nicer' and kindly introduced or explained a few terms or facts that helped in the understanding. There were a few maps of coastal margin, submarine routes and even a list of central characters - that ensured the reader will not be confused. I however, did not agree on that. 80% of the time, I got a good idea of what's going on. 20% of the other time, I just skipped all the other finer details. Thankfully, doing so did not affect the understanding of the story very much.
It didn't help to know that a US Navy Admiral was approached upon by Robinson to be the military advisory of technical matters. I was hoping that maybe a proof-reading by someone outside of the 'circle' - might improve the book for a more general audience.
----------------------------------
I describe Kilo Class as nothing more than a skimmed-through affair. Too many central characters was not a problem. Shifting focus was. Going back and forth to the perspective of the American, Chinese, Russian side - then moving to the smaller events, was brilliant story-telling. But on whom should we be 'sympathetic' with and which sides are we reclining on? There seems to be no emotional elaboration worth noticing. And for the rest of the time it was all about the progression of the tale, rather than the characters! You will not put yourself in the place of the situation - but read the book as if you are a watching a movie. Military action-thriller author do not make good romance books?
--------------------------------------
The biggest issue however, was the idea of USA being too effective and omnipotent. Seven Kilo Class, brand new submarines being sunken or destroyed one American sub and a few NAVY SEALS? Being able to do so with no detection by either the Russian or the Chinese until it's too late. Infiltrating deep enough into enemy territory without being caught, all plans going rather smoothly without much glitch. No casualty on the American side. Are you kidding me?
The funny part was that: the Russians and the Chinese were depicted as being more careful and (gulp!) - more humane in their approach to declaring a counter attack. Robinson crafted the story of how both sides measured the cost-and-effect of retaliation, the implication of hastily triggering a possible World War III, and global reaction, should an evident military approach was initiated.
In contrast - the Americans were nothing more than a determined bunch who were so sure of their objectives. The military heads and The President passing on the Green Light for the attacks so swiftly without an elaborate discussion of repercussions. NAVY SEALS who killed civilian characters in order to get a job done without detection. And let's not forget - in all but one military aggressions depicted in this book: the American was the first trigger. They fired first, they killed first. Not even once in the story that an American was killed by a Russian or a Chinese.
I also cannot help but to detect a hint of American favouritism of Robinson's in the detailing of certain events and characters. The elaborated macabre history of Russia's forced labour and the violent tendency of a Chinese Navy Command - all seemed to suggest that the action is appropriate to the 'suggested' nature. That America is the Good Guy doing all peace-keeping actions.
-------------------------
There were many plot holes and 'what ifs' moments that I hoped were discussed greatly
- a few central figures was explained in the beginning but somewhat disappeared throughout until the very end.
- Taiwanese actions and roles was introduced but again abruptly killed - acting more as a filler
- Coincidence of 'a sighting' by one central character that lead to the main plot is just absurd
In the end, I decided on a 3 solid stars for the rating of this book. It was too much fiction based on factual idea. I am sure that military purist may have enjoyed this book better than I would, but I am also sure than the rest of us would think otherwise.
March 21, 2010
Terrible, absolutely terrible. The plot had promise, but huge gaps in the story and timeline did little to improve the crappiness. I think the author tries to write like Tom Clancy's "what if" style, but he just really sucked.
February 3, 2015
This was my first Patrick Robinson book and I wasn't sure I'd like it because it had to do with submarines and other things I don't normally read about. Oh was I wrong - this book had me hooked from the beginning! Robinson takes you through the story and thankfully explains the workings of our Navy's nuclear submarines (which fascinated me) and introduces everyone to the hard-nosed Admiral Arnold Morgan (my new favorite man). I could not put this book down and am actually going to read it again in the future. I never thought I'd be entranced and enthralled to learn about submarines, rescue missions and other aspects of the Navy (don't want to spoil the book here). I absolutely LOVE this book!
August 26, 2025
Decent TBR blind read. Definitely leaned heavy into the navy theme which didn’t overly pull me in
December 15, 2022
Admiral Arnold Morgan seems to be emerging as the main focus of the books that Patrick Robinson is writing in the genre of naval thriller/drama. He is not a likeable man - gruff, rude, and shows a distinct lack of respect for his subordinates. But if one is willing to set aside Morgan, then the actual story is interesting and a captivating adventure where the U.S. is attempting to prevent the Chinese from receiving delivery of 10 Russian Kilo-class submarines. The Cold War is over and munitions and military equipment is the one export that Russia can provide at the time. Why is the U.S. concerned? Well, because of Chinese aggression and the threat to U.S. activities to protect Taiwan - which is doing its own subversive actions in the Kerguelen Islands, south of Africa.
Admittedly, it's a string of Black Ops missions with submarines. Attempting to keep the tension and suspense alive while the plot needs weeks and months to jump from one chapter into the next even as the scenes move from the United States, China, Russia, the Kerguelen Islands, Taiwan and the vast expanses of the North Atlantic and the wide Pacific.
Overall, it provides an interesting escape for a number of hours without being too overly technical for those who are not familiar with abilities of U.S. submarines. Robinson did include a listing of the mentioned characters. He might have been better served by including a listing of the abbreviations used by the military for those non-veterans and devote fans of this genre of fiction.
2022-274
Admittedly, it's a string of Black Ops missions with submarines. Attempting to keep the tension and suspense alive while the plot needs weeks and months to jump from one chapter into the next even as the scenes move from the United States, China, Russia, the Kerguelen Islands, Taiwan and the vast expanses of the North Atlantic and the wide Pacific.
Overall, it provides an interesting escape for a number of hours without being too overly technical for those who are not familiar with abilities of U.S. submarines. Robinson did include a listing of the mentioned characters. He might have been better served by including a listing of the abbreviations used by the military for those non-veterans and devote fans of this genre of fiction.
2022-274
September 27, 2022
A cover blurb suggests that Patrick Robinson is a better writer in this genre than Tom Clancy. I wouldn't go that far, but he is pretty good. There's a lot of good modern (well as of 1995 at least) Naval action in this book. Unfortunately, one of the lead characters, Admiral Morgan, comes across as completely unlikable. He's rude, crude, and disrespectful to his underlings. An officer perhaps, but definitely not a gentleman. I can imagine his rise through the ranks as a Division Officer. Department Head, Executive Officer and eventually Commanding Officer, and being considered a real bastard by those under him. Of course he is greatly admired by his peers, and he does Get-Things-Done. It just seems to me that one can be competent without having to be a jerk as well.
May 13, 2017
I enjoyed this book. Well developed characters with good back story on a few. Good technical descriptions without being too dense in that regard.
April 9, 2018
Primero dos precisiones antes de la crítica. Estoy leyendo el libro en inglés para perfeccionar el mismo y son un fan acerrimo de Tom Clancy.
Dicho esto, la novela me ha dejado sentimientos encontrados. Y digo esto porque la verdad es que el autor, bien asesorado tiene momentos en los que la acción militar despunta, pero la verdad es que no acaba de transmitir una sensación de tensión en el libro. Y en mi humilde opinión creo que es porque a la trama en sí le falta chicha. Es decir, si algo tiene Clamcy es que va montando toda la trama para que al final todo estalle en el aire en un final épico. Pánico nuclear, el libro no la película, es un claro ejemplo de como llevar a todos a un clímax brutal. En cambio en este libro todo se va sucediendo y no acabas de sentir esa tensión. Como he dicho, he utilizado el libro para perfeccionar el inglés y evidentemente eso hace que perjudique mi compresión de toda la atmósfera del libro.
Por otra parte, el libro está centrado en la esfera militar y eso para mí nos deja muchos cabos sueltos. Una vez más volviendo a mi autor favorito Estados Unidos no se puede entender sin la esfera militar y política y en este libro el presidente de Estados Unidos parece más un chico de los recados que el máximo mandatario del país más poderoso del mundo. Hay muchos actores del libro que se limitan a aparecer de forma puntual y podrían tener más desarrollo tanto ellos como las acciones que podrían emprender. En fin, a este libro le faltan unas 400 páginas más para ser redondo. Y ya por último, la trama en sí, simplemente no me la creo, no voy a hacer más spoiler.
Como punto positivo, se nota que hay un militar con experiencia en el libro asesorando, pero me hubiera gustado que esos conocimientos hubieran estado más presentes. Mejorable.
Dicho esto, la novela me ha dejado sentimientos encontrados. Y digo esto porque la verdad es que el autor, bien asesorado tiene momentos en los que la acción militar despunta, pero la verdad es que no acaba de transmitir una sensación de tensión en el libro. Y en mi humilde opinión creo que es porque a la trama en sí le falta chicha. Es decir, si algo tiene Clamcy es que va montando toda la trama para que al final todo estalle en el aire en un final épico. Pánico nuclear, el libro no la película, es un claro ejemplo de como llevar a todos a un clímax brutal. En cambio en este libro todo se va sucediendo y no acabas de sentir esa tensión. Como he dicho, he utilizado el libro para perfeccionar el inglés y evidentemente eso hace que perjudique mi compresión de toda la atmósfera del libro.
Por otra parte, el libro está centrado en la esfera militar y eso para mí nos deja muchos cabos sueltos. Una vez más volviendo a mi autor favorito Estados Unidos no se puede entender sin la esfera militar y política y en este libro el presidente de Estados Unidos parece más un chico de los recados que el máximo mandatario del país más poderoso del mundo. Hay muchos actores del libro que se limitan a aparecer de forma puntual y podrían tener más desarrollo tanto ellos como las acciones que podrían emprender. En fin, a este libro le faltan unas 400 páginas más para ser redondo. Y ya por último, la trama en sí, simplemente no me la creo, no voy a hacer más spoiler.
Como punto positivo, se nota que hay un militar con experiencia en el libro asesorando, pero me hubiera gustado que esos conocimientos hubieran estado más presentes. Mejorable.
November 24, 2021
When I first began this book, I thought, “Oh, gosh! What have I gotten myself into?” It is full of submarine “stuff.” Also, there is a 4 page “Cast of Principle Characters.” I actually started reading the long list of names and decided I would never remember them so gave up on the list and simply began reading the book. Even with all of the technical “stuff,” I got into the book and enjoyed it very much! I would think Patrick Robinson is a submariner himself due to the writing! It sounded good to me! 🤪 There are maps throughout the book…not too many…just enough…to help readers’ understanding. I appreciated the maps very much and took the time to study them.
However, sadly, this is another example of a book in which the Lord’s name is taken in vain repeatedly. Just boo and totally unnecessary!
“When you’re dealing with Americans you don’t want to be complacent. Otherwise you might not live” (373).
However, sadly, this is another example of a book in which the Lord’s name is taken in vain repeatedly. Just boo and totally unnecessary!
“When you’re dealing with Americans you don’t want to be complacent. Otherwise you might not live” (373).
October 30, 2022
Kilo Class is the second in a series of military fiction books centered around an almost stereotypically profane, gruff Admiral Arnold Morgan. He also happens to be a tactical genius in naval matters, or at least he knows where several naval geniuses live and work. There are occasional lapses in military terminology here and there (I particularly hate the use of clips for magazines), but the story holds together well. I was a little surprised at the decision late in the book where the US sub commander allows the Chinese sub to do its business before taking care of his own orders, but I guess that scenario could play out that way.
January 11, 2018
The book jacket described the story as "a taut, page-turning techno-thrillers the highest quality, grounded in fact and ringing with authenticity."
I don't know if it is quite all that, but I was entertained while reading it. It would definitely fall into the techno-thriller category, as three countries basically play hide and seek with submarines. The author kept the separate story lines he wove together straight while keeping the action moving. But for me, it was the action, not the characters that stood out, so will file in my brain candy category.
I don't know if it is quite all that, but I was entertained while reading it. It would definitely fall into the techno-thriller category, as three countries basically play hide and seek with submarines. The author kept the separate story lines he wove together straight while keeping the action moving. But for me, it was the action, not the characters that stood out, so will file in my brain candy category.
July 31, 2024
There is a new hero to cheer for in military fiction. This is the 2nd Robinson novel in which Admiral Arnold Morgan applies his immense intellect and irascible character to global arms preparedness. Russia wants to sell quiet diesel submarines to China, China wants to keep the US out of the South China Sea. This would be disastrous for US allies in the area and Morgan is not having it. How do you stop the sale without triggering nuclear war? You will just have to rad this book. Three times!
February 23, 2018
The second in the series of realistic fictional submarine stories. This one was better constructed than the first from a story standpoint. More complex plot construction, and an intricate weaving of story perspectives. It gained momentum as it went along and reached a natural progression. Looking forward to continuing the story, hopefully with a few more appearances from our favorite couple of characters from the first book.
March 6, 2018
Kilo Class' by all means is a very specific military (Navy) action-thriller that catered to that very reader(ship) group. As the title suggests, it's about submarines. I listened to the 2.5 hour version instead of the 16.5 hour version and enjoyed it very much. I imagine that I obviated all the submarine detail and clutter that obfuscates the plot with minutiae. Looking forward to continuing the story.
September 18, 2017
Accepting the limitations of an abridged edition, I followed the action with interest. The action was a major attraction overall, with the exception of a couple of major characters: the hero, and anti-hero of the story. I don't really understand them any better, now that I have read a couple of books they dominate.
November 7, 2017
I find this authors writing very interesting. He has had to do a lot of research to write with this detail. Robinson reminds me of reading a Clancy novel. In Kilo Class he explores the current event of the Chinese wanting to control Taiwan and the straits around It. Very good sequel to Nimitz class
January 4, 2020
These books with Admiral Morgan by Patrick Robinson are my favorite books of all time. I love the characters, the suspense, and the adversary! The characters are well developed, and the action doesn't stop. My fave!
July 23, 2020
At first, I was going to rate it lower; although I’m the story moves well throughout, its just a hard premise to believe. But after hearing the Afterward from Admiral Woodward I could see it happening. Great book.
December 2, 2021
Disappointing
Three strange little submarine stories rolled into one... poorly mixed but a reasonable read overall despite the poor Chinese characterisation and the unnecessary Chinese sub captain.
Three strange little submarine stories rolled into one... poorly mixed but a reasonable read overall despite the poor Chinese characterisation and the unnecessary Chinese sub captain.
August 29, 2019
Books like his make one wonder if any of these things really do happen. If the US could get away with ensuring no one gets access to Russian subs, would we?
November 17, 2019
Absolutly superb submarine thriller! Close to the Hunt for Red October (all time best in my books), definte recommendation for submarine fans
January 25, 2020
This book is a brilliant techno thriller. It led me to read the entire series searching for the same. Unfortunately I never found it.
February 12, 2020
Gripping. Interesting submarine facts.
March 14, 2020
Good but not great.
April 17, 2020
Good Naval thriller
A good, well written Naval thriller. Entertaining and well thought out. The author puts you in the center of the action.
A good, well written Naval thriller. Entertaining and well thought out. The author puts you in the center of the action.
March 31, 2021
Excellent
Engaging plot and characters, great action. Couldn’t put it down. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Engaging plot and characters, great action. Couldn’t put it down. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
July 16, 2021
Another good read, not as quick to get into as HMS Unseen.
December 2, 2021
Pretty good, got a little lazy with the diversion to the sailing trip.
Otherwise well done, good technical detail....
Otherwise well done, good technical detail....
December 28, 2021
Insight drives this boat.
Thoughtfulness to current world affairs makes this work. Plenty of action keeps you turning the pages. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Thoughtfulness to current world affairs makes this work. Plenty of action keeps you turning the pages. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
August 11, 2022
Stará láska z dětství. Nic se z příběhu neztratilo, naopak sílící a Čína dává příběhu reálný pohled na současnou situaci.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews