SHADOW WARRIORS: Inside the Special Forces

In this third volume of a series on modern warfare from the perspective of its commanders, Clancy recounts, with General Carl Stiner, the evolution of U.S. elite military forces. Though it does have its moments of action and suspense, the book's fact-heavy nature tends to make it seem more like a history text than a Clancy-style tale of intrigue. The mostly linear narrative follows the history of special warfare and the creation of such "elite" military organizations as the Rangers, Delta Force, the Green Berets, SEALS and others. Most interesting is the metamorphosis in perception concerning the Special Forces, who, a half century ago, were seen as questionable and unconventional outsiders and are now heralded as essential frontline warriors. For the most part, the reading mirrors the text's dry, straightforward conveyance of information, which is appropriate, if not terribly riveting. Only when Dicenzo reads in the voice of General Stiner, whom he portrays with an almost John Wayne–like, no-nonsense drawl, does the reading become at all noteworthy. Simultaneous release with the Putnam hardcover (Forecasts, Jan. 21). (Feb.)