博客來Excerpt:
’ As Ian and Robert departed to their civilian jobs, Stephen lingered. His time in the Royal Navy, nine years since the age of eighteen, was due for renewal or termination. It was an easy choice to make. The Navy had shaped him, and he wanted more. Sir Geoffrey’s voice pierced Stephen’s contemplation.
＂Missions like this will be rare,＂ he said.
Stephen locked eyes with Sir Geoffrey. ＂Have I become a killer?＂
＂No, that is not the way you should look at it,＂ came the firm reply. ＂You confront death when it’s wrong, never embracing it, even when justifiable. There’s no joy in the loss of a life, and that is right. In our military life, we make choices and sometimes those choices cost lives. Should we forget those lives? No. Should we apologise for them? Equally, No. Except to our God, and that’s a private matter.＂ ’
Stephen Lodge, destined for a career in the Royal Navy, is fearless and determined. He stands up for his beliefs even if it means facing a few bumps along the way. From childhood duels to adult conflicts, Stephen challenges bullies, questions unjust rules, and accepts the consequences of his actions.
After losing childhood friends to murder and suicide, Stephen sails for the Far East, where he clashes with some of the navy’s perilous regulations. Disobedience lands him in prison but strengthens his resolve to speak out against injustice. Observing the Vietnam War, however, tempers his views.
Back home, an injury to an old friend is finally resolved, and romance blossoms with Liz from Londonderry -- until Irish politics get in the way.
Stephen’s naval adventures include more military conflict and personal loss. His exploits come to the attention of Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Cheeseman, who is forming a Special Task Group, the STaG, for the British MoD. Stephen’s first mission leaves a lasting impression on his character.
