Against All Enemies

This is one of those "what-if" scenarios that gets you thinking. The State of Idaho decides that it is tired of onerous Federal control and events are engineered to create a confrontation between a state's right to determine its affairs and the need to maintain the union. In many ways the issues raised by the Civil War are re-examined, and the author makes a clear distinction that in this fight the bad guys might be the good guys. Some people might suggest that it can't happen here, but since the start of the current century we have witnessed an attack on American soil and the destruction of an American City. WHile events might not unfold as Harold Coyle envisions, something like AGAINST ALL ENEMIES is not as far fetched as some might believe. The book was written in 1996, in the aftermath of the OKC Federal Building bombing. I think it is his best book to date.

"group of "patriots" from Idaho take credit for the bombing" um.. Mr Gandle, did you actually read the book? The militia didn't do or take credit for the bombing, and the army did not initially act against the militia. The Publishers Weekly and Booklist editorial reviews are inaccurate too. Anyway, I'm having great fun reading it, especially since I can look out my office window and see the Gowan Field battleground. I'll be passing this on to some of the NG members who work here.

Having grown up in Boise Idaho, it was obvious that Harold Coyle spent some time researching the geography and landmarks. Knowing the locations that were mentioned in the book made the read incredibly fun. The mention of the battle at Glens Ferry was especially enjoyable. I could just picture the National guard making its stand on the buttes that surround the city. Mr Coyle's military background becomes obvious in the depiction of the tactical maneuvers on both sides. Thanks for such a well researched book. It was too fun!

For those who have enjoyed the works of Harold Coyle, Against All Enemies is a solid story that will not be a disappointment. Coyle sets the stage with a prelude that goes back to the period just before the Revolutionary War. Moving to current times, Coyle presents a completely plausible story of an analogous quest for independence where events spin out of control, ultimately pitting Americans against Americans. What stands out in this work from Coyle is his ability to portray the anxiety, turmoil and inner conflict experienced by the combatants of both sides as tensions escalate. Written in 1996 but just published, Against All Enemies presents Lt. Nathan Dixon as he graduates from VMI and begins his active duty, along with characters from previous novels, Scott Dixon, Nancy Kozak, and Jan Fields. All in all, this is a very strong effort from Coyle. Although not as good as The Ten Thousand (which I consider to be Coyle's best work), Against All Enemies is solid and worth your time.

Although this novel about domestic terrorism and vigilantism was a little slow to get going, it was still as satisfying in the end as any of Mr. Coyle's other works.Against All Enemies brings together several of Mr. Coyle's favorite characters; General Scott Dixon, the seasoned military officer; Jan Fields, his wife and famed TV journalist; and Nancy Kovak, a former heroine and now a "retired" member of the Idaho National Guard. Mr. Coyle even introduces a new hero, Nathan Dixon, a paratrooper (and son of Jan and Scott) who, along with Nancy, manages to center himself in the action -- while emerging wiser and victorious in the end.Although domestic disturbances might not be nearly as exciting as regional or global conflicts, no one brings forth the realism of ground warfare better than Harold Coyle. True Harold Coyle fans -- like yours truly -- will still find the last fifty pages absolutely mesmerizing!