Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

In The Very Last War by W.H. Hawthorne, Jake O’Connor rises from his roots in Alaska to become President of the United States, leading a political revolution that transforms the nation. His administration returns power to the states and diminishes federal overreach, sparking global attention. As tensions escalate, a coalition of world powers—including European socialists, Chinese communists, Islamic radicals, and Russian leaders—forms to challenge the United States. With a devastating new weapon at their disposal, they seek to annihilate America. In response, the U.S. unveils a revolutionary weapon of its own, relying not just on technology but on the resilient spirit of its people. As both sides prepare for the final showdown, the survival of America hinges on its enduring values and unbreakable will. "No matter how big you were, the only possible reason you didn’t fear the 1st Armored Division of the United States Army was that you were already dead."

In the interests of full disclosure, I am not an American and have never lived in the States. I am also on much further to the political left than most lefties are, just to give you an idea of who I am. Why does any of this matter? Because The Very Last War by W.H. Hawthorne is one of the most rah-rah-rah, ultra-libertarian, 'America first' red meat I have read in, well, probably ever. I enjoyed the heck out of it. Is it over the top? Yes. Is it plausible? No. Is it wildly entertaining? You bet your sweet bells and missiles, it is. The initial backstory is going to feel loquacious to many, but because I don't fully get American politicking, it was necessary for me. I appreciated it, and it set me in the right direction. Jake O'Connor is a character you want to follow, but Hawthorne gives us many other points of view that round the story out, and you have to get excited when ranking generals have legitimate surnames like “Crusher.” It is clear that Hawthorne is a science and technology guy, much to the same degree I am, and the tech employed from every single angle is brilliant. If you have an open mind and are looking for solid action, excellent tactical apparatus, and Clancy-esque detailing, you'll find it here. Recommended.