Able One

By Ben Bova

Book Overview

Can an experimental defense system stop North Korean missile strikes? "Able One" is a timely thrill-ride by one of science fiction's most respected novelists. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0765363585
• Release Date: March 2011
• Publisher: Tor Books
• Length: 384 Pages
• Weight: 0.46 lbs.
• Dimensions: 6.7" x 1.0" x 4.2"

Customer Reviews

Another Exciting Book From Ben Bova

Departing somewhat from his usual outer space sci-fi themes, award-winning author Ben Bova has kept the adventures closer to earth in his newest release. Rogue elements of the North Korean army have gained control of two nuclear missiles. After launching a separate warhead into space which managed to destroy most of the satellites orbiting the earth, this faction has targeted the United States and is making preparations for launch. Threatened with the onset of World War III, the Americans turn to their last hope: ABL-1. ABL-1 is a modified 747 jumbo jet that packs a laser capable of destroying missiles before they reach cruising altitude and begin their descent. In command of ABL-1 is Col. Karen Christopher. Having been demoted from her B-2 stealth bomber squadron after having an affair with an air force general, its become her job to position ABL-1 close enough to shoot down the remaining missiles before they can be launched at the United States. Also on board is engineer Harry Hartunian. He's been with the ABL-1 project since its inception and has witnessed the ups and downs of the program, including sabotage and the death of a close friend. Estranged from his wife and family, it's Harry's duty to make sure the laser works correctly. Col. Christopher manages to pilot ABL-1 into range to shoot down the North Korean missiles. But, the North Koreans have identified the plane and have launched intercept fighters to coax it to land. To make matters even worse, Harry has discovered that someone in the crew has deliberately tried to sabotage the laser. Will ABL-1 be able to shoot down the missiles, or will the North Korean terrorists succeed in striking the United States? I've been a fan of Ben Bova's for several years and have read many of his previous novels. All have been well-written, and he always adds a technical chapter to discuss the technological aspects of his books. I've found these chapters to be very helpful in understanding the technical language Bova uses in his books. As for this book, I would rate this as one of his best. The story is well-conceived and plausible, considering today's climate in certain parts of the world. The character development is good and, in typical Bova fashion, the story line keeps building throughout until the climactic conclusion is reached. I give this fine book my highest recommendation. Bova fans will not be disappointed.

fascinating geo-political technological thriller

The North Korean army launches a nuclear missile into space. When they ignite the missile the subsequent explosion causes electromagnetic shockwaves. Several key communication satellites are destroyed and global communication is devastated around the world. Intelligence is lacking and fearing an even further crippling of command and control communication, the American military prepare to launch ABL-1that can take out a missile though this laser system is untested. At the same time, POTUS tries to react to the crisis without starting World War III. This is an interesting tale based on scientific electromagnetic pulse bomb theory as deployed by a military unit that goes ironically rogue inside of the most probably rogue country in the world. The story line is loaded with action; too much as seemingly important threads are left dangling. Still in spite of the over abundance of subplots, Ben Bova provides his audience with a fascinating geo-political technological thriller. Harriet Klausner