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When nuclear warfare makes the earth uninhabitable, the survivors seek refuge by building a technologically advanced underwater world. Reminiscent of the popular sci-fi series The 100, this narrative employs the classic elements of science fiction while consistently testing the limits of possibility within the created universe's rules. Through the lens of Commander Sam Knight, readers are not only privy to the ultimate goal of restoring life above the surface, but they also get a dose of Sam Knight the human being, one who is still recovering from losing his wife while managing to uphold the tight-knit bond with his son, Joshua.
Delorie's work delivers a fast-paced and engaging plotline. However, the narrative is largely character-driven as they encounter everything from giant eels to rabbit-cat fusion creatures. Specifically, the remnants of the human race are predominantly dispersed among three communities: Ocean One, Ocean Two, and Ocean Three. As fate would have it, the survivors consist mostly of scientists and soldiers, providing an opportunity to test the technological boundaries using virtual reality technology. With one common goal of rescuing the earth, each community is responsible for something. Ocean One handles the technology. Ocean Two manufactures the purifiers to heal the planet. Meanwhile, Ocean Three is filled with scientists willing to collaborate with Ocean One.
Throughout the novel, Knight's strong leadership skills are overshadowed by the duality of his caring nature and sense of humor, creating a strong feeling of community between the characters, particularly Professor Adams, Captain Bright, and Lieutenant Pine. The world he participates in creating is quite intriguing. From using cryo generators to place earth's animal embryos into stasis to communicating by linking through virtual reality and wrist communication, the world is a conglomeration of engineering and technology that, ironically, doesn't seem as far-fetched and implausible in twenty-first-century society. Perhaps it is this relatability with the current state of affairs on earth, be it climate change, tension between countries, or simply a divisive environment, that allows readers to envision a world of advanced submarines and, more importantly, peace.
While the ultimate goal is to travel to Death Valley and activate the purifiers, the kidnapping of Dr. Meisa Hata puts a wrench in the plans, triggering an adventure that sees the protagonists battling renegade drots and their leader, the devious Dick Crowbiy. Crowbiy personally holds his old friend Knight responsible for his wife's demise, creating a tenuous situation where no character is safe. And yet no one is concerned as much about safety as they are about reaching the final destination with Dr. Hata's knowledge. Battling runaway nukes and attacking torpedoes, Knight navigates through one hurdle after another, finding unexpected allies and uncovering traitors in the process. Delorie's knack for using comic relief in tense situations, particularly when the protagonists are in the renegades' clutches, is refreshing and entertaining.
Knight's human element—accomplished but not devoid of shortcomings—compels readers to root for him and his team. In a world where commanders are determined to project discipline and hardened personalities, Knight bucks the trend with his occasionally playful disposition, which culminates in his befriending of a German shepherd. Overall, Delorie's focus on creating substantial characters in conjunction with authentic dialogue and a dynamic world makes this novel a worthwhile read.