Title: The Warrior Elite_ The Forging of Seal C Author: Dick Couch File Type: Mobi Subject:History Description:FromThere is a pod of good books on the SEALs, but this one is unique. Couch, a Vietnam-era SEAL and retired naval reserve captain, was given the most complete access possible to the demanding BUDS (Basic Underwater DemolitionSEAL) course and has recorded his observations, those of one who has been there and done a good deal of that. His account of Hell Week, the culmination of a formidable three-phase course intended to produce men who are physically, psychologically, and technically the best in the world at what they do, may leave the average reader short of breath. Few Hollywood stereotypes are on view; in their stead are a man who passed BUDS at age 39, a superb swimmer who was disqualified for sinus problems, and a trainee at the low end of the fitness scale who subsequently won the Congressional Medal of Honor. Also on view is much serious thought by serious thinkers on the making of warriors at the dawn of the twenty-first century. Roland Greenbr American Library Association. lt;ReviewstrongThe Warrior Elite isstrong the first book that captures how the SEAL spirit is tempered. It reveals all the grit, sweat, mud, and blood of BUIDS training -- real-time, down and dirty. This is a must-read if you want to know what becoming a virtual warrior is all about. -- Governor Jesse Ventura, BUDS Class 58 A wonderful, thought-provoking book by Dick Couch and a quick study of human personalities; his conclusions are optimistic and uplifting. -- Vice Admiral James Stockdale (USN. Ret.) Recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor. br The Warrior Elite offers superb insight into the making of a Navy SEAL. Dick Couch takes the reader through the incredible challenges of basic training and into the minds of these unique warriors who comprise our nation's highly selective fighting force. Having served extensively with Dick in combat as junior officers in Vietnam, I now understand the how's and why's of his profession and the SEALs' commitment to mission. strongThe Warrior Elite strongcaptures the essence of a Navy SEAL -- the indomitable will to win and steadfast commitment to team. -- Robert J. Natter, Admiral, U.S. Navy, Commander in Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet An authentic voice that spells out what it takes to become a SEAL--the sheer grit to overcome all obstacles. America is lucky that it continues to attract such men as these to serve. -- Theodore Roosevelt IV, Class 36 From the Hardcover edition. -- Review

Title: Mad Ship Author: Robin Hobb File Type: Mobi Subject:Fantasy Description:In the second breathtaking volume of Robin Hobbs Liveship Traders trilogy, a new tide of glory and terror sweeps forward the story of the Vestrit clan, their liveship Vivacia, and all who strive to possess her. As the ancient tradition of Bingtowns Old Traders slowly erodes under the cold new order of a corrupt ruler, the Vestrits anxiously await the return of their liveship--a rare magic ship carved from sentient wizardwood, which bonds the ships mystically with those who sail them. And Althea Vestrit waits even more avidly, living only to reclaim the ship as her lost inheritance and captain her on the high seas. But the Vivacia has been seized by the ruthless pirate captain Kennit, who holds Altheas nephew and his father hostage. Althea and her onetime sea mate Brashen resolve to liberate the liveship--but their plan may prove more dangerous than leaving the Vivacia in Kennits ambitious grasp.... From the Paperback edition.