Arklight: Task Force Crusader by J.M. Myrick

Author J.M. Myrick delivers a conclusive masterstroke to his high-octane, eon-spanning series with Arklight: Task Force Crusader. Following on from the non-stop action of Operation Nightfall and Force Interdiction, the Spear and Alsos Teams work in tandem, but in different timeless, towards the same goal: stopping the horrific vision of the Fourth Reich and the Order of the Black Sun.

All of the loose ends and shadowy mysteries from the first two books are wrapped up in this intricate and riveting read. From Switzerland and Belgium to Okinawa and England, this book bounces between diverse landscapes, complex plot lines and different generations, carefully weaving historical fact with fantasy fiction. As usual, the attention to military detail is exquisite and immersive, and Myrick demonstrates his ability to sustain high-stakes suspense.

Most impressively, the characters and narrative choices never feel forced. Regardless of time or place, the level of background research provides vivid settings and culturally accurate details, effortlessly teleporting readers across this tangled plot. The versatility of language is also undeniable; the narration is often terse and functional, but there are also flashes of descriptive panache and authentic moments of character development. The draftsmanship involved in time-travel writing is critical, and for a three-book series to tie up so neatly is decidedly rare.

Some of the revelations and twists in the book are a bit convenient, but these are minor distractions in the grand scheme of the novel. Battling an epic, timeless evil for the fate of the world seems like the only logical conclusion for such a sweeping series, and Myrick does not disappoint in this exhilarating final Arklight installment.