Much has changed for Nichols since his involvement with British Intelligence in the attempt to prevent the disaster at Pearl Harbour. Now recruited as an officer into Ian Fleming’s 30 Commando – an elite unit tasked with advancing ahead of the main forces to seize enemy intelligence before it can be spirited away or destroyed – Nichols has become a highly trained special forces operative, commanding a squad of elite soldiers.
We first encounter Nichols and his band of merry men in Sicily, during the Operation Husky landings. Their mission: to gather as much intelligence as possible before the Germans can conceal or destroy it. But the ultimate prize is the elusive Type 52 Geheimschreiber – a teleprinter similar to the Enigma machine, but with a more direct link to German High Command, including Hitler himself. If British Intelligence can capture one, it could be invaluable. And so, Nichols embarks on a dangerous treasure hunt that takes him from Taranto – familiar ground from Rising Tide – to the islands of Capri, Ischia, and eventually, Venice.
Like Bardos’s other work, Hunter Class is packed with intrigue, espionage, and counter-espionage, all underpinned by careful historical research. He places fully realised characters within authentic events. Figures such as Private Dicey, an ‘albatross’ around Nichols’ neck, Giacomo Moretti, an Italian frogman of the Decima Flottiglia now serving with the Allies after the September 1943 Armistice, and the enigmatic yet devious Livia Scarlatto all add colour to what is an immensely enjoyable read. Each character is finely drawn and believable. Particularly entertaining is the chapter in which Nichols crosses paths with SAS legend Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne – one of the novel’s highlights.
The denouement is something to behold. Without revealing too much, the endgame unfolds as a genuine rollercoaster ride; fast-paced, cinematic, and expertly woven together. It leaves the reader almost breathless at its sheer momentum.
Bardos writes with a natural, accessible style that allows the plot to flow seamlessly. His blend of character, action, and historical authenticity makes for a highly satisfying read. And, as with his Johnny Swift trilogy, Bardos not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of the Second World War. He leaves the reader eager to learn more about the units and events in which he places his characters – the mark of a true historical fiction author, and one that Bardos has clearly achieved.
Overall, Hunter Class is a superb second instalment in the Daniel Nichols trilogy. It is richly detailed, expertly paced, and thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommended, and I very much look forward to the next in the series.
John McKay is a novelist and the author of In For The Kill, the third book in The Manner of Men trilogy.
