John Ringo is a name that frequently surfaces in discussions about military science fiction. Known for his detailed battle sequences and often controversial political viewpoints, Ringo has cultivated a dedicated readership. However, not all readers find his work equally compelling. This review delves into “The Last Centurion,” a book that exemplifies both Ringo’s strengths and, according to some, his significant weaknesses. This analysis will explore the criticisms leveled against the book, focusing on its political leanings, scientific plausibility, and overall impact on the reading experience for those who may not share Ringo’s particular worldview.
One of the most prominent criticisms of John Ringo’s work, and “The Last Centurion” is no exception, is its overt political agenda. The book presents a near-future scenario where Hillary Clinton, depicted in a thinly veiled caricature, presides over a series of catastrophic events. The narrative portrays her administration as incompetent and misguided, making “every mistake possible” during a global cooling crisis and a deadly bird flu outbreak. This portrayal has been seen by some as less nuanced political commentary and more as a heavy-handed expression of right-wing ideology. Critics argue that this approach detracts from the storytelling, particularly when real-world events offer different perspectives. For instance, the review points out the irony of Ringo’s criticisms given that a president favored by Ringo’s political leaning has also faced accusations of mishandling crises. This heavy political slant can make the book a challenging read for those who do not align with Ringo’s political stance, overshadowing the potential merits of the narrative itself.
Further compounding the issue for some readers is the book’s approach to scientific concepts, specifically its premise of global cooling as the primary climate threat. While the original review acknowledges the author’s right to explore fictional scenarios, it critiques Ringo’s approach as distracting and scientifically unfounded. Ringo doesn’t just mention global cooling; he reportedly uses significant portions of the book to deliver diatribes against the global warming hypothesis. In “The Last Centurion,” this manifests as a major solar cooling event that severely impacts the global food supply. The reviewer, identifying as a scientist with climate change expertise, questions the scientific basis of this premise and argues that when social commentary relies entirely on unsubstantiated fiction, it loses relevance. This divergence from established scientific understanding can be a significant point of contention for readers seeking a degree of plausibility in their science fiction, even within a fictional context.
Adding to the book’s more outlandish elements is the plot device involving processed foods. In “The Last Centurion,” American survival during the bird flu pandemic is attributed to the population’s consumption of processed foods, which supposedly confers resistance to the virus. The reviewer finds this idea “entertainingly stupid,” pointing out the known risks associated with processed foods and questioning the logic behind them somehow preventing bird flu. This plot point is interpreted as another instance of Ringo’s ideological bent, potentially aimed at satirizing liberal viewpoints, although the reviewer expresses uncertainty about the author’s sincerity. The inclusion of such scientifically questionable elements further strains the book’s credibility for readers who value a degree of realism or internal consistency in their science fiction.
Beyond the political and scientific criticisms, the review also touches upon John Ringo’s distinctive writing style. Known for his over-the-top descriptions, particularly of female characters, and his unambiguous portrayal of heroes and villains, Ringo’s style can be divisive. The reviewer uses somewhat sarcastic terms to describe these elements, suggesting that they contribute to a less sophisticated and more juvenile tone. While some readers may find these elements entertaining or characteristic of the genre, others may find them gratuitous and distracting from the narrative. The reviewer ultimately concludes that “The Last Centurion” caters primarily to a specific segment of the audience, those on the “hard right wing,” and suggests that its appeal diminishes significantly for readers outside of that demographic.
In conclusion, “The Last Centurion” by John Ringo, as examined through this critical lens, presents a work deeply embedded in a particular political ideology, utilizing questionable scientific premises and a distinctive, sometimes exaggerated, writing style. While Ringo’s battle scenes and action sequences may still hold appeal for some, the overt political messaging, scientific inaccuracies, and stylistic choices can detract from the reading experience for a broader audience. The review suggests that the book is best suited for readers who already align with Ringo’s political views and are willing to overlook or even embrace the less plausible aspects of the narrative. For others, “The Last Centurion” may prove to be a challenging and ultimately unsatisfying read.
