Contrary Warriors

With the challenge of trying to find proof of secret nuclear research by Iran, what would be the best way to get undercover operatives into the country to look? How about native Americans flying a vintage airplane on a goodwill ambassador air tour? And while that may not seem like the most likely of premises, author Sheryl Wright makes it work in Contrary Warriors. Cousins Cleo Deseonto and Bo Commanda are both assigned to the task force and bring old family problems along with them With their commander Tori Braithwaite, they tour around the world, heading for Iran as just another leg on their trip. All three women have their own agenda, yet have to pull together carry the operation off.

Contrary Warriors is a fun novel with plenty of action, interesting characters, and a fun premise. The use of Native American characters isn’t forced,or felt like it was added on for flavor, but an integrated part of the story and the characters. Bo tries to undercut Cleo, while Cleo is attracted to Tori, and Tori is just trying to get everything working so she can complete what might be an impossible mission. The dialog rings true, and the descriptions of the places they go come to life. The descriptions of the planes and flying come across accurate and make the reader want to fly (or at least visit an air show.) Overall, a good good story to recommend to fans of action thrillers, current events, and military fiction. The focus on three women as main characters steps out of the usual male-dominated thrillers and provides a different perspective that also passes the Bechdel test, where a work of fiction features at least two women who talk to each other about something other than a man.