Ace, 1999, $5.99, ISBN 0-441-00605-1, 281 pages

When you find a series you like, it's good to find all the books at once so you can read them in order. Captain, the third in the series about the Dirigent Mercenary Corps, continues the tradition of fast-paced, intelligent action by competent professionals.

Actually, hero Lon Nolan is still a Lieutenant through most of the book but action on the planet Aldrin forces him to take command one level up. Sure, it's hackneyed, but it works.

What doesn't quite work is the whirlwind 10-minute romance between Nolan and the barkeep's beautiful, thoughtful, and intelligent daughter. And literally, it's 10 minutes in Dirigent Military time--one drink, one meal, and one block of walking. Now Nolan pines for his one true love, Sara Pine. Love at first sight, eh?

But first, Nolan must battle it out on Aldrin, er, after a stint as a contract officer. But enough of the paperwork. And this time, his troops face mortars. What a novelty.

Although less emphasis was placed on combat operations, Shelley fleshes out the character nicely, offering a somewhat welcome break from constant ground operations. Captain is another well-done book in the series.

More in the Dirigent Mercenary Corps series

Officer Cadet Book 1
Lieutenant Book 2
Captain Book 3
Major Book 4
Lieutenant Colonel Book 5