The Hunt for Red October

by Tom Clancy
The Hunt for Red October cover
Good Books rating 4.21
Thriller/Suspense
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £20.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 1372
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9780425083833
  • Publisher: Collins
  • Published: 1984-01-01
  • Formats: 12
  • Reviews: 4

In 'The Hunt for Red October,' a Soviet submarine captain makes a daring decision that sets off a tense and thrilling chase across the Atlantic. As the American and Soviet fleets race to find the errant submarine, political tensions rise and the fate of the world hangs in the balance. The novel is renowned for its authentic naval detail and suspenseful pacing, making it a classic in the genre. /n/nThe story is not just an action-packed adventure but also a deep dive into the minds of those involved, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the human cost of war. The technical details and strategic maneuvers are so meticulously rendered that they add a layer of realism that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · 2025-10-05
intriguing 3.50

The writing is extraordinary and groundbreaking for the genre, but some elements, like misogyny, detract from the overall experience.

The reviewer praises the writing in 'The Hunt for Red October' as extraordinary, noting that it essentially jumpstarted an entire genre. They highlight the ingenious plot and the technical details that make the book so compelling. However, they also point out that Clancy's mild misogyny and other dated elements detract from the overall reading experience. The reviewer suggests that while the book is a significant work, it's not without its issues, particularly in terms of representation and some of the thematic choices.

Quick quotes

    The writing is extraordinary. No wonder this book basically jumpstarted an entire genre!

    But it isn't 1985, and Clancy's mild misogynism combined with his need to include every single detail about every single piece of equipment.

    The book is a significant work, but it's not without its issues.

Vocal Media · 2023-10-15
intriguing 4.75

The book is celebrated for its high-stakes international conflict and the intriguing character of Jack Ryan. It is considered a must-read in the mystery and thriller genre.

This review emphasizes the high-stakes international conflict that drives the plot, making it a compelling read. The character of Jack Ryan is particularly noted for his intelligence and bravery, which adds depth to the story. The reviewer believes that the book's intricate plot and well-developed characters make it a standout in the mystery and thriller genre. They recommend it as a must-read for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    In Tom Clancy's 'The Hunt for Red October,' CIA analyst Jack Ryan finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes international conflict when a Soviet submarine commander makes a fateful decision.

    The Hunt for Red October is a masterclass in suspense and intrigue, showcasing Clancy's ability to weave a complex plot with real-world implications.

    This novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted thriller with a blend of military strategy and political tension.

Kuba's Blog · 2023-03-19
excellent 4.50

The novel is a great work of military thriller with excellent pacing and multiple perspectives.

The reviewer found 'The Hunt for Red October' to be a great work of military thriller. They particularly appreciated the excellent pacing throughout most of the novel and the constant switching of perspectives, which kept the story engaging. The reviewer also highlighted the ingenious plot and the technical details that make the book so compelling. Overall, they found it to be a highly enjoyable read that showcases Clancy's strengths as a writer.

Quick quotes

    Overall, I found this novel to be a great work of military thriller.

    The excellent pacing throughout most of the novel, the constant switching of perspectives,

    The book is a highly enjoyable read that showcases Clancy's strengths as a writer.

Bookchor · 2023-01-01
thrilling 4.10

The book is highly rated for its intense action and realistic portrayal of military scenarios. Readers find it to be a thrilling and engaging read.

This review highlights the book's intense action and the realistic portrayal of military scenarios, which make it a thrilling read. The reviewer appreciates the detailed and authentic depiction of the military procedures and technology. They find the plot to be engaging and the characters well-developed, making it a standout in the genre. The high rating reflects the reviewer's enthusiasm for the book's ability to keep readers engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    SOMEWHERE UNDER THE ATLANTIC, A SOVIET SUB COMMANDER HAS JUST MADE A FATEFUL DECISION. THE RED OCTOBER IS HEADING WEST.

    A deadly game of hide-and-seek played out in 18 days over 4000 miles of ocean.

    Great read! Great book. Very detailed and interesting.

Appears in Lists