By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Adam Makos's "Tidal Wave: The Pilots, the Princess, and the Enemy Ace—A True Story of Courage and Survival in WWII" is an audacious attempt to weave together disparate narratives from World War II into a cohesive tapestry. The book centers on the infamous 1943 Ploesti raid, where American B-24 bombers targeted Romania's oil refineries, a mission fraught with peril and heavy losses. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/adam-makos/tidal-wave-2/?utm_source=openai))

Makos introduces us to Lieutenant Ernie Poulson, a young American pilot thrust into the chaos of war; Lieutenant Constantin Cantacuzino, a Romanian ace navigating the treacherous waters of allegiance; Princess Catherine Caradja, who defies Nazi occupation to aid downed Allied airmen; and King Michael of Romania, a sidelined monarch plotting his nation's future. ([penguinrandomhouse.com](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/739917/tidal-wave-by-adam-makos/?utm_source=openai)) These characters are undeniably compelling, each offering a unique perspective on the war's complexities.

However, the execution leaves much to be desired. Makos's penchant for dramatization often overshadows the historical facts, leading to a narrative that feels more like a screenplay than a meticulously researched account. The dialogue, at times, borders on the melodramatic, detracting from the gravity of the events described.

Furthermore, while the book is lauded for its cinematic intensity, this approach sacrifices depth for pace. The intricate political dynamics of Romania during the war are glossed over, leaving readers with a superficial understanding of the stakes involved. The portrayal of Princess Caradja, for instance, lacks nuance, reducing her to a one-dimensional figure of defiance without adequately exploring her motivations or the risks she faced.

Critics have noted the book's vivid storytelling, with Kirkus Reviews describing it as "vivid niche history." ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/adam-makos/tidal-wave-2/?utm_source=openai)) Yet, this vividness comes at the cost of accuracy and depth. The narrative's focus on action and heroism overshadows the broader historical context, leaving readers with an incomplete picture of the events.

In conclusion, "Tidal Wave" is a passable read for those seeking a fast-paced war story with clear heroes and villains. However, for readers desiring a nuanced, well-researched account of the Ploesti raid and its surrounding events, this book falls short. Makos's storytelling prowess is evident, but it is undermined by a lack of depth and an overreliance on dramatization.

Recommendation: Read with caution.

written on: 11/12/2026