About The Book
Black Dragon Lake: Life and Death of Sergeant Doc Rhoades by C.D. Strong is a powerful, atmospheric tale of war, loyalty, and the high cost of survival.
In the shadowy town of Black Dragonlake, Life and Death of Sergeant Doc Rhoades unravel in a world where crime runs deep and trust comes at a deadly price. Amidst this chaos, one man’s story rises above the rest.
Sergeant Doc Rhoades, a hardened career soldier, has walked through the fire—from the jungles of Vietnam to secret missions in Central America. Haunted by the ghosts of war and betrayed by the very system he served, Rhoades finds himself at odds with a nation he once swore to protect. Torn between patriotic duty and disillusionment with corrupt leadership, he sets out on one final mission—one that may offer redemption or destroy him for good.
Set against a backdrop of political decay, moral ambiguity, and the relentless cycle of violence, Black Dragon Lake explores the raw truth of what it means to serve, survive, and seek meaning in the aftermath of battle. With pulse-pounding twists, cinematic grit, and unflinching emotional depth, this gripping historical thriller refuses to let go.
C.D. Strong (1963- ) who goes by the name Dave was born in Alabama where he lived with his family until age 3. Then his family moved to middle-Georgia, where he lived until graduating high school. He was raised to the poverty line and some years above it. The times were different during those years in the American deep south. When he graduated high school, the economy was crashing and would remain bad for over a decade. Dave enlisted into the U.S. Army after his graduation from high school. Not knowing that decision would change and alter his life forever.
Over the next twenty-four years, he would serve all over the globe. Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Panama. Europe, most duty in the no longer titled country of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG). Service stateside duties to include, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Fort Ritchie, Maryland, Fort Riley, Kansas and service with the Missouri Army National Guard, he final overseas service was in 2002-2003 during the invasion of Iraq, some calling it “Operation Iraqi Freedom.”
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Charles D. Strong’s works are masterfully crafted, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and delivering stories rich in complexity, suspense, and emotion.
Experience the bestselling story that’s capturing hearts and taking readers on an unforgettable emotional journey.
"In a town cloaked in darkness, Black Dragonlake tells a powerful story of brotherhood, betrayal, and the high cost of loyalty. Follow the Gangrant Dock Shooters as they navigate a world of crime, vengeance, and redemption—where survival isn’t just a skill, it’s a daily battle. Gritty, atmospheric, and packed with pulse-pounding twists, this is a story that grabs you and never lets go."
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"Dragon Lake by Charles D Strong Although a work of fiction, Dragon Lake carries the weight and authenticity of lived experience. Strong’s intimate descriptions of place and his unflinching depictions of war’s horrors—such as the haunting image of "the blood (still) stains his hands"- suggest not only meticulous research but the echo of personal or deeply felt trauma. The storytelling is deceptively simple, yet profoundly moving. As I read, the characters came alive, and the landscapes unfolded so vividly I felt immersed in the world he created. This is more than a war novel; it’s a powerful meditation on the human condition. Strong's writing compelled me to confront the costs of violence and reflect on the enduring question: what has become of our humanity - then and now? I highly recommend Dragon Lake to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the realities of war, or who appreciates fiction that leaves a lasting emotional impact."