MWSA Review
The Jackson MacKenzie Chronicles: Forged in Fire and Blood by Angel Giacomo is a gripping novel about seventeen-year-old Jackson MacKenzie, raised in a military family, who enlists in the Army in December 1951. However, the story begins on April 1, 1985, when Jackson is working on his godfather’s farm. Without giving away a crucial part of the drama, Jackson is severely injured and in his struggle for survival, has a flashback to that day in 1951 and the succeeding years of his life.

Readers will follow the resilient young man through his tour of duty in Korea, where he exhibits extraordinary intelligence and the ability to strategize and lead others. Jackson garners the attention of his superior officers, who recognize his unique talents and leadership abilities. Despite being wounded in combat and suffering deep personal losses, MacKenzie grows in maturity beyond his chronological years. He achieves rank increases as quickly as he qualifies for them and ultimately an appointment to West Point, one of his ultimate goals. What he faces at West Point is, in some aspects, similar to what he experienced in the army, except for the vindictive hazing. Jackson handles the power-crazed retaliation perpetrated against him with the same regimental bearing and steadfastness typical of great leaders.

In the words of General Douglas MacArthur, "A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent."

Author Giacomo has the talent to insert the reader onto the battlefield and into the heart and mind of a young man as he faces unique challenges throughout his life both in service to his country and in civilian life. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love this book.

Review by Nancy Panko (February 2022)
 

Author's Synopsis

USMC Camp Pendleton, 1951. Jackson Joseph MacKenzie, a seventeen-year-old with a calling, enlists in the US Army. He finds himself hip-deep in the muddy trenches, machine gun nests, human wave attacks, and artillery barrages in the Korean War. Does he have the resiliency to keep moving toward his dream after watching his friends die? Is he a leader or a follower? Will he fold under pressure? Or rise to the top? Questions he must answer before reaching for that coveted prize, an appointment to West Point.

ISBN/ASIN: 978-1734567458, 978-1734567496, B094XBM6NX

Book Format(s): Hard cover, Soft cover, Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Literary Fiction

Number of Pages: 164