Secrets at Deep Lake by Nancy Wakeley

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MWSA Review Travel blogger and local North Carolina botanical garden owner Kate Tyler is one of a set of triplets born to an unwed teenage mother, Jenny Howard, who gave them up for adoption as babies. Kate and her sister, Becky, were adopted by Clarence and Maggie Tyler. Their brother Billie was adopted by Calvin and Mimi Zink.

Kate is in her thirties at the time of this story. Her sister had already died in an accident soon after purchasing Howards’ Walk, an estate owned by the parents of their birth mother, Jenny. Tending to the property Kate inherited from Becky, Kate found birth certificates in a trunk. They revealed she was one of a set of triplets. She did not think her sister knew about their brother Billie, and his existence was a surprise to her, also. What struck her like a hard blow was the blank line on the birth certificates where their father’s name should have been. It smacked of “I do not want you.”

As she brings the brother she never knew into her life, Kate realizes he has some developmental and physical problems. On very good terms with Billie’s adoptive mother Mimi, Kate, her boyfriend Ben, and Billie build a warm and loving relationship together. When Kate is informed Billie may need a kidney transplant, she is determined to learn more about her biological parents, who may need to consider being a donor in the future, should Billie need a new kidney.

The “I do not want you” theme runs through Nancy Wakeley’s Secrets at Deep Lake as Kate tries to unravel the mystery of who her birth father is, if he is alive, and if he wants any relationship with her and Billie. Her research takes her to upstate New York. Under the guise of writing her travel blog, she locates the wealthy Wingate Family and attends the annual wine festival at their popular vineyard, curious as to what relationship she may have to them, if any.

As revelations emerge and secrets are exposed about the Wingate family as well as her birth mother, Kate must confront her fear of being rejected again. With Ben supporting her throughout her journey of discovery, Kate slowly emerges as a more tolerant person who understands the decisions made when she was only an infant. Will she find the closure she so desperately needs not only for Billie, but also for herself?

Secrets at Deep Lake will resonate with anyone who has yearned to find a birth parent, as well as the reader who enjoys a good mystery.

Review by Pat Walkow (March 2024)

 

Author's Synopsis

When Kate Tyler learns that her brother may need a kidney transplant, she has no choice but to unravel the mystery of her biological parents' health history. Given only her birth mother's name to start her search, she begins untangling the threads of her past despite her own desire to leave it all alone. Undeterred by the risk of a second betrayal, she follows the leads to the Wingate family, a well-off presence in the New York State wine scene.

Using her travel blog as a cover, Kate inserts herself into the Wingate family's wine festival, hoping to quietly confirm her suspicions of her father's identity. But as the Wingates close ranks to protect their own, painful secrets come to light with devastating consequences. Only the truth can lead these broken families to forgiveness and healing.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Literary Fiction

Number of Pages: 258

Word Count: 76,000

Finding Waypoints by Terese Schlachter and Colonel Gregory Gadson (ret.)

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MWSA Review

Finding Waypoints: A Warrior’s Journey Towards Peace and Purpose is a highly impactful book introducing readers to an amazing man who not only survives catastrophic injuries, but excels in his recovery, due to his resilient nature. From the gridiron to combat and back, Colonel Greg Gadson demonstrates the power of belief and reliance on teammates and family in this inspirational story.

The prologue sets the stage well for how the story will be told. Pentagon Channel then-reporter Terese Schlachter meets Gadson while covering a story at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He literally “tumbles” into her life. Her excellent research and first-hand observations make the reader feel as if he or she is there in many of the scenes. She is also a gifted writer and storyteller whose closeness to her co-author Gadson and his family shines through in her words.

All the characters come to life, and the emotions range from hopelessness to humor to unconditional love. This book should be required reading for the military’s reading lists as an example of believing in what one can do and following personal waypoints to create and achieve success.

Review by Valerie Ormond (February 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

In military jargon, the word “waypoints” refers to guideposts on a map used to direct soldiers in or out of a location like a rendezvous point. For Colonel Greg Gadson—a battalion commander and former West Point football player— who lost both legs as a result of an IED attack in Iraq in 2007, these waypoints were to change drastically, and inform his future life through his long, painful recovery and emergence as a spiritual guide and assistant coach to the NY Giants during their own trials of fire in the 2007 season that took them from last place to a Super Bowl championship in 2008. Soon after, Gadson also starred in a major motion picture (“Battleship”) and since then has become a motivational speaker for thousands of individuals, both civilian and military, and leader for veterans’ programs and outdoor experiential healing expeditions. This honest and deeply personal story of transformation from battlefield leader to speaker and life coach, will inspire readers to consider their own waypoints towards their own life’s betterment and the lives of those around them.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 341

Word Count: 96,000

My Navy! by Lieutenant Hans G. Fett

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MWSA Review

The title of this memoir rightly includes an exclamation point. The author delivers this very personal account of his 23-year career in the U.S. Navy with passion and, yes, joy.

Son of immigrants, the author chose the Navy as an avenue out of an unfavorable home situation and never looked back. Hans Fett married his high school sweetheart and reported to his first duty station on the same day. The following years would see him advancing through the enlisted ranks and literally seeing the world in uniform. Through hard work and determination, he earned his officer’s commission and ultimately joined the Navy’s elite flight demonstration Team, the world-famous Blue Angels.

My Navy! is more than just an account of one man’s experiences in uniform. The author tells his story in a positive and enthusiastic style. His love for the service comes through consistently, regardless of his duty assignments or personal setbacks. He often pauses to provide informative details about the ships and systems he encounters and does not pass up the opportunity to conduct a mini travelogue about the countries where he is stationed.

Lieutenant Hans G. Fett’s parting words say it best: “The Navy was there for me when I needed it. I did my part for my Navy, and my Navy stood by me.”

My Navy! should be required reading for every new Navy recruit, right alongside The Bluejacket’s Manual. Navy recruiters ought to have it on their desks as a tool for filling their quotas.

Review by Peter Young (April 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

My Navy! is a rare and fascinating insider’s look at the Navy’s world-famous flight demonstration squadron, the “Blue Angels,” written by former team member Lieutenant Hans “Boba” Fett, United States Navy, retired.

Follow the author’s journey to the “Blue Angels,” starting as a 17-year-old Seaman Recruit who ascended the top rung of the enlisted ladder as a Master Chief Petty Officer, earned two degrees, a commission as an Ensign, literally sailed the seven seas aboard five ships to over 30 countries, and took part in three hostilities, including the Vietnam War, and the seminal event in the War Against Terror: the Iran Hostage Crisis.

Written in an easy-to-read style, and filled with interesting facts about Navy ships, aircraft, weapons systems, ports of call, and events of historical military significance. Learn about shipboard life, aircraft carrier flight operations, skills required and dangers associated with becoming a naval aviator, and other fascinating topics.

An informative adventure and travelogue. Contains a glossary of naval terminology, and numerous official and personal color photographs. Designed to appeal to a wide readership. A must-read for fans of the Blue Angels.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 204

Word Count: 50,651

The Million Dollar Club by Marlené Carter

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MWSA Review

Someone is killing off the millionaires. Author Marlene Carter brings us an intriguing mystery in her book The Million Dollar Club. From page one, Carter guides the reader into her protagonist's hunt to identify the person behind a series of murders. At first, they seem unrelated, but the connection to the murders of three separate members of the Million Dollar Club provides a definite link.

Carter's protagonist, an investigative reporter and blogger, becomes obsessed with tracking down those responsible. Despite warnings from the police, her family, and her friends to back off, she aggressively digs deeper. As a result, friends and family members get attacked, and someone tries to kill her. Refusing to be deterred, even when a link to the Russian mob is established, Carter's protagonist keeps pursuing her target.

This is an easy-to-read mystery that most fans of the genre should enjoy.

Review by Bob Doerr (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

The Million Dollar Club is a mystery/suspense novel that takes place in Seattle Washington. Men of an elite private club are being murdered one by one. The killer has an insatiable thirst for justice and believes death is the only solution. Detective Cian Molloy along with Amara, a pesky blogger and magazine investigative journalist are trying to learn why and who is behind the killing. The story takes the reader through twists and turns until the killer or killers are revealed and why. The killer garners a massive following on social media which only hampers the investigation. Tick Tock...time is running out as the body count continues to rise.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Mystery/Thriller/Crime

Number of Pages: 408

Word Count: 124,911

The List: A Vince Torelli Mystery, Book 4 by John R Schembra

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MWSA Review

The List by John Schembra is a mystery set in San Francisco that begins when a naked corpse is found in the 19th-century tunnel system beneath the city. Detective Vince Torelli is on the case and soon begins to receive cryptic notes from the killer, taunting the detective to catch him and promising that there will be more bodies.

The serial killer, John Bruber, is a complex character. Bullied unmercifully in grade school, he vows to murder each person who took part in his mental and physical torture. Buber fancies himself to be of higher intelligence than Detective Torelli and the police in general, because he manages to elude the police after every murder, leaving no evidence behind. As the cops determine Bruber’s motive, the killer becomes more anxious and slips up. Vince Torelli must stop John Bruber from killing again, and all the law enforcement resources are called into play.

The cat and mouse game had me on the edge of my seat, and I had a difficult time putting the book down. I appreciate a good crime mystery written by a cop. As a reader, I enjoy getting a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes investigations. The List did not disappoint.

Review by Nancy Panko (April (2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

A recently mutilated, naked corpse is found in an early 19th century tunnel under San Francisco. With no forensic evidence, solving the crime seems nearly impossible

After San Francisco Homicide Inspector Vince Torelli begins investigating, notes from the killer, addressed to him,start showing up. Vince realizes this murder may be the first of several, leading him on a deadly, multi-state investigation.

Format(s) for review: Paper or Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Mystery/Thriller/Crime

Number of Pages: 233

Word Count: 59,000

Letters Home: reflections of a Marine rifleman by George Berg

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MWSA Review

Letters Home: Reflections of a Combat Rifleman by George Berg is a memoir of his time as a combat rifleman in Vietnam. Although it’s clear that veterans had vastly different experiences there—based on their military occupational specialty—this might be the most comprehensive and soul-searing account of the Vietnam War that I have ever read. Taut firefights are interspersed with candid emotions laced with observations that are deep, often lyrical, and immensely insightful—the product of the reflections mentioned in the title.

In this book, we follow 19-year-old George Berg through enlistment, training, deployment, the daily grind in country, combat, wounding in action, hospital recovery, and subsequent attempts at reintegration, showing the specific effects of combat on his young psyche. It’s clear to see the incalculable cost of war that was borne disproportionately by the “grunts.”

Each chapter is based on a month in country and chronicles important events as well as the day-to-day grind, explaining actions, conditions, and results—many times deadly serious but sometimes comical. Of note, each chapter is accompanied by a song title of a contemporaneous song that provides the musical backdrop of the era as well as foretelling the contents of the chapter. Looking up the lyrics or listening to the song before reading the chapter will get you “in the groove.”

The thing that sets this memoir apart from others is the reflective nature of the content and the writing skill of the author. The prose is insightful and sometimes even lyrical. Details are so vivid that the reader can see, sense, and even smell the surroundings the author describes. The reader, however, will have to overlook a number of spelling errors as well as navigate through punctuation that impedes his progress. 

Review by Betsy Beard (April 2024)

 

Author's Synopsis

Letters Home is written from letters home to family, official U.S. Marine Corps documents, military maps, conversations with fellow Marines, and hospital records. The author recounts his very personal combat experiences as an infantry rifleman in Vietnam. It is a candid and often uncomfortably frank description of the brutal conditions Marines faced in Vietnam in 1968. That year was the most violent of the entire war for the Marines; the operational tempo was extreme and unrelenting. During the long hot summer, the new Marine was challenged with ethical and moral dilemmas and decisions…

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 216

Word Count: 71,000

Deadly Depths by John F. Dobbyn

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MWSA Review

John Dobbyn’s Deadly Depths is not a mystery thriller—it’s two action-packed thrillers! A pirate story, tucked within a complicated multi-murder mystery, is so intriguing it could stand on its own.

Archeologist Barry Holmes dies by suicide (not!). His protégé and dear friend, law professor Matthew Shane, embarks on a treacherous and tenacious quest to find out who killed Holmes. Holmes was one of five members of a secret society in search of an elusive treasure. Matt traipses all over the world, following cryptic clues, jumping through hoops, trying to stay one step ahead of an unknown, but quite dangerous enemy, not knowing who to trust. Clarity for Matt only begins to set in when he meets Mr. Mehmed and his daughter, who explain: When the Spanish attempted to decimate the Aztec culture in the name of Christianity, a particular statue (“jeweled facets set in the purest gold, standing higher than my waist”) was salvaged. It was the ultimate cultural, financial, and spiritual possession; the secret location was handed down from leader to leader.

Matt’s escapades include deadly baboons, alligators, snakes, and diving down to a sunken slave ship in an attempt to retrieve a 400-year-old pirate’s journal. “I followed him through that particular moment that only those who dive can comprehend—an instantaneous passing, as through Alice’s looking glass, into a world as alien as outer space, the submerged realm of the sea.” This reader was mesmerized by the tale (or is it historical fact?) documented by the young protégé of the famous privateer, Captain Morgan.

Whether describing horrifying scenarios or jet-setting yachts and mansions, complete with delicious meals (“croissants so light they required fresh butter and jam to keep them on the plate”), Deadly Depths doesn’t disappoint. It’s consistently vivid, with an air of suspense from beginning to end.

Review by Sue Rushford (February 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

Five adventuring archeologist, self-dubbed The Monkey's Paws are drawn into a quest for a priceless object that originated in the Aztec Kingdom of the fifteenth century, appeared again in the golden age of piracy on the Caribbean, and was finally located in the Jamaican mountain village of the former slaves known as the Maroons. The death of one of the archeologists, called a suicide by the police, involves Michael Shane in the mission to prove that it was murder. The search takes Michael, a former investigator with United States Air Force Intelligence, from the steamy bayous of New Orleans to the backstreets of Montreal and a sunken pirate vessel in the Caribbean.

Format(s) for review: Paper or Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Mystery/Thriller/Crime

Number of Pages: 307

Word Count: 87,000

Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories by Jen McDonald

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MWSA Review

Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength through Our Stories by Jen McDonald is a collection of thoughts and nuggets of advice for military spouses with any length of service. But it is so much more. Much of the material would also offer comfort and strength to single parents, widows and widowers, and civilian family members or friends seeking a better understanding of the military. Some of the advice applies to every human being, like this gem on page 117: “There is never a guarantee of another single day. Live each day the best you can and squeeze all the life out of it that you can get. Don’t take your loved ones for granted. Love them.”

McDonald’s sage advice is interspersed with personal anecdotes that allow readers to identify with her, accept their own emotional responses, and normalize their experiences. Often, we isolate ourselves, thinking we are the only ones, and this book negates that thinking, drawing the reader into the community of others who have walked before us on a similar path. McDonald also quotes seasoned spouses, showing the reader that they can also find the strength to deal with life’s vicissitudes.

Although the book is specific to the military experience, the style of writing and the engaging use of humor will appeal to others in many walks of life.

Review by Betsy Beard (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

You knew what you signed up for. These words are often directed at military spouses, yet the true depth of what it will mean to be married to a service member is seldom fully grasped. In Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories, readers are immersed in the captivating world of military spouse life, unearthing the challenges and triumphs faced by those who leave behind the familiar to embrace a life of constant change.

Authored by Jen McDonald, this compelling narrative weaves together the experiences of military spouses across generations, illuminating the unbreakable bonds that unite them. With a keen focus on the impact of frequent relocations, deployments, and the nomadic nature of military life, McDonald also celebrates these spouses’ resolute tenacity. Drawing from her personal three-decade journey as a military spouse, alongside stories from contemporary spouses and those from the Korean War and Vietnam conflict eras, Milspouse Matters reveals the remarkable strength within this community.

Whether you’re seeking courage, confidence, or a deeper understanding of the military family experience, these shared stories invite you to discover the unyielding resilience that lies within us all.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 251

Word Count: 66,153

A Victor's Tale by Doc Westring

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MWSA Review

In A Victor's Tale: The Story of Milo Flaten, One of the GIs who Led the Invasion of Omaha Beach on D-Day, author Doc Westring brings to life the remarkable story of a World War II veteran who witnessed and participated in some of the most pivotal moments of the war. Through Milo Flaten's eyes, readers are transported to the front lines, experiencing the chaos, bravery, and sacrifice that defined the Allied victory in Europe.

Drafted in 1943, Milo Flaten's journey takes him from the shores of Omaha Beach on D-Day to the bitter battles across France and Germany. As the first scout off his landing craft, Flaten's firsthand account of the invasion is both harrowing and awe-inspiring. His story, meticulously preserved by Westring, offers a rare glimpse into the realities faced by the soldiers who fought to liberate Europe from Nazi oppression.

A Victor's Tale is more than just a war story; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds forged in the heat of battle. Flaten's experiences, from his grave injury in 1944 to his continued service in Korea, paint a vivid picture of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation. As the number of living World War II veterans dwindles, this book serves as an essential record of their heroism and a reminder of the horrors of war.

Westring's engaging narrative style brings Milo Flaten's story to life, ensuring that his legacy and the legacy of countless other brave soldiers will endure for generations to come. A Victor's Tale is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human experience of World War II and the profound impact it had on those who fought in it.

Review by Elvis Leighton (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

While it's likely most of us have never wanted to go to war and face combat, many of us are nevertheless fascinated by the experiences of men and women who have.

This book is about a man who served as a rifleman in World War II, and was one of the first GIs to land on Omaha Beach on D-Day.A man who survived the landing and continued to fight through France and Germany until the Nazis finally surrendered.

His memories of those experiences have been preserved in a new book by Doc Westring entitled A Victor’s Tale: The Story of Milo Flaten, One of the GIs who Led the Invasion of Omaha Beach on D-Day.

Milo was drafted in June 1943, and after training in the states, was shipped to England, where he was assigned to a company in the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division. That company would be in the first wave of soldiers invading Normandy. As that company’s 1st scout, Milo was the first man off his landing craft and the first on shore. He eventually realized he might have been the first GI to land on Omaha.

Follow his path as he survived the invasion carnage, and continued to fight through Europe in some of the bitterest, bloodiest battles of World War II. After becoming a highly decorated and respected senior sergeant, he was gravely wounded in November 1944. He recovered completely, rejoined his division, and was in combat until Germany surrendered on May 7, 1945.

With the personal stories of so many World War II veterans now lost forever, we are privileged to have this man’s life available to us. His remarkable exploits are here, from the day he was drafted to the end of the war in Europe, along with his further service in Korea and his fascinating military and non-military life thereafter.

Walk with Milo and experience the insanity and terrible heartbreak that is war—and the relief, if not exuberance, that comes with victory and peace.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 204

Word Count: 58,097

Somewhere In The South Pacific by John J. Gobbell

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MWSA Review

Somewhere in the South Pacific is the seventh book in the Todd Ingram series of military historical novels centered on the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific and elsewhere. Not having read any of the previous books, initially, I was slightly concerned that it would be an awkward read, not being able to adequately divine the back stories of the characters as laid down in the previous books. Fortunately, this was not the case in this book, and in fact, the main character of the series, USN Lieutenant Todd Ingram, is recuperating stateside from wounds incurred during the brutal Guadalcanal Campaign and is also sidelined waiting for his next command, a new destroyer coming out of the shipyard.

Somewhere in the South Pacific tells the story of valiant, outgunned Patrol Boat, Torpedo (PT) sailors that have been called upon to make night attacks on armed Japanese barges bringing supplies and reinforcements to beleaguered Imperial forces at the beginning of the “island hopping” campaign that would bring about the eventual Japanese defeat. While the barges are no easy targets, Japanese destroyers or aircraft can pop at any time to turn the hunters into the hunted. The author more than adequately lays out the trials and tribulations of the PT crews while gradually, subtly, and obliquely shifting the focus of the story to a new replacement PT skipper, none other than Lieutenant j.g John F. Kennedy.

Tracking closely to actual history, Kennedy’s character emerges as the “new” guy who enjoys a bit of slack from his new combat-weary contemporaries for Kennedy’s performance during the past year as an instructor at the PT boat school, and as a natural sailor. Bucking his father’s manipulations of the Navy to keep him out of combat, Kennedy finds a way to get into harm’s way, both because it is the right thing to do, but also wanting to ensure he can say he saw action for future political considerations. It helps that occasionally Kennedy runs into someone who has no idea who Kennedy is, other than just another junior officer. It is only in the last few chapters that the book focuses mainly on the famous fate of Kennedy and his PT109 crew.

The story and subplots flow smoothly, and the author excels at describing the exhaustive, always-on-edge life of the PT crews operating at the very end of supply lines and fighting the multilevel threats of the tropical maritime environment, not to mention the deadly Imperial Japanese forces. This novel will be of interest to any readers interested in naval action, especially in the Pacific during World War Two, as well as those interested in the Kennedy saga.

Review by Terry Lloyd (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

Inspired by the true story of John F. Kennedy’s daring naval mission at the height of World War II, this historical thriller brings the unanswered question of the past to life with fast-paced action and vivid detail.

After surviving a near suicidal mission on Mondo Mondo Island, Lieutenant Commander Todd Ingram is sent back to the States on a thirty-day leave—but the war waits for no one, and trouble is already rippling through the Pacific Theater.

Fresh from Stateside training, Lieutenant JG John Kennedy takes command of the PT 109, a torpedo boat in desperate need of repairs, for the upcoming mission to retake the Western Solomon Islands. But the war isn’t the only thing on Kennedy’s mind: he’s torn between his family’s expectations and his forbidden love for Inga Arvad, a beautiful Danish columnist who narrowly escaped Nazi occupied Germany.

When a disastrous attempt to interrupt Japanese supply lines slices Kennedy’s PT 109 in half, Ingram and his six destroyers must pick up where Kennedy left off. Can Ingram save Kennedy and his stranded men while defeating the Japanese? Ingram is prepared to fight to the end, but victory comes at a steep price behind enemy lines…

In this 7th Installment, Todd Ingram reflects back on a simpler time, when he was on leave but the war was not. This is the story of what happened during his 39 day leave following When Duty Whispers Low, and takes place between When Duty Whispers Low and The Neptune Strategy.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Historical Fiction

Number of Pages: 292

Word Count: 80,217

Phoenix Rising: From the Ashes of Desert One to the Rebirth of U.S. Special Operations by Col. (Ret) Keith M. Nightingale

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MWSA Review

Phoenix Rising is a two-part, behind-the-curtain story on the failed 1981 Desert One Iran hostage rescue attempt and the subsequent years-long effort to build a viable strategic Special Operations capability across the U.S. military.

The author was one of the principal planners of the Iran hostage rescue attempt. The first half of the book consists of his detailed notes and observations of the planning staff’s struggle to assemble, train, and transport a rescue force forged from disparate elements of Army Special Forces and Rangers, as well as Navy, initially, and then Marine helicopter pilots and crews, along with Air Force C-130 operators.

This is a fascinating account of the “heroes and zeros” involved with making this mission possible and those determined not to see it happen. Along with the usual Pentagon politics, dysfunction, and service parochialism, the stubborn adversity of the Central Intelligence Agency and State Department are prominently highlighted and explored. This part of the book is extremely exciting and reads like a documentary-style screenplay like Apollo 13.

The second part of the book takes us through the tireless efforts, including those in Congress, to get a recalcitrant Pentagon and service chiefs to create the seamless, highly capable special operations capability that exists today. This part of the story is extremely detailed, and a bit dry, but unavoidable given the subject.

Individuals interested in special operations will not be disappointed in this book, as well as those interested in the Iran hostage crisis and this phase of the Cold War.

Review by Terry Lloyd (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

“As a junior officer and the lowest ranking 'gopher' at the creation of these forces, I saw how the several Services had great reservations regarding SOF to the point of studied dislike of it and a distinct distaste for its inclusion as a member of their force structure. The single lone exception was Army Chief of Staff Shy Myer, who saw terrorism and asymmetrical warfare as the emerging National threat and worked to build a missing capability. He did this as a lone wolf in that much of the Army leadership as well as the other Services, looked upon SOF as a high-risk loose cannon on their stable conventional deck.”

Phoenix Rising recounts the paradoxical birth of SOF through the prism of Operation Eagle Claw, the failed attempt to rescue fifty-two Americans held hostage in the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. When terrorists captured the Embassy on November 4, 1979, the Joint Chiefs of Staff quickly realized that the United States lacked the military capability to launch a rescue. There was no precedent for the mission, a mission that came with extraordinary restrictions and required a unique force to take it on. With no existent command structure or budget, this force would have to be built from scratch in utmost secrecy, and draw on every branch of the U.S. military.

Keith Nightingale, then a major, was Deputy Operations Officer and the junior member of Joint Task Force Eagle Claw, commanded by Major General James Vaught. Based on Nightingale’s detailed diary, Phoenix Rising vividly describes the personalities involved, the issues they faced, and the actions they took, from the conception of the operation to its hair-raising launch and execution. His historically significant post-analysis of Eagle Claw gives unparalleled insight into how a very dedicated group of people from the Chief of Staff of the Army to lower-ranking personnel subjugated personal ambition to grow the forces necessary to address the emerging terrorist threat—a threat which the majority of uniformed leadership and their political masters denied in 1979. The Special Operations capability of the United States today is the ultimate proof of their success.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—History

Number of Pages: 336

Word Count: 90,199

When Legends Lived, Vol 2 by R. C. Morris

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MWSA Review

When Legends Lived by R. C. Morris begins 25 years after Volume I Gone to Texas. Jericho McCain has been retired from the Texas Rangers for five years and has purchased a horse farm with his friend and fellow Ranger Roosevelt “Rosie” Poe. However, their sense of duty remains strong, and they are lured back to their hazardous work when their old nemesis Scar as well as some Comanches attack the railroad and surrounding farms, affecting the railroad's profits. With authority from the governor and the U. S. President, the railroad hires McCain and Poe to clean up this area of Texas. While they have aged, they are still fearsome and focused. Along the way, they rescue stolen women, remove other criminals, and spend months on the trail. While Texas is becoming more civilized, these two crime fighters are still needed. A well told story.

Review by Nancy Kauffman (April 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

In Volume 2, When Legends Lived, Jericho's story continues as he, his Texas Ranger partner Roosevelt Poe, and their fellow Rangers help usher a wild and violent territory into statehood. You’ll find many villains to loath, the lawmen righted wrongs, justice prevailed. Those who read Westerns likely relish the violent moments in the “Name of Justice”! Morris, a retired Army officer familiar with combat, captures the conflicting varied elements through often spare and stark scenes of violent battles that depict both courage and cowardice. Ultimately, as is the tradition in classic westerns, Jericho’s story is a tale of honor, one that celebrates our deeper humanity as depicted in the honorable actions’ men perform in battle, as well as the humor they express and the heartfelt emotions they mask in tragic moments.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Historical Fiction

Number of Pages: 668

Word Count: 194,162

Gone To Texas, Vol 1 by R. C. Morris

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MWSA Review

“Gritty, period-authentic Western” is the apt description of Gone to Texas by R. C. Morris according to his widow, Brenda Morris, who shepherded this book to publication. The novel clearly depicts the rough and lawless world of the frontier in the 1840s and 50s as Jericho McCain searches for his older brother, who left their home in Tennessee earlier. After burying the rest of his family who died from “the fever,” Jericho travels from the Blue Ridge Mountains in Tennessee through Mississippi to Texas where his shooting skills attract one of the Texas Rangers, a group known for its aggressive and fearsome fighting in both taming lawlessness and in fighting the invading Mexicans who want to take back their territory. McCain has the skills, strength, and temperament the Rangers seek. He never gives up despite incredible hardships.

Review by Nancy Kauffman (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

This is a gritty, period-authentic Western for hard-core Western afficionados. An exciting generational saga that spans 85 years, a two-volume series follows the exploits of Jericho D. McCain who, as a young boy in 1845, leaves his home in the Blue Ridge Mountains after burying his entire family--save his older brother Taylor who had left for Texas not knowing his family's fate. Jericho travels alone to find Taylor, having no idea where he might be or if he’ll ever see him again. In Vol One: Gone to Texas, we follow Jericho as he makes his way to Texas and encounters dangerous desperadoes, unusual allies, a first love--and a series of unexpected events that leads him to becoming a Texas Ranger. It’s a history of men called upon to use violence to remedy the acts of violent men. Jericho’s journey to manhood takes place as Texas and Zachary Taylor’s army are fighting the forces of Santa Anna. An elite group of Rangers offer hope of interceding in the violence wrought by evil men.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Historical Fiction

Number of Pages: 356

Word Count: 96,611

The Human Face of D-Day by Keith Nightingale

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MWSA Review

There have been so many books written about D-Day. In The Human Face of D-Day, Col. (ret.) Keith Nightingale adds to the wealth of D-Day knowledge. He has led many trips to Normandy, conducted tours of the beaches and towns, and arranged for the paratroopers under his command to participate in a reenactment parachute drop on the 40th anniversary of D-Day. His book adds depth of understanding to what happened immediately before, during, and after June 6, 1944.

He talked to many "Originals"—the survivors of the invasion and battle. He mingled with French citizens who witnessed that day. Over decades, while walking the beaches of Normandy and through formal interviews, he gathered information from major players whether they were generals or privates in 1944. The book, therefore, focuses a great deal on the people, not only in a macro sense, but also as individuals. And therein lies the human face of D-Day.

The author explains what was planned for each assault location. He informs the reader what was supposed to occur for Omaha Beach, or Utah Beach, or Pointe du Hoc, and many other locations. Then he juxtaposes the plans with what happened, which was often quite different. We hear specific soldiers recount their actions, thoughts, and feelings about battle. After reading these accounts, one is convinced that in addition to the planning for Operation Overlord (as the invasion was called), it was the grit and commitment of the soldiers that ultimately made D-Day successful.

Some takeaways I gathered from this book were the bravery of the troops, their willingness to deviate from orders based on the situations before them, the devastating amount of carnage, and the still-warm gratefulness of the people of Normandy. They have never forgotten that so many young men who were not French died for the liberation of France and Europe.

Throughout this well-researched work, Keith Nightingale makes it abundantly clear, in his own words, that in early June 1944, thousands of “ordinary people did extraordinary things.”

Anyone interested in World War II, D-Day, the bravery of both troops and civilians during an invasion, and true accounts of people involved in the drama of Operation Overlord will find this book appealing.

Review by Pat Walkow (March 2024)

 

Author's Synopsis

Ever since Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy, the men who survived have sought to return, to honor their dead, and to teach others of what they went through to liberate Europe.

Soldier Keith Nightingale has conducted terrain walks in Normandy for over forty years with veterans, active-duty military, and local French civilians. Over the decades Nightingale conducted dozens of formal interviews and informal conversations with many of the principals of the day, including Generals Bradley, Collins, Gavin, Ridgway and Hill. Added to this rare, new primary material from the top brass are numerous conversations with lower-ranking vets who did the heavy lifting, many of which took place as they actually walked the battlefield with Nightingale—Major Howard of Pegasus Bridge; LTC Otway of Merville Battery; Captain Piper of La Fière Bridge; LTC Vandervoort, CO of the 2-505/82d; Cpt Raeen of the 5th Rangers; Lt Dick Winters of Brécourt Manor; PFC Marcucci of Omaha Beach; and SSG Lem Lomell of Pointe Du Hoc.

This unique approach to D-Day combines the author’s discussions with veteran and civilian participants in D-Day, his personal reflections on Operation Overlord, and the insights that occur—often at the very site of a battle. Interspersed with veterans’ remarks, Nightingale’s personal essays are inspired by specific discussions or multiple interviews. Taken together, the succinct, human observations of these participants illuminate the hard facts to create a unique work of long-lasting interest that will attract specialists, military history buffs, armchair generals, and general readers alike.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—History

Number of Pages: 288

Word Count: 137,342

The Drums of War: An Autobiography by William A. Corbett, Editor

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MWSA Review

In The Drums of War, T.C. Corbett takes readers on a poignant journey through the tumultuous landscape of World War I and its aftermath. Edited by his son, William Corbett, this autobiographical narrative offers a rare glimpse into the life of a young pilot, Cy Corbett, as he navigates the exhilarating yet perilous world of early aviation, which had a higher death rate than that of soldiers at the front.

Set against the backdrop of 1918, Corbett delves deep into the heart of his experiences, chronicling his rigorous flight training, filled with adrenaline-fueled flights, forced landings, and a brush with death. Despite the inherent dangers, Corbett finds solace in the thrill of flight, only to have his aspirations abruptly halted by the sudden end of the war before he has a chance to deploy to Europe. The transition to civilian life proves to be a tumultuous one, marked by confusion, loss, and the enduring specter of trauma. The Drums of War serves not only as a chronicle of early military aviation but also an unfiltered glimpse into Cy Corbett's world. His commitment to transparency and honesty underscores the genuine nature of this autobiographical work.

Through sections of prose that sometimes flow like poetry, Corbett captures the essence of his journey, offering readers an intimate portrayal of his innermost thoughts and emotions. His narrative oscillates between moments of exhilaration and despair, providing a nuanced exploration of courage, adversity, and the enduring human spirit.

The Drums of War stands as a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. It is a narrative that weaves together history, aviation, and personal introspection, offering readers a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served.

Review by Elvis Leighton (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

The Great War is replete with stories about war hero pilots who fought overseas. But little has been told of the 11,000 Americans who trained to fly and never made it “over there.” Then, one cadet died for every eighteen pilots who lived to earn their wings.

In The Drums of War, former pilot and newspaperman T.C. “Cy” Corbett relates his experience of a hundred years ago through original flight journals, diaries, and reflections written decades later, assembled and edited by his son, who discovered the writings after his father' s death.

The author's personal journals contain reflections not only about his sixteen forced landings and one bad crash, but about his undiagnosed injuries--both mental and physical--that plagued him throughout his life. Though at the time 'shell shock' was widely recognized, little was known about other deleterious effects of strenuous flight training. It is evident from the author's writings that he most likely suffered from a form of PTSD long before the condition was recognized to exist.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 246

Word Count: 67,000

Latina Warrior by Colonel Lisa Carrington Firmin, USAF (Ret.)

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MWSA Review

The poems and artwork in Latina Warrior offer a riveting look at life in the military for female service members, especially those traumatized by sexual violence. But the book is not at all despair-laden, with delightfully upbeat praise-poems to mentors and mentees, fellow soldiers, and soul sisters. The book is divided into four main sections with fast-paced, easy to follow poems as the speaker moves through childhood and family life, into the military and combat, then life after the military, then the healing "road to authenticity." The fifth and final section of the book is an unusual and unexpected but fascinating addition: brief reflections by both writer and artist on each art and poem entry.

A word about the art by Christina Helferich-Polosky that accompanies each poem: these are not mere illustrations but deeply responsive visual interpretations of the written words. Many are collages in which the poet's words are superimposed onto photographs or watercolor or acrylic drawings. Each art piece is unique in style and materials. One of my favorites, which partners with a poem about the death of a marriage, is of a skeleton-couple in wedding attire facing away from each other.

Together the poems and art of Latina Warrior create a truly compelling book. The message it offers is important and necessary, a message of hope and healing, particularly for women in the military who have suffered trauma. Thanks to both poet and artist for this truly stunning book!"

Review by Nancy Arbuthnot (April 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

Latina Warrior is a collection of poems, prose, and art that chronicles the author/poet's journey in a deeply personal, sometimes humorous, intense, and explicit expression. It is in a unique collaborative hybrid format. Latina Warrior is a collaboration with fellow Bronze Star-decorated combat veteran and artist Major Christina Helferich-Polosky, who beautifully illustrated the poems with original art. Both Lisa and Christina provide their insight into each poem and art piece in a section titled Reflections, offering the reader a peek into their powerful collaboration and each of their creative minds.

Lisa's poetry celebrates the joys of her Latina culture, family and life and does not shy away from the intensity of combat, leadership, imposter syndrome, divorce, PTSD or military sexual trauma experiences. Latina Warrior demonstrates the power of using artistic expression to move beyond pain to heal deeply buried wounds. It is an anthem of overcoming barriers to come out stronger, never letting the demons of discrimination, sexual assault, or combat be victorious. Christina created original art for all 50 poems in this collection and her diverse and unique multimedia art brings Lisa's poems to a whole another level of artistic expression. Together, these women combat veterans have created a unique blueprint for others to start and traverse their own healing journeys.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Poetry—Poetry Book

Number of Pages: 196

Word Count: 30,862

The Soul Whisperer's Decision by Gwen M. Plano

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MWSA Review

A nurse at a local hospital, Sarah Jameson enjoys a fulfilling life with her husband and two young children. Close to home, she and the children are in a devastating automobile accident. A drunk driver plows into them, killing both children and leaving Sarah near death with severe injuries, including brain trauma.

When Sarah’s heart stopped on the operating table, she saw her children safe and happy in heaven. Somehow, she has the option to decide whether to die and be with them or return to her husband.

Her husband, Jack, is beyond distraught, and the accident triggers his PTSD from his involvement in the war in Afghanistan. Unable to cope and ready to commit suicide, he leaves his wife in the hospital, where she has been in a coma for a few weeks. Without telling anyone, he heads to Spain, meets up with a military friend, and they undertake a pilgrimage—The Camino Santiago—for introspection and healing.

Still in a coma, Sarah is left in the hospital. If she decides to be with her children in heaven, what will happen to Jack? If she returns to be with Jack, what will happen to their marriage?

This novel of faith and spirituality may appeal to many people. It touches on hope, faith, and the unknown. It is a quick and encouraging—a simple, optimistic read.

Review by Patricia Walkow (March 2024)

Author's Synopsis

Sarah Jameson, a nurse at County Central Hospital, survives an accident that kills her two young children. While comatose, she travels into the heavenly realm where she visits with her precious little ones. She is given a choice – return to her husband, Jack, or remain with her children in their celestial home.

Jack was not in the fated automobile. Though he heard the crash and ran to help, there was nothing he could do. He suffers the loss of his children, fears the potential demise of his wife, and wonders about his sanity. His struggle with PTSD from his military years has returned and at times, he cannot distinguish between the present and the past.

An accident tragically changed the lives of this young family, but out of sorrow emerges unexpected blessings. Love conquers all.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Literary Fiction

Number of Pages: 149

Word Count: 35,000

Cobalt: The Rise and Fall of the Great Reset by Travis Davis

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Author's Synopsis

After China’s discovery of a rare form of Cobalt located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, all the pieces and players are now in place for the Great Reset. The United States must be brought to its knees at all costs. The only thing standing in their vision of a perfect world order is a determined CIA agent, Mary, and Team Texarkana, comprised of Tex, Will, Kim, and Lucy. If they fail, the world will never recover. There is no turning back. Civilization is at stake; The Great Reset must be stopped before it’s too late.

Format(s) for review: Kindle or Paper

Review Genre: Fiction—Mystery/Thriller/Crime

Number of Pages: 294

Word Count: 88,000

Death in the Triangle by John Podlaski

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MWSA Review

Death in the Triangle: A Vietnam Story by John Podlaski is a novella that tells the account of a significant mission for First Platoon. Although listed as fiction, the story has the ring of reality, with the sights, sounds, smells, and emotions of combat. After a night of assignments on listening post duty and ambush duty, the platoon rolls out on a short mission to view the effects of the previous night’s ambush and destruction of an ammo dump. Unfortunately, the colonel overrides the mission (which should have ended around noon) and insists the platoon go further and do more. And that’s when all hell breaks loose. Action is nonstop, and death hovers in the air. In three short days, much is accomplished and the platoon finally gets a well deserved rest.

Readers are advised to read the first novella in the series (When Can I Stop Running?) before this book, so that the characters are already known, and the mission makes more sense. Readers will also need to navigate some misspellings as well as quite a few punctuation errors.

Review by Betsy Beard (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

DEATH IN THE TRIANGLE is a sequel to When Can I Stop Running? That was one hell of a night!

Only a couple of hours passed since returning to the firebase. Now, the sleep-deprived and weary First Platoon soldiers must go back out on another patrol. Last night, an enemy mortar team fired several rounds into the base and was soon silenced by return artillery fire. The Third Squad also ambushed a group of enemy soldiers leaving nine dead bodies on the trail before moving out to a new location. A thorough search of both areas may locate items overlooked in the dark. It was thought to be an easy patrol – two clicks out and two clicks back, so the brass expected their return before lunch. At least, that was the plan.

Many patrols during the Vietnam War did not quite go as planned and this was one of them. These soldiers soon found themselves in dire straits to satisfy their battalion commander’s thirst for body counts and fame. Will they all survive?

Sixpack, Polack, LG, and the bunch are back in this new installment from the award-winning author of Cherries: A Vietnam War Novel.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Fiction—Historical Fiction

Number of Pages: 145

Word Count: 31,000

My Vietnam: A Gift to My Daughter by Jack Billups

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MWSA Review

My Vietnam: A Gift to My Daughter is an interesting memoir written by Jack Billups. From the beginning of his incredible story, I felt like Mr. Billups was sitting across the table from me as we had coffee and cookies. His narration reminded me of my neighbor, a humble man who served in Vietnam and became a quiet highly decorated hero. The two men have that in common.

The request of Jack’s daughter Naomi for her father to write his story of his time in Vietnam touched my heart. Her question set into motion a journey 50 years into the past as a "grunt" in the steamy jungles of Vietnam. After contacting several of the men with whom he served, Jack had compiled an accurate timeline and accounting of his time “in country.”

Four months later, with Jack’s memoir completed, Naomi asked another question. "Hey Dad, let's go to Vietnam, just you and me?" Could the ghosts of his Vietnam past morph into a father and daughter blessing in the present?

My Vietnam: A Gift to My Daughter is a heartwarming, compelling memoir that reconciles America and Vietnam, then and now, including the culture shock of seeing Vietnam as it exists today.”

Review by Nancy Panko (March 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

"Hey Dad, instead of a gift, would you share your Vietnam experiences with me?" My daughter's request set into motion a journey 50 years into the past as a "grunt" in the steamy jungles of Vietnam.

Four months later with my memoir completed, Naomi called to say, "Dad, this was the best gift I've ever received, I liked it so much, I read it a second time!" Then another question, "Hey Dad, let's go back to Vietnam, just you and me?" Could the ghosts of Vietnam's past morph into a father and daughter blessing in the present?

This journey will put the reader into the boots of a grunt with vivid detail. Surrounding Jack's tour in Vietnam are the experiences and events that defined that unique period in American history.

Then, the eye-opening revelation of present day Vietnam as Jack and Naomi return to the places where her father fought and survived near the Ho Chi Minh trail.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Nonfiction—Memoir/Biography

Number of Pages: 472

Word Count: 94,341