I want to start this off with this is a complex book. If you are looking for a quick, easy read, this is not it. Do not be fooled by “collection of essays, short stories” etc.; each section is layered with depth and impact. I would also not recommend picking this up if you are not in a good mental space at the moment as the themes explored do not include victory or triumph, but only the aftermath of the ravages of war.

“I’ve rejected that salute every day since, rejected the salute of twenty-one guns while seeking the favor of one.”

This collection will leave you hollowed.

This was not an easy read in any means. It's detailed and a bit too slow for my interest to not falter. The topic is also very dark and grim, but sadly something that happens still to this day. Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for a chance to read this book.

Very detailed! Love reading about the war times. That being said, it was hard to get through in terms of holding my attention.

This was not a fun read but I feel like as someone that grew up in the time period of the war on terror this book was very important to read through at least once.