“Downriver: Memoir of a Warrior Poet is a very moving, deeply introspective, and exceedingly forthright book. Ryan McDermott brings an exceptional voice to the post-9/11 literary landscape, blending the harrowing realities of combat with the raw reflections of a gifted poet. His journey—from leading soldiers during the fight to Baghdad, to navigating the financial world, enduring personal loss, and, ultimately, finding self-discovery—offers an unflinching look at the sacrifices of service and the often-overlooked challenges of reintegration after that service. Few war memoirs achieve the level of literary depth and emotional resonance of Downriver. And even fewer help us understand the enduring impact of war, the burden of leadership in combat, and the resilience required to forge a new path beyond the battlefield.”  General David Petraeus, US Army (Ret.), former Commander of the Surge in Iraq, US Central Command, and NATO/US Forces in Afghanistan; former Director of the CIA; co-author of the best selling book Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Gaza

"Ryan embodies the American spirit of resilience, opportunity, and hope. From challenging beginnings, he navigates a path marked by diverse hardships and opportunities, ultimately arriving at a place of understanding and peace after decades of struggle. His time in the Army was transformative, shaping his outlook on leadership and purpose. Through poems written in the moment, we witness the journey of his soul. Most importantly, Ryan captures his quest for meaning—a story rooted in the profound question, Why?" Lieutenant General Ed Cardon, US Army (Ret.)

“During Operation Iraqi Freedom, Task Force 3-69 Armor was the Advanced Guard for the 1st Brigade and the 3rd Infantry Division, leading the charge toward Baghdad in one of the most intense and decisive armored offensives in modern warfare—truly embodying our motto, 'Speed & Power.' Ryan McDermott’s platoon played a crucial role in this historic operation, functioning within a company under my command as we engaged determined enemy resistance, captured key objectives, and advanced with relentless momentum. Ryan exemplified the grit, initiative, and battlefield leadership vital to our success. Downriver: Memoir of a Warrior Poet is not only a personal account; it is a tribute to the warriors who led from the front in one of the most significant campaigns of our time.” LTC Rock Marcone, U.S. Army (Ret.), Former Commander, Task Force 3-69 Armor in Iraq

“Ryan McDermott gives us an intimate and detailed account of what it is like to be a modern American military family--from childhood trauma, being on the tip of the spear going into Baghdad to marital separation, to home invasion, to encouraging sons to go to West Point, to rebuilding his life.  His account is patriotic, emotional, telling, and like life, often chaotic and messy.  All Americans owe a big debt of gratitude to families like McDermott’s for their service, sacrifice and utter commitment to American ideals.  His style engaged me to the point I could feel the tingling tension leading armor into harm’s way, the gut-wrenching pain of losing the love of his life, the shock of violent burglary and the pride over his developing son.  His account made me proud again to be an American with fellow citizens like him.” James G. Clawson, professor emeritus of Leadership and Organizational Behavior, the Darden Business School, University of Virginia. 

“A heart warming memoir that will help with life’s struggles." R. Edward Freeman, Stephen E. Bachand University Professor of Business Administration and Olsson Professor of Business Administration, the Darden Business School, University of Virginia.

Marketing Goals

    1.    Generate Pre-Publication Buzz

    •    Secure early reviews from key NetGalley members, including librarians, booksellers, and book bloggers.

    •    Drive pre-orders by building anticipation among target readers.

    2.    Position Downriver as a Must-Read Memoir for 2025

    •    Highlight its unique combination of military history, personal resilience, and poetry.

    •    Emphasize Ryan McDermott’s firsthand perspective on pivotal historical events.

    3.    Leverage Influencer & Professional Endorsements

    •    Engage with national security and military communities.

    •    Reach business and finance professionals who connect with the Wall Street storyline.

    •    Connect with literary and poetry communities for cross-genre appeal.

Target Audiences

    •    Veterans & Military Personnel – Readers with an interest in war memoirs, leadership, and resilience.

    •    Young Army Officers & Cadets – Those seeking insight into combat leadership and post-military life.

    •    History Enthusiasts – Readers interested in first-hand accounts of the Iraq War and the 2008 financial crisis.

    •    Finance & Business Professionals – Those drawn to McDermott’s Wall Street experiences.

    •    Poetry Lovers – Readers who appreciate the literary and introspective style woven into the memoir.

    •    Christians & Faith-Based Readers – Those who connect with themes of perseverance, redemption, and faith.

    •    Memoir Readers – Fans of raw, deeply personal storytelling.