Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

Jon Michaels uses Say Yes to remind readers that the small things in life can have a large impact and that attention to detail is vital. He also advises us to seize the opportunities that present themselves by saying yes. He refers to these options as the invisible path, as they are sometimes not easy to discern. Many people are reluctant to take on a new challenge for fear of the unknown, yet failure can provide valuable lessons that, if learned, are never lost. Accepting a challenge now rather than living with regrets later in life is preferable. The author points out that we should never stop learning and asking questions to evolve both our character and leadership abilities. A recurring theme is that we should not underrate ourselves; conversely, over-confidence and complacency should be avoided. We should not fall into the trap of hoping or waiting, as inaction can cause stagnation. He calls on his experiences in the US Marines, whose mantra of shoot, move, and communicate remains universally applicable. This implies situational awareness, action, and an organized thought process. Adopt a philosophy and document it.

Say Yes is an invitation to change your life by evaluating it anew. Jon Michaels has had a diverse career that included some ten years in the US Navy Marines as an aviator and in leadership roles, before moving to the commercial world. He is a psychology major who also has a business degree, combining his knowledge of human nature with years of practical military and business experience to offer sound advice to readers. The tough physical and mental training that a US Marine undergoes forges discipline and teamwork which are traits that readily transfer into everyday living. The result is a healthy balance that provides both structure and flexibility. The writing style is concise and flows smoothly. It is illustrated with examples from the author’s experiences in the Marines, business, and as an amateur athlete. He hopes that readers will use the information to apply the lessons shared and implement them through self-discipline and thoughtful action. The sound principles covered and positive approach will have wide appeal to all readers and can be applied at any stage of life’s journey. It is highly recommended.

Reviewed by Mary Clarke for Readers' Favorite

No Greater Honor: Lessons From My Life as a Soldier by N. Lee S. Price is a memoir that follows Price as she shares her experiences during her 38 years of service in the U.S. Army. She wanted to be a police officer but didn't because of her bad eyesight, so she joined the Army as a private first class in 1975, graduating as a major general in 2014. Price shares the challenges she faced, like being a woman in an army dominated by males, dealing with gender bias, and meeting tough standards. She uses these experiences to share insightful lessons about leadership, touching on topics like building trust, teamwork, resilience, morals, valuing diversity, and more. The book covers emotional moments in the army, like honoring fallen soldiers during transfers or funerals. It also shows how the army changed over time, allowing women to take on more roles after the draft ended.

What I love most about this book is how honest and real it feels. I was impressed by Price's courage in telling her story. She talked about her difficulties and even her mistakes, which made me connect more to the book. I felt inspired by Price's resilience; the way she remained relentless, set goals, changed some habits, and managed stress and tough situations in the army left me in awe. It was great seeing how hard work and loyalty helped her to succeed and stand out. Her words about leadership were very helpful and applied to many aspects of my life, both in work and personal development. I loved her points about choosing happiness by making time for family, despite how busy we may be, because it helps us stay happy and strong. I recommend No Greater Honor by N. Lee S. Price to anyone who wants to learn leadership skills, especially women in fields dominated by males, military members, and anyone interested in personal growth.

Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite

Avoiding Muddy Foxholes by Jim Loveless is an inspiring, against-all-odds story about a bombardier who escaped death narrowly in different situations while fighting for the US in World War II. Dick, Jim's father, was in the early stages of his relationship with beautiful Mary when he answered the call to fight for his country. In the camp of the enemy, Dick's love for golf, his faith in God, and his cheerful spirit kept him from losing all hope. While some letters got delivered and others weren't, he hoped to get back to his family in one piece. The journey, however, was fraught with loss, physically challenging paths, and emotional turmoil. From a heartwarming engagement and a frightening first date marked by an intimidating father to a terrible plane crash and becoming a prisoner of war, Jim's book is a rollercoaster of ups and downs.

Jim Loveless takes time to develop the themes, allowing readers to get familiar with them and enjoy the story's smooth progression. The horrors of war and the sweetness of love merge like the yin and yang symbols to create a rich and deeply immersing account. I was seriously emotional when Dick received news about his daughter while facing the possibility of death. Though told from a third-person perspective, the book is highly captivating, as the author recreates the protagonist's real-time experience. Avoiding Muddy Foxholes is one of those true stories that's so amazing it feels like a movie. If you enjoy historical books and nonfiction tales about war, you will love this one. I can't get over its grand feel and the sensational love story left me speechless and smiling like I'd won the lottery long after I'd finished reading it.

Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite

Ron Jansen's An Otherwise Healthy Person is a compelling memoir depicting his experiences as a Marine Corps squad leader in Fallujah, Iraq. Jansen reminisces on the nature of war and how his military experiences shaped his life while stationed in Iraq and his return home. Using a series of moving anecdotes, he candidly guides readers through the tumultuous—but captivating—events that characterized his time in Iraq. Despite being surrounded by death, violence, and loss on the battlefield, Jansen bravely presses on. When he leaves the war zone in Iraq to return to civilian life, one kind of war has ended, but unknowingly, another one is about to begin. Returning home to his wife presents Jansen with a different type of war affecting him and his marriage. His faith becomes his greatest ally through it all.

Ron Jansen’s story is emotionally gripping, witty, and inspiring. His journey is unreservedly candid and heartfelt and will draw readers in from the first page to the last. Jansen offers readers in-depth insights into the harrowing experiences of a soldier on the battlefield and the effects of those emotional and psychological scars on the personal lives of surviving soldiers. His breathtaking tale is interlaced with danger, despair, loss, betrayal, deliverance, and God's grace. Through his journey, Jansen provides readers with his viewpoint on the human aspect of war for all parties involved. His recollections surrounding his own inner turmoil are thought-provoking, relatable, and humbling. His profound experiences, both at war and home, serve as guidance and hope for readers undergoing their own unique life challenges. I highly recommend An Otherwise Healthy Person to memoir fans.

Reviewed by Jennifer Reinoehl for Readers' Favorite

Valhalla Boys is Brennan Morton’s tribute to the men he served with during the Iraq war in the form of a memoir. Each chapter takes the reader through highlights of Basic Training, the selection of Special Forces candidates, training for Special Forces, and then his time in Iraq. Instead of a chronological 'this happened and then that happened,' each story is told as you might hear them sitting around a campfire reminiscing with friends about times past. It is more of a compilation of short, non-fiction stories than a detailed, day-by-day walk through life. Morton read the fictional war horror stories of Vonnegut, Heller, and Hemingway and admits that, initially, he did not heed their warnings. If I had to pick one of his favorites, I would say his style is closest to Heller.

Unlike Heller, who chose to fictionalize his war stories, Valhalla Boys gives us the truth loud and clear. During World War II, America fought to keep the Germans out of France. During Iraq, we fought so oil companies could set up shop in Iraq and so that the military-industrial complex did not go out of business. Those men and women who volunteered after 9-11 because they wanted to fight for their country and democracy in Iraq were told these lies. No soldier would have joined if s/he knew the truth. Unfortunately, Brennan Morton did not find out the truth until very late in the game—and I encourage you to read the book for that if no other reason. This book is for those who are curious about a soldier’s life, war buffs, and history buffs. It should be required reading for every congressman and senator—with a test afterward. Pacifists, if they can stomach it, should read this book because it will give them fuel for their debates. It is filled with the typical soldier fare: bodily functions, swearing, sex references, and violence, but Brennan Morton has definitely toned it all down for the average adult reader. It is both eye-opening and well-written. I highly recommend Valhalla Boys.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The B-17 Tomahawk Warrior: A WWII Final Honor is a work of non-fiction in the military history, slice of life, and personal stories subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult audience as it depicts the harsh realities and losses of war. Penned by author David E. Huntley, the work centers on the mystery of a 1944 B-17 Flying Fortress crash in England. The author, who witnessed the crash as a child, embarked on a lifelong journey to uncover the truth. Through meticulous research and personal observations, Huntley unravels the mysteries surrounding the 'Tomahawk Warriors' crew, who perished in the crash, exploring questions about the crash's circumstances and the misnaming of the plane. The book delves into the immense courage displayed by young American airmen during WWII, vividly describing the challenges they faced in sub-zero temperatures and enemy encounters.

Author David E. Huntley has crafted a unique work of military history that also explores the fascination we have with times gone by and our personal connection to the past. I found the narrative to be tender, exploratory, and respectful, with a fantastic amount of detail but also a quiet reverence for the bravery of the nine souls whose lives are explored. The narrative emphasizes the lives of these heroes, providing a window into familial relationships and the sacrifices made for a cause. I think it’s incredible that Huntley's efforts have also led to posthumous honors, a Commemorative Marker, and closure for the descendants' relatives. Huntley's work stands as a testament to the resilience and sacrifices of those who served in WWII and is also a spectacularly detailed and well-researched read. Overall, I would certainly recommend The B-17 Tomahawk Warrior: A WWII Final Honor for history and military non-fiction enthusiasts everywhere.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Buddy's War: A World War II Medic's Journey and the Power of Family penned by author Barry A. Lehman is a work of non-fiction in the military, historical, and personal stories subgenres, best suited to the general adult reading audience. Readers are invited into an extraordinary exploration of one family's history intertwined with the monumental events of World War II. This deeply moving narrative follows the author as he embarks on a quest to uncover the hidden chapters of his family's past. The book weaves together the experiences of ordinary men and women who became heroes in the face of adversity, from the battlefields of Europe to the home front. Their stories of courage and resilience serve as a testament to the triumphs and tragedies of his father's generation.

Author Barry A. Lehman blends personal reflection with historical context and poignant revelations, creating a powerful evocation of the enduring power of family and the profound impact that war has on those who serve in it. What makes this book particularly poignant is its emphasis on the importance of preserving the memories of those who came before us as a reminder of the enduring themes of patriotism, heroism, and the power of collective memory. It is clear that Lehman’s fondness for his subject matter has also been augmented with meticulous research, personal reflection, and vivid storytelling to take us on a profound journey that delves into love, loss, and the unbreakable bonds that connect generations. Overall, Buddy's War is a highly recommended read that provides a truly captivating journey into the heart of one family's story, a tribute to the past, and a timeless quest for understanding.

Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

More than fifty years after its unhappy conclusion, the Vietnam War seems but a distant memory of an unpopular conflict. In writing On Full Automatic: Surviving 13 Months in Vietnam, William V. Taylor Jr. remembers it all too clearly and shares his experiences with the reader. Sent halfway across the world as an eighteen-year-old U.S. Marine to fight against a ruthless enemy in a foreign land during 1967/68, his chances of survival were never far from his thoughts. Taylor takes us through sweltering heat, humidity, monsoon rain, rice paddies and forests, plus tropical diseases and a host of insects and deadly snakes to hunt down elusive opponents who did not fight by any rules. The local population was trapped in the middle, some openly siding with the enemy. He and his fellow Marines faced hostile fire from rifles, machine guns, hand grenades, mortars, and artillery, aware that their 13-month tour of service could be cut short at any moment. They endured the harsh conditions, surviving on their wits, basic military rations, and letters to and from home. Relationships were tested. Many of his comrades did not make it back.

On Full Automatic describes the hardships, camaraderie, and fear in an action-packed memoir that pulls no punches, but avoids degenerating into a bloodbath. As is to be expected, there is certainly a full measure of death, destruction, and gore, but this is tempered with humor, compassion, and heartwarming moments that provide unique insights into the psyche of the foot soldier. It deals with the unpleasant side of military conflict, such as post-traumatic syndrome, being maimed, losing a close friend in battle, enduring friendly fire, or being led by incompetent superiors. It is a stark reminder that however noble the cause, war is neither perfect nor anything other than a gritty slog. The author was wounded and was decorated with the Purple Heart on three occasions in recognition of his service. This raises another thorny issue in that those who returned from Vietnam received few accolades from their countrymen, tired of what they perceived as mounting casualties and atrocities committed against civilians. I have read many books on the Vietnam War, but William V. Taylor Jr. has produced a well-balanced and enthralling account that has a more personal touch, is exceptional, and is a must for military enthusiasts. It is rounded off with a comprehensive glossary. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite

A crisis resulted due to the hasty departure of the US from Afghanistan. Other things that added to the chaos include the withdrawal of military personnel before the evacuation of civilians and the lack of coordination with the Afghan forces and other partners. Chad had already served for several years in Afghanistan before leaving the military after being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. During his years in Afghanistan, Aziz had proven to be more than just an interpreter. He was a friend, and he had even saved Chad's life more than once. To find out how Chad saved Aziz, the establishment of Save Our Allies, and the impact of the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and how it gave the Taliban the upper hand, read Saving Aziz by Chad Robichaux, David L. Thomas, and Glenn Beck.

Saving Aziz: How the Mission to Help One Became a Calling to Rescue Thousands from the Taliban by Chad Robichaux, David L. Thomas, and Glenn Beck is wonderfully written with a unique perspective on the Afghanistan war that was not captured by the media or the government. This thought-provoking work got me thinking about how the withdrawal and the mission were impacted by politicians, most of whom didn't know what exactly was happening on the ground. I loved the military point of view and how the book covered the Afghan allies who were committed to fighting for the freedom of their country. The steady pacing and the excellent narration added to the overall appeal. Readers will also appreciate the vivid descriptions of events and emotions, which help capture the reader's imagination.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Ground You Stand Upon: Life of a Skytrooper in Vietnam is a work of non-fiction in the military history, memoir, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to adult readers owing to moderate graphic content and some strong language throughout. Penned by author team Joshua E. Bowe and Wilbur E. Bowe, this gripping memoir recounts the harrowing experiences of Will Bowe and his comrades from the 1st Air Cavalry Division in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Drafted in 1965, Will finds himself thrust into the midst of the escalating conflict, undergoing training to become a ‘skytrooper’ and flying into jungle battlefields by helicopter. The book, based on classified staff journals and military records, chronicles Alpha Company's journey through rice fields, villages, and mountains, supplemented with Will's letters and photographs sent home from the frontlines.

Author team Joshua E. Bowe and Wilbur E. Bowe have worked together beautifully to craft a profoundly moving experience, offering a poignant glimpse into the realities of war through the eyes of Will and his fellow soldiers. The work meticulously weaves together firsthand accounts, military documents, and personal correspondence to paint a vivid picture of the Vietnam War, and it is exceedingly well-organized in the way it delivers content. The narrative that binds all this information together is smooth and warm, vividly capturing the camaraderie, humor, and sorrow experienced by those who served and revealing the complexities of combat and the toll it takes on individuals and communities. Through the voices of veterans and their loved ones, the book honors the sacrifices made and the resilience shown in the face of adversity. Overall, I would certainly recommend The Ground You Stand Upon for fans of historical accounts but also readers who appreciate a heartfelt tribute to the courage and spirit of those who served their country.