Wow, where even to begin with this outstanding historical fiction! Even though "The Shadow of War" is the first novel that I have read by Jeff Shaara, he is now on my list of favorite authors. I read an average of 80 novels per year, so that says a lot! From the first page to the last, "The Shadow of War" is a well-written, intriguing, fast-paced novel that keeps the reader engaged. Mr. Shaara completed extensive research, using the character's memoirs, diaries, etc., and the people around them, to create a story told from the perspective of these interesting characters. If you lived during the Cuban Missile Crisis, or studied it in school, you will find this a fascinating and educational read. I would definitely add this riveting novel to your tbr list. I'm also looking forward to reading previous and upcoming novels by Mr. Shaara. ( )

I enjoyed this so much more than I thought I would. The author includes voices from all sides of the Cuban Missile Crisis, greatly adding to my understanding of the event. It wasn’t simply the “dad fiction” I was anticipating. There was a great deal of personal detail and drama showing that events with tremendous international impact often come down to the very human decisions of a few individuals. This was fascinating and involving historical fiction, and i would recommend it to anyone with an interest in the Cold War.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ( )

What an exciting, fascinating book. Even though based on a well-known historical event author Jeff Shaara brings it to life and tells a story not just of heroes and villains but of people on the ground participating as well as everyday citizens afraid but not quite sure what they should be afraid of and how afraid they should be.

Shaara has a knack for using historical fiction to make larger-than-life figures relatable and recognizable, to put them in challenging situations and show human, real-life thoughts and reactions. For example, both John and Bobby are mostly remembered as brave men from a famous family, assassinated, cut down in their prime, martyrs. But Shaara zeroes in on this particular political situation - the Cuban Missile Crisis – and portrays a tense few days where they are confronted with a situation they inherited, trying to find a path through the literal minefield of missiles being installed by the Soviet Union in Cuba, missiles quite in range of the coast of the United States. The bravery is still there, but so is the other side: assumptions and prejudices, unwarranted criticism, off-the-cuff inappropriate remarks, anger breaking through. This makes for a very believable story.

From the highest-level heads of government – in the United States, the Soviet Union and Cuba – to support staff and the military to the men in Cuba installing the missiles to regular people living in Florida wondering just what is going on, Shaara describes reaction, overreaction, fear, bluster; a wide range of emotions and opinions on what the solution should be.

The Shadow of War is fast-moving and suspenseful, taking us through the days before an agreement was reached. Taking us into the bomb shelters and the duck and cover drills. Taking us into the living rooms of those responsible for making a move that could result in nuclear war. It was thoroughly enjoyable first page to last. Thanks to St. Martin’s Press for providing an advance copy of The Shadow of War via NetGalley. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own. ( )