Jeff Shaara

I had forgotten how much I like books like this-- interesting, readable, and a lot to learn and ponder. The personalities of those he profiles are very informative -- and it does make you wonder what things would have been like had they had the information available to them that we have today. And would different personalities in key positions have made outcomes change? Not sure how much military life has changed-- and the insight into PTSD was edifying. I hope we provide care for this experiencing this sort of trauma in service of all of us.… (meer)

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The Shadow of War: A Novel of the Cuban Missile Crisis by Jeff Shaara takes place in the few days in which the world was on the brink of nuclear war. Mr. Shaara is a best-selling author, known for historical fiction books told through the views of individuals.

Like other Jeff Shaara books, this one also presents historical events from different points of view. And like his other books, this one is also well-researched.

One of the reasons I have enjoyed Jeff Shaara’s books for the last few decades is that he takes larger-than-life figures, and makes them relatable. He does the same in The Shadow of War, even though the book only looks at the Cuban Missile Crisis.

The book tells of the immense pressure faced by the new, young President and his brother/Attorney General – the only man he trusted. John F. Kennedy knew that Nikita Kruschev had danced diplomatic circles around him and was testing him. Bobby Kennedy has to manage his brother’s team and act as a gatekeeper.

The book does a great job of telling of the pressures felt by JFK. The Bay of Pigs invasion was a colossal failure, Communism was a huge perceived threat, his generals wanted war, and UN Ambassador Adlai Stevenson pushed for appeasement.

Jeff Shaara does not forget the average American, told through the eyes of Joseph Russo who only knows what is reported. Mr. Russo represents the public sentiment, without the knowledge that leaders, and in this case the reader, had. This aspect of the book keeps us all grounded with real-life consequences, not just political humiliation.

The book is gripping, and surprisingly filled with tension. Even though we already know what happened, the idea of what “could have been” is terrifying. For me, the real charm is the lesser-known events that get lost in the big picture, but are no less important.… (meer)

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.… (meer)

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.… (meer)