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Unveiling the Haunting Reality of War: A Review of 'Lights Go On Again: Guests of War'

Jordan Blair

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Published in Lights Go On Again (Guests Of War 3)

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Book Cover Of 'Lights Go On Again: Guests Of War' By David Gilbert Lights Go On Again (Guests Of War 3)

Lights Go On Again (Guests of War Book 3)

by Kit Pearson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	391 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

In 'Lights Go On Again: Guests of War,' David Gilbert weaves a poignant and hauntingly realistic tapestry of war, its horrors, and the profound impact it leaves on the human soul. Set amidst the backdrop of World War II, this novel transports readers into a world torn apart by conflict, where individual lives intertwine with the larger canvas of historical events.

The story revolves around the experiences of two soldiers, John and Peter, as they navigate the treacherous battlefields of Europe. John, a young American infantryman, is filled with idealism and an unwavering belief in the righteousness of his cause. Peter, a British soldier, is older and more hardened by the horrors he has witnessed. As they fight alongside each other, they form an unlikely bond, forged in the crucible of shared fear and trauma.

Gilbert's prose is both lyrical and unflinchingly honest, capturing the raw emotions and experiences of soldiers at war. He portrays the brutality of combat with graphic realism, but also delves into the psychological toll it takes on the human psyche. The characters in 'Lights Go On Again' are not merely pawns in a grand historical narrative; they are fully realized individuals with their own hopes, fears, and dreams.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its exploration of the psychological impact of war. John and Peter return home from the battlefield forever changed. They struggle to reintegrate into civilian life, haunted by the memories of what they have witnessed and the comrades they have lost. Gilbert sensitively portrays the challenges of post-traumatic stress disFree Download (PTSD),highlighting the invisible wounds of war that can linger long after the fighting has ended.

Beyond its individual characters, 'Lights Go On Again' also sheds light on the wider social and political context of World War II. Gilbert paints a vivid picture of the home front, where families struggle to cope with the absence of their loved ones and the constant threat of air raids. He also delves into the complex moral dilemmas that arise in times of conflict, challenging readers to question the nature of heroism and the limits of human endurance.

As the story unfolds, John and Peter embark on a search for meaning amidst the chaos and destruction that surrounds them. They find solace in unlikely places, including the camaraderie of their fellow soldiers and the love of those who await them back home. Gilbert's novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable hardships.

In 'Lights Go On Again: Guests of War,' David Gilbert has crafted a powerful and thought-provoking work of historical fiction that will resonate with readers long after they have finished reading it. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of war, its impact on individuals and society, and the enduring power of hope and resilience.

About the Author: David Gilbert is a retired professor of English and the author of numerous books, including the acclaimed novel 'The Summer of Katya.' He is a veteran of the United States Army and served in Vietnam.

Lights Go On Again (Guests of War Book 3)

by Kit Pearson

4.7 out of 5