The Steel Wave: A Novel of World War II

Very good book, like all his others. Didn't realize I was purchasing the large print version. Easier to read, but too heavy. should have purchased the regular size print and worn reading glasses!

I've read Jeff Shaara "Rising Tide" and it was much more engaging and informative than this 2nd novel in a trilogy concerning the World War II, the European theater. After covering the North African campaign and the beginning of the invasion of Italy (although only veiled references are made of the fighting in Italy in the 2nd book), Shaara devotes most of his narrative in "Steel Wave" to the planning and the days following the Normandy Invasion. In other words, 2 and 1/2 years are covered initially and only a few weeks of combat are covered in this recent effort.

Most people with only a passing interest in the events surrounding D-day are familiar with the combined American, British, And Canadian endeavors on that colossal day in June of 1944; however, I feel, as possibly most who may read this fictionalized composite of the thoughts and actions of the strategists and common soldiers, that the drama was lacking. Perhaps our visualization of action via motion pictures like "Saving Private Ryan" has diminished the magnitude and sacrifices that can be captured on the written page. Perhaps, also, this holy ground has been covered too often by too many excellent journalist, correspondents, and writers for it to have any more impact or shed any more light on the subject.

In spite of my diappointment, I probably will read the 3rd book in this series, hoping to find in it the color and excitement missing in this work of Shaara.

His past books as well as this one will tell you that the man can take an event and make it more than a book of historical interest. Unique in the Abrose sort of style. This is the sort of author that you just know you will want to read his next book regardless of subject.

THE STEEL WAVE picks up where THE RISING TIDE leaves off and takes us right into the planning and execution and aftermath of the Normandy invasion. Jeff Shaara writes historical fiction better then anyone and his meticulous research really shows. I never doubted or found any contradiction in the characters voices, especially Ike, Montgomery, Churchhill, Patton and Rommel. Their words and actions are always credible and coincide with everything we know historically about these characters. This is a novel and gives you another perspective about D-Day and Operation Overlord which did not start and end with June 6. No military operation has been written about more then June 6 so to come at it with a fresh perspective is a difficult challenge. Mr Shaara not only does that but he gets it "right" so to say. There are literally hundreds of books which will give you every bit of historical detail and fact but this is a novel not a history book. A fascinating, absorbing, page-turner which leaves you anticipating the third in this trilogy. This is a fine tribute to the men who participated and gave so much of themselves. Indeed, the greatest generation as written by one of our greatest historical fiction writers.

What makes Jeff Shaara's books so wonderful is that while he does an excellent job of providing an accurate historical account of the war he is covering - he can do so in an easily read and entertaining fashion. But even more important, in my opinion, is that he provides tremendous insights in the emotions that Soldiers go through while in combat and reminds us that all Soldiers - regardless of rank - deal with life changing decisions and experiences. Those who like to glamorize wars quickly learn of the sacrifices required of Soldiers when they are committed to combat - whether they be U.S. or enemy Soldiers.

Highly recommend!