Review: "Gooseberry Island" by Steven Manchester

I have read most of Steven Manchester’s novels and all have been wonderful. This is no exception and in my opinion, is his best. In this story, he puts a face on post traumatic stress disorder and what our troops returning from the Middle East endure.

David is preparing to deploy to Afghanistan for a year. On his last night stateside, he meets Lindsey and they have an immediate connection. They stay in touch and their bond continues to grow and flower. Then, David loses one of the men on his ranger team to a roadside bomb. Next, he is selected for a special assignment to eliminate a Taliban fighter. Although the mission is aborted, David witnesses a horrendous act that leaves him devastated. As his deployment continues, he must perform acts that overwhelm him and leave his faith shaken. David returns after his year, a different man. He can’t face Lindsey and his life spirals out of control. Lindsey is no stranger to PTSD. Her father also suffers from the disorder and turns to alcohol to dull the pain. David’s life and their love hang in the balance.

Mr. Manchester handles this difficult subject with great compassion. He brings to life the hardships that are suffered by our returning servicemen. His characters have depth and the story is compelling. It is not only a novel, it helps to inform the reader of the difficulties experienced and the silent life and death struggle that goes on every day around us.

I highly recommend this book. It is not only a superb story but a terrific way to educate you on the amazing toll that answering the call of duty demands of our young men and women.