What do you think?
Rate this book
Honour
An anthology of short stories by M. B. Feeney
The world is filled with people destined to help and to serve. Doctors, nurses, police, and firefighters—each and every day, these special people work to help others in times of need. Often, this means putting their own lives at risk in order to do their jobs. They give of themselves to benefit society, and they do it without any expectation of thanks.
And then there is the military…
These are the men and women who don’t head home to their families and safe homes to relax at the end of a shift. They are on the front lines, far from home and often fighting someone else’s battles because it is the right thing to do. Military families struggle to cope with the constant worry and the long periods of separation, staying strong to support those who serve in everything they do, and often are left to pick up the pieces when the highest price is paid.
Servicemen and women are heroes in the purest sense of the word. Even when the world’s gone mad and their hearts are breaking, one thing remains unchanged.
The world is filled with people destined to help and to serve. Doctors, nurses, police, and firefighters—each and every day, these special people work to help others in times of need. Often, this means putting their own lives at risk in order to do their jobs. They give of themselves to benefit society, and they do it without any expectation of thanks.
And then there is the military…
These are the men and women who don’t head home to their families and safe homes to relax at the end of a shift. They are on the front lines, far from home and often fighting someone else’s battles because it is the right thing to do. Military families struggle to cope with the constant worry and the long periods of separation, staying strong to support those who serve in everything they do, and often are left to pick up the pieces when the highest price is paid.
Servicemen and women are heroes in the purest sense of the word. Even when the world’s gone mad and their hearts are breaking, one thing remains unchanged.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2013
1 person is currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
M.B. Feeney
41 books287 followersWebsite ➤ https://mbfeeney.wordpress.com/
FB Reader Group ➤ https://bit.ly/2WyJ6tB
Facebook ➤ https://bit.ly/1lXx3jJ
Twitter ➤ http://bit.ly/1qzOcW1
Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/mbfeeneyaut...
Newsletter ➤ https://www.subscribepage.com/k7b0b7
M. B. Feeney is an army brat who finally settled down in Birmingham, UK with her other half, two kids and a dog. She often procrastinates by listening to music of all genres and trying to get ‘just one more paragraph’ written on whichever WIP is open; she is also a serious doodler and chocoholic. Writing has been her one true love ever since she could spell, and publishing is the final culmination of her hard work and ambition.
Her publishing career began with two novellas, and she currently has multiple projects under way, in the hopes that her portfolio of what have been described as “everyday love stories for everyday people” will continue to grow. Always having something on the go can often lead to block which eventually gets dissolved by good music and an even better book.
Her main reason for writing is to not only give her readers enjoyment, but also to create a story and characters that stay with readers long after the book is finished, and possibly make someone stop and think “what if . . . ”
FB Reader Group ➤ https://bit.ly/2WyJ6tB
Facebook ➤ https://bit.ly/1lXx3jJ
Twitter ➤ http://bit.ly/1qzOcW1
Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/mbfeeneyaut...
Newsletter ➤ https://www.subscribepage.com/k7b0b7
M. B. Feeney is an army brat who finally settled down in Birmingham, UK with her other half, two kids and a dog. She often procrastinates by listening to music of all genres and trying to get ‘just one more paragraph’ written on whichever WIP is open; she is also a serious doodler and chocoholic. Writing has been her one true love ever since she could spell, and publishing is the final culmination of her hard work and ambition.
Her publishing career began with two novellas, and she currently has multiple projects under way, in the hopes that her portfolio of what have been described as “everyday love stories for everyday people” will continue to grow. Always having something on the go can often lead to block which eventually gets dissolved by good music and an even better book.
Her main reason for writing is to not only give her readers enjoyment, but also to create a story and characters that stay with readers long after the book is finished, and possibly make someone stop and think “what if . . . ”
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 21, 2020
This review was originally carried out as part of a blog tour on Lily Loves Indie and can be seen here http://lilylovesindie.co.uk/?p=209
This stunning collection of short stories has got to be one of my favourite items on my kindle. When I read these I experienced such a depth of emotion and they moved me so much that I had to keep putting it down to get tissues and mop up the mess that I became. This, by far, is Feeney's greatest work to date. She elicits such a wonderful amount of emotion from you, and this is all the more remarkable when you consider that some of the stories are just a few thousand words long. In order to do each story the justice they truly deserve, I am going to briefly review each book before summing up my main ideas. So if you're sitting comfortably, I'll begin....
Honour
A young woman at a graveside, the rain falling down, already the emotions are running high, and this is just the first paragraph of the story, yet I'm hooked. Throughout the whole of this story Feeney leads you in a direction, letting your imagination fill the gaps, but then at the last minute she deals her hand and tells you exactly what is going on, and boy did it knock me for six! I was most definitely not expecting that turn of events, but strangely, it totally fitted. Apologies for the vagueness, but I don't want to spoil it for you as this is one of the key features of this story.
Deserter
Just as the title suggests, this story deals with a deserter, the officer who tries to cover it up and his family dealing with his actions at home. I know what you're thinking, there's enough material there to write a whole book! But Feeney writes this superbly, capturing the emotions of all the key characters in just a few short chapters. Jack's dilemma, and the reasoning behind his desertion, are both incredibly touching and very sensitively written. As someone who can't even begin to comprehend what horrors soldiers must see every day, I really feel like Feeney gave us a glimpse into a tortured mind, a soul that was broken and in need of so much healing that just simply wasn't available. She also deals fantastically with the stigma attached to deserting in a very delicate and sensitive manner, highlighting the other side of the story incredibly well.
Silence is Deafening
I've read and re-read this story so many times, but it still kills me every time! It's so emotionally written, charged with sadness and a sense of duty, a sense of honour. Strangely, I engaged more with Evelyn as I found myself imagining what her emotions would be when she wakes up and reads Joseph's letter. I could feel the ties that bound them together being strained and pulled, the pain they must have felt. It was just so well written the intensity of their love was completely real, it charged the room around my and stole my breath. But what I loved most about this story is that there was hope at the end. He might have survived, he might have come back. The tiniest glimmer was there, and it captured my imagination and sent seeds of thought rooting deep in my head. It's not a story you'll forget in a hurry, but in the best possible way!
Letters to No One
This is perhaps my favourite military based story I've ever written, but for me it is head and shoulders above the others in this collection. I could talk for hours about why I loved this story so much, but I'll try and summarise it and not spoil anything. The strongest feature of this particular story is it's wonderful believability and 'normal' way of approaching what is, to non-military families at least, a very abnormal situation. The letters are funny, yet very much full of a sadness at the separation and need to see each other one more time. Jonno is a great character, and although he doesn't feature much directly, it's the indirect references to him in his families letters which really bring him to life. Little Michael is totally adorable, and his letter is perhaps my favourite purely for the innocence only a child can have. The whole story touched me more than any other in this collection, eliciting full on body shaking sobs and I can only conclude that it is because it is a. wonderfully written and b. incredibly realistic. As much as I hate to admit it, this has probably happened to countless families out there, and that immense sadness just crushed me and opened my eyes to a whole new way of looking at things.
Night Terrors
Initially, I found this quite difficult to get into, it's the one story in the collection I wasn't over keen on as I read through. However, it's a bit of a 'grower' and, like 'Silence is Deafening', it planted hundreds of little seeds of thought in my brain and when given time to develop they just grew and grew until they were out of control. Dealing with what is essentially PTSD, and how it affects not only the sufferer but also their family, 'Night Terrors' has so much it can teach the reader. We all think nothing of our 'normal' lives, but this was another story that really opened my eyes to the troubles being in the military can cause. Carl's dad clearly struggled for years, never feeling he could discuss him experiences and so they literally terrorised his dreams. It's incredibly sensitive in how the story deals with what is a very current and prevalent issue and Feeney deserves a great deal of credit for not only having the balls to deal with this subject matter, but also for doing it so brilliantly. Again, this is another emotionally charged piece of writing, but Feeney really does develop the plot so well and so subtly that it sucks you in without you noticing.
Welcome Home
The final story in the collection is as wonderful as the others. A happy ending, a reunion, a feeling of hope to carry forward. This is the ending we all want for all our soldiers, and Feeney cleverly reminds us that no matter how many may perish, and however sad that may be, we must always keep looking for that glimmer of hope, and take the opportunities of happiness that are offered to us when they are there, because we never know when they will be snatched away.
One of the key features in all of these stories is how engaging they are, despite what is, at times, very upsetting subject matter. The characters pull you in, the circumstances, although fictional, are tinged with a reality that brings you crashing down to ground when you think about them after (and believe me, you will) and you realise, 'that could have actually happened to someone'. It's a humbling thought, and one that really makes you think, but in a good way. Reading this book made me so much more thankful for the sacrifices servicemen and woman make, and the pain their families must experience, but mostly it made me grateful for my own life.
Something else that shines through is how real everything feels in these stories. I know Feeney did a large amount of research into military procedures and that is evident with the protocols, the addresses, the description, just everything really! It's clear that this writing means a lot to the author, and that passion for respect and honour of our armed forces just oozes from every page and fills you with a great sense of pride and patriotism. It's strange to feel proud of something when you're reading (unless it's something you've written), but Feeney manages to elicit that, as well as many other emotions as you're reading and it just builds to a huge crescendo.
Another key feature is the description, and this is a theme that is evident throughout the whole collection. Feeney puts so much into her writing. You can clearly see in your mind the characters, you can feel the emotions, you hurt when they hurt, smile when they smile. It's her attention to the small detail in this story that really gives this story that extra something. Even though you don't know all the specifics like names and ages, we know plenty to cry for their loss and smile with them in their joy. You hurt when they hurt. It's very rare I find a story that moves me in such a way, especially one that is just pages long, but that is exactly what this story does.
In conclusion, this book is truly phenomenal, one of the best pieces of literature I have read so far this year. It's engaging, thought provoking, realistic, easy to read, but above all, it's just, well, words fail me. Honestly, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Five stars is not enough for this book, and it truly deserves the highest accolades possible. Seriously, go one-click! It's now available on Amazon UK and Amazon US, but heed my warning, you want a lot of tissues near you when you read this, tear-jerker doesn't quite cover it!
* * * * * *
I am SO excited about reviewing this and interviewing the author over on Lily Loves Indie and Ramble Media on 1st November as part of the Blog Tour! Watch this space for updates and snippets of my review.
This stunning collection of short stories has got to be one of my favourite items on my kindle. When I read these I experienced such a depth of emotion and they moved me so much that I had to keep putting it down to get tissues and mop up the mess that I became. This, by far, is Feeney's greatest work to date. She elicits such a wonderful amount of emotion from you, and this is all the more remarkable when you consider that some of the stories are just a few thousand words long. In order to do each story the justice they truly deserve, I am going to briefly review each book before summing up my main ideas. So if you're sitting comfortably, I'll begin....
Honour
A young woman at a graveside, the rain falling down, already the emotions are running high, and this is just the first paragraph of the story, yet I'm hooked. Throughout the whole of this story Feeney leads you in a direction, letting your imagination fill the gaps, but then at the last minute she deals her hand and tells you exactly what is going on, and boy did it knock me for six! I was most definitely not expecting that turn of events, but strangely, it totally fitted. Apologies for the vagueness, but I don't want to spoil it for you as this is one of the key features of this story.
Deserter
Just as the title suggests, this story deals with a deserter, the officer who tries to cover it up and his family dealing with his actions at home. I know what you're thinking, there's enough material there to write a whole book! But Feeney writes this superbly, capturing the emotions of all the key characters in just a few short chapters. Jack's dilemma, and the reasoning behind his desertion, are both incredibly touching and very sensitively written. As someone who can't even begin to comprehend what horrors soldiers must see every day, I really feel like Feeney gave us a glimpse into a tortured mind, a soul that was broken and in need of so much healing that just simply wasn't available. She also deals fantastically with the stigma attached to deserting in a very delicate and sensitive manner, highlighting the other side of the story incredibly well.
Silence is Deafening
I've read and re-read this story so many times, but it still kills me every time! It's so emotionally written, charged with sadness and a sense of duty, a sense of honour. Strangely, I engaged more with Evelyn as I found myself imagining what her emotions would be when she wakes up and reads Joseph's letter. I could feel the ties that bound them together being strained and pulled, the pain they must have felt. It was just so well written the intensity of their love was completely real, it charged the room around my and stole my breath. But what I loved most about this story is that there was hope at the end. He might have survived, he might have come back. The tiniest glimmer was there, and it captured my imagination and sent seeds of thought rooting deep in my head. It's not a story you'll forget in a hurry, but in the best possible way!
Letters to No One
This is perhaps my favourite military based story I've ever written, but for me it is head and shoulders above the others in this collection. I could talk for hours about why I loved this story so much, but I'll try and summarise it and not spoil anything. The strongest feature of this particular story is it's wonderful believability and 'normal' way of approaching what is, to non-military families at least, a very abnormal situation. The letters are funny, yet very much full of a sadness at the separation and need to see each other one more time. Jonno is a great character, and although he doesn't feature much directly, it's the indirect references to him in his families letters which really bring him to life. Little Michael is totally adorable, and his letter is perhaps my favourite purely for the innocence only a child can have. The whole story touched me more than any other in this collection, eliciting full on body shaking sobs and I can only conclude that it is because it is a. wonderfully written and b. incredibly realistic. As much as I hate to admit it, this has probably happened to countless families out there, and that immense sadness just crushed me and opened my eyes to a whole new way of looking at things.
Night Terrors
Initially, I found this quite difficult to get into, it's the one story in the collection I wasn't over keen on as I read through. However, it's a bit of a 'grower' and, like 'Silence is Deafening', it planted hundreds of little seeds of thought in my brain and when given time to develop they just grew and grew until they were out of control. Dealing with what is essentially PTSD, and how it affects not only the sufferer but also their family, 'Night Terrors' has so much it can teach the reader. We all think nothing of our 'normal' lives, but this was another story that really opened my eyes to the troubles being in the military can cause. Carl's dad clearly struggled for years, never feeling he could discuss him experiences and so they literally terrorised his dreams. It's incredibly sensitive in how the story deals with what is a very current and prevalent issue and Feeney deserves a great deal of credit for not only having the balls to deal with this subject matter, but also for doing it so brilliantly. Again, this is another emotionally charged piece of writing, but Feeney really does develop the plot so well and so subtly that it sucks you in without you noticing.
Welcome Home
The final story in the collection is as wonderful as the others. A happy ending, a reunion, a feeling of hope to carry forward. This is the ending we all want for all our soldiers, and Feeney cleverly reminds us that no matter how many may perish, and however sad that may be, we must always keep looking for that glimmer of hope, and take the opportunities of happiness that are offered to us when they are there, because we never know when they will be snatched away.
One of the key features in all of these stories is how engaging they are, despite what is, at times, very upsetting subject matter. The characters pull you in, the circumstances, although fictional, are tinged with a reality that brings you crashing down to ground when you think about them after (and believe me, you will) and you realise, 'that could have actually happened to someone'. It's a humbling thought, and one that really makes you think, but in a good way. Reading this book made me so much more thankful for the sacrifices servicemen and woman make, and the pain their families must experience, but mostly it made me grateful for my own life.
Something else that shines through is how real everything feels in these stories. I know Feeney did a large amount of research into military procedures and that is evident with the protocols, the addresses, the description, just everything really! It's clear that this writing means a lot to the author, and that passion for respect and honour of our armed forces just oozes from every page and fills you with a great sense of pride and patriotism. It's strange to feel proud of something when you're reading (unless it's something you've written), but Feeney manages to elicit that, as well as many other emotions as you're reading and it just builds to a huge crescendo.
Another key feature is the description, and this is a theme that is evident throughout the whole collection. Feeney puts so much into her writing. You can clearly see in your mind the characters, you can feel the emotions, you hurt when they hurt, smile when they smile. It's her attention to the small detail in this story that really gives this story that extra something. Even though you don't know all the specifics like names and ages, we know plenty to cry for their loss and smile with them in their joy. You hurt when they hurt. It's very rare I find a story that moves me in such a way, especially one that is just pages long, but that is exactly what this story does.
In conclusion, this book is truly phenomenal, one of the best pieces of literature I have read so far this year. It's engaging, thought provoking, realistic, easy to read, but above all, it's just, well, words fail me. Honestly, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Five stars is not enough for this book, and it truly deserves the highest accolades possible. Seriously, go one-click! It's now available on Amazon UK and Amazon US, but heed my warning, you want a lot of tissues near you when you read this, tear-jerker doesn't quite cover it!
* * * * * *
I am SO excited about reviewing this and interviewing the author over on Lily Loves Indie and Ramble Media on 1st November as part of the Blog Tour! Watch this space for updates and snippets of my review.
July 13, 2016
*PDF copy provided by author for an honest review
This was my first time reading a collection of army stories. I have never been interested in army, soldier stories. You see on T.V the wars that they go to, and sometimes on talk shows the host will have an interview with the family or there is special days honoring these soldiers. This collection of short stories is dedicated to all of the soldiers out there that fights bravely to protect their country and their people. The emotions of sadness, profoundness, disappointment, happiness are captured excellently in these stories.
I have read Honour and was completely surprised in how much emotion these families have to deal with. I got another outlook on army stories and Iraq wars. Those people offer their services to protect their country. They have so much pride in their country. They leave their families behind, with the hopes to return, but if they die in the war, it was an honorable death.
We see a glimpse into those soldiers' lives and their loved ones, how hard it is to leave your expecting wife behind, or the fear of not coming back home. But yet having that sense of accomplishment when you do return home and successfully fought for your country. I enjoyed reading Honour. Excellent read for any "army families" or anyone that enjoys reading about soldiers and their captivating yet dangerous careers.
Great book!
This was my first time reading a collection of army stories. I have never been interested in army, soldier stories. You see on T.V the wars that they go to, and sometimes on talk shows the host will have an interview with the family or there is special days honoring these soldiers. This collection of short stories is dedicated to all of the soldiers out there that fights bravely to protect their country and their people. The emotions of sadness, profoundness, disappointment, happiness are captured excellently in these stories.
I have read Honour and was completely surprised in how much emotion these families have to deal with. I got another outlook on army stories and Iraq wars. Those people offer their services to protect their country. They have so much pride in their country. They leave their families behind, with the hopes to return, but if they die in the war, it was an honorable death.
We see a glimpse into those soldiers' lives and their loved ones, how hard it is to leave your expecting wife behind, or the fear of not coming back home. But yet having that sense of accomplishment when you do return home and successfully fought for your country. I enjoyed reading Honour. Excellent read for any "army families" or anyone that enjoys reading about soldiers and their captivating yet dangerous careers.
Great book!
November 5, 2013
I was lucky enough to have small snippets of this compilation as it was being written and I knew from the start that it would be an emotional read for me (I even had the tissues ready and waiting).
What I didn’t bank on, was how emotional.
You can tell from the start that not only did the author put her heart and soul into every story in this anthology, but also a glimpse of her real life experiences within a military family. The situations, characters and emotions that were portrayed in the book were so real to me, that at two points I had to put the book down and take a breather. I must stress that this wasn’t a bad thing, but quite the opposite.
What made it all the more real to me, was knowing that as much as these stories are fiction, these situations do happen in real life.
I can’t wait to see what this author will bring us next and I just pray that I won’t need as many tissues. ;)
What I didn’t bank on, was how emotional.
You can tell from the start that not only did the author put her heart and soul into every story in this anthology, but also a glimpse of her real life experiences within a military family. The situations, characters and emotions that were portrayed in the book were so real to me, that at two points I had to put the book down and take a breather. I must stress that this wasn’t a bad thing, but quite the opposite.
What made it all the more real to me, was knowing that as much as these stories are fiction, these situations do happen in real life.
I can’t wait to see what this author will bring us next and I just pray that I won’t need as many tissues. ;)
July 27, 2016
During my reading of this book, I was moved on many different levels. There were parts of the story that made me cry like a little girl, and there were some parts that brought a huge smile to my face. This book will bring up many different emotions in you and keep you wanting to read more and more of it.
With everything going on with the war overseas, this book will completely touch you because some parts of this book have recent “events” happening in it. The book does do flashbacks, but not in the way that you are thinking. It goes back and forth in time telling stories of many different soldiers and the stories of their lives.
We hear a lot of stories of the family members left behind, well in this book, we get to see things through the service members eyes.
Overall, this book is a complete MUST READ if you have any feelings towards military members; past, present and future.
*Received an ARC for honest review*
With everything going on with the war overseas, this book will completely touch you because some parts of this book have recent “events” happening in it. The book does do flashbacks, but not in the way that you are thinking. It goes back and forth in time telling stories of many different soldiers and the stories of their lives.
We hear a lot of stories of the family members left behind, well in this book, we get to see things through the service members eyes.
Overall, this book is a complete MUST READ if you have any feelings towards military members; past, present and future.
*Received an ARC for honest review*
November 1, 2013
I love a new release by a great author, and I was especially excited for this up coming release. Ok, so I don't like war/army stories, but I have always loved this author so I took the risk and I wasn't let down at all. Each story is a small piece of perfection, stories short enough for you read quickly, yet still have the power to leave you a little breathless at times. Admittedly, I almost sobbed on the bus to work and had to stop reading - only great authors can do this to us.
I see a bright future for this author.
I see a bright future for this author.
November 12, 2013
What a poignant and emotional read. Each story was so well written, and gave an insight as to the struggles, challenges and sacrifices those in the armed forces and their families face in order to protect their country.
I found myself pulled in to each and every story, and how a soldier serving ones country can impact on those around them, their experiences leaving an indelible mark and changing lives forever.
If you want your heartstrings tugged, check out this collection. Well worth a read, as are every one of M B Feeney's stories.
I found myself pulled in to each and every story, and how a soldier serving ones country can impact on those around them, their experiences leaving an indelible mark and changing lives forever.
If you want your heartstrings tugged, check out this collection. Well worth a read, as are every one of M B Feeney's stories.
December 5, 2013
When I got the chance to read M.B. Feeney's Honour, I jumped at it. Having read Just Like in the Movies and Right Click, Love, I knew I was going to be in for a good read. But honestly, I was wrong. This wasn't a "good" read, this was a GREAT read. M.B. delves into her soul and brings us numerous short stories that show us just how much the military impacts us all, no matter which side of the line one is on. I enjoyed her book so much and recommend that everyone pick up a copy.
November 12, 2013
You better have tissues handy when you sit down to read this collection of short stories. Everyone of them tugged at my heart. It's amazingly written and so beautiful. Some of the stories are pretty easy to guess what direction it's heading but it doesn't take away from the story or the characters at all. I highly rec'd this to anyone who is looking for a real pull on the heartstrings.
October 30, 2013
Well... I have to start off by saying... I didn't know going into this book ANYTHING about it but that it was a military book. I was excited because I was in the United States Marine Corps and absolutely love military books.
So we will start off at the beginning. The first section tugged at my heart strings until I got utterly confused because we went from husband to sister and tenses changed.. Just confused me too much.
Then we move to the first short story, Deserter, I actually found this story very interesting even though I was a bit lost at what was going on with who. I don't normally care for historical books, but this wasn't too bad and I could feel for the characters. BUT just as I started to like everything, we get flipped to another short story, Silence is Deafening, which really is just a letter that is being written. It is a well written letter, but once again ends leaving you wanting so much more.
Next up was Letters to No One. This was a long one to me. I just couldn't get into the flow of one letter after another from different people to the same military man. And of course I didn't like the last letter, it was SAD.
Night Terrors & Welcome Home are the final two stories in the book. Both follow as before. They are very well written but just didn't quite do it for me. :(
Overall, I'll give the book a 3 Pen Review. The writing was ALMOST there but not quite. It was good, could suck me in and make me want more, but I never got that little bit more that made me think that even though they were short stories I was satisfied with them. Maybe that is a good thing, the author makes you want more and more. But for me, I'd have to read a full novel or novella of one TIME (not starting with historical and working to present time) and one set of characters for me to really see the full greatness I know this author has within. It's there, I see it, now to have her pull it out and put it on paper so we can all enjoy it.
So we will start off at the beginning. The first section tugged at my heart strings until I got utterly confused because we went from husband to sister and tenses changed.. Just confused me too much.
Then we move to the first short story, Deserter, I actually found this story very interesting even though I was a bit lost at what was going on with who. I don't normally care for historical books, but this wasn't too bad and I could feel for the characters. BUT just as I started to like everything, we get flipped to another short story, Silence is Deafening, which really is just a letter that is being written. It is a well written letter, but once again ends leaving you wanting so much more.
Next up was Letters to No One. This was a long one to me. I just couldn't get into the flow of one letter after another from different people to the same military man. And of course I didn't like the last letter, it was SAD.
Night Terrors & Welcome Home are the final two stories in the book. Both follow as before. They are very well written but just didn't quite do it for me. :(
Overall, I'll give the book a 3 Pen Review. The writing was ALMOST there but not quite. It was good, could suck me in and make me want more, but I never got that little bit more that made me think that even though they were short stories I was satisfied with them. Maybe that is a good thing, the author makes you want more and more. But for me, I'd have to read a full novel or novella of one TIME (not starting with historical and working to present time) and one set of characters for me to really see the full greatness I know this author has within. It's there, I see it, now to have her pull it out and put it on paper so we can all enjoy it.
April 23, 2014
'Honour' is a series of short stories that examine the very personal impact that war and being part of the armed forces has on those that serve and their families. It is full of very poignant moments through the beautiful story telling by M.B Feeney.
Each story takes a different perspective and deals with a different issue. Desertion, the death of solider at home and not on the battlefield, the horrors that soldiers have to live with after the war is over, the loss of a loved one in battle and the safe return of a loved one. The relationships that are affected are different in each story and so is the impact. From brothers and sisters to mothers and fathers to sons and daughters to husbands and wives. Each life touched in different ways.
While I enjoyed reading all the stories, my favourite was 'Letters to No One'. With the majority of this story told through letters from family, it is just so beautifully told and the final letter so poignant and sad. The uncertainty that everybody has to live on a day to day basis with comes through, even though they don't actually say it. The fact that life goes on and the impact this has on the family comes through strongly. The utter devastation that the family must have felt through on the receipt of that final letter is felt by the reader through the empathy created by M.B Feeney.
This is a real and a fitting tribute to the armed forces and the families that support these brave men and women. Whilst those who serve in the armed forces for our country are true heroes so are the families that support them. A beautiful read by an author who writes in a down to earth manner that draws you into the emotions of the stories. These are everyday people's stories told with emotion, compassion and empathy. It truly honours our armed forces and their families.
Each story takes a different perspective and deals with a different issue. Desertion, the death of solider at home and not on the battlefield, the horrors that soldiers have to live with after the war is over, the loss of a loved one in battle and the safe return of a loved one. The relationships that are affected are different in each story and so is the impact. From brothers and sisters to mothers and fathers to sons and daughters to husbands and wives. Each life touched in different ways.
While I enjoyed reading all the stories, my favourite was 'Letters to No One'. With the majority of this story told through letters from family, it is just so beautifully told and the final letter so poignant and sad. The uncertainty that everybody has to live on a day to day basis with comes through, even though they don't actually say it. The fact that life goes on and the impact this has on the family comes through strongly. The utter devastation that the family must have felt through on the receipt of that final letter is felt by the reader through the empathy created by M.B Feeney.
This is a real and a fitting tribute to the armed forces and the families that support these brave men and women. Whilst those who serve in the armed forces for our country are true heroes so are the families that support them. A beautiful read by an author who writes in a down to earth manner that draws you into the emotions of the stories. These are everyday people's stories told with emotion, compassion and empathy. It truly honours our armed forces and their families.
August 30, 2015
M.B. Feeney is definitely one of those authors that you read and they leave a lasting impression that stays with you for the rest of your life. Honour is one of those impactful works of art that will touch lives from now until the end of time whether you have served in the Military or know someone who has.
Honour is an incredibly emotional read that struck close to home for me, this book of short stories made me cry plenty of times and as an Army wife it definitely made me reflect on the life that we lead in the military. I will say this is the life we chose and it is a hard life not everyone is cut out for it. We make a lot of sacrafices but I wouldn't change a thing I am very proud of my soldier and what he does every single day. That being said I find it very difficult for authors to correctly portray what life is like as a Military Spouse, Soldier, or even just a dependent (unless they have held the role) and for M.B. Fenney to be so spot on and so accurate with her descriptions and the emotions of what we go through, the struggles, the heartache, the stress, the loss of a loved one, or a friend, seeing that car pull up in the driveway and knowing that its for you and that they are there to deliver news that your loved one isn't returning home. To have an author evoke emotions so real to what is actually happening is honestly quite refreshing so thank you so much for that.
This book is so incredible it is such a touching book of stories and letters that leaves you wanting more. This is one of those compilations that will leave a lasting impression and stick with you forever so if you haven't had the opportunity to experience it yet don't wait it truly is amazing.
Honour is an incredibly emotional read that struck close to home for me, this book of short stories made me cry plenty of times and as an Army wife it definitely made me reflect on the life that we lead in the military. I will say this is the life we chose and it is a hard life not everyone is cut out for it. We make a lot of sacrafices but I wouldn't change a thing I am very proud of my soldier and what he does every single day. That being said I find it very difficult for authors to correctly portray what life is like as a Military Spouse, Soldier, or even just a dependent (unless they have held the role) and for M.B. Fenney to be so spot on and so accurate with her descriptions and the emotions of what we go through, the struggles, the heartache, the stress, the loss of a loved one, or a friend, seeing that car pull up in the driveway and knowing that its for you and that they are there to deliver news that your loved one isn't returning home. To have an author evoke emotions so real to what is actually happening is honestly quite refreshing so thank you so much for that.
This book is so incredible it is such a touching book of stories and letters that leaves you wanting more. This is one of those compilations that will leave a lasting impression and stick with you forever so if you haven't had the opportunity to experience it yet don't wait it truly is amazing.
August 12, 2016
Honour * Deserter * Silence is Deafening * Letters to No One * Night Terrors * Welcome Home
By the time you put this quick read down, you’ll have reached for tissues and been left to ponder a lot, like the meaning of life. The author’s talent for crisp writing and emotional banter will pull you in easily, which is why I was a tad disappointed on the multi-chapter stories. There was so much potential for them to be developed further, yet Feeney held back for the sake of letting the reader assimilate and digest. I wanted more, but the abrupt endings were poignant in their own way.
This is a collection of six fictional short stories; some are multi-chapter, and some are simply a ‘one-shot’, but they all have to do with the central theme of how the military affects lives. What Feeney has done with her anthology, is present a series of scenarios that could be found all over the world, regardless of the country being served.
I loved how Feeney chose to show the different angles of being involved in the military: as a soldier, a family member, a spouse, a child, a friend. Her presentation order of the stories is also a tale in itself. She shows good times and bad, from the dreaded knock on the door from a uniformed officer to looking up and seeing your soldier home safe and sound.
Honour is a powerful reminder that freedom comes at a cost to more than than just the enlisted, and should be read.
By the time you put this quick read down, you’ll have reached for tissues and been left to ponder a lot, like the meaning of life. The author’s talent for crisp writing and emotional banter will pull you in easily, which is why I was a tad disappointed on the multi-chapter stories. There was so much potential for them to be developed further, yet Feeney held back for the sake of letting the reader assimilate and digest. I wanted more, but the abrupt endings were poignant in their own way.
This is a collection of six fictional short stories; some are multi-chapter, and some are simply a ‘one-shot’, but they all have to do with the central theme of how the military affects lives. What Feeney has done with her anthology, is present a series of scenarios that could be found all over the world, regardless of the country being served.
I loved how Feeney chose to show the different angles of being involved in the military: as a soldier, a family member, a spouse, a child, a friend. Her presentation order of the stories is also a tale in itself. She shows good times and bad, from the dreaded knock on the door from a uniformed officer to looking up and seeing your soldier home safe and sound.
Honour is a powerful reminder that freedom comes at a cost to more than than just the enlisted, and should be read.
March 17, 2016
This was a book I was really looking forward to reading as historical books really interest me. Though this wasn't exactly a historical read we get a glimpse into what life would have been like, and is like in the modern day during war.
I enjoy anthologies but have never read one with all stories by the same author, though I have read M B's work previously so am familiar with her writing style.
I like how M B manages to write the stories from all different POV so we see life from the perspective of soldier, wife, parents etc.
Some of the stories were confusing at points, especially the first where it flitted from one character/name to another and I just couldn't get into it. Also some of them ended abruptly which was a tad disappointing but I understand why M B did it this way. My favourite read though was the series of letters (Letters to No one), I liked the construction of this.
Overall, it is a really emotional read which gives deeper insight into what really does go on, the things we take for granted and just don't think about and the effect it has on those close to us. A 4* rating from me.
I enjoy anthologies but have never read one with all stories by the same author, though I have read M B's work previously so am familiar with her writing style.
I like how M B manages to write the stories from all different POV so we see life from the perspective of soldier, wife, parents etc.
Some of the stories were confusing at points, especially the first where it flitted from one character/name to another and I just couldn't get into it. Also some of them ended abruptly which was a tad disappointing but I understand why M B did it this way. My favourite read though was the series of letters (Letters to No one), I liked the construction of this.
Overall, it is a really emotional read which gives deeper insight into what really does go on, the things we take for granted and just don't think about and the effect it has on those close to us. A 4* rating from me.
November 8, 2013
A grieving woman's memories. A solider's decision. A husband's duty to his country. A family's letters to their solider. A father's legacy. A hero's welcome. Six short glimpses into the lives of the world's military and the lives of the people who love them.
Through these short stories told from a variety of view points, M.B. Feeney is able to convey the true emotions of each character. I was able to experience those feelings with each word. Grief, loss, love, and triumph wrapped up in only 122 pages. Each story is a small victory for Feeney and the ability to tell these stories in a unique conglomeration of ways.
After each heart tugging story, I had to take a breather to get each conveyed sentiment under control. If Feeney can elicit these responses from these short stories, I can't wait to read any other stories this author has to offer.
Thanks so much to M.B. Feeney for granting me with a copy of "Honour" in exchange for an honest review.
Through these short stories told from a variety of view points, M.B. Feeney is able to convey the true emotions of each character. I was able to experience those feelings with each word. Grief, loss, love, and triumph wrapped up in only 122 pages. Each story is a small victory for Feeney and the ability to tell these stories in a unique conglomeration of ways.
After each heart tugging story, I had to take a breather to get each conveyed sentiment under control. If Feeney can elicit these responses from these short stories, I can't wait to read any other stories this author has to offer.
Thanks so much to M.B. Feeney for granting me with a copy of "Honour" in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2014
I really liked this collection of stories. All different but with their underlying hero theme. They are all moving and quite thought-provoking in their own way, and the letters throughout are a nice touch too.
I don't know if it was just me being confused or an error but there were too many boys names flying about in Honour and I got a bit muddled. The baby was going to be Neil and then it was Alex? The it said Jack which I was muddled about until the next story.
I was lucky enough to get a preview of Letters to No-One in the early stages. I was sobbing then and sobbed now.
Personal preference: I'm not a big fan of unresolved endings. What happened to Jack and Joseph? How did Carl's assignment go? What was in Jonno's bag?
All in all, a lovely collection, rounded up with a tale of hope and happiness.
I don't know if it was just me being confused or an error but there were too many boys names flying about in Honour and I got a bit muddled. The baby was going to be Neil and then it was Alex? The it said Jack which I was muddled about until the next story.
I was lucky enough to get a preview of Letters to No-One in the early stages. I was sobbing then and sobbed now.
Personal preference: I'm not a big fan of unresolved endings. What happened to Jack and Joseph? How did Carl's assignment go? What was in Jonno's bag?
All in all, a lovely collection, rounded up with a tale of hope and happiness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2015
Honour
By MB Feeney
This is a collection of short stories which left me an emotional wreck ( to be fair Mich did warn me!) .
These short stories range from a grieving woman's memories to a father's legacy . It's not my usual book to read but am so glad I did because it left me feeling humbled at the thought that we don't really appreciate what soldiers and their family's go through, the family's left behind and the soldiers who put their lives on the line for Queen and country . We don't truly understand the hardships they went through . We only see what we want to see.
Mich truly has a way with words in this book that pulls you in and makes you feel apart of the struggles. The emotion involved is exceptional, before buying this book please go and buy a large supply of tissues because, trust me , your gonna need them !
By MB Feeney
This is a collection of short stories which left me an emotional wreck ( to be fair Mich did warn me!) .
These short stories range from a grieving woman's memories to a father's legacy . It's not my usual book to read but am so glad I did because it left me feeling humbled at the thought that we don't really appreciate what soldiers and their family's go through, the family's left behind and the soldiers who put their lives on the line for Queen and country . We don't truly understand the hardships they went through . We only see what we want to see.
Mich truly has a way with words in this book that pulls you in and makes you feel apart of the struggles. The emotion involved is exceptional, before buying this book please go and buy a large supply of tissues because, trust me , your gonna need them !
August 19, 2015
This is a collection of short stories. How those is service to their country, have pride and love of country but it also deals with the families left behind. What they have to deal with, their thoughts and feeling. The pride that they have in their family member serving. make sure you have a box of tissues handy. Each story whether the solider returns home to see their love ones again or return home in a casket, brings tears to your eyes. It touches your soul what each one goes through. You can feel their pain and sorrow, their happiness and joys. Having had family members and friends in the military really hits home. It captures what you have gone threw and have felt in your heart. I received and arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2015
Honour by M.B. Feeney is definitely one of those books that is timeless in its application to the strains of war. It shows the heartache as family and loved ones say goodbye to their deploying soldier and the fear and determination of the soldiers, in their honor of country. It took me awhile to get the "snapshot" feel of the book. It flows from letters to and from soldiers from one generation of war to another. It loosely links one letter to the next, giving you an intimate glimpse into the quiet sorrow that war leaves behind. There was a strength and sadness to each letter, it felt like you were reading real letters from families, it was a bittersweet read.
April 11, 2014
Honour is a beautifully written book containing 6 different short stories all pertaining to military service and its effects on those in service as well as their families. We're introduced with a grieving widow's memories and finalized with a hero's welcome. Each story is filled with heartfelt passion and grief. Feeney is able to bring the emotional bonds surrounding military service exploding off the pages. True, each story is short, but they are packed with power. Tissues are a requirement when reading this book.
Read
January 31, 2014Thank you to M.B. Feeney for asking me to be a part of this tour and giving me the chance to read this wonderful collection of stories. As a huge supporter of military related stories, I jumped at the chance. I was not disappointed, even though I cried my eyes out.
This is a difficult review to write because each story was so powerful, but so well thought out. I feel that the author didn't glorify any of the stories and did a wonderful job being respectful.
I wish this review could be longer, but I really don't know how to express how much I love this anthology.
This is a difficult review to write because each story was so powerful, but so well thought out. I feel that the author didn't glorify any of the stories and did a wonderful job being respectful.
I wish this review could be longer, but I really don't know how to express how much I love this anthology.
August 26, 2015
This is a collection of short stories. Beautifully written and heart felt. I felt that this was a tribute to the men and women in the military.
Each story is unique. I had goosebumps reading them. I read it on one sitting. It's also ideal if you've only a few minutes to read- but be warned you will be thinking about this authors words afterwards.
I love how the author gave us different views to think and ponder on. I certainly recommend this little gem.
Each story is unique. I had goosebumps reading them. I read it on one sitting. It's also ideal if you've only a few minutes to read- but be warned you will be thinking about this authors words afterwards.
I love how the author gave us different views to think and ponder on. I certainly recommend this little gem.
May 7, 2014
A collection of short stories with a military theme, written as family of the soldier, the soldier them self or the widow.
I cried. I cried some more. This book took me on an emotional ride, so sweet, so heartbreaking along the way, I couldn't have loved it more. It's a amazing thing to have a book make you feel, and Honour did that.
I cried. I cried some more. This book took me on an emotional ride, so sweet, so heartbreaking along the way, I couldn't have loved it more. It's a amazing thing to have a book make you feel, and Honour did that.
August 1, 2015
I thought "Honour" was a great story about our military. It was dark. It was intense. It was heartbreaking. It is a must-read. It's a book that showcases all of the human emotions wrapped up in one story. M.B. Feeney knows how to go into dark places that also shed light in the darkest of time.
February 21, 2014
I really enjoy this book!! Even just the short stories really make you think!
September 24, 2015
This book truly moved me to tears. She has a way with words that completely captivates you.
April 21, 2016
I like to consider my reviews as the non-avid readers' recommendation to books to read or not read. As I have increased in my devour of [good] books, I am finding that becoming an avid reader is based on two main criteria: The books you read must be easy reads: One doesn't need a dictionary to understand it and the book doesn't focus on topics one is not interested in; The story-telling must keep one engaged so boredom doesn't set in or distractions of life pull the reader away.
Honour was an easy read for me. It helps that I am a military wife, so the subject was quite familiar; but the story-telling was good, as well. I found it easy to keep reading and stay "in" the story. My closeness to the subject matter, however, made me want to put down the book in some parts (no spoilers) due to the reality that is my own. Regardless, each chapter was a quick story that allowed you to see what the author weaved together for the reader(great showing, not just telling) and each story transitioned well off the prior like a cohesive line of clothing going down the runway at a fashion show. My reasons for not giving 5 stars were an occasional missed word or spelling error and the speed at which some of the stories abruptly stopped. Whilst I do enjoy succinct tale-telling, there were a couple chapters that I felt deserved better endings. (Again, I don't do spoilers, so I won't go into details here.)
I do recommend this book for military, their spouses *unless you're prone to worry about your Soldier while they are away*, and their family and friends. I also recommend it for any patriot of their country. M.B. Feeney paints multiple pictures of what service to ones country means in Honour and, regardless of which country that service is to, readers will learn a thing or two about honour (or honor, for us Westerners) and the realities of military life.
Honour was an easy read for me. It helps that I am a military wife, so the subject was quite familiar; but the story-telling was good, as well. I found it easy to keep reading and stay "in" the story. My closeness to the subject matter, however, made me want to put down the book in some parts (no spoilers) due to the reality that is my own. Regardless, each chapter was a quick story that allowed you to see what the author weaved together for the reader(great showing, not just telling) and each story transitioned well off the prior like a cohesive line of clothing going down the runway at a fashion show. My reasons for not giving 5 stars were an occasional missed word or spelling error and the speed at which some of the stories abruptly stopped. Whilst I do enjoy succinct tale-telling, there were a couple chapters that I felt deserved better endings. (Again, I don't do spoilers, so I won't go into details here.)
I do recommend this book for military, their spouses *unless you're prone to worry about your Soldier while they are away*, and their family and friends. I also recommend it for any patriot of their country. M.B. Feeney paints multiple pictures of what service to ones country means in Honour and, regardless of which country that service is to, readers will learn a thing or two about honour (or honor, for us Westerners) and the realities of military life.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews