Into the Cauldron

After Dunkirk #7

by Lee Jackson

In the vast theater of World War II, the fate of one family weaves into the larger tapestry of the fight—even if victory asks for the ultimate sacrifice.

Normandy. Sark Island. London. The Pacific. The Littlefield siblings, separated by the grim tide of war, fight on all fronts.

The Dame of Sark, the Littlefield matriarch, faces starvation on Sark Island, while Lance grapples with the Wehrmacht on French soil. With every step shadowed by death, his sole goal is to liberate Paris and prepare for the final assault on Germany.

In London, Claire deciphers enemy communications, her work pivotal in shaping the battlefield. Meanwhile, Jeremy leads a band of refugees through the treacherous Vercor Mountains, nursing the hope of rejoining the battle against the Germans. Across the globe, Josh prepares for a decisive amphibious assault as momentous as the one at Normandy.

With World War II raging, the Littlefield’s stories intertwine with old and new friends alike. As narratives converge, the tension escalates, culminating in the decisive Battle of the Bulge in the dense Ardennes forest—with the family ready to pay the ultimate price to tilt the scales of war.

From Wall Street Journal bestselling author Lee Jackson comes Into the Cauldron, the seventh epic saga in the After Dunkirk series.

____________________________

Praise for Lee Jackson and the AFTER DUNKIRK

"...an exceptional work of historical fiction..." —Lieutenant General Rick Lynch, US Army (Ret.)

"...compelling fiction is masterfully woven in with the actual events...” —John J. Gobbell, author of The Last Lieutenant

"A sweeping, wonderfully crafted saga...Jackson has created a masterful, enduring tale." —H.W. "Buzz" Bernard, award-winning author of When Heroes Flew

"[Jackson]...deftly balances the deeply personal stories of his characters with the action..." —Commander George Wallace, USN (Ret.), author of Warshot and Operation Golden Dawn

“There is intrigue and action galore, but also true and gripping personal depth in this remarkable story...” —Don Keith, author of Final Bearing and Only the Brave

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

486 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 10, 2024

About the author

My Tagline: Lee Jackson Brings Heat To The Cold War. I write Historical Thriller Fiction - particularly surrounding the Cold War. Having lived in Morocco, Germany, Costa Rica, and of course in the United States; and, having been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan for a combined 38 months, I've been up-close-and personal with many different cultures. I graduated from West Point and Boston University, resulting in a front row seat on many pivotal events. I live in Texas with my wife. My first novel, "Curse The Moon" was published on 10 December 2013. I publish under my own name, Lee Jackson.

Reviews

[carson wright · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read all the books so far in this series and loved them all except this one. To me there was not enough about the characters themselves, more about the battles. You have no idea after reading this book where or what Lance is doing, how the mother is doing on the island occupied by the Germans and how their step father is who is in a German prison.
I really had to force myself to finish this book, I hope number 8 is better. I was truly disappointed!!

[Pam Dubov · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this series much more when it focused on the Littlefield family members and spent less time on historic and geographic details.

[John Calcagni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still enjoyed the story catching up on familiar characters but not as strong a read as the previous books in this series. There was way too much detail on troop movement and positions that would make you dizzy without a map.

[Shari · Rating 3 out of 5]

A step below the rest of the series

Into the Cauldron was so heavy into military tactics and strategy it misses what made the previous books in the series so great. It was missing good storytelling and heart.

[Jim Rickard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Best one in the series so far. Look forward to the next one.

.

[Frieda Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Into the Cauldron

Again, although I like the storylines of this book, I must say that as it has been for the last few books, it seemed more of a text book than fiction in many places. Even more so, & I DO understand why it is, there are so many "new" characters & so very much less about our original character group members! And this has been almost ONLY about the war in France! Imagine if the story included the entire World War! I'd recommend this book to any fan of Historical, Combat-oriented, Adventure type fiction, however if you're a fan of Historical novels that lean toward romance, this may not be for you. I'm a History buff, so it's acceptable to me.

[Darren Bourn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another book that I am extremely grateful that I was able to get an ARC copy from the author (Lee Jackson), his publisher (Severn Rivers Publishing), and the fine folks at NetGalley in return for an honest opinion.

This series of books details how one family's fate weaves into the larger tapestry of World War II's vast expanse. In this book, the Littlefield siblings fight on multiple fronts - Normandy, the push through France following Operation Dragoon, London (primarily through the actions of Betchley Park), the Battle of the Philippine Sea (through the invasion of Saipan and the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot), and finally on the homefront on Sark Island.

One of my major issues was that I had only read two of the (now) seven-book series (the first and the seventh). This is not an issue with the book but an issue of my oversight of the series.

An overview of how the story of the Littlefield family plays out in this book is as follows:

The Dame of Sark, the Littlefield matriarch, faces starvation on Sark Island, while Lance grapples with the Wehrmacht on French soil. With every step shadowed by death, his sole goal is to liberate Paris and prepare for the final assault on Germany.

In London, Claire deciphers enemy communications, her work pivotal in shaping the battlefield. Meanwhile, Jeremy leads a band of refugees through the treacherous Vercor Mountains, nursing the hope of rejoining the battle against the Germans. Across the globe, Josh prepares for a decisive amphibious assault as momentous as the one at Normandy.

With World War II raging, the Littlefield’s stories intertwine with old and new friends alike. As narratives converge, the tension escalates, culminating in the decisive Battle of the Bulge in the dense Ardennes forest—with the family ready to pay the ultimate price to tilt the scales of war.

On a five-star scale, I think that based on the epic tale that Lee Jackson manages to weave the story of the family into the expansive tapestry that was World War II, I would have to give this book a solid four stars. I think that the picture of an excellent author of fiction is the ability to take an event in history and successfully balance the personal stories of his characters into that true event. I believe that this author would be a definite favourite for those aficionados of historical fiction.

As with all my literary ramblings, these are just my five cents worth.

[virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in Lee Jackson’s After Dunkirk series, but only my first experience reading any of the author’s books. I struggled initially as I got to know the characters and the story's direction. Once I got a handle on the author’s writing style and became fully immersed in the setting and the Littlefield family dynamic, I got an excellent education about the various battles of WWII in the European theater. As I read the book, I found that much of it had a mixture of historical fiction and a history textbook, which was unexpected. However, as the story progressed, I found myself pleasantly surprised. Seeing the war as my father and uncles may have seen it during a time of rationing, horrors beyond imagination, through the eyes of the families that faced the worst of what humanity can do to one another, I felt the book was worth the week it took me to read it.

This is as much an educational treatise as it is historical fiction. The operational pieces left me bewildered by all the planning the higher-ranking officers must have had to organize and carry out. I found the book tedious in some spots and informative and realistic in others, with settings that brought this epic war to light. Many readers who are not WWII scholars might struggle to read some of this. I would have viewed this book differently if I had read the first six books.

Because of its length, technical prose style, and wordiness, it earned 3.5 stars overall. This is not a light reading or an easy, breezy beach read. This book is for you if you want something educational with a hefty dose of reality.

I thank the author, Severn Rivers Publishing, and Net Galley for the free advanced copy. This is an honest and voluntary review and mine alone. Give this book a chance. I think many lovers of WWII historical fiction will go back and reread it. Starting at the beginning of the series may be better than picking up seven novels in a row.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Walk along side the members of the Littlefield family and experience World War 2 as if you were there. All of the books in the After Dunkirk series have transported me to battlefields. I have seen the interworking of Bletchley Park. I have worshipped the members of the SOE and the members of the resistance. Tears have flowed with no end in sight as I witnessed the atrocities.

Into the Cauldron and numerous battles taking place on the same day. This glimpse had me in awe of those that kept track of it all. Battles weren't just on the land. I had forgotten how badly personalities clashed during the war. The author had me believing that the conflicts and sneakiness were constantly creating problems. It is amazing anything got done.

Traveling along side SOE operatives had me wanting to hide. The details of the invasion of Vecors will forever be burned in my mind. What was done to the resistance members and citizens in the area, even if exaggerated since this is a historical fiction, ripped my heart out. To watch those that survived keep going, never wavering was inspirational. As the allies advanced on the nazis I cheered. There was hope written on the pages, and even though I knew the outcome, I couldn't help but become invested in their emotions, their successes.

I closed the book with a better understanding of the complications of the war. I closed the book with the same question I have always had. How could one human treat another human with such disregard? I closed the book wondering how we could put such little value on life.

I closed the book wondering if there will be another book. I can't stop thinking about all of the Littlefields and those they love. Do they survive? Do they find some sort of happiness? Will they be like my relatives and refuse to talk about what they went through? I am so grateful to the author for writing such detailed stories. His words have allowed us to gain understanding of the past.

[David Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another homerun from Lee Jackson!

Lee Jackson’s After Dunkirk series is one of my current reading addictions, with the release of Into the Cauldron I was able to fully satiate that addiction for now. Following the Littlefield clan through the European and Pacific theaters in World War II is an excellent way to enjoy Mr. Jackson’s masterful ability to weave historical fact with well-developed fictionalized characters. Each of the subsequent releases since the initial book, After Dunkirk, has revealed more about each character all the while creating an air of anticipation for what is to come with each page/chapter/book. Several years ago, I loved watching WWI movies, but never had that same fascination for reading books on the war. Lee Jackson and a couple other authors who are also published by Severn River Publishing brought back my fascination with WWII through the written word.

If you enjoy war stories with a pronounced human element consisting of several interesting characters woven into each story you might give the After Dunkirk story a try. If you are like me, you may find yourself addicted to this series.

[Rick Mitchell · Rating 2 out of 5]

I fell in love with this series and looked forward to every publication. The last book was a drop, but I hoped this one would be a comeback. It was a terrible disappointment.

First, this series started as a family saga of the Littlefields. They seemed to be an afterthought. Nothing about the parents on Sark at all. All but Jeremy seemed to be afterthoughts and the American cousin fighting in the Pacific is a needless diversion - start another saga.

Worse were the battles and army movement. Pages of this army went this way, that army went that way while these armies went other ways were not only patently tedious but mere gibberish without maps. Most of the book - except about Paris - would have been improved with some maps.

The speeches made up for some of the historical characters were almost humorous. Would General Eisenhower have to relate the history of WWII to his top aides?

The book became so tiresome that, by the end, I was just skimming and slowing down when a character appeared that I knew from prior books appeared.

Now the dilemma - do I read the concluding book?

[Peter Hendrycks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of all the books in this series so far, this is my most liked! 2 reasons come to mind. I just returned from a month in France, spent hiking in the Alps, around Mont Blanc, and then road tripping south to Nice. Our route took us right through many of the towns on or near the Napoleon Route, mentioned in this book! I saw some war monuments, but did not realize their significance until reading this book upon my return! I recall looking up at the Vercours, and thinking how awesome those mountains were! I gotta say that Mr. Jackson really writes a compelling story! He researches, and explains the happenings and tactics very well! I also did not know that Hitler had ordered the Germans to level Paris and destroy all the landmarks upon retreat. The way this whole scenario was described, and untimately played out was very intense! Many people deserve the credit for saving Paris, but I think the German General thumbing his nose at Hitlers order and not pushing the button was pretty special! This book was incredible, and I did not want it to end!

[Ganesh Subramanian · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story based on World War II about the Littlefield family especially the children and how they are contributing to the Allied victory. It starts with an excellent description of a pitched tank battle on French soil with a detailed description of the tactics. Lance Littlefield is battling the Germans on French soil, near Normandy whereas the daughter works as an expert at decrypting coded communications of the enemy. Meanwhile another sibling, Jeremy leads a band of refugees to safety. The mother is on Sark Island, battling starvation, barely surviving on rationed food. The war is described in vivid detail from an insider’s point of view and is a must-read for all those who love to read about major battles that the planet has encountered.
Thank you, Seven Rivers Publishing ‎for providing this book for review consideration via Edelweiss All opinions are my own

[Jo Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Lee Jackson provides remarkable insights into World War II, focusing on events occurring in the European theatre, primarily in France. The book not only focuses on the specific actions connected to the Allied invasion of Normandy and the freeing of Paris, it allows the reader to experience these events and many others through the eyes of the Allied high command, of individual soldiers, and of the French resistance. The book's characters are heroic, realistic, courageous, and believable. I cannot wait to read the next installment of this saga!

I received an ARC for free and gave my honest opinion voluntarily.

[Diane Crepeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful!

Once again I found myself in awe after finishing the next book in the After Dunkirk Series. To read about everything that went on “behind the scenes” in WWII is nothing less than mind boggling. At times it was hard to keep up with the names of the people and cities in France which can sometimes be confusing due to their flare (length) as that is where the majority of this story is focused. The way the author brings everything into perspective is nothing short of amazing. I would highly recommend the After Dunkirk Series and any of the series by the author. They are that good.

[Jarro Building · Rating 5 out of 5]

from a history buff wi follow the paths of many American wars and abroard

Its a great synopsis of the entire ww2 story. Having the main characters interact with our legendary leaders of the past has been an eye opener. Adding great insight into their minds and thoughts. My father went in to Paris and always complained how deGaull made them wait so long. Thereafter he went into in the battle of the bulge and thru into Bavaria. I have always had a higher regard for deGaulle and the book clearly demonstrates that it was so true. He was a great leadeypolitician and one of the only one who want to stay and fight

[Patricia Callaghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Needs closer editing

I've enjoyed all of the series so far and this book was no different. I believe the author should be more careful with proofreading. For example, early in the story the action is in the Pacific Ocean and there's a reference to Japanese suicide charges. The author called them bonsai charges instead of Banzai charges. There's quite a difference! He also refers to the 143rd infantry regiment as a division. It is not; It is a unit of the 36th infantry division. There are some other minor mistakes but my point is that they can distract the reader, especially a student of military history. I do look forward to the next installment.

[CATHY BARBER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Chapter

I am not going to play literary expert and mention writing styles. I have read an reread all of the books in this series. Lee Jackson has given us a fantastic story based on characters that you will absolutely feel you know and like. Written during World War Two, there is excitement, battles, sorrow, joy for anyone lucky enough to have read this series. I have enjoyed, smiled, got angry and even teared up while reading. Probably the best series I have ever read. Cannot wait for the next book. Thank You Mr. Jackson!

[Peter M. Calabrese · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Respect for French Resistance

I love history and WW2 as my family fought in it. I never heard about the battle for Vercours and Grenoble. The French Resistance is given little credit for disrupting the Nazi War machine. The names Pauline, Jeannie Rousseau, Madame Forcade have been pushed to the back pages as have much of the SOE. I know about de Gaulle, but not the infighting for control of France. I thoroughly enjoyed the read. I cannot wait to read Storming the Reich and his other novels

[Bruce Tamanaha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good WWII struggle with family, love, and history mixing well together

The Littlefield family and the Boulier sisters continue the fight for freedom in France, the UK, and in the Pacific.

Plenty of action and suspense as they take the fight to the Germans and the Japanese. Each one dealing with their own set of struggles, not knowing the fate of other family members.

The book is exciting and entertaining. If you like historical fiction, this is a small part of a good series.

[Carey Mundy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just can’t rave enough about this series - it is excellent WWII historic fiction that is superb! This was book 7 and follows the Littlefield family members from D-day in June ‘44 until Paris is liberated in August ‘44. They all play pivotal roles in helping the allies as the war grinds on, from Bletchley Park to Normandy to the south of France and Paris. I will have a hard time waiting for the 8th book to come out!

[Gordon Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well researched. lots of detailed war events if you like that stuff

The author does a magnificent job in detailing the moves and counter moves of the allies and German and Japanese forces. All the brigade designations became confusing to me after a while because all sides used them. I’m sure that if you are a fan of detailed unit activities you’ll love it. The brutality of war is presented in a kid glove most of the time.

[Brenda Stocker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been enamored from the beginning of this series!

This is such an interesting and amazing story from the very beginning. It keeps one fully intrigued and is definitely hard to stay away from once you become involved. So many battles worldwide, that keeps you drawn into throughout the entire series and this book certainly follows that lead from the very beginning until the last page!
Thank you Lee Jackson for this outstanding series!

[virgil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent Series Continues

The pace of this volume was somewhat slower than previous volumes, I think due to the complexity of so many historical characters and events unfolding in a short period of time. The storylines of the principle characters were maintained minimally by comparison to the monumental events taking place, and much detail was necessary to adequately describe the retaking of Paris!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in the After Dunkirk series. Through the extended Littlefield family, we get a living history approach to knowing and understanding WWII. From major operations to resistance forays, we see the war from a personal view. The history is good; the story is great. Highly recommend as both historical fiction and living history.

[Jim Flagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book for my honest review. This book is part of a great series that follows various family members through World War II. This is historical fiction at its best and the books should be read in order. This book was mostly about the family members located in the European theater. I can’t recommend this series highly enough. The next book can’t come fast enough.

[Ron Baumer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in the series, and it is just as good as the first six! I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and cannot wait for the next book in the series. The characters and storyline are well-developed and full of action to keep your attention. A great read!

Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Carol Rioux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy and Fear

If you have been reading the series, you will rejoice in good news about leading characters; however, you will realized that while Paris has been liberated the war is not yet over. I look forward to the next book in the series and hope that the next book will end in peace and happiness for the characters we have grown very fond of.

[Barry McClafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Into the Cauldron,

Having followed the After Dunkirk series from the beginning. I have fallen for the characters Lee has created. I'VE already ordered his book 8 which is due out in June 25, just in time for my birthday. And there is nothing better than a good book for your birthday.

[Joseph Mezlo]

I've read all of the "After Dunkirk" series, which have all been interesting and well-written. "Into the Cauldron" is no exception. The storyline in this book focuses more on military tactics and strategy and less on the adventures of the Littlefield family. I'm looking forward to the next offering in this series.