The Tenth Command: A WWII Novel of Leadership, Redemption, and the 10th Mountain Division

by Joe Looby

This is the story of the men who led them.

Early 1945. The road to the Alps—and the heart of the Third Reich—is blocked by two monsters: Hitler’s last mountain fortress in Italy and the haunting memory of failure.

To break the deadlock, Major General Price Hays, the “Rock of the Marne,” makes a terrifying gamble: his men will assault the fortified slopes of Mount Belvedere in the dead of night—with empty rifles.

It is a command that defies doctrine and demands absolute trust. Silence is their only armor.

Meanwhile, Colonel Will Darby, the legendary founder of Darby’s Rangers, returns to the front like a ghost. Exiled after the nightmare at Cisterna, he seeks not glory, but atonement. Guided by Annie, a British codebreaker who sees the man behind the legend, Darby must face the deadliest sin of command: coveting a victory bought with other men’s blood.

As the division launches its final drive to seal the Brenner Pass—the last escape route for Germany’s army in Italy—mentor and protégé reunite.

From the terrifying order to assault Belvedere with empty rifles to the race through the death-haunted tunnels above Lake Garda, Hays and Darby must walk through fire to break the enemy’s final line.

For one, it is a race to end the war. For the other, it is a chance to save his soul.

Inspired by True Heroes: Based on the incredible lives of Major General George “Price” Hays and Colonel William “Will” O. Darby, The Tenth Command is the powerful finale to The Tenth Series.

380 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 25, 2026

About the author

"The Tenth Series are works of historical fiction originally inspired by the real events of the battles at Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere. My father served with the 10th Mountain Division during that campaign. He fought in those mountains and was wounded in battle. His courage—and the courage of the men he served alongside—is something I carry with me. Writing these stories is my way of honoring not just their bravery but the human experience behind the history: the fear, the grit, the humor, the heartbreak, and the extraordinary strength of ordinary men."— Joe Looby

Reviews

[CeCe Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book of a series by this author, and each one is better than the next. The Tenth Command follows two legendary commanders through their terrifying, heroic, and heartbreaking battles against the Germans in World War II. The story is full of well-researched history and blends courage, sacrifice, heroism, patriotism, and love. Those who have read the author’s first two books will recognize many characters who are woven throughout this story, but it is just as enjoyable as a standalone story. This is an awe-inspiring book that truly makes you feel like you were there, evoking a deep sense of gratitude to those who served.

[C Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this well-researched, well-written book. Inspired by the leadership of real-life war heroes Major General George Hays and Colonel William Darby, this historical fiction book is a gripping tale that highlights the heroism and tragedies of several of the battles of World War II. This is a page turner full of action, history, brotherhood, and love.