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Soldier On
Take a walk in Army reservist Molly McKinney's boots as she serves our country in Afghanistan and confronts a minefield of interpersonal relationships. Men and women from all walks of life are thrown together on what they call the “rock" or "Hell on earth." The story follows Molly as she adjusts to her new reality of living in a combat zone, learns the ropes of prison life, and realizes the many complexities of war.
Born in Chicago, Molly barely out of her teens is an aspiring doctor who joined the Army Reserve pre-911, mainly to pay for medical school. She is a breath of fresh air in the hot, dusty, hell-hole the soldiers temporarily call home. Molly, with her battle buddy Osborne, a quirky seductress, work alongside active duty troops as MP’s (Military Police) stationed at a prison camp. The insurgents, assumed to have Taliban connections, some awaiting transit to Guantanamo Bay, often fall on the thin line between very scary and somewhat ridiculous.
Molly’s life becomes a rollercoaster of fear, passion, pain, and boredom as she guards captured insurgents and she soon realizes that she too is a prisoner of the desolate, and unbearably hot prison. Molly becomes drawn to a quick witted, shameless soldier named Spc. Shaw to get through the long and mundane days of the prison. As her feelings for Shaw grow so does her loathing for the insanely handsome, yet robotic, Sgt. Beck.
Sgt. Beck makes it clear on day one that Molly is unfit for the job. In his attempts to take her down he begins to see the true measure of her resilience, courage, determination and fiery temper. As Molly battles her 12-hour work schedule, sleep deprivation, camel spiders and a host of other obstacles while living in a combat zone, Beck, who is sleeping with Molly’s friend, entrusts Molly with a more personal side of himself. As Beck's guard lowers, so does Molly’s and their friendship becomes unbreakable. But when tragedy strikes Molly realizes that some people are not at all what they appear to be.
Born in Chicago, Molly barely out of her teens is an aspiring doctor who joined the Army Reserve pre-911, mainly to pay for medical school. She is a breath of fresh air in the hot, dusty, hell-hole the soldiers temporarily call home. Molly, with her battle buddy Osborne, a quirky seductress, work alongside active duty troops as MP’s (Military Police) stationed at a prison camp. The insurgents, assumed to have Taliban connections, some awaiting transit to Guantanamo Bay, often fall on the thin line between very scary and somewhat ridiculous.
Molly’s life becomes a rollercoaster of fear, passion, pain, and boredom as she guards captured insurgents and she soon realizes that she too is a prisoner of the desolate, and unbearably hot prison. Molly becomes drawn to a quick witted, shameless soldier named Spc. Shaw to get through the long and mundane days of the prison. As her feelings for Shaw grow so does her loathing for the insanely handsome, yet robotic, Sgt. Beck.
Sgt. Beck makes it clear on day one that Molly is unfit for the job. In his attempts to take her down he begins to see the true measure of her resilience, courage, determination and fiery temper. As Molly battles her 12-hour work schedule, sleep deprivation, camel spiders and a host of other obstacles while living in a combat zone, Beck, who is sleeping with Molly’s friend, entrusts Molly with a more personal side of himself. As Beck's guard lowers, so does Molly’s and their friendship becomes unbreakable. But when tragedy strikes Molly realizes that some people are not at all what they appear to be.
- GenresFictionMilitary Fiction
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 30, 2018
'Generously provided by Author in exchange for an honest review'
This was an enjoyable,moving and an interesting story from start to finish which centered around the leading character and a few of her supporting compadres from the war of battle. Good storytelling and also its well written
This was an enjoyable,moving and an interesting story from start to finish which centered around the leading character and a few of her supporting compadres from the war of battle. Good storytelling and also its well written
January 26, 2018
'Soldier on', by J.D. Wynne is the story of a young reservist who has plans for becoming a doctor but instead, finds herself in active duty services in Afghanistan a few years after 9/11. As her time there passes, she develops very close bonds with her fellow soldiers, some that will change her life, as she knew it, forever.
I felt the title for this book held true throughout the novel and the main characters were very strong. An emotional read with difficult content at times. I feel it was well worth reading.
I'd like to thank the author for providing a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I felt the title for this book held true throughout the novel and the main characters were very strong. An emotional read with difficult content at times. I feel it was well worth reading.
I'd like to thank the author for providing a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
December 9, 2025
I have not read many books from this genera so I was both intrigued and excited to read this one.
Molly McKinney signed up for Army Reserves as a way to pay for college and was recently deployed to Afghanistan as a prison guard. The novel centers on her time as a guard in one of the harshest and most unforgiving places.
I had a difficult time getting into the novel. My unfamiliarity with military life was certainly a disadvantage. The book did provide the explanations behind some acronyms to help, but I would've preferred flashbacks to training or to have started the novel with McKinnley in training.
Because I didn't have that initial establishment, I spent the first portion confused by what would make sense in Afghanistan. I couldn't picture the complex and was repeatedly thrown by additional descriptions. Everyone sleeps in tents, but there's electricity and iron bars in the prison, and a gym? In addition, Molly didn't initially know words in the right language to command the prisoners - wouldn't that be something she'd be briefed on?
I read the author's note, and discovered J. D. Wynne completed a tour of duty Afghanistan. Thus, I decided to put my confusion aside and accept what was being said (after all, I have never read much about or been in such a situation)
There were moments in this novel that rang true and hard-hitting, such as the letter to Molly from her best friend (Kara) from home:
However, but there times where the text threw me for a loop. For example, Molly gets fed up with Sergeant Beck's nit-picking and this burst out of her:
This book tackles difficult issues - from Muslim garb to rape.
The rape scene completely shocked me.
Overall - I'm glad to have read such a book. It brought a new perspective to me regarding life in a war-torn country. Reading as Molly developed from a mostly-civilian to a mature(ish :P) woman cinched the book for me.
With thanks to J. D. Wynne for the kindle copy in exchange for my honest review.
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
Molly McKinney signed up for Army Reserves as a way to pay for college and was recently deployed to Afghanistan as a prison guard. The novel centers on her time as a guard in one of the harshest and most unforgiving places.
I had a difficult time getting into the novel. My unfamiliarity with military life was certainly a disadvantage. The book did provide the explanations behind some acronyms to help, but I would've preferred flashbacks to training or to have started the novel with McKinnley in training.
Because I didn't have that initial establishment, I spent the first portion confused by what would make sense in Afghanistan. I couldn't picture the complex and was repeatedly thrown by additional descriptions. Everyone sleeps in tents, but there's electricity and iron bars in the prison, and a gym? In addition, Molly didn't initially know words in the right language to command the prisoners - wouldn't that be something she'd be briefed on?
I read the author's note, and discovered J. D. Wynne completed a tour of duty Afghanistan. Thus, I decided to put my confusion aside and accept what was being said (after all, I have never read much about or been in such a situation)
There were moments in this novel that rang true and hard-hitting, such as the letter to Molly from her best friend (Kara) from home:
That moment (and others) got me real good. I felt like I was right there with her and the emotion connection was just so, so strong.
"I don’t know what it is like for you over there, and it scares me to my core. I just pray you are okay."
However, but there times where the text threw me for a loop. For example, Molly gets fed up with Sergeant Beck's nit-picking and this burst out of her:
or when Molly played a prank on him by:
"By the way, Sergeant Beck. This is not Buckingham Palace. Get a fucking facial expression!"
Moments like that made the book almost seem like a coed summer camp - lots of flirting, admiring of the cutest guys and kissing boys. I wish the book was longer so that the serious side could be more firmly in place before switching gears for a bit of light-hearted fun.
"...stuffing women’s panties into Beck’s dryer and taking out all his boxer briefs."
This book tackles difficult issues - from Muslim garb to rape.
The rape scene completely shocked me.
Overall - I'm glad to have read such a book. It brought a new perspective to me regarding life in a war-torn country. Reading as Molly developed from a mostly-civilian to a mature(ish :P) woman cinched the book for me.
With thanks to J. D. Wynne for the kindle copy in exchange for my honest review.
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
March 27, 2018
UPDATE:
You can now read an interview of the author J.D. Wynne about 'Soldier On' on my blog:
https://scarlettreadzandrunz.com/spot...
3.5 stars
9/11 affected all of us. I still remember exactly where I was and what I was doing at that moment of that awful morning. Many novels have been written about this tragic day, the loss and the heroes that emerged whilst a country that stood together punched but strong.
Although it has been some years, I can see how this is an experience one would want to write about as this novel loosely is inspired by the authors own experience on tour in Afghanistan after 9/11.
Molly, the main character in this story has signed up for the Reserve to cover college expenses. Not long after her training and in between college years, she receives orders to go to Afghanistan for a year. Her work there is comprised of guarding prisoners of the worst kind. As any "new" arrival at her duty station she is assigned the “shittiest” job literally, which is cleaning out the port-a-pots of the prison! (Thankfully new soldiers are arriving all the time…so the next ones can have a turn at it too!)
We follow her along with the friends she makes through their daily activities and learn a bit of military lingo on the way (for those that aren’t familiar with such things). Molly’s friends are comprised from all backgrounds and statuses; thus, you will get a real sense of the sacrifice these soldiers are making. They all have a life back home they had to leave…and for some of them the unthinkable happens while they are deployed.
Being deployed in is no fun, and sometimes you have some bad apples among your comrades. Cheating on spouses, sexual harassment, as well as consensual hook-ups happen all the time. Behind buildings, in corners ect. Besides the great friendships Molly builds, these things factor into her experiences on deployment.
Up until midway, the primary focus of the novel was describing the daily work and life at camp. You get a glimpse at what kind of people are in the prison and how they in some cases have to be treated and the thread they pose to the guards. Also, comradery, banter and friendships were front and center of the novel and made me chuckle many times. After the halfway point of the novel, a lot of romance enters as Molly was falling for two guys and it turned a bit into a coming of age love triangle after that. (Understandably, as she went to Catholic school and had no experiences really). An unfortunate combination if you ask me with so many people thrown together. However, I am sure it’s not unheard of.
So how did her tour in Afghanistan end? How much heartache did she have to witness and endure? A swift wrap up of the novel will give you all the answers. But is it a happy end?
***
This was a very engaging read. Funny and touching at times, and hair raising/frightening at others. As a spouse of a military veteran for over twenty years, with doing my duty in supporting the many missions and tours we have endured and years spent apart through deployments, I want to say, that I have pretty much heard it all and I kept that in perspective while reading. Molly’s narrative is from a female characters perspective deployed many years ago, when different measures or lack thereof where in place, then there are today. In one review I read about this book, it was criticized that Molly's experiences imply that all male soldiers are dogs! I understand the criticism, but if you read carefully, you will see that neither gender is the purer one in this. I also want to say that the focus here wasn't all about sexual harassment in the novel.
Deployments are tough all around for all involved.
If I had to criticize anything about the novel it would be that in minor instances, (- like running into the arms of your love interest in the open while out on deployment (strictly forbidden btw.)) there was some bending of the military conduct code to accommodate the novel. There also was too much romance for my taste and it needed to delve a bit more into the military/political aspects and conflict. However, it was very engaging, wittily written and it will stay with me for sure. I hope to see what else J.D. Wynne will write after this. Staying tuned for more 😊
I was graciously given the e-book by the author in exchange of an honest review. Thank you kindly!
You can now read an interview of the author J.D. Wynne about 'Soldier On' on my blog:
https://scarlettreadzandrunz.com/spot...
3.5 stars
9/11 affected all of us. I still remember exactly where I was and what I was doing at that moment of that awful morning. Many novels have been written about this tragic day, the loss and the heroes that emerged whilst a country that stood together punched but strong.
Although it has been some years, I can see how this is an experience one would want to write about as this novel loosely is inspired by the authors own experience on tour in Afghanistan after 9/11.
Molly, the main character in this story has signed up for the Reserve to cover college expenses. Not long after her training and in between college years, she receives orders to go to Afghanistan for a year. Her work there is comprised of guarding prisoners of the worst kind. As any "new" arrival at her duty station she is assigned the “shittiest” job literally, which is cleaning out the port-a-pots of the prison! (Thankfully new soldiers are arriving all the time…so the next ones can have a turn at it too!)
We follow her along with the friends she makes through their daily activities and learn a bit of military lingo on the way (for those that aren’t familiar with such things). Molly’s friends are comprised from all backgrounds and statuses; thus, you will get a real sense of the sacrifice these soldiers are making. They all have a life back home they had to leave…and for some of them the unthinkable happens while they are deployed.
Being deployed in is no fun, and sometimes you have some bad apples among your comrades. Cheating on spouses, sexual harassment, as well as consensual hook-ups happen all the time. Behind buildings, in corners ect. Besides the great friendships Molly builds, these things factor into her experiences on deployment.
Up until midway, the primary focus of the novel was describing the daily work and life at camp. You get a glimpse at what kind of people are in the prison and how they in some cases have to be treated and the thread they pose to the guards. Also, comradery, banter and friendships were front and center of the novel and made me chuckle many times. After the halfway point of the novel, a lot of romance enters as Molly was falling for two guys and it turned a bit into a coming of age love triangle after that. (Understandably, as she went to Catholic school and had no experiences really). An unfortunate combination if you ask me with so many people thrown together. However, I am sure it’s not unheard of.
So how did her tour in Afghanistan end? How much heartache did she have to witness and endure? A swift wrap up of the novel will give you all the answers. But is it a happy end?
***
This was a very engaging read. Funny and touching at times, and hair raising/frightening at others. As a spouse of a military veteran for over twenty years, with doing my duty in supporting the many missions and tours we have endured and years spent apart through deployments, I want to say, that I have pretty much heard it all and I kept that in perspective while reading. Molly’s narrative is from a female characters perspective deployed many years ago, when different measures or lack thereof where in place, then there are today. In one review I read about this book, it was criticized that Molly's experiences imply that all male soldiers are dogs! I understand the criticism, but if you read carefully, you will see that neither gender is the purer one in this. I also want to say that the focus here wasn't all about sexual harassment in the novel.
Deployments are tough all around for all involved.
If I had to criticize anything about the novel it would be that in minor instances, (- like running into the arms of your love interest in the open while out on deployment (strictly forbidden btw.)) there was some bending of the military conduct code to accommodate the novel. There also was too much romance for my taste and it needed to delve a bit more into the military/political aspects and conflict. However, it was very engaging, wittily written and it will stay with me for sure. I hope to see what else J.D. Wynne will write after this. Staying tuned for more 😊
I was graciously given the e-book by the author in exchange of an honest review. Thank you kindly!
January 16, 2018
I received a free copy from the author. Wynne wrote a highly sanitized version of her own experience of military service in Afghanistan. I believe, having read of real life experiences for female soldiers in a war zone, that the comradery she felt was real as was the painful realization that rape culture exists there as well I hate that she made her heroine a tiny, virginal girl child, so we would doubly feel her violation and her victimization. She didn't deserve it, of course she didn't, but neither does any woman, no matter what her sexual status. As a rape counselor said in a speech, I went to on my college campus, if a woman has sex with 10 men and says "no" to the 11th and he has sex with her, that is rape.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2018
Molly is a young woman in the Army reserves. She wants to be a doctor, and joins the reserves to pay for medical school. After 9/11 strikes, she is working alongside active duty troops to guard prisoners in Afghanistan. During her time in Afghanistan, she works long hours, shares camaraderie with other female soldiers, and falls for a guy.
This story is told from Molly's point of view, with some parts of the book written as diary entries. I kind of wish the entire book had been diary entries. Maybe it would have flowed a little better. Sometimes the perspective switched from first to third person, making it a choppy read.
Molly is a likable character. She works hard, has a sense of humor, stands strong, and seems real. She is young and doing a very difficult job. She is away from her family and friends, which can be very lonely. Molly is friendly and works at making her time there bearable, which makes it hard to read when tragedy strikes.
This read a little like a YA book. The main character is nineteen, and everything is from her point of view. A good read for young women interested in the military.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story is told from Molly's point of view, with some parts of the book written as diary entries. I kind of wish the entire book had been diary entries. Maybe it would have flowed a little better. Sometimes the perspective switched from first to third person, making it a choppy read.
Molly is a likable character. She works hard, has a sense of humor, stands strong, and seems real. She is young and doing a very difficult job. She is away from her family and friends, which can be very lonely. Molly is friendly and works at making her time there bearable, which makes it hard to read when tragedy strikes.
This read a little like a YA book. The main character is nineteen, and everything is from her point of view. A good read for young women interested in the military.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟Soldier On by JD Wynne. I received the advance readers copy of Soldier On from the author in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own. This novel is a quick read. It does take a few chapters to capture interest, but the writing is beautiful and thoughtful. Molly McKinley dreams of being a doctor but in order to finance her education she needs help. She enlists in the Army Reserves with her mother's permission at 17. Shortly after boot camp 9/11 attacks happen and she is deployed to Afghanistan for a year. She quickly develops a crush on a cute guy in her company only to find out he is married. Later she develops another crush on a different soldier only to find out he likes another girl. After two very tragic events Molly questions her faith, her love or lack of, and her own sanity. Will this deployment make her or break her? Review posted on Instagram @jasonnstacie, Library Thing, and my blog at readsbystacie.com
December 22, 2017
The author reached out to me and asked if I wanted to read this book and give an honest review.
So, that's what I'm planning to do.
Okay, so Soldier On was a pretty good book. It was kind of written like a journal or a diary and it's all from Molly's point of view. She's in the army and she's stationed in Afghanistan. While there she meets and falls for two guys: Shaw and Beck. Unfortunately for her, she was with Shaw first but then Beck told her that he was married. The relationship was over right then.
I liked what Molly went through, other than the whole rape situation - yeah, I didn't like that one bit. But then at the end of the book we get a chapter from Beck's point of view which kind of made me want more chapters from his point of view.
Then there's one thing that I didn't like and that is: it felt way too short. It also felt like things were rushed a bit. Like the next time they meet she's dating someone else and neither of them are in the army anymore. But hey they still feel the connection between them so they go for it. THEN they are at their wedding?!?! I was kind of confused with how quickly things escalated. I kind of wish I got more chapters from Beck's point of view and I wish I just got more chapters in general. Seeing how they got their second chance at their amazing romance and how he proposed would have been amazing.
I wish I got more but I will gladly accept what pages and chapters I got.
So, that's what I'm planning to do.
Okay, so Soldier On was a pretty good book. It was kind of written like a journal or a diary and it's all from Molly's point of view. She's in the army and she's stationed in Afghanistan. While there she meets and falls for two guys: Shaw and Beck. Unfortunately for her, she was with Shaw first but then Beck told her that he was married. The relationship was over right then.
I liked what Molly went through, other than the whole rape situation - yeah, I didn't like that one bit. But then at the end of the book we get a chapter from Beck's point of view which kind of made me want more chapters from his point of view.
Then there's one thing that I didn't like and that is: it felt way too short. It also felt like things were rushed a bit. Like the next time they meet she's dating someone else and neither of them are in the army anymore. But hey they still feel the connection between them so they go for it. THEN they are at their wedding?!?! I was kind of confused with how quickly things escalated. I kind of wish I got more chapters from Beck's point of view and I wish I just got more chapters in general. Seeing how they got their second chance at their amazing romance and how he proposed would have been amazing.
I wish I got more but I will gladly accept what pages and chapters I got.
March 8, 2018
I was generously provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Soldier On is about a young female soldier, Molly, who is deployed to Afghanistan as a prison guard after 9/11. While in Afghanistan, we follow Molly as she deals with the conditions of the prison, builds relationships with some of her fellow female bunk-mates, and also falls for two male soldiers.
What I liked about this book was that it told a very well rounded account of what life would have been like while deployed. It did not only touch upon the good relationships she formed, but also some of the horrors that a lot of people faced in real life. For example, some very sensitive topics such as dealing with the loss of fellow soldiers; and rape were touched upon in this book.
What gave this a personal touch was how we got to read journal entries by Molly and letters sent over from the US by her family and friends. I enjoyed Molly as a character, I found myself rooting for her to find peace and happiness despite everything that happened to her. What I found a little confusing though was differentiating the secondary characters from each other and understanding some of the military terms. Since people are referred to by last name in the military, this book was written using people’s last names and sometimes it was hard for me to remember if the person being referred to was a male or female. I completely understand why the author did that though, it was fitting for this type of story, but it took a bit away from my experience because I kept getting confused. In addition, what ensued the rape scene kind of shocked me. .
Overall, I’m glad I read this; it’s something I probably wouldn’t have picked up on my own. The reason why I wanted to give it a try was to get myself out of my comfort zone and I’m happy I did as it really surprised me.
Soldier On is about a young female soldier, Molly, who is deployed to Afghanistan as a prison guard after 9/11. While in Afghanistan, we follow Molly as she deals with the conditions of the prison, builds relationships with some of her fellow female bunk-mates, and also falls for two male soldiers.
What I liked about this book was that it told a very well rounded account of what life would have been like while deployed. It did not only touch upon the good relationships she formed, but also some of the horrors that a lot of people faced in real life. For example, some very sensitive topics such as dealing with the loss of fellow soldiers; and rape were touched upon in this book.
What gave this a personal touch was how we got to read journal entries by Molly and letters sent over from the US by her family and friends. I enjoyed Molly as a character, I found myself rooting for her to find peace and happiness despite everything that happened to her. What I found a little confusing though was differentiating the secondary characters from each other and understanding some of the military terms. Since people are referred to by last name in the military, this book was written using people’s last names and sometimes it was hard for me to remember if the person being referred to was a male or female. I completely understand why the author did that though, it was fitting for this type of story, but it took a bit away from my experience because I kept getting confused. In addition, what ensued the rape scene kind of shocked me. .
Overall, I’m glad I read this; it’s something I probably wouldn’t have picked up on my own. The reason why I wanted to give it a try was to get myself out of my comfort zone and I’m happy I did as it really surprised me.
February 4, 2019
Soldier On is such an inspirational read! I’m not very familiar with this genre, but I’m always open to reading anything. This book was very moving, and powerful. It opened my eyes to a whole new world that I never even understood. Thank you J.D. Wynne for this amazing story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this books from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this books from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2017
Oh my God, guys! This book is awesome!!!
I recognized so many of the characters in this story. In 1979 I enlisted in the Air Force at the too young age of 19. I grew up fast and made life long friends.
J. D. Wynne has captured the emotions and life of a G. I. perfectly. Although its fiction, it feels real. Excellent writing and excellent story! If you are searching for a story about young people who find their strength and learn who they are while serving in the military, this is the book for you! 😊
I recognized so many of the characters in this story. In 1979 I enlisted in the Air Force at the too young age of 19. I grew up fast and made life long friends.
J. D. Wynne has captured the emotions and life of a G. I. perfectly. Although its fiction, it feels real. Excellent writing and excellent story! If you are searching for a story about young people who find their strength and learn who they are while serving in the military, this is the book for you! 😊
January 16, 2018
Multifaceted story of military life
This book tells the story of an Army Reserve soldier, Molly, called up and sent to Afghanistan to guard a prison after 9/11. Molly is still very young, so it shows her learning about friendships, relationships, and some of the hardships of life.
To some extent, the first part of the book feels like a teen high school drama. Who's cute, who's dating who, bullying the less popular kids - or prisoners, in this case, teaching them random English phrases just because it's funny. Molly and her fellow soldiers are finding their way in an unfamiliar place with new rules, so finding comfort in normal civilian routine makes sense. The second part of the book is even more about the relationships formed within the group.
The book is solidly written, with some minor editing lapses. It's not the characteristic wartime tale that's typically thought of when soldiers come to mind, but that's OK. There are many different things that our military does, this shows another side. It's a strong start for a first novel, I'd read more from this author.
The author gifted me a copy of the book.
This book tells the story of an Army Reserve soldier, Molly, called up and sent to Afghanistan to guard a prison after 9/11. Molly is still very young, so it shows her learning about friendships, relationships, and some of the hardships of life.
To some extent, the first part of the book feels like a teen high school drama. Who's cute, who's dating who, bullying the less popular kids - or prisoners, in this case, teaching them random English phrases just because it's funny. Molly and her fellow soldiers are finding their way in an unfamiliar place with new rules, so finding comfort in normal civilian routine makes sense. The second part of the book is even more about the relationships formed within the group.
The book is solidly written, with some minor editing lapses. It's not the characteristic wartime tale that's typically thought of when soldiers come to mind, but that's OK. There are many different things that our military does, this shows another side. It's a strong start for a first novel, I'd read more from this author.
The author gifted me a copy of the book.
October 25, 2018
An interesting read as it deals with a different aspect of being a Soldier than the usual special ops type stories. I really did enjoy this story but felt the ending was rushed. I would recommend this book especially since it is the first novel written by this author.
January 24, 2018
I've been putting this off because I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings or come across as mean, but I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, so I need to hold up my end of the agreement.
I'll start by saying, I was unable to make myself finish this book, an unfortunate atrocity that has only occurred 5 times in my 8 years on Goodreads. I was put off by how the females in the story were aggressively sexualizing every male they encountered. Because I've read this trope too many times, and spent 11 years with the military, I have a good idea how that turns out... (It's similar to what, today, you could call the Instagram Effect). Secondly, the author claims to have a military background (ANG?), and I'll take her word for it, but every page drips with a try-hard effort to cram as many anagrams and slang/lingo as possible to convince you she knows what she's talking about.
Overall, it just had a very heavy YA lean (which isn't an offense in it's own, I've accumulated several YA titles on my shelves), when I don't think it was intended to, and was just too much for me to tolerate. I'm sorry...
I'll start by saying, I was unable to make myself finish this book, an unfortunate atrocity that has only occurred 5 times in my 8 years on Goodreads. I was put off by how the females in the story were aggressively sexualizing every male they encountered. Because I've read this trope too many times, and spent 11 years with the military, I have a good idea how that turns out... (It's similar to what, today, you could call the Instagram Effect). Secondly, the author claims to have a military background (ANG?), and I'll take her word for it, but every page drips with a try-hard effort to cram as many anagrams and slang/lingo as possible to convince you she knows what she's talking about.
Overall, it just had a very heavy YA lean (which isn't an offense in it's own, I've accumulated several YA titles on my shelves), when I don't think it was intended to, and was just too much for me to tolerate. I'm sorry...
February 19, 2018
I was given a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review. I have to say it is one of the luckiest things to happen to me. I enjoyed this book so much.
Soldier On by J.D. Wynne is a standalone novel that has at its center the wonderful female character, Molly McKinney who is deployed to Afghanistan to work as Military Policeman. From the start I liked her. Molly is a strong woman even though many of those around her do not realize it. The writer builds on Molly's characterization all the way through, and she develops a character I add to my favorite female characters in literature. It is a very entertaining and emotional ride you take with Molly throughout the pages. Her deployment as a female soldier in Afghanistan are filled with many struggles, but Molly soldiers through them. The day to day interactions with the prisoners and the relationships she builds with her fellow soldiers/MPs are usually at the center of most of those struggles.
Soldier On is easy to read with an interesting story line and very heartwarming story. J.D. Wynne did a wonderful job with her debut novel. I highly recommend Soldier On, and I look forward to reading more books from her pen.
Soldier On by J.D. Wynne is a standalone novel that has at its center the wonderful female character, Molly McKinney who is deployed to Afghanistan to work as Military Policeman. From the start I liked her. Molly is a strong woman even though many of those around her do not realize it. The writer builds on Molly's characterization all the way through, and she develops a character I add to my favorite female characters in literature. It is a very entertaining and emotional ride you take with Molly throughout the pages. Her deployment as a female soldier in Afghanistan are filled with many struggles, but Molly soldiers through them. The day to day interactions with the prisoners and the relationships she builds with her fellow soldiers/MPs are usually at the center of most of those struggles.
Soldier On is easy to read with an interesting story line and very heartwarming story. J.D. Wynne did a wonderful job with her debut novel. I highly recommend Soldier On, and I look forward to reading more books from her pen.
October 5, 2017
this was a really good book
January 12, 2018
Soldier On by JD Wynne
This book starts out with Molly and she's gone trhough rough times after 9/11 and is now stationed in Afghanistan.
She's with other females and she just wants to get the year over with.
Daily things that need to get done are listed for her to do as a guard to the detainees locked in their cells. Some deplorable conditions but then there are breaks away from it all.
Adult situations and was happy to hear she had stuck to her guns and followed it through. Hadn't seen it coming.
Like relationships formed and with who during her stay there to help pass the time. Loved hearing all about the treats sent from the scout troops and relatives.
Like phrase of the title of the book and love what it stands for. Especially like the ending and glad it wasn't a cliff hanger.
Received this review copy from the author via Goodreads and this is my honest opinion.
This book starts out with Molly and she's gone trhough rough times after 9/11 and is now stationed in Afghanistan.
She's with other females and she just wants to get the year over with.
Daily things that need to get done are listed for her to do as a guard to the detainees locked in their cells. Some deplorable conditions but then there are breaks away from it all.
Adult situations and was happy to hear she had stuck to her guns and followed it through. Hadn't seen it coming.
Like relationships formed and with who during her stay there to help pass the time. Loved hearing all about the treats sent from the scout troops and relatives.
Like phrase of the title of the book and love what it stands for. Especially like the ending and glad it wasn't a cliff hanger.
Received this review copy from the author via Goodreads and this is my honest opinion.
December 30, 2017
A look at the American military in Afghanistan taking part in the war on terrorism told from a female soldier's perspective. Having been in the Army herself, Wynne describes the mundane aspects of support troops. Soldier On is well written and easy to read. My copy was a free review download from the author. I'm looking forward to her next book.
Want to read
November 11, 2019Thank you for the opportunity to review this book as a giveaway recipient. I am excited to read it and will update my thoughts on this book soon!
March 8, 2018
Note: I was given a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Where this book is most successful is as a series of vignettes about life as a guard at a military prison in Afghanistan after 9/11. These sequences paint a picture of that world, from the silly to the sincere to the horrible. A scene where the main character is taking a simple morning run around the perimeter fence really stuck with me with it's imagery of the every day -- taking a run and playing with a dog -- next to risk -- just on the other side of the fence was an area studded with mines.
The plot of the book was a mixed bag. Overall, it was a fairly simple romance coming of age story. Telling such a familiar story again is not necessarily a bad thing, but the telling needs to be exceptional to make it interesting. There was also too much action that happened off screen. A chapter would end with something big happening and instead of describing it directly, the next chapter would start with McKinney's journal entry about the event. Near the end of the book, more of the plot forwarding events were described directly and those final chapters were better.
The story also had too many characters who were not differentiated enough. Most of the characters were described upfront, but their personalities often did not feel distinct in later interactions with them. For example, of the other women that McKinney shared her tent with, the only one that felt like she had a personality was Russo (with her immaculately decorated space). For the others, I found myself thinking, "Wait, was she the good friend or the weirdo?"
The book that came to mind as a comparison while I was reading this was, oddly enough, Anne of Green Gables. L.M. Montgomery is a master of painting a personality in a few strokes, making vignettes feel like a coherent story, and making a predictable love story interesting. This book had the potential to be that sort of story, but it did not realize it.
Where this book is most successful is as a series of vignettes about life as a guard at a military prison in Afghanistan after 9/11. These sequences paint a picture of that world, from the silly to the sincere to the horrible. A scene where the main character is taking a simple morning run around the perimeter fence really stuck with me with it's imagery of the every day -- taking a run and playing with a dog -- next to risk -- just on the other side of the fence was an area studded with mines.
The plot of the book was a mixed bag. Overall, it was a fairly simple romance coming of age story. Telling such a familiar story again is not necessarily a bad thing, but the telling needs to be exceptional to make it interesting. There was also too much action that happened off screen. A chapter would end with something big happening and instead of describing it directly, the next chapter would start with McKinney's journal entry about the event. Near the end of the book, more of the plot forwarding events were described directly and those final chapters were better.
The story also had too many characters who were not differentiated enough. Most of the characters were described upfront, but their personalities often did not feel distinct in later interactions with them. For example, of the other women that McKinney shared her tent with, the only one that felt like she had a personality was Russo (with her immaculately decorated space). For the others, I found myself thinking, "Wait, was she the good friend or the weirdo?"
The book that came to mind as a comparison while I was reading this was, oddly enough, Anne of Green Gables. L.M. Montgomery is a master of painting a personality in a few strokes, making vignettes feel like a coherent story, and making a predictable love story interesting. This book had the potential to be that sort of story, but it did not realize it.
October 18, 2016
Go Army!
Take a walk in Army reserves Molly McKinney's boots as she serves our country in Afghanistan. Molly and her battle buddy Osborne work alongside active duty troops as MPs stationed at a prison camp. This story follows Molly as her life becomes a rollercoaster of fear, pain, and boredom as she guards captured terrorists. Day in and day out Molly experiences sexual harassment and hazing from her comrades. She soon realizes that she too is a prisoner of this desolate, unbearably hot prison. Thanks to excellent descriptors and language choices, as I read of the trials and tribulations that Molly faced I was able to feel and experience what she was feeling right along with her. I really enjoyed the inside look at guard duty and Army service in general. The easy going writing style and excellent storytelling ability of the author, J.D. Wynne, along with solid proofreading and editing made for an intriguing read that flowed without interruption. Loving military influenced reads the cover with its dog tags captured my attention and the contents kept me reading.
Take a walk in Army reserves Molly McKinney's boots as she serves our country in Afghanistan. Molly and her battle buddy Osborne work alongside active duty troops as MPs stationed at a prison camp. This story follows Molly as her life becomes a rollercoaster of fear, pain, and boredom as she guards captured terrorists. Day in and day out Molly experiences sexual harassment and hazing from her comrades. She soon realizes that she too is a prisoner of this desolate, unbearably hot prison. Thanks to excellent descriptors and language choices, as I read of the trials and tribulations that Molly faced I was able to feel and experience what she was feeling right along with her. I really enjoyed the inside look at guard duty and Army service in general. The easy going writing style and excellent storytelling ability of the author, J.D. Wynne, along with solid proofreading and editing made for an intriguing read that flowed without interruption. Loving military influenced reads the cover with its dog tags captured my attention and the contents kept me reading.
October 29, 2018
Oh my goodness!! This book was a winner, winner. It is a sit down and read in one sitting. It is about a Molly who right out of high school signed up for the Army Reserves to help with college tuition for her to become a doctor. Then the devastating 9/11 attacks happened and she was activated and deployed to Afghanistan to work as a MP in the prison there. The book continues about her story about being a minority female in a majority male world. It has some romance to it. She makes life long friends and won't forget her time spent overseas. There is more to it but I will let you read it for yourself.
May 30, 2016
A great, quick read that provides a glimpse into the life of a female soldier in Afghanistan. The friendships and relationships that develop between individuals that would otherwise have nothing in common were entertaining to see grow. The characters were easily relatable and the story was a pleasure to read. The story stayed with me and kept me wanting more. Wonderful debut novel from a promising author!
March 19, 2017
Molly McKinney had signed up for the Army Reserves to pay for college, but after 9/11, she is sent to Afghanistan as an MP (which paid more than a medic, even though she wants to go to medical school). The author also had served in Afghanistan, and used this experience to write a fictional account of what our women in uniform experience serving their nation, life time friendships built, love found. Very impressed with this debut novel from the author.
March 6, 2016
So very good!
As a veteran myself; this book brought me back to the comradery we all share in the military. I laughed and cried while reading, great job JD Wynne, so proud of you!
As a veteran myself; this book brought me back to the comradery we all share in the military. I laughed and cried while reading, great job JD Wynne, so proud of you!
November 11, 2017
I received this book from the author for a honest review. I really found this book very moving and a great read. I really liked that I was reading from a female soldier's point of view. I couldn't put it down. I love this book!!!!!
November 27, 2016
A good story of deployment from a female perspective. Could use some more editing, and character development, but still, it was hard to put down.
April 12, 2018
*** Read this for free in exchange for an honest review after being contacted by JD Wynne***
First of all I would like to thank JD Wynne for contacting me about a free novel in exchange for an honest review. She warned me it reads a little like a young adult book because of the age of the main character, but this did not steer me away. It had me even more curious about what the main character would go through at only the age of 20 on the frontlines of war on terror after 9/11.
Enter Molly McKinney, the main character of Soldier On. She is bubbly, friendly and comes from a large friendly, and a few brothers that taught her how to throw a mean punch which comes in handy in later chapters....
This book really covers many hard topics some in that include the treatment of female solders overseas. The term "Soldier on" actually is a recurring theme when turmoil and bad times erupt in the book for Molly and the people she meets, some who become good friends; and another who becomes more.
The only annoyance I had was trying to keep track of the other side character's names, but I got used to it. But I think it was for emphasis on how many people Molly met and just how large her squad was.
This book will bring you through the whole span of emotions. You will also be cheering, laughing and crying right alongside Molly as she is on the frontlines in the toughest war and also learns about herself as she "soldier on".
I would definitely read another book by JD Wynne!
First of all I would like to thank JD Wynne for contacting me about a free novel in exchange for an honest review. She warned me it reads a little like a young adult book because of the age of the main character, but this did not steer me away. It had me even more curious about what the main character would go through at only the age of 20 on the frontlines of war on terror after 9/11.
Enter Molly McKinney, the main character of Soldier On. She is bubbly, friendly and comes from a large friendly, and a few brothers that taught her how to throw a mean punch which comes in handy in later chapters....
This book really covers many hard topics some in that include the treatment of female solders overseas. The term "Soldier on" actually is a recurring theme when turmoil and bad times erupt in the book for Molly and the people she meets, some who become good friends; and another who becomes more.
The only annoyance I had was trying to keep track of the other side character's names, but I got used to it. But I think it was for emphasis on how many people Molly met and just how large her squad was.
This book will bring you through the whole span of emotions. You will also be cheering, laughing and crying right alongside Molly as she is on the frontlines in the toughest war and also learns about herself as she "soldier on".
I would definitely read another book by JD Wynne!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2018
Great debut novel
I loved this story! It's obvious the author is writing what she knows as the characters are so human, believable and likeable. The author portrays human behavior and emotions with insight, compassion and humor. My only complaint, and I complain a lot about this with self published books, is the lack of adequate editing. Bad use of commas, using the wrong tense, miss spelling words and often using the wrong word make books hard to understand. In this book, the author also jumps from 3rd person to first person narrative in the middle of a paragraph. These kinds of errors make reading the story jerky instead of flowing. I don't mind it so much when I'm reading a mediocre story, but when I'm eagerly reading and enjoying the story and have to back up, reread, and wonder what the author is saying, I find it disappointing. I don't doubt publishers reject manuscripts for this very reason. Maybe its not possible to get a professional editor or proofreader for a self published novel? I do hope this author writes more books. She is an amazing storyteller and I love the way she develops characters. Hopefully her future work is better edited.
I loved this story! It's obvious the author is writing what she knows as the characters are so human, believable and likeable. The author portrays human behavior and emotions with insight, compassion and humor. My only complaint, and I complain a lot about this with self published books, is the lack of adequate editing. Bad use of commas, using the wrong tense, miss spelling words and often using the wrong word make books hard to understand. In this book, the author also jumps from 3rd person to first person narrative in the middle of a paragraph. These kinds of errors make reading the story jerky instead of flowing. I don't mind it so much when I'm reading a mediocre story, but when I'm eagerly reading and enjoying the story and have to back up, reread, and wonder what the author is saying, I find it disappointing. I don't doubt publishers reject manuscripts for this very reason. Maybe its not possible to get a professional editor or proofreader for a self published novel? I do hope this author writes more books. She is an amazing storyteller and I love the way she develops characters. Hopefully her future work is better edited.
March 10, 2018
I won a copy from Goodreads giveaway.
Not a bad debut novel. I did enjoy it. I liked Molly.
It was vague at times. Mostly written in first person but was confusing when it switched to third some chapters.
There were a lot of characters and some difficult situations. But not a lot of angst, emotions or passion. Then the story stops abruptly and picks up 10 years later and includes a short epilogue.
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