Send Me: The True Story of a Mother at War

by Marty Skovlund Jr., Joe Kent

The extraordinary story of American special operator and trailblazer Shannon Kent, who hunted high value targets on classified missions in the most dangerous locales on earth while trying to balance her life as a wife and mother.

Of the 1.3 million active-duty service members in the US military, only a tiny fraction are selected as “operators.” Shannon Kent was one of the first women to serve at this level and was widely recognized as one of the best.

Shannon served as a Navy cryptologic technician, responsible for signals intelligence and electronic warfare, but her proficiency with language set her apart. She was assigned to a unit so secretive that its name can’t even be printed here, where she worked clandestinely to hunt the most wanted terrorists in the world.

Send Me is Shannon’s heroic life story, revealing the truth of both her work and the challenges she faced while trying to raise a family with her husband Joe, himself a Special Forces soldier. He and Shannon met in a war zone, their love forged during a special operations training course, their dedication spanning multiple combat deployments and the birth of their two boys.

It is the legacy of an extraordinary woman who rose to the apex of the military, working with the most elite forces in the world, lifting the veil from the life of a Special Forces family to share their duty, sacrifice, and humanity.

Genres: Nonfiction, Military Fiction, Biography, History, War, American History, Memoir

368 pages, ebook

Published May 7, 2024

Reviews

[JD · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written book and really honors the life that Shannon Kent gave in the fight for freedom. She was one of the first women to be deployed not only as part of special forces teams, but also in combat, years before women were allowed into those roles. She was a real pioneer and had the respect of all those around her, be it the battle-hardened special forces operator or the analysts on base, because not only did she let her deeds do the talking, but she genuinely cared about those around her. She was a very driven person who wanted to make a difference, and the world is a poorer place without her in it. My heart goes out to her family, especially her two boys she left behind, and this book will stay with me for a long time.

This book reminds me a lot of Tom Sileo's work in honoring fallen heroes, a must read!!

[Michael Plunkett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This should be required reading at military academies and institutions. Marty and Joe do a remarkable job of avoiding tropes and render Shannon as a multidimensional woman with an incredible life. What could have easily become a surface-level action story in the hands of lesser writers instead forces us to reckon not only with women’s roles in our ever-evolving military but also mental health and the growing crises of cancer patients within our military ranks. This book is going to turn heads.

[Haley Hofmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been recommending this book to everyone who will listen to me talk about it. I’d shout about this book from the rooftops if I could.
What a fantastic book. Marty and Joe did an incredible job telling Shannon’s story, and I’m coming away from this book feeling like I knew her myself. Her life is an inspiration, and I’m so thankful this book now exists.

[Alanna Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a powerful story about an amazing woman who served our country in some of the most dangerous places in the world. She did is all with courage and grace. Her sacrifice is deeply touching and is worth picking this book up and reading it. Shannon Kent is the type of woman that we should want our daughters to aspire to be.

[Ronie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting ages for this book to release. It kept me company on a cruise--I found myself getting annoyed with cruise-goers (and actual life) for interrupting my reading.

SEND ME is a story of uncommon valor and incredible heroism--the legacy forged by a woman who was a warrior, was compassionate and protective of those she knew, yet was also as hardhitting as her male counterparts. I don't usually make distinctions about male/female soldiers/warriors (a warrior is a warrior, nuff said) but it's necessary here because of what Shannon Kent accomplished. Her tenacity and determination to see justice done and delivered proved very inspiring. She was operating with Special Forces units long before the formation of CSTs and the like. This is an absolutely incredible read about a determined, focused warrior. This is also a story of love, family, patriotism, and war. The indomitable spirit of Navy cryptologist Shannon Kent is all over these pages and the awareness that she is gone too soon from this world plagued me while reading. What a terrible loss our country and world suffered.

At times, the writing and organization of the book made some scenes confusing or incomplete. It was written, I think, with a documentary-style structure mixed (with a thriller movie?). More than once I went back to see if I'd missed something. For example at the end of one chapter, it's said a team is about to go out after al-Badri/al-Baghdadi based off Kent's HUMINT, that there's hope they'd finally get this guy. But the next page/chapter time jumps and changes focus altogether, and the reader isn't told if the team went out or if the mission succeeded or failed. At the end of the book, readers learn (for those not in the know) that Shannon's work was integral to finally getting al-Baghdadi *the following year.*

Regardless, nothing could overshadow or cloud the unforgettable impact of Shannon Kent on her life, her family, the combat theater, intelligence arena, etc. Our world is clearly a better place because she lived and fought hard. I'm very glad to have had this peek into her indefatigable spirit and life. Thank you, Joe Kent, for sharing her story with us in these pages, and thank you for your own inspiring service through the years.

[Abby Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed me. This inspiring true story shared the life of Shannon Kent-a mother, sailor, and dedicated American. Her sacrificial nature, talent for languages, and commitment to others was clear by her words and actions. Shannon’s powerful story included facing gender barriers, advocating for those in the military suffering from mental health issues, and a passion for cultures. Everybody should read this book and recommend it to others.

[Jennifer Lewellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was hard at times just because of the story and content and how close to home some of these events were. As a DLI graduate and intelligence professional and woman , it’s an important story of the legacy of one of the best to ever do it. Thank you for your service and sacrifice.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shannon Kent's story is nothing short of inspiring, but this author did not do it justice. His register is redundant at best and painfully elementary at worst. I was expecting an "Ashley's War" level of literature and was given something far worse... Disappointing to say the least.

Badass women have a special place in my heart and I would be interested to read another book about Shannon written by an actual author not a journalist (I feel like writers that specialize in short form have no business writing a novel-length book, but it is what it is). She deserves to have her story told in all of the majesty it deserves.

Maybe this book is better as a hardback (I listened to the audiobook and was NOT impressed), but for the lack of copy editing, I give it only three stars.

3/5⭐️

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everybody in the military is replaceable. We are all cogs in the machine. The military-industrial complex keeps grinding onward despite its losses.

However, when Shannon Kent was killed in the line of duty, her death caused the military community to pause to mourn the loss of such an accomplished servicemember and wonderful human being. Her memorial service was held at the Naval Academy’s chapel- she was the first enlisted sailor in US Navy history to be given that honor. A sea of khaki uniforms filled the pews as Chiefs from throughout the Navy gathered to pay their respects to one of their own.

But it was Shannon’s kids and husband who have felt her loss the most. Joe Kent states, “I still have a hard time comprehending the finality of her death- never again is a long time for a mother not to see her boys, a long time for soul mates to not speak to each other. I can explain almost everything about how she died from the strategic to the nitty-gritty tactical reasons, but I can't wrap my head around its eternity.”

Thankfully, Shannon’s legacy lives on through her children and books like, “SEND ME: THE TRUE STORY OF A MOTHER AT WAR.”

Shannon Kent's story is not just one of loss but also unwavering strength and love that inspires and uplifts all who read it. The remarkable life and service of Shannon Kent serve as a poignant reminder of the profound impact one individual can have and is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who selflessly dedicate themselves to a greater cause and who live by Isaiah 6:8: “Whom shall I send? And who will go for me? And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!”

[D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This true story of an exceptional woman was totally fascinating! Shannon Kent was so very strong and reasourceful. An overachiever with incredible language skills that proved key to the US military efforts to combat terrorists. Not only could she speak foreign languages, but was able to even adjust the specific dialect to the situation at hand. The book is basically a biography arranged in a comfortable chronological order. I found the tenor a little melancholy since you know from the start that Shannon did not survive. She was in many ways a pathfinder for other women in military intelligence and special forces. Interestingly, as I finished the story, the current news included continuing terror attacks, specifically a large civilian attack in Russia claimed to have been conducted by ISIS. XOXOXOs to the authors, Marty Skovlund Jr. and Joe Kent for their excellent work in documenting Shan's accomplishments:) Recommend you read this book as soon as it is released.

Note: My review is based on an uncorrected proof copy provided through goodreads.com.

[Emeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book, and everyone needs to know Shannon Kent’s story. “Shannon wasn’t unique because she died in combat. She was special because of the life she lived.” Now we can all know how special Shannon was. I was both enamored and inspired by her, and found myself marinating on this book well after I put it down. A powerfully told story!

[Calla · Rating 4 out of 5]

After overwhelming opinions (jon and Meliah) that contradict my previous thoughts, I will be marking audio books (new, no relistens) to Goodreads this year. This is the first audio book that has been new to me and is kickstarting my military book readings. All I have to say about this is if you are feeling unmotivated, think of this woman and all of her badassary.

[Samantha Haley]

I cannot rate this book, I feel like I can’t rate someone’s life story and feel okay about it. Shannon is a total badass and seemed like the coolest person ever, I cannot wait to hear more stories from James about her and get to know her on a deeper level than this book gave me.

[Christy R · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an honor to read about Shannon’s life. Highly recommended reading for young men and women in the military; it’s formative for perspective regarding women’s work in elite places. Also important are the mental and emotional gymnastics of dual-working parents, especially in these arenas. I learned a lot about myself too and came away motivated, positive, and also heart broken.

[Rhiannon Skovlund · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have next to zero knowledge of the military lifestyle but this book explains everything so clearly that I was able to fully understand a lot of what Shannon’s military life was like. I felt this book was a perfect balance between her military life and her civilian/mom life. I will never get to know Shannon but after reading this book, I feel like I got a glimpse of the woman she was. Such a blessing to our world. I will recommend this to everyone that will listen!

[Michelle Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing warrior, wife, mother, battle buddy, and human. Shannon's story is both tragic and inspiring , and she truly is a hero. There was nothing she couldn't do or be in her short life. Rest easy, warrior! A must read🇺🇲💔

[Cris Galvez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book did an incredible job capturing the humanity and personal sacrifice of Shannon and others serving our country. A MUST READ!!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, this woman, makes me want to stand taller and do better. An amazing true story about Shannon Kent, killed in action in 2019.

[Eric Obermeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Legend of Shannon Kent

[Alayna Bohan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful. Eye opening. Gut wrenching. Inspiring. Frustrating. ALL the feelings.

This book shares the life and career of Shannon Kent who was killed in action, while deployed in Syria in January 2019.

Not my usual read. But I'm so glad I did.
Shannon is brought to life in this book and I walked away wishing I'd gotten to meet her and do some crazy running things with her (though it sounds like she'd have left me in the dust).

This is the story of a STRONG, determined woman who fought hard for what she wanted, and made a HUGE impact on the war on terrorism.

While it might not be your usual read, I encourage an eye opening journey into the incredible life and service of someone taken far too soon. This is one that will stay with me for a long while.

[Keely Albrecht · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this takes the spot for the best book I’ve read this year. It speaks to her story and the complexity and nuance of language. This story was heart breaking and had me fighting back tears as I listened to it on my run, it also got me thinking and kind of helped to reenforce the important things in my life.

[Blane Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful tribute of a book to an American hero.
Shannon left a mark in my heart. 🩵

[Angie Gazdziak · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick read. It's fairly engaging, and it's easy to pick up. It absolutely reads as a long-form obituary, and there were more details that I wished had been fleshed out a bit more. There were several passages that were redundant and deserved more time and attention than were given to them. (Specifically, mental health awareness and the US military.) By my count, there were 3 references to people "straight out of Central Casting." Lots of repetition in that respect. It felt like maybe the authors were hoping that they could use the same phrases several times to describe several different characters and hope no one would notice.

A few times, I felt like this was a little exhausting to read because Shannon, who clearly lead a driven, impressive life, is held up as a paragon of virtue and at times felt like a prop in her own story. She's perfection, she's impressive, she's amazing, but she was also human. I feel like it's okay to see her humanity and acknowledge someone's faults while respecting and admiring their accomplishments. I was glad to hear that her life made a difference in 1,000 different ways, and she was able to posthumously change legislation so future commissioned officers didn't face the same roadblocks she did. I think she would've made a remarkable military psychologist.

I probably would not have picked this up if I hadn't received it in a giveaway and I'm glad I got the chance to read it. That said, after a quick Google search and learning more about Shannon and her surviving spouse, this feels like less of a way to honor Shannon's legacy and more of a talking point for her far-right surviving spouse and his political aspirations.

*I received an ARC in a Goodreads giveaway. All opinions are my own.

[Jordan Mello]

Constant tears. Really resonating with the fact that it’s hard to rate an autobiography or a memoir. A beautiful and heartfelt story

[Chelsea Vallandingham · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved learning about Shannon Kent—her impressive drive to do all the things; her innate ability to understand language, culture, and loving people while helping to eradicate evil among them.

The book itself put Kent on such a high pedestal in that she did everything and no wrong. I truly believe she was something quite out of the ordinary, and that this was written to mostly eulogize her (and I would expect nothing less from my own husband), but there really was no mention of Kent’s humanity among her many accomplishments.

The book was repetitive at times, which could be explained as it was written by a journalist, not a novelist. That aspect wasn’t necessarily bad. It also came full circle, which I appreciated.

My biggest pet peeve, however, was the book’s title. Send Me. I knew it was in reference to scripture—Isaiah 6:8. So I wrongly assumed that there would be more of a slant toward God. There most definitely was not. In fact, when that scripture, or commission from God, is finally mentioned at the end of chapter 18, it doesn’t even quote it correctly, failing to note the beginning of the verse, which says, “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying…”

Moreover, Kent requested, and received, Hindu rites at her burial.

I know that I shouldn’t judge a book on whether or not it is “religious”; but when the title is taken from the Bible, I can’t quite help it.
I’m also aware that to lean into religion as a book about a military demigoddess, would be akin to invoking manifest destiny and neocolonialism. With that being said, the authors balanced the story-telling of our military well with goals and imperfections—example, how we actually aided the development of ISIS.

I just wonder how much more I would have liked the book with a different title and less of an idolized portrayal of Kent (a clearly magnificent woman).

[Penelope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here you will read about the incredible woman that is Shannon Kent. I’m so happy to have read about her story and the detailed story telling that was going on in the Middle East.

To Shannon: you exemplify what it means to be a female roll model and you have passed on a guiding light on what it takes to be a good and brave person.

You are the reason why I am proud to be an American and proud to support our troops and our adversaries.

May your memory be eternal and may god continue to bless your family.

Thank you for everything.

[Jon Bohlen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about a real life superhero. I say that knowing her missions were supported by other superhero’s operating in the shadows. Marty and Joe do an amazing job interweaving Shannon’s personal and military life. It does a good job personify a side of the military often left out of the spotlight. All I can say is read this book.

[Glenn Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Couldn’t put the book down, then barely could bear to continue, knowing the end that was coming. RIP, Senior Chief and thank you for all you gave for our country.

[Gunnar Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Exceptional humans working in the shadows on our behalf.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am glad someone recommended this book. Very in-depth and detailed also heartbreaking