Synopsis
A duel to the death in three parts. A conversation of sorts between the last two men left alive after a brutal battle.
One soldier from each side. Both want to survive. Neither can walk away.
In a story of battle, everything is a weapon. Even memories.
Review
I won a copy of this by sharing a picture of myself and my cat Ellie…what better way to be introduced to an author.
This novelette packs an immense punch for how short it is. It’s almost inconceivably well written. Concise editing making every words’ placement reach its ultimate impact. With some well placed and cool commas, this one really stands out.
Two lone survivors of a battle take part in an incredible standoff when they come across each other in the mud and viscera. One fights for the chance to see his son again, and the other fights for his freedom and a chance at a family. They’re both exhausted, weaponless (several times over), and frantically trying to stay alive to see their dreams come to fruition.
I’m impressed at how descriptive this was. It’s not overbearing, it didn’t hinder the pacing, and yet it felt like being smacked onto the aftermath of a battle. Bodies—both human and horse alike—blood, limbs, excrement and decay. I even imagined the smell—(the filthy puddles?!). This felt like a historic level of representation.
The battle is gripping, with pacing that will shred your face off. The banter is enjoyable, as if two opposing soldiers could ever be friendly. And the most surprising of all, the story’s heart will hit you where it hurts with so much emotional damage you’ll be left checking yourself for blade wounds. While you may be able to see the twist coming in this story, it’s so deftly handled you won’t care. What an enjoyable, (and heartbreaking) quick read.
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