Review of Either Peace or War

[Kibet Hillary]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Either Peace or War" by Graydon McWilliams.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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“I miss war.”

This opening statement is peculiar and the most unlikely confession anyone could expect to find on the first page of a book. It captures your attention, sending you on a quest to discover why anyone would confess to liking what many would run away from. Currently, there is a buzzword that has been making rounds on social media in my country. The Swahili word is huezielewa, which loosely translates to you cannot comprehend. I have not found the perfect word to describe Either Peace or War by Graydon McWilliams; you can only fully appreciate this book after reading it.

After a punchy opening, I wondered whether the author would maintain the same captivating narration technique to the end. Often, most begin well, but midway the style changes and becomes humdrum. I'm glad Graydon did exceptionally well here. One of the aspects I enjoyed most about the book is how the author reveals what is treated as either right or wrong in the military. Often, he disclosed pieces of advice from his colleagues and seniors that revealed nothing is as as it appears or sounds superficially. For instance, they are warned against being judgmental. Aren't we often guilty of judging others for the impromptu decisions they made thinking we could have done better?

In Either Peace or War, Seargent Graydon employs a stern, solemn tone, which may sound unpleasant until one begins to understand that the things he is describing can be comprehended by none other than himself. His deployment was a journey filled with many actors, but each had their own experience and distinct tales. Without overemphasizing this truth, he proves that every soldier’s story is different. Eventually, I came to appreciate that the thrills and horrors of war can only be understood by those who have been on the battlefield.

Every aspect of this remarkable book was excellent. I disliked nothing about it. First, Graydon does not shy away from speaking his mind. Consequently, the reader acquires some food for thought. You are not just a consumer of knowledge, but also an active participant in cogitating on issues like love for humanity and its consequences, death, and much more. Second, every moment is unique; night or day, there are no breaks, and no one can tell what could happen next.

After reading this book, you will not view things from the same perspective. For the absorbing narration, thought-provocative nature, and many other positive qualities, I rate the book four out of four stars. It is an action-packed book with lots of history that will keep you enlightened and informed, making you want to know more. Every ardent reader of books packed with adventure and action will cherish reading this book. It will appeal most to those who would like to look at the life of a soldier during deployment and beyond.

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Either Peace or War
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[Shadreck Rogers]

A book about the military is always intriguing. The fact that the book has lots of history makes it even more attractive. Thanks for the review.

[Duwire Banda]

The review is well done and I am excited bout the "punchy opening" of the book. Great review.

[Chrity Edwin]

The first line is interest stimulating I must say. I would want to read this book to find out why someone would miss war. Nice review.

[Prisallen]

I must admit that seeing the statement that someone misses war has me intrigued. I can't imagine that. The history in the book also appeals to me. Thank you for an excellent review!

[Zainab Wasif]

The first sentence piqued my curiosity for the book. The themes in the book seem equally appealing to me. I will try to get hold of this amazing book soon.

[Luchris Curtis]

One thing I learned from this review is that it is necessary to not be judgemental. I love the author's perspective, and I will love to read this book. Thanks for your honest review.

[Riya Sarkar]

The whole book sounds like a giant intriguing read filled with suspense and adventure. Also, which war is discussed in the book?

[Wilkister Inzai Avagalwa]

Why would someone miss war for anything? Either Peace or War by Graydon McWilliams sounds interesting, and I will add it to my to-read list. Congratulations on the BOTD.

[Nerd_Chris]

It strange of the author in owning up by to missing war. The book has such a wide plot and will be captivating to readers. Nice review. Congrats on winning BOTD

[Chris Azuka]

Similarly, I found the book's introductory sentence intriguing and I believe it would apply to other readers. I believe all what you said in your review. Good review. Congratulations on winning BOTD.

[yuri_08]

It is rare to miss something chaotic which can make every potential reader curious about the book's contents. Your review was great and can make others know what perspective you got after reading it.

[Yasmine M]

I enjoyed reading this review, it is brilliant. The book sounds fascinating and mind blowing, although the review is not giving away any spoilers... Graydon misses war? I am sure he is not the only one. I wonder what kind of experiences he had while being a soldier.

[Kenneth Onyenwe]

A book that started with a love for war seems strange. I will read "Either Peace or War" by Graydon McWilliams to know why the author has a love for chaos. Interesting adventure and action packed book.

[Mutuma Clare]

Sounds like an amazing book. And being from East Africa,"huezielewa" captured my attention. This is a must read for me. Congratulations on BOTD!