“The Final Salute”

by Kathleen Rodgers

Fiction

Leatherneck Publishing

Reviewed by: W.H. McDonald Jr.

Founder of The Military Writer’s Society of America

Author, Documentary Film Maker, and Vietnam Veteran

A Story That Needs to Be Told—Even if it is Fiction

Author Kathleen Rodgers has created a novel that could be a slice from real life. Her well-written debut book about career Air Force pilots “THE FINAL SALUTE” is a story that real pilots and military families will fully understand and perhaps, even identify with. But it is the human emotions that this story brings out that will win over all readers, including those who have never worn any uniform, or flown an airplane.

War, they say, is truly hell—and Rodgers captures that element as she unfolds her tale. It becomes both entertaining and at times, thought provoking. Her characters are sharp and multi-dimensional; which is the true strength of this novel. She artfully uses these people to unfold her dramatic storyline.

This book deals with the dangers of warfare; but it is the inner and outward emotional battles of her lead characters that keep the reader turning pages. The book takes on huge chunks of real-life stuff: problems with teenage children, husband-wife issues, bad relations with people, friendship, flying war planes and death,to name just a few.  

The reader will find plenty of action and excitement to satisfy that need from an action novel; but it is the thought-provoking plot and comradeship of the fighter pilots that makes this a perfect military novel. It reminded me emotionally of books like “From Here To Eternity”. This book is destined to generate lots of buzz among readers of military themed genre. It is truly a future war classic.

The Military Writer’s Society of America gives this book it’s highest rating of FIVE STARS! It also has my personal recommendation! The book is that good!!!