Books matching: political and military landscape
23 result(s)
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- #1
Save:'Obama's Wars' by Bob Woodward delves into the intricate world of politics and warfare during President Obama's administration. Woodward's writing style takes the reader inside the rooms where crucial decisions are made, presenting the thoughts and actions of the participants in a factual manner. focuses on the power struggles between the president and the generals, showcasing how the military advisers exert pressure on the commander in chief, leading to delayed decisions and frustrating disagreements.
Woodward's narrative sheds light on the complexities of US engagement in Iraq and Afghanistan, leaving the reader feeling pessimistic about the entanglements in the Middle East. also highlights the cyber threats faced by the US and the challenges in managing wars and intelligence operations. Through detailed accounts and insider views, Woodward presents a compelling story of how President Obama navigated the war in Afghanistan while dealing with a complacent Pakistan and a military establishment pushing for more troops.
On Thursday, November 6, 2008, two days after he was elected president of the United States, Senator Barack Obama arranged to meet in Chicago with Mike McConnell, the director of national intelligence... Barbara Tuchman's 'Stilwell and the American Experience in China, 1911-45' delves into the complex and tumultuous relationship between General George Stilwell and Chiang Kai-shek during WWII. Through Tuchman's lucid prose style, the book sheds light on the struggles over American policy in developing a sustainable Chinese Nationalist army. Stilwell, portrayed as an upright individual with the best interests of China at heart, faces challenges from both the American administration and Chiang Kai-shek, leading to a narrative that highlights the deficiencies of the Chiang regime and the inability to modernize the Chinese military without strong internal support.
LIEUTENANT STILWELL, aged twenty-eight, met China for the first time in November 1911 at the moment when the most ancient of independent nations stumbled into the twentieth century. Six weeks before h...- #3
Save:Dragon follows Vlad Taltos as he finds himself in the midst of a dragon war, taking on the role of a soldier alongside Morrolan. The book delves into the complexities of the war, Vlad's relationships with key characters, and the introduction of the enigmatic Serioli race. The narrative jumps around in time, providing glimpses of Vlad's past and future, ultimately painting a vivid picture of his experiences and the challenges he faces in this unfamiliar environment.
The writing style in Dragon is described as witty, fast-moving, and filled with humor. The book offers a unique perspective on war in a fantasy setting, with a focus on character development, intricate relationships, and engaging battle descriptions. Despite some nonlinear storytelling, the narrative unfolds to reveal important plot points and backstory that add depth to Vlad's journey as a soldier.
We’d been cut up so many ways and so many times we hardly had a skirmish line, and the enemy kept getting reinforced. I, like the rest of the outfit, was exhausted and terrified from swords buzzing pa...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Vlad Taltos ) - #4
Save:'The Coming Fury' by Bruce Catton is the first volume of a detailed trilogy covering the American Civil War. The book delves into the events leading up to the Civil War, starting with the presidential election of 1860 and the political tensions surrounding slavery. Catton's narrative style provides a comprehensive overview of the key figures and events, culminating in the first battle of Bull Run in July 1861. The author's meticulous research and focus on primary sources offer readers a vivid portrayal of the political and military landscape of the time.
- #5
Save:'Edward III: The Perfect King' by Ian Mortimer delves into the life of King Edward III, showcasing his military prowess, legislative achievements, and personal life. Through vivid descriptions of battles in France and the creation of the Order of the Garter, Mortimer paints a comprehensive picture of Edward's reign. also explores lesser-known aspects of Edward's life, such as his relationships with family members and the evolution of English parliament under his rule. Mortimer's engaging writing style turns historical facts into a gripping adventure, making the medieval world come alive for readers.
Of all the stages in the life of a resourceful and imaginative individual, childhood is the most important and the most difficult to understand. We need to think about a boy’s physical well-being as h... - #6
Save:How Few Remain by Harry Turtledove is an alternate history novel set in a world where the South won the Civil War, leading to a new conflict between the United States and the Confederacy. The book explores the repercussions of a Confederate victory, showcasing known historical figures like Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Stonewall Jackson in different roles and situations. Through epic battle scenes and confrontations between heroes of American history, the plot delves into the political and military landscape of a divided nation, offering a nuanced perspective on the characters and their actions. Turtledove's writing style is praised for its attention to detail, believable character descriptions, and engaging dialogue, making the alternate reality feel vivid and immersive for the readers.
The Army of Northern Virginia was breaking camp. The lean, ragged soldiers, their gray uniforms and especially their shoes much the worse for wear, began the next long tramp, this one north and west t... - #7
Save:'White Devil: A True Story of War, Savagery, and Vengeance in Colonial America' by Stephen Brumwell is a historical account focusing on the mercenary regiment led by Robert Rogers, who played a crucial role in the French and Indian War. The book provides a detailed narrative of the political and military landscape in colonial Canada, highlighting the relationships between various factions including Native American tribes and the French and British forces. Through vivid storytelling, Brumwell portrays the brutalities and challenges faced by colonial settlers during this tumultuous period, while also shedding light on the unexpected moments of humanity amidst the conflicts.
- #8
Save:'In Enemy Hands' in the series 'Honor Harrington' by David Weber follows the protagonist, Honor Harrington, as she gets captured by the enemy and is thrown into a challenging situation. The plot delves into Harrington's incarceration, humiliation, and eventual attempt to escape from a prison planet, all while facing political intrigue and personal challenges. The writing style of the book is described as having a long and detailed setup, with some readers finding the initial parts slow but eventually picking up the pace with engaging action sequences and character development.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Honor Harrington ) - #9
Save:A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif is a fictionalized tale surrounding the mysterious plane crash that killed General Zia ul Haq, the military dictator of Pakistan, in 1988. Through a satirical and humorous narrative, the book delves into the political instability of the era, General Zia's personality, and the various assassination plots aimed at him. The story is filled with dark humor, intertwining multiple subplots and characters to create a thrilling and insightful journey through the complexities of power dynamics and conspiracy in Pakistan during the late 80s.
The novel is narrated by Under Officer Ali Shigri, who seeks revenge for the alleged suicide of his father, a high-ranking Officer, by plotting to kill General Zia. As the story unfolds, the reader is exposed to the intricacies of espionage, military ambition, and the blurred lines between fact and fiction. Hanif's writing style blends elements of black comedy, political thriller, and historical fiction to provide a unique perspective on the events leading up to General Zia's demise, offering a satirical yet poignant commentary on the injustices and complexities of Pakistani society.
There is something about these bloody squadron leaders that makes them think that if they lock you up in a cell, put their stinking mouth to your ear and shout something about your mother they can fin... - #10
Save:"Furies of Calderon" by Jim Butcher is a high fantasy adventure set in a Roman-inspired empire where people have magical control over elemental furies. The story follows Tavi, an orphan without magical abilities, who unexpectedly becomes a key figure in a time of crisis. The plot includes political maneuvering, epic battles, and well-developed characters, creating a detailed and immersive world that keeps readers engaged from the start.
The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, with a mix of action-packed scenes and deeper intrigue that keeps readers invested in the characters and the unfolding plot. The narrative shifts between multiple perspectives, providing a multi-dimensional view of the story and adding layers to the political and magical elements of the world created by Jim Butcher.
Amara rode atop the swaying back of the towering old gargant bull, going over the plan in her head. The morning sun shone down on her, taking the chill out of the misty air and warming the dark wool ...
