William L Stuart
Biography
William Stuart is a ten-year veteran of the US Navy Submarine Force, works in the animal health field, and is the proud father of his daughter Laura and grandfather of two wonderful grandchildren. When he isn’t working, he enjoys rock-hunting, playing softball, playing golf, and woodworking. He lives in the Greater Atlanta area with Lana, his lovely and adorable wife of twenty-four years
Where to find William L Stuart online
Books
The Gemstone Chronicles Book Two: The Amethyst
by William L Stuart
Price: $2.99 USD. 69420 words.
Published on May 5, 2013. Fiction.
In Celahir, the magical land where the Light Elves and the Dark Elves live, the four gemstones of the Elven Bow have been stolen by the Dark Elves. Without those gemstones, the barrier between the human world and Celahir is deteriorating and the balance between good and evil in both worlds is tipping toward evil.
The first of the gemstones, the Carnelian, was recovered by Aidan, Maggie, Nana, and
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Smashwords book reviews by William L Stuart
- That's War
on April 08, 2013
I found this book to be absolutely fascinating. Having spent some time floating around on a submarine, I could easily relate to the repetitive training and excruciating boredom that often accompanies military service. But even more compelling to me was the matter-of-fact and humble account of the horrors of war. Not a blood and guts narrative, Lt. William Sirmon's diary of that last year (January through November 1918) of the War to End All Wars, chronicles the dreadful conditions that the doughboys faced and their perseverance and determination to defeat the Germans and restore peace to the world.
The narrative, at times, seems almost lighthearted and irreverent - especially while Lt. Sirmon's brigade was training at Ft. Gordon, Georgia. He laments the need to get up so early in the morning, how cold it is, how miserable the weather is, and many other common complaints among soldiers, airmen, and sailors everywhere. Yet, throughout, there was an overwhelming optimism about America, America's role in the world, and the hope that they would get to war and strike a blow against Germany. This was never more evident than during the transit across the Atlantic Ocean when many of the soldiers were seasick. They did not bemoan their circumstances but instead vowed to make the Kaiser pay for their discomfort!
The book was not, however, a celebration of war. There were horrors enough in it, but Lt. Sirmon chose not to dwell on those. Written in the style of the times, there is little in the way of foul language, no graphic description of horrible injuries, and the descriptions of the beautiful French countryside and the brave people displaced by the tragedy of the war are haunting.
Lt. Sirmon's account gives a great historical perspective to the conditions on the front and the fears that all soldiers who have been in combat can relate to. I particularly appreciated the patriotic and heartfelt love of country that he showed - even at the worst of times.
I can't say that the book was enjoyable in the way a war novel can be, but I think it opened my eyes to the harsh realities of war, albeit told in a gentle humble way. I would recommend it for anyone who wants to get a taste of war or see WWI through the eyes of a front line participant. Give it a try, and remember to thank those who served for the freedoms you enjoy! Thank you Brannon Sirmon for bringing your great grandfather's words and experiences to us!
My rating - 4.5 Stars!!!