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First Contact
The Anatomy of Courage
Dr. Christopher Walters has been assigned to a medical evac team serving on the front line of the war against the alien invaders known as the Novo. As part of the Dog Food Squad, his role is to provide battlefield triage to wounded soldiers in no man’s land. Life expectancy at the Front is so low no one uses their real names, and he teams up with Hawk, Mouse, Leech, Lavender and William Sunday to save those he can from the brutal reality of war. The Novos, though, are not what they seem. Inconsistencies leave Doc questioning the war and wondering what the price will be for peace...FIRST CONTACT is a series of stand-alone novels that explore humanity's first interaction with extraterrestrial life. This series is similar to BLACK MIRROR or THE TWILIGHT ZONE in that the series is based on a common theme rather than common characters. This allows these books to be read in any order. Technically, they're all first as they all deal with how we might initially respond to contact with aliens, exploring the social, political, religious, and scientific aspects of First Contact.
- GenresScience FictionFiction
361 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2024
262 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 31, 2024
This was a difficult review to write. I was in school when the Vietnam War began. It wasn't over until I had been out of school. 1960-1973 maybe ended 1976? In 1963
November, the president was assassinated. The president 's brother was assassinated in April of 1968, Martin Luther King assassinated in June of 1968. The hippie culture reigned through the 1960s and the 1970s. I was in 3rd grade when JFK was shot and killed in front of his wife. Riding by cheering crowds in Texas. I learned very young what the world really was about. And, I lived through the Cold War. The Russians were blamed for everything that was considered a violent way of living.
The best part of this story by Peter Cawdron is that he takes us back to when the Russians were blamed for the all wrong in the world. Exterrestrials arrive. Without knowing why the world was thrown into a war. We all fight. Trying to keep our enemy from gaining ground. A doctor arrives at the front. A motely crew is his medical crew. He is the 1st surgeon to take care of patients at the front. What is courage? To keep going? To fight on killing as many of the enemy as you can? If you were to show compassion to the enemy, is that courage. If you have to know what started this horrible war and decided war was worse than living in Hell. Is it courage to make your way into enemy territory? And, can you ever forgive those who started it? For me, that seems courageous. Read this story and decide what would be the most courageous thing soldiers and the common people and the representatives of countries would do to stop a war and communicate. It is one those stories that keep you guessing all the way through. And, meet people from different cultures. See how you would define courage. I hope this author and so many others will never stop writing. Stories are a view of the world from other perspectives, and some are not so different than the rest of us. My 3rd grade teacher cried at her desk in front of all her students, when the word spread through the elementary school that John F. Kennedy was dead. His words kept ciculating until it became our legacy. He was one those courageous people. And, many others during that era. Read it and find out what started it all. There were heroes when it began, and they stayed heroes. You'll be surprised by who the enemy was at the end.
November, the president was assassinated. The president 's brother was assassinated in April of 1968, Martin Luther King assassinated in June of 1968. The hippie culture reigned through the 1960s and the 1970s. I was in 3rd grade when JFK was shot and killed in front of his wife. Riding by cheering crowds in Texas. I learned very young what the world really was about. And, I lived through the Cold War. The Russians were blamed for everything that was considered a violent way of living.
The best part of this story by Peter Cawdron is that he takes us back to when the Russians were blamed for the all wrong in the world. Exterrestrials arrive. Without knowing why the world was thrown into a war. We all fight. Trying to keep our enemy from gaining ground. A doctor arrives at the front. A motely crew is his medical crew. He is the 1st surgeon to take care of patients at the front. What is courage? To keep going? To fight on killing as many of the enemy as you can? If you were to show compassion to the enemy, is that courage. If you have to know what started this horrible war and decided war was worse than living in Hell. Is it courage to make your way into enemy territory? And, can you ever forgive those who started it? For me, that seems courageous. Read this story and decide what would be the most courageous thing soldiers and the common people and the representatives of countries would do to stop a war and communicate. It is one those stories that keep you guessing all the way through. And, meet people from different cultures. See how you would define courage. I hope this author and so many others will never stop writing. Stories are a view of the world from other perspectives, and some are not so different than the rest of us. My 3rd grade teacher cried at her desk in front of all her students, when the word spread through the elementary school that John F. Kennedy was dead. His words kept ciculating until it became our legacy. He was one those courageous people. And, many others during that era. Read it and find out what started it all. There were heroes when it began, and they stayed heroes. You'll be surprised by who the enemy was at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2024
This book, the latest in the First Contact series, really spans the range of human emotion - firstly, a war scene, which is described as any student of history knows, as the Great War era fighting - trenches, fox holes, bombardments, no technology, just churning out soldiers to their inevitable death (dulce et decorum et al, huh?), but as we go on, we’re actually in the near future, with the reasons for the backwards waging of war explained to great effect. Then, in the latter half, Peter really hits his strides with an examination of the human side - both in the effect of war, and our relationship with the enemy. Pretty much comes to the conclusion that war is stupid, but even though we’re well aware of that, still think it’s worth giving it a bash on a regular basis. Some very emotional scenes - surprising given it’s a war based novel, are very touching, and everything is resolved satisfactorily, after putting everything that humans are under a microscope (and in news that will surprise no one, we’re found wanting).
As always, the books are finished with a comprehensive afterword, to expand on concepts, give a bit more of the science behind everything (and in this case, the history), and as always a personal note from the author himself. (I’m sorry to hear the news. I hope you’re okay).
As always, the books are finished with a comprehensive afterword, to expand on concepts, give a bit more of the science behind everything (and in this case, the history), and as always a personal note from the author himself. (I’m sorry to hear the news. I hope you’re okay).
March 18, 2024
Intensely Vivid and Emotional
I’ve read quite a few First Contact series ( Maybe 10?) and it’s hard to pick a favorite. It’s likely the one I just finished!
I’m a former English teacher and
U. S. Air Force pilot (odd combination) who never was sent to Vietnam, though I served from 1968- 73. Luck of the draw in assignments. This vivid description of life in the trenches makes it sound like you were in WWI. It was vivid enough to make me certain I’m glad to have not been there OR in Vietnam. I’ve tried to write myself, and know from the mental grunting and groaning of my own that it’s HARD. So I’ll end with another “Thank You” and a vow to read more of your in the future.
Rick Davis
Memphis, Tennessee
I’ve read quite a few First Contact series ( Maybe 10?) and it’s hard to pick a favorite. It’s likely the one I just finished!
I’m a former English teacher and
U. S. Air Force pilot (odd combination) who never was sent to Vietnam, though I served from 1968- 73. Luck of the draw in assignments. This vivid description of life in the trenches makes it sound like you were in WWI. It was vivid enough to make me certain I’m glad to have not been there OR in Vietnam. I’ve tried to write myself, and know from the mental grunting and groaning of my own that it’s HARD. So I’ll end with another “Thank You” and a vow to read more of your in the future.
Rick Davis
Memphis, Tennessee
December 28, 2024
Anatomy of Courage follows Dr. Christopher Walters, a US surgeon who has been assigned to the front in a war against an alien enemy. The aliens are known as the Novo, a spider like species with energy weapons. The front line is a blood-bath, soldiers have a very low life expectancy, so low, that they don’t use their real names, and don’t bother telling each other about their lives, as it’s not worth making the connection or going through it with each new person. They are just not around long enough. Walters, who is known as Doc, meets his squad – Dog Food Squad or DFS, and each of the members, Hawk, Mouse, Leech, Lavender and William Sunday.
At the start of the story, Doc has a notebook, and is making notes on each of his squad mates, as he wants to write a book about what it’s like on the frontline. When the others notice, they ask him what his book is about, and what it’s called, and he tells them, “The Anatomy of Courage” – what is the definition of courage.
As the story unfolds, we see Dog Food Squad perform their role, running out into the no-mans land of the battlefield, finding wounded soldiers so Doc can perform triage on them, and then bring them back into makeshift hospitals. The aim is to try and save as many lives as possible, given the horrendous turn-over rate.
Initially, Doc finds the process brutal and confronting. However, after a particular event, when he comes face-to-face with a Novo, he starts to wonder what they are actually fighting for?
What is the point of the conflict? Has anyone actually tried to make first contact with the aliens and find out what they want?
As with all of Cawdron’s books, the character work is exceptional. Doc’s character is brilliant as he comes to the front with a certain enthusiasm for the role, and whilst he understands the ‘concept’ of what he has signed up for, this is vastly different to the reality. Even being a trauma surgeon in the ER, he still finds the brutality of the front confronting.
Doc’s story is gripping and powerful, as his understanding of the front grows, and he begins to question everything that is happening.
One of the most extraordinary characters in the book is William Sunday. Her name comes from her brother who died at the hands of the aliens, and the day she lost her family to them. She lived in the area that was first hit by the aliens, and lost her entire family, and everyone she knew. Now she fights and works to help those on the front. She is a contradiction on many levels, having a very kind soul, but at the same time, she is ruthless when it comes to the Novo. When Doc starts, Sunday takes him under her wing, doing all she can to make his stay more bearable, and to help him. On the battlefield, she is always by his side, making sure he is safe. She carries a heavy burden from the loss of her family, refusing to answer to her real name, but she is very compassionate when it comes to others.
There are other interesting characters, Hawk, is quiet, but he is a skilled scout. Doc and Hawk form a unique bond as the story continues. Mouse’s name is ironic, and his character is brilliant (I’ll let you read about him). Leech is a typical soldier in a lot of ways, but the war has had a significant impact on him. Lavendar is another fascinating character, one that is incredibly in-depth, but like Mouse, I’ll let you read about her.
The descriptive work in this book is outstanding, incredibly gritty, and at times, very intense. The portrayal of the frontlines and combat scenes is blunt, authentic and candid, leaving little to the imagination. Cawdron takes you to the frontline and walks you through the trenches. It is a combination of World War 1, aspects of the Gulf War, and an alien war. A no-mans land that is shelled each day by heavy artillery to stop the Novo from ‘digging in’ (they bury themselves into the ground and wait for ambush), with a trench system on the human side, including a ‘MASH’ style hospital system buried in the trenches to serve the wounded. It is a fascinating combination of different aspects of warfare throughout history.
This is another astounding tale from Peter Cawdron in his First Contact series, combining outstanding characters with extraordinary storytelling. This is another thrilling epic not to be missed!
At the start of the story, Doc has a notebook, and is making notes on each of his squad mates, as he wants to write a book about what it’s like on the frontline. When the others notice, they ask him what his book is about, and what it’s called, and he tells them, “The Anatomy of Courage” – what is the definition of courage.
As the story unfolds, we see Dog Food Squad perform their role, running out into the no-mans land of the battlefield, finding wounded soldiers so Doc can perform triage on them, and then bring them back into makeshift hospitals. The aim is to try and save as many lives as possible, given the horrendous turn-over rate.
Initially, Doc finds the process brutal and confronting. However, after a particular event, when he comes face-to-face with a Novo, he starts to wonder what they are actually fighting for?
What is the point of the conflict? Has anyone actually tried to make first contact with the aliens and find out what they want?
As with all of Cawdron’s books, the character work is exceptional. Doc’s character is brilliant as he comes to the front with a certain enthusiasm for the role, and whilst he understands the ‘concept’ of what he has signed up for, this is vastly different to the reality. Even being a trauma surgeon in the ER, he still finds the brutality of the front confronting.
Doc’s story is gripping and powerful, as his understanding of the front grows, and he begins to question everything that is happening.
One of the most extraordinary characters in the book is William Sunday. Her name comes from her brother who died at the hands of the aliens, and the day she lost her family to them. She lived in the area that was first hit by the aliens, and lost her entire family, and everyone she knew. Now she fights and works to help those on the front. She is a contradiction on many levels, having a very kind soul, but at the same time, she is ruthless when it comes to the Novo. When Doc starts, Sunday takes him under her wing, doing all she can to make his stay more bearable, and to help him. On the battlefield, she is always by his side, making sure he is safe. She carries a heavy burden from the loss of her family, refusing to answer to her real name, but she is very compassionate when it comes to others.
There are other interesting characters, Hawk, is quiet, but he is a skilled scout. Doc and Hawk form a unique bond as the story continues. Mouse’s name is ironic, and his character is brilliant (I’ll let you read about him). Leech is a typical soldier in a lot of ways, but the war has had a significant impact on him. Lavendar is another fascinating character, one that is incredibly in-depth, but like Mouse, I’ll let you read about her.
The descriptive work in this book is outstanding, incredibly gritty, and at times, very intense. The portrayal of the frontlines and combat scenes is blunt, authentic and candid, leaving little to the imagination. Cawdron takes you to the frontline and walks you through the trenches. It is a combination of World War 1, aspects of the Gulf War, and an alien war. A no-mans land that is shelled each day by heavy artillery to stop the Novo from ‘digging in’ (they bury themselves into the ground and wait for ambush), with a trench system on the human side, including a ‘MASH’ style hospital system buried in the trenches to serve the wounded. It is a fascinating combination of different aspects of warfare throughout history.
This is another astounding tale from Peter Cawdron in his First Contact series, combining outstanding characters with extraordinary storytelling. This is another thrilling epic not to be missed!
March 25, 2024
YOU'VE NEVER READ AN ALIEN INVASION STORY LIKE THIS ONE BEFORE
Christopher Walters is a trauma surgeon in a place where life itself is traumatic. He carries the nominal rank of captain in the United States Army in southern Siberia. There, the Americans are attempting to hold firm on the Western Front in a war with the Novos, the strange extraterrestrials who crash-landed near the city of Novosibirsk, which gives them their name. Because the Novos can detect even low-level electricity from a great distance, human forces can employ no machinery or electronics. The aliens wield lightning bolts to destroy anything moving and hurl huge boulders against the lines. The war is now fought much as it was in France and Belgium in World War I, with both sides dug into trenches facing no-man’s-land. There are no tanks, no airplanes, no drones, no smartphones. And it’s a nightmare for Doc Walters. This is Peter Cawdron’s provocative new alien invasion story.
BITTER COLD, BOREDOM, AND SUDDEN TERROR
Doc is on his first rotation to the Front, assigned to Delta Foxtrot 3 Squad, known as Dog Food Squad. The squad’s assignment is to follow troops who go “over the top” into no-man’s-land to attack the Novos. There are always casualties, and it’s Dog Food’s job to tend to them. Well, Doc’s job, really. The soldiers are there to keep him alive and ferry the wounded back to the forward base where they can be treated. Thus, Doc’s life has been reduced to long, long stretches of bitter cold, stinging rain, wet socks, miserable food (often rats), and seemingly unending boredom—until the boredom ends and the terror begins, as Dog Food, too, goes over the top.
IT’S ALL BOREDOM AND TERROR—UNTIL SUDDENLY IT’S NOT
Much of the story here is set within the trench where Dog Food Squad is assigned. But that comes to an end, as the story suddenly veers in a new direction when Doc comes face-to-face with the Novos for the first time. And that’s the pivotal moment when the story arcs upward—and we begin to learn more about the aliens who seem to be intent on conquering and transforming the Earth. There are surprises in store for the reader. Lots of them.
GRAPPLING WITH THE DEEPER QUESTIONS
The title The Anatomy of Courage does double duty here. It’s the working title of the book Doc is preparing to write, as he records his daily observations of the soldiers in Dog Food Squad and his probing conversations with them. It’s also a guide to one of the deeper themes in the novel. Because author Peter Cawdron digs more deeply into his characters’ thoughts and feelings here than is the norm in science fiction, including his own.
Doc grapples with the big questions. What makes one man “good” and another “bad?” What is “evil,” and how does it differ from what is not? And is war hell—or worse? In fact, why do wars happen, and how do they end (because they always end)? Cawdron adroitly explores these and other themes. The Anatomy of Courage may be the most ambitious effort among the twenty-six books to date in his First Contact series.
Christopher Walters is a trauma surgeon in a place where life itself is traumatic. He carries the nominal rank of captain in the United States Army in southern Siberia. There, the Americans are attempting to hold firm on the Western Front in a war with the Novos, the strange extraterrestrials who crash-landed near the city of Novosibirsk, which gives them their name. Because the Novos can detect even low-level electricity from a great distance, human forces can employ no machinery or electronics. The aliens wield lightning bolts to destroy anything moving and hurl huge boulders against the lines. The war is now fought much as it was in France and Belgium in World War I, with both sides dug into trenches facing no-man’s-land. There are no tanks, no airplanes, no drones, no smartphones. And it’s a nightmare for Doc Walters. This is Peter Cawdron’s provocative new alien invasion story.
BITTER COLD, BOREDOM, AND SUDDEN TERROR
Doc is on his first rotation to the Front, assigned to Delta Foxtrot 3 Squad, known as Dog Food Squad. The squad’s assignment is to follow troops who go “over the top” into no-man’s-land to attack the Novos. There are always casualties, and it’s Dog Food’s job to tend to them. Well, Doc’s job, really. The soldiers are there to keep him alive and ferry the wounded back to the forward base where they can be treated. Thus, Doc’s life has been reduced to long, long stretches of bitter cold, stinging rain, wet socks, miserable food (often rats), and seemingly unending boredom—until the boredom ends and the terror begins, as Dog Food, too, goes over the top.
IT’S ALL BOREDOM AND TERROR—UNTIL SUDDENLY IT’S NOT
Much of the story here is set within the trench where Dog Food Squad is assigned. But that comes to an end, as the story suddenly veers in a new direction when Doc comes face-to-face with the Novos for the first time. And that’s the pivotal moment when the story arcs upward—and we begin to learn more about the aliens who seem to be intent on conquering and transforming the Earth. There are surprises in store for the reader. Lots of them.
GRAPPLING WITH THE DEEPER QUESTIONS
The title The Anatomy of Courage does double duty here. It’s the working title of the book Doc is preparing to write, as he records his daily observations of the soldiers in Dog Food Squad and his probing conversations with them. It’s also a guide to one of the deeper themes in the novel. Because author Peter Cawdron digs more deeply into his characters’ thoughts and feelings here than is the norm in science fiction, including his own.
Doc grapples with the big questions. What makes one man “good” and another “bad?” What is “evil,” and how does it differ from what is not? And is war hell—or worse? In fact, why do wars happen, and how do they end (because they always end)? Cawdron adroitly explores these and other themes. The Anatomy of Courage may be the most ambitious effort among the twenty-six books to date in his First Contact series.
March 23, 2024
A SIMPLE MAN'S REVIEW:
It seems that this author has opted to start writing his books as if they are a soapbox to express his views on the world. Or maybe they've always been like that I just hadn't noticed? Either way, it seems very heavy-handed and takes away from the story. No matter how great the steak, if you cover it in ketchup, it will alway end up meh.
The first half of the book was great, with the protagonist reminding me of Hawkeye in M*A*S*H (the TV show, not the movie). A doctor stuck in a war that doesn't make sense but creating relationships and trying to deal with the horror of merely existing in that environment. There's action, mystery, and good conversations (although a bit heavy on the soliloquies).
But then the second half becomes the worst of the common alien/war tropes and you're forced along for the ride (you could stop reading midway through, but what kind of monsters are capable of that?!). This is where our current world events are imposed on the narrative and you already know where it's headed. Of course the Russians are the war-loving antagonists who only know war and revenge. The lies and "invasion" and betrayal and vodka and blah, blah, blah. And the shot at Elon Musk about the naivety of wanting to colonize Mars. Hilarious, but still, it takes the reader out of the story.
But then, the super sugary epilogue to tie everything up in that much-desired bow. Six months and all the problems are gone. Oh, and there hasn't been much romance yet, so let's throw that in too.
Before I go, I just have to revisit a complaint I have with this author in the hopes that he can fix it in future books: the use of stereotypes. Fyodor could have been out of an 80's action movie, epitomizing all the negative stereotypes we had for the Russian people back then. And Hawk, are you kidding me? A Native American who is stoic but prideful, carves a wooden eagle, and had an alcoholic dad? All that was missing was the stilted English and a spirt animal.
Look, I really like this author and his imagination for first contact is unparalleled. His earlier work is amazing and his ability to tell a story and remove us from this messed-up world for a bit was valuable. But now, his books feel like a lecture that happens to include an alien. Hopefully this isn't a permanent change, and we can get back to entertainment and escape and new ways that first contact might happen.
Read it!
It seems that this author has opted to start writing his books as if they are a soapbox to express his views on the world. Or maybe they've always been like that I just hadn't noticed? Either way, it seems very heavy-handed and takes away from the story. No matter how great the steak, if you cover it in ketchup, it will alway end up meh.
The first half of the book was great, with the protagonist reminding me of Hawkeye in M*A*S*H (the TV show, not the movie). A doctor stuck in a war that doesn't make sense but creating relationships and trying to deal with the horror of merely existing in that environment. There's action, mystery, and good conversations (although a bit heavy on the soliloquies).
But then the second half becomes the worst of the common alien/war tropes and you're forced along for the ride (you could stop reading midway through, but what kind of monsters are capable of that?!). This is where our current world events are imposed on the narrative and you already know where it's headed. Of course the Russians are the war-loving antagonists who only know war and revenge. The lies and "invasion" and betrayal and vodka and blah, blah, blah. And the shot at Elon Musk about the naivety of wanting to colonize Mars. Hilarious, but still, it takes the reader out of the story.
But then, the super sugary epilogue to tie everything up in that much-desired bow. Six months and all the problems are gone. Oh, and there hasn't been much romance yet, so let's throw that in too.
Before I go, I just have to revisit a complaint I have with this author in the hopes that he can fix it in future books: the use of stereotypes. Fyodor could have been out of an 80's action movie, epitomizing all the negative stereotypes we had for the Russian people back then. And Hawk, are you kidding me? A Native American who is stoic but prideful, carves a wooden eagle, and had an alcoholic dad? All that was missing was the stilted English and a spirt animal.
Look, I really like this author and his imagination for first contact is unparalleled. His earlier work is amazing and his ability to tell a story and remove us from this messed-up world for a bit was valuable. But now, his books feel like a lecture that happens to include an alien. Hopefully this isn't a permanent change, and we can get back to entertainment and escape and new ways that first contact might happen.
Read it!
April 5, 2024
Cawdron has written yet another great first contact book. This one, number twenty-six, is as unique and interesting as each of the earlier ones.
Cawdron goes into a lot of detail and depth with his books. While usually it is the science, in The Anatomy of Courage it is about war. Drawing on the trench warfare of WWI, Cawdron imagines battling an alien invasion where their science has disabled all of our technology. No targeted bombs, no jets, no tanks - just solders with rifles crawling through the mud. Meanwhile, the aliens have some type of electrical weapon that they can use both long range as well as summoning it up from their own bodies in close combat.
The book is told through the eyes of Doctor Christopher Walters who has just been assigned to a medical unit on the Russian front. He must go out with his platoon, while the battle is still raging, and decide which of the wounded can be saved and should be treated and transported behind the lines. Fortunately, I have never had to experience war firsthand but the picture Cawdron presents seems to be incredibly accurate, detailed, and horrific.
While this is a science fiction book, complete with aliens, the thrust of the book is conflict. Why do we have wars when they always end with each side lesser for the conflict? Is it truly the sign of an advanced civilization where we use the modern version of clubs and spears, rather than talking and compromising? Cawdron’s latest book is an excellent presentation of why we fight and how “war is a blight on humanity.”
Cawdron goes into a lot of detail and depth with his books. While usually it is the science, in The Anatomy of Courage it is about war. Drawing on the trench warfare of WWI, Cawdron imagines battling an alien invasion where their science has disabled all of our technology. No targeted bombs, no jets, no tanks - just solders with rifles crawling through the mud. Meanwhile, the aliens have some type of electrical weapon that they can use both long range as well as summoning it up from their own bodies in close combat.
The book is told through the eyes of Doctor Christopher Walters who has just been assigned to a medical unit on the Russian front. He must go out with his platoon, while the battle is still raging, and decide which of the wounded can be saved and should be treated and transported behind the lines. Fortunately, I have never had to experience war firsthand but the picture Cawdron presents seems to be incredibly accurate, detailed, and horrific.
While this is a science fiction book, complete with aliens, the thrust of the book is conflict. Why do we have wars when they always end with each side lesser for the conflict? Is it truly the sign of an advanced civilization where we use the modern version of clubs and spears, rather than talking and compromising? Cawdron’s latest book is an excellent presentation of why we fight and how “war is a blight on humanity.”
April 13, 2024
I am a Cawdron fan. I really enjoy hard science based storylines. I had to buy this book once it was released. I own his entire first contact series to date.
First contact, well really months after "they" landed and we are now caught in the middle of a fierce war. Our protagonist is just trying to survive this conflict. Not any differently than any other soldier following orders from the high command. This telling is more about the realities of war. Wars start for some trivial reason and continue on well beyond anyone's recollection of why they started. Woven into this tale are several well known war scenes from our history.
I liked the aliens. A well fleshed out species from another planet. And of course they have their own "alien" viewpoint of the war.
Don't skip the afterwords.
And a personal note to Peter. Try not to totally lose yourself in your work. It's okay for a while, but you have to find that moment when it is time to move forward and get back to living. Best wishes for happier times. In the mean time, keep writing great stories.
Have a GoodReads.
First contact, well really months after "they" landed and we are now caught in the middle of a fierce war. Our protagonist is just trying to survive this conflict. Not any differently than any other soldier following orders from the high command. This telling is more about the realities of war. Wars start for some trivial reason and continue on well beyond anyone's recollection of why they started. Woven into this tale are several well known war scenes from our history.
I liked the aliens. A well fleshed out species from another planet. And of course they have their own "alien" viewpoint of the war.
Don't skip the afterwords.
And a personal note to Peter. Try not to totally lose yourself in your work. It's okay for a while, but you have to find that moment when it is time to move forward and get back to living. Best wishes for happier times. In the mean time, keep writing great stories.
Have a GoodReads.
June 20, 2024
This is a five-star book if ever there was one. Peter Cawdron has become one of my two favorite authors. While his genre is science fiction, his work is really a masterclass in Humanities, and his comments in the Afterword of this novel reflect that. I am consistently awed by each of his stories, how they have such unique settings and characters (no I never even considered use of AI). I have read nearly every one of the First Contact books, and each time, I think about leaving a review, but do not. This time I have to. The war setting is so reminiscent of contemporary events across the globe and the detail is riveting. Like the character Doc in this story, my words are insufficient to convey how much I enjoyed reading this. All of the books in this series are worth reading, but this one went over the top and is a must read for anyone who appreciates realistic sci-fi work.
August 3, 2024
Wonderful Story
I read a lot of science fiction and it includes the typical battles in space which create compelling story lines. This had the action and graphic details but wove in very touching humanity. It made the story so much more complete than a one dimensional military space romp. I read the entire book including the authors comments at the end. I agree with his philosophy. I’m not rating the book because of that, I’m rating the book because I loved the tale and the characters. I’ve quit reading other books because I didn’t like the message but refuse to degrade the author because of it. I’m not afraid of other opinions and feel a need to censor. I will turn off, not listen, or walk away but you’re free to feel how you do. I look forward to reading more of Peter Cawdron’s work and hope his stories are as engaging and thought provoking as this one.
I read a lot of science fiction and it includes the typical battles in space which create compelling story lines. This had the action and graphic details but wove in very touching humanity. It made the story so much more complete than a one dimensional military space romp. I read the entire book including the authors comments at the end. I agree with his philosophy. I’m not rating the book because of that, I’m rating the book because I loved the tale and the characters. I’ve quit reading other books because I didn’t like the message but refuse to degrade the author because of it. I’m not afraid of other opinions and feel a need to censor. I will turn off, not listen, or walk away but you’re free to feel how you do. I look forward to reading more of Peter Cawdron’s work and hope his stories are as engaging and thought provoking as this one.
May 23, 2024
How incredible it must be to live inside of Peter Cawdron's creative mind for a day. I've read most of the First Contact books in the series and while after finishing every book you think "Well this is it, I don't believe there exists any other original way of writing a First Contact story", Cawdron releases another gem. And that multiple times a year.
My tinfoil hat off to you Peter, and thank you for hours and hours of reading pleasure AND plenty of food for thought.
One thing that I do have to mention as a scuba diving purist. The part you equalize is actually your middle ear, not the inner ear. Glad you slipped that one in though, proof you're not a robot or AI yourself hehehe.
My tinfoil hat off to you Peter, and thank you for hours and hours of reading pleasure AND plenty of food for thought.
One thing that I do have to mention as a scuba diving purist. The part you equalize is actually your middle ear, not the inner ear. Glad you slipped that one in though, proof you're not a robot or AI yourself hehehe.
March 28, 2024
Peter Cawdron does it again
These First Contact stories get better and better with each release. Each is unique and each covers important themes with insight, compassion, research and artistry.
Every time I finish one, I look forward to the next. The science is as solid as science fiction can get. There are no Battle of Britain dogfights in space nor are there navies that thread spacetime in place of the ocean.
I am sorry to read the reason for Peter’s prolific writing, I hope things will get better for him.
Meanwhile I tip my hat to what one day will be science-fiction classics, but are fresh and new to us in the here and now.
These First Contact stories get better and better with each release. Each is unique and each covers important themes with insight, compassion, research and artistry.
Every time I finish one, I look forward to the next. The science is as solid as science fiction can get. There are no Battle of Britain dogfights in space nor are there navies that thread spacetime in place of the ocean.
I am sorry to read the reason for Peter’s prolific writing, I hope things will get better for him.
Meanwhile I tip my hat to what one day will be science-fiction classics, but are fresh and new to us in the here and now.
April 16, 2024
So many of these books are gold, exploring aspects that really are Humanity, however alien the rationale. This is a great example, and as a blind person I was very pleased to see so much thought put into touch here, how physical contact can be at once both transient and fleeting yet meaningful and lasting. I really enjoyed both the story and the thoughts it set adrift. The milieu of trench warfare isn't the sort of thing I'd have said I would enjoy, but it worked as a brilliant backdrop to the action and served only to enhance the story. Highly recommended, as is most every other novel from this grandmaster of the genre.
June 14, 2024
A bit heavy, but mostly well written.
A bit rushed at the end and a little slow during other parts. Not light reading but some good stuff, almost literature level writing in some areas.
The ending and a key character’s unbelievably fast change of heart left me feeling cheated in the end and too many characters killed off for this to be a “fun” read.
It wasn’t the fun ride I was hoping for, but I begrudgingly give it four stars because of the solid writing through much of the book except as noted.
If you are looking for fun, this isn’t it. It’s too heavy for that. But it is a good book.
A bit rushed at the end and a little slow during other parts. Not light reading but some good stuff, almost literature level writing in some areas.
The ending and a key character’s unbelievably fast change of heart left me feeling cheated in the end and too many characters killed off for this to be a “fun” read.
It wasn’t the fun ride I was hoping for, but I begrudgingly give it four stars because of the solid writing through much of the book except as noted.
If you are looking for fun, this isn’t it. It’s too heavy for that. But it is a good book.
April 3, 2024
Crawdon has done it again! A fantastic read.
I have enjoyed most of Crawdon's First Contact series. He writes of human and alien emotions, reactions, thoughts, feelings, and motives. Each book is very different, but all of them are thought provoking and deeply meaningful. His insight into the different characters is deep and often poignant. Such different views of things and all of them make sense and meaning from that point of view. Crawdon has a wonderful gift of writing stories that are both entertaining and thought provoking. I can't wait for the next one!
I have enjoyed most of Crawdon's First Contact series. He writes of human and alien emotions, reactions, thoughts, feelings, and motives. Each book is very different, but all of them are thought provoking and deeply meaningful. His insight into the different characters is deep and often poignant. Such different views of things and all of them make sense and meaning from that point of view. Crawdon has a wonderful gift of writing stories that are both entertaining and thought provoking. I can't wait for the next one!
June 18, 2024
Wow
I read for pleasure and escape. It’s not often that a book profoundly touches me and makes heart and brain ache. 100 pages in I almost quit, all darkness and despair, up close and personal with a triage team in the trenches during a war of attrition with an intractable alien enemy. Amidst it all, a Doctor tries to come to grips with chaos. A brilliant treatise on war and the human condition, stick with it until the end., it won’t disappoint. One of Peter’s best first contact novels. Simply wow.
I read for pleasure and escape. It’s not often that a book profoundly touches me and makes heart and brain ache. 100 pages in I almost quit, all darkness and despair, up close and personal with a triage team in the trenches during a war of attrition with an intractable alien enemy. Amidst it all, a Doctor tries to come to grips with chaos. A brilliant treatise on war and the human condition, stick with it until the end., it won’t disappoint. One of Peter’s best first contact novels. Simply wow.
March 24, 2024
I've read several of Peter Cawdron's First Contact novels over the last couple of years and I eagerly await each new release. Like his previous novel, The Artifact, The Anatomy of Courage takes place entirely on Earth and is more focused on human nature. The result is a gripping story that drew me in from the very beginning.
The plot revolves around a tight-knit group of soldiers in a medical team, struggling to survive and save lives in a futile, hellish war against extraterrestrials. The squalor, suffering, gore, and emotional trauma of war are presented in merciless detail, but not gratuitously. While the story is about humanity's struggle against a strange and misunderstood alien species, it is just as much about the conflict between humans who seek understanding and peace, versus those who focus on their own suffering as motivation toward blind vengeance and and hate.
The Anatomy of Courage is thought-provoking, poignant, and all too relevant to the present-day conflicts, power struggles, and ignorance that threaten the future of our species and our planet. From my personal perspective, bringing these matters to light is the hallmark of great science fiction.
The plot revolves around a tight-knit group of soldiers in a medical team, struggling to survive and save lives in a futile, hellish war against extraterrestrials. The squalor, suffering, gore, and emotional trauma of war are presented in merciless detail, but not gratuitously. While the story is about humanity's struggle against a strange and misunderstood alien species, it is just as much about the conflict between humans who seek understanding and peace, versus those who focus on their own suffering as motivation toward blind vengeance and and hate.
The Anatomy of Courage is thought-provoking, poignant, and all too relevant to the present-day conflicts, power struggles, and ignorance that threaten the future of our species and our planet. From my personal perspective, bringing these matters to light is the hallmark of great science fiction.
April 2, 2024
4.5 stars. I read this while recovering from an incredibly bad case of poison oak. I needed something diverting and enjoyable to read when waking up in the middle of the night due to itching. This book delivered! Easy to read, while also delivering solid characters that I cared about! This book took me on an enjoyable escape and left me immersed.
A great book to read while on vacation or if you just need a brief escape!
A great book to read while on vacation or if you just need a brief escape!
April 8, 2024
Another winner in the First Contact series
I would recommend this book to all people who enjoy first contact tales. This book puts you up close personal with an alien invasion and subsequent war. Loved all the characters and felt for them during battle. I also like happy endings which this book has. Peter Cameron is my favorite author. Try it you'll like it!
The aliens have some very interesting opinions about our space travel.
I would recommend this book to all people who enjoy first contact tales. This book puts you up close personal with an alien invasion and subsequent war. Loved all the characters and felt for them during battle. I also like happy endings which this book has. Peter Cameron is my favorite author. Try it you'll like it!
The aliens have some very interesting opinions about our space travel.
April 13, 2024
Touching and mind bending
I really enjoy the depth of character and the emotional interactions between the key characters in this novel. PC's books are mixing up traditional hard sci-fi (science based) with classic literature. Of all his books, this one touched me the most. The First Contact series is not only good entertainment, it's also provides philosophical food for thought.
I really enjoy the depth of character and the emotional interactions between the key characters in this novel. PC's books are mixing up traditional hard sci-fi (science based) with classic literature. Of all his books, this one touched me the most. The First Contact series is not only good entertainment, it's also provides philosophical food for thought.
June 9, 2024
Another amazing story
Peter does a great job of keeping me awake at night, either because I’m enthralled by the story and can’t put the book down, else I’ve read another passage that causes me to stop and really think deeply for a minute (or 20!). It’s a good mix of action, and philosophy to punctuate and deepen the story, without either overwhelming the other. Great book, I recommend it!
Peter does a great job of keeping me awake at night, either because I’m enthralled by the story and can’t put the book down, else I’ve read another passage that causes me to stop and really think deeply for a minute (or 20!). It’s a good mix of action, and philosophy to punctuate and deepen the story, without either overwhelming the other. Great book, I recommend it!
August 10, 2024
Heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure
When I’m reading a series, I tend to comment on the first or last book. After all, who reads the comments for book n of n in a series? That I’m leaving one for this, is partly due to the fact that these can be read in any order, but mainly because this book deserves a comment of its own.
The description of life and its relative value in trench warfare are heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure. It’s a rare book that evokes contemplation beyond its pages, this one does so in spades.
Highly recommended..
When I’m reading a series, I tend to comment on the first or last book. After all, who reads the comments for book n of n in a series? That I’m leaving one for this, is partly due to the fact that these can be read in any order, but mainly because this book deserves a comment of its own.
The description of life and its relative value in trench warfare are heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure. It’s a rare book that evokes contemplation beyond its pages, this one does so in spades.
Highly recommended..
August 23, 2024
Outstanding
As usual, Peter Cawdron presents truthful themes in an unusual story crafted with easily relatable scenarios. His penetrating fundamental questions…make the reader think beyond the obvious, not only on a personal level but also on a macro one. These coalesce in multi dimensions of history, faith, psychology. While offering lessons in hindsight, The Anatomy of Courage provides survival pathways towards hope.
As usual, Peter Cawdron presents truthful themes in an unusual story crafted with easily relatable scenarios. His penetrating fundamental questions…make the reader think beyond the obvious, not only on a personal level but also on a macro one. These coalesce in multi dimensions of history, faith, psychology. While offering lessons in hindsight, The Anatomy of Courage provides survival pathways towards hope.
December 7, 2024
Amazing Read
An amazing read that is a fascinating exploration of man, motives, war, and peace. Beginning with the question of what is courage within the boundaries of a war with alien invaders. Doc, our main character, works to understand or put reason to the continuing devastation of the war. But does any reason have true meaning? What does it take to end a war. Vivid images, well written, and just a great read.
An amazing read that is a fascinating exploration of man, motives, war, and peace. Beginning with the question of what is courage within the boundaries of a war with alien invaders. Doc, our main character, works to understand or put reason to the continuing devastation of the war. But does any reason have true meaning? What does it take to end a war. Vivid images, well written, and just a great read.
March 23, 2024
humanity at its best and at its worst
What a fantastic book. Well written, well researched and offering up much more than it actually gives.
A deep look into emotion, honesty, loyalty and friendship. Hate, disgust, mistrust and loathing are used as a backdrop from which to build hope, openness and honesty.
A fantastic book, well worth the read. Thank you Peter!
What a fantastic book. Well written, well researched and offering up much more than it actually gives.
A deep look into emotion, honesty, loyalty and friendship. Hate, disgust, mistrust and loathing are used as a backdrop from which to build hope, openness and honesty.
A fantastic book, well worth the read. Thank you Peter!
April 4, 2024
“Anatomy of Courage” doubles as a warning from Peter Cawdron that the clouds of war are gathering, and as a reminder of just how horrible and futile war is. Can one doctor bridge the fear, mistrust and grievance that is the inevitable consequence of war?
Cawdron does his best to show the horror and disgrace of war.
Cawdron does his best to show the horror and disgrace of war.
May 13, 2024
Excellent Addition!
In 'Courage', Cawdron has illustrated the beginning and end of a war. He has done so in a realistic fashion rigidly adhering to the rules he set up with fantastic realism.
The story unfolds with both characters and situations that are true to each other.
Good stuff!
In 'Courage', Cawdron has illustrated the beginning and end of a war. He has done so in a realistic fashion rigidly adhering to the rules he set up with fantastic realism.
The story unfolds with both characters and situations that are true to each other.
Good stuff!
July 24, 2024
Excellent book
This is now the 4th of Peter Cawdron's books that I have, but the first one where I've written a review. All of them have been very entertaining, but also they have been very thought provoking. This one is another fascinating tale, very well told. I shall continue to work my way through his other offerings and I will take the time to post reviews for them all.
This is now the 4th of Peter Cawdron's books that I have, but the first one where I've written a review. All of them have been very entertaining, but also they have been very thought provoking. This one is another fascinating tale, very well told. I shall continue to work my way through his other offerings and I will take the time to post reviews for them all.
November 9, 2024
An Excellent Read
All wars are hell. For Doc, this one with alien visitors was more than hell. But, even hell has an end. This book will give you much to think about and the author has given his readers an experience beyond words. Seeking peace is the most courageous journey.
All wars are hell. For Doc, this one with alien visitors was more than hell. But, even hell has an end. This book will give you much to think about and the author has given his readers an experience beyond words. Seeking peace is the most courageous journey.
December 29, 2024
War an empty endless death
This was a good book. About humans at war with Aliens. However. It would never have happened if human would just had talked to them. No, instead many lives are lost on both sides. Good read didn't think I would like this book. The author made a lot of good points about war and our planet we are destroying.
This was a good book. About humans at war with Aliens. However. It would never have happened if human would just had talked to them. No, instead many lives are lost on both sides. Good read didn't think I would like this book. The author made a lot of good points about war and our planet we are destroying.
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