Absolutely fabulous! ( )

Enemy snipers!

Just what has Gunnery Sergeant Earl Swagger become involved in?
World War II, and it looks like German snipers are targeting forces on the front. Not just any soldier but those in command.
Swagger is sent to track the snipers down. On his side he has to cope with Realpolitik within the command situation. Realpolitik is something like seeing into the future, beyond the tactical, beyond strategy. Taking the long game! Then there’s the possibility of an enemy spy amongst the personnel, someone else is attempting to pull rank for their own benefit, and oh my gosh, a myriad of other situations.
I admit to my eyes glazing over as various rifle and scopes were discussed in detail but the action was well worth me skipping quickly through those descriptions to the more meaty aspects of the chase, of moves and counter moves and the growing certainty of what is uncovered and dealt with.
The spy was a surprise and yet not. The presentation of the entitled British class was amusing and certainly had its benefits.
Thoroughly enjoyable!

An Atria ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher. ( )

Stephen Hunter is back in rare form with his latest blockbuster novel starring Earl Swagger! I have read all of his "Swagger" books, and this one ranks right up at the very top. An intelligent, multi-layered, and well researched book, this one is a step above his (always good) efforts. You have to buckle yourself up, as it's a fast moving, exciting romp through the European war theater in World War 2. Swagger's almost other worldly skills in the sniper arena are put to good use, and his knowledge of the art is unprecedented. Much more than just a "sniper" novel, it touches on subjects that I have not seen Hunter address before.
This is a fantastic book! I literally could not put it down.
Bravo, Mr. Hunter, bravo! ( )