Every Shape, Every Shadow: A Novel of Guadalcanal

Every Shape, Every Shadow is a very well written historical fiction. I enjoyed the entire book and it was hard to put down. The characters were very real and likable. The story of Guadalcanal is such an epic battle. Roger Conlee did a wonderful job describing the struggles the Marines had fighting this battle. I mostly recommend this very good novel.

In his debut novel, Roger Conlee does a masterful job of writing a meaningful story of infantry combat, set against the backdrop of the Guadalcanal invasion of World War II. Conlee develops his primary characters, from Able Company, Fifth Marines, as they carry out and live through (some of them, anyway) the Guadalcanal campaign. Interspersed with the storyline relating to his characters, Conlee inserts the main leadership figures of the action, including General Vandergrift and Japanese general Kamaguchi. The effect is to provide a very real, very readable story about all aspects fo the battle. Highly recommended for any World War II buff.

This may be the best historic novel of ground combat in the Pacific in recent memory. Nothing comes close to the tension, realism, historic accuracy and drama portrayed in the pages of this book. Should be a must read for every veteran, especially current and ex-Marines. Highly recommend for those who want to know what it felt like to be in Guadalcanal those many years ago. This is a historic Tom Clancy novel with a very human touch. Great read.

Conlee's 'Every Shape, Every Shadow' is a true WWII page turner, a darn-good read. I really felt as if I were in the jungles of Guadalcanal growing in experience and self-confidence. This novel belongs on everyone's bookshelf.