It’s not every day you read a short story with such tragedy that it pulls at your heartstrings. That’s what happened to me when I picked up “The Resonance of War” by Kim Appelgryn. Here’s my review.
This story is only a few chapters long but I was thrust into Herbert’s life and that of his family from page one. Herbert is a family man with a loving wife and a baby on the way. He has a childhood friend named Philip who’s in a similar situation of his own. One day, their lives change when their called to war in 1943 at the height of World War II. Philip is starkly different from his friend and relishes the thought of adventure and action overseas. Herbert simply wants to survive for his family.
The author does a great job at pitting these two next to each other. From friends, to rivals, to downright enemies. While I am merely a stranger to war, I felt as though I was a part of multiple ones: the physical war taking place, and the internal wars with both of these characters. Philip, while having much to lose, seemed to strive for glory even though he wasn’t afforded it. Herbert tended to focus on those he loved back home while trying to support his friend. In some instances, you could see the madness Philip was slipping into after seeing his comrades killed. The madness resembled something similar to bipolarism, depression, and PTSD all rolled into one. Herbert also battled his own demons, but they didn’t rise to the surface until after Herbert lost his friend in battle.
Returning home, Herbert attempted to settle into his new life with his new daughter while trying to keep in touch with Philip’s wife and newborn son. The guilt and shame he felt was palpable on every page. The anger and pain were heart wrenching. The plot picks up when Herbert starts receiving mysterious messages to his place of work and home. And from there…well, you’ll just have to read the rest.
I can say that I loved the contrasting characters. There was always a sense of foreboding as I kept reading. The author captured the emotional turmoil of war, of providing for one’s family, and for trying to hold on to things that are better left alone. The story ended the only way I thought it should and the last lines made it worth every penny.
If you’re looking for a short read with a lot of punch, this would be a good one to look into. As always, don’t forget to support the author by leaving a review! Happy reading!
Author Lauren Eason 