I received a free copy of this book to read and give an honest review.

Hospitals are known for saving lives but wars destroy them. Pam Webber masterfully portrays both the environment of a teaching hospital as well as the challenges of an army squad trying to survive in an atmosphere surrounded by death. The author's extensive research into the Viet Nam War is evident just as her background in the medical field gives authenticity to hospital protocols and the experiences of nurse interns. The horrors of war are counter-balanced by the skills and compassion of nurses.

Nettie and Andy are devastated when they are separated as they are planning their wedding. Andy is deployed to Viet Nam while Nettie is left behind to continue as a nursing intern in Northern Virginia. In their letters to one another they share their love but not the true details of their difficult lives including being bullied by superiors. They both deal with their bullies in their own kind and true to themselves manner.

All people must make difficult choices and then live them no matter the consequences. Nettie and Andy are no exception.

I strongly recommend that you read this book.

Nettie and Andy have a history between them that goes back to their childhood. They are now engaged to be married and Andy, a lieutenant in the Army is about to be sent to Viet Nam. Nettie is continuing her nursing studies and decides to volunteer with a group that is trying to get the government to put more effort into finding the MIAâ??s, POWâ??s and KIAâ??s. The story takes place over about a year with each chapter being told alternately between Nettie and Andy.
It is beautiful written, heartbreaking and full of hope. The reader will laugh and cry. I donâ??t usually enjoy a book that is written in this manner, but the author does this flawlessly.
My bookclub is reading this for December and I appreciate the fact the author included questions in the back of the book.