by Adam Makos
First published 2022
Lieutenant Tom Hudner comes from privilege in New England. Ensign Jesse Brown grew up poor in Mississippi, the son of a sharecropper. In 1950, both men fly for Fighter Squadron 32 during the Korean War. Despite their different backgrounds and the racial tensions of the era, they become close friends. Their bond deepens through combat missions over Korea. When US Marines get trapped at Chosin Reservoir, Tom and Jesse fly to their rescue. Enemy fire brings down one of the pilots behind enemy lines, leaving him trapped in his burning aircraft. The other pilot faces an impossible decision: watch his friend die or attempt a desperate rescue mission alone. Their friendship will be tested in ways neither man could have imagined. This is a story about loyalty, sacrifice, and the bonds forged in war.
Genres: historical-fiction, military-fiction, adventure, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Chosin Reservoir, Korea, Mississippi, New England
Period: 1950, Korean War
368 pages · Library Binding · Delacorte Press