Home Front by Kristin Hannah

5/5 Stars

It has been a long time since I have cried this much reading a novel. I read an advanced copy of The Women by Kristin Hannah last year which turned me into a puddle of tears. And now this book, Home Front, which tackles my generation’s war, brought me to tears again. Kristin Hannah writes eloquently, respectfully, and emotionally. I absolutely loved this book even though it broke my heart at times.

Home Front begins by giving us a look into the life of Jolene Zarkades, an orphan with a difficult upbringing. Though it may not initially be clear why this is relevant to the story, it turns out to be a particularly important detail as it shaped her future attitudes, decision, and life. We read the sweet story of how she met her husband, Michael, and their initially strong and loving marriage and two beautiful daughters. We learn of their struggles, their careers (Michale a lawyer, Jolene a Black Hawk Pilot for the Army National Guard), their conflicting opinions on war and the military which drives a wedge between them. When Jolene is deployed, their lives are turned upside down. And what happens while she is deployed is unimaginable. And then there is her homecoming, and it is not an easy one.

Hannah seamlessly weaves together the lives of the Zarkades family and Jolene’s best friend, Tami, and her family. Tami is also a Black Hawk pilot and Jolene’s next-door neighbor, and the two strong and courageous women deploy together. And so, begins an extremely emotional ride.

This book spans the breadth of emotions. I felt so much while reading this novel. Home Front brought many of the emotions I felt post-9/11 back to the surface. But Hannah tells this story with grace and dignity and respect for the warrior. She does not shy away from difficult topics (i.e., PTSD), but rather explores them with compassion and empathy, and I am so glad to have read it.

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