If you’re part of a military family, you know it’s no walk in the park. Between deployments, PCS moves, and just the day-to-day uncertainty, it’s a lifestyle that demands resilience and flexibility. For those looking to see their lives reflected in the pages they read, or seeking advice on how to navigate this unique path, here’s a list of books that get down to the nitty-gritty of military life
10 Books for Those in the Thick of Military Life
1. Her Rebel Heart by Jamie Farrell
In “Her Rebel Heart,” readers are treated to the story of a woman who falls for a soldier despite her best intentions to avoid military men. The novel explores the challenges and charms of military spouse life, with a backdrop of humor and romance that captures the strength and determination required to love a service member. Farrell’s storytelling weaves the complexities of heartache, joy, and resilience into a narrative that’s both entertaining and reflective of the military family experience.
2. The Longest Night by Andria Williams
A compelling novel set against the Cold War’s quiet tensions, “The Longest Night” delves into the strains and strengths of a military marriage. Williams crafts a story of love, betrayal, and the daunting pressure of living under the scrutiny of military expectations, capturing a poignant slice of American history through the lens of a nuclear operator’s family.
3. Right Side Up by Judy Davis
Right Side Up tackles the unpredictable nature of military life head-on, offering actionable advice and strategies to navigate the upheavals and challenges with a positive mindset. Davis shares insights on how to adapt and thrive, making it a go-to resource for anyone looking to find stability amidst the chaos.
4. No Man’s War: Irreverent Confessions of an Infantry Wife by Angela Ricketts
With wit and candor, Angela Ricketts shares her journey through the often unseen world of military spouses. No Man’s War, pulls back the curtain on the camaraderie, challenges, and unique culture of military families, told through the lens of an infantry wife’s irreverent perspective.
5. The 5 Love Languages – Military Edition by Gary Chapman and Jocelyn Green
Tailored for military couples, this edition of the popular relationship guide addresses the unique challenges of expressing love across distances and through the stress of deployments, offering practical advice for strengthening bonds even when separated.
6. Sacred Spaces:Corie Weathers
A deeply personal memoir by an Army chaplain’s wife, “Sacred Spaces” shares Weathers’ journey to understanding her husband’s deployment experiences and the profound impact on their marriage. It’s an intimate exploration of the challenges and growth faced by military spouses.
7. Stories Around the Table: Laughter, Wisdom, and Strength in Military Life edited by Terri Barnes
This collection brings together personal essays from across the military community, offering a rich mosaic of experiences that highlight the laughter, wisdom, and resilience of military life. It’s a testament to the diverse and deeply connected world of those who serve and support.
8. Confessions of a Military Wife by Mollie Gross
Mollie Gross approaches the realities of military spouse life with humor and grit, sharing stories that range from the hilarious to the heartfelt. It’s a candid look at the ups and downs of navigating military culture from a spouse’s perspective.
9. Married to the Military: A Survival Guide for Military Wives, Girlfriends, and Women in Uniform by Meredith Leyva
Meredith Leyva offers a comprehensive guide for navigating the intricacies of military life, from moving to managing alone time during deployments. This book serves as both a primer for the newly initiated and a steady hand for those well-versed in military life’s rhythms.
10. A Year of Absence by Jessica Redmond
This poignant narrative follows six military wives during their husbands’ deployment to Iraq, offering an intimate glimpse into the friendships, challenges, and emotional landscapes that define the homefront experience during times of separation.
These books provide a glimpse into the diverse experiences of those connected to the military, from the heartwarming to the harrowing. Whether you’re looking for advice, empathy, or just a story that mirrors your own, these reads offer a window into the world of military life.
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Army Wife 101
Krystel is the mom of two and an Army Wife. In addition to Army Wife 101 she is the Co-Founder of SoFluential.com a digital media agency that connects brands with the military market. She has appeared on MSNBC ,FOX LA and formerly was a weekly contributor to HLN's "Raising America". She has written for various outlets including Sheknows and Lifetime and is a big fan of cupcakes and french fries.
Krystel is the mom of two and an Army Wife. In addition to Army Wife 101 she is the Co-Founder of SoFluential.com a digital media agency that connects brands with the military market.
She has appeared on MSNBC ,FOX LA and formerly was a weekly contributor to HLN's "Raising America". She has written for various outlets including Sheknows and Lifetime and is a big fan of cupcakes and french fries.