What do you think?
Rate this book
More Than a Soldier: One Army Ranger's Daring Escape From the Nazis
Feeling a patriotic duty to defend his country after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, seventeen year old, Angelo J. DiMarco, enlists in the U.S. Army. Severely short of frontline fighters, the Army rushes Angelo through Ranger training and sends him to Italy as part of the 1st Ranger Battalion. Their stop the German invasion.
Fighting on the front lines in Italy, the German’s teach Angelo a sobering lesson on life when they capture him during the bloody battle of Cisterna. The poor living conditions and ill-treatment in the German prison camps quickly convince Angelo he has to find a way out. Against insurmountable odds, Angelo miraculously escapes in a way that stretches the imagination. He survives behind enemy lines for over five months, hiding from the Germans and trying to outmaneuver them. He begs for food, sleeps in barns and suffers from many ailments, including dehydration, malnutrition, malaria and exposure to the elements.
More Than a Soldier is Angelo DiMarco’s powerful story of survival, resilience and courage.
Fighting on the front lines in Italy, the German’s teach Angelo a sobering lesson on life when they capture him during the bloody battle of Cisterna. The poor living conditions and ill-treatment in the German prison camps quickly convince Angelo he has to find a way out. Against insurmountable odds, Angelo miraculously escapes in a way that stretches the imagination. He survives behind enemy lines for over five months, hiding from the Germans and trying to outmaneuver them. He begs for food, sleeps in barns and suffers from many ailments, including dehydration, malnutrition, malaria and exposure to the elements.
More Than a Soldier is Angelo DiMarco’s powerful story of survival, resilience and courage.
- GenresWar
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2017
16 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
D.M. Annechino
7 books24 followersIt wasn't until I hit my 40's that I discovered my God-given talent for the written word. I'm not totally clear on how the first book came about. I wrote it in 1992. I think it was on a dare. I had been working as a General Manager in the retail automotive business, and a colleague suggested that someone should write an intelligent guide on how to buy a car and beat the dealer at his own game. It was a challenge that beckoned me, and for some reason the whole idea excited me. With pen in hand--I didn't own an early computer or word processor back then--I wrote the entire book longhand. I tackled this undertaking without an outline or even the most remote idea how this book would unfold. My approach was totally unorganized and unconventional. I just started writing, and the chapters poured out of my head. I could barely keep pace with my thoughts and ideas. For fear a fresh idea would fade to oblivion, I often had to stop writing long enough to scribble notes about a new idea that popped into my head.
To date, Amazon Publishing has published three of my novels: They Never Die Quietly, Resuscitation, and I Do Solemnly Swear. The three books combined have sold 150,000 copies worldwide. I'm not yet hanging up there with the big guns--not even close--but for a skinny kid who nearly flunked English in high school, I think I've done pretty well.
Hypocrisy, my fourth novel was released March of 2014, and A Piece of You, novel number five, should be released later this year. The moral of the story? If you have a passion for writing, don't let rejection hold you back or discourage you. Persevere and remember that rejection is a prerequisite to success. Keep those fingers poised above the keyboard and write, write, write.
To date, Amazon Publishing has published three of my novels: They Never Die Quietly, Resuscitation, and I Do Solemnly Swear. The three books combined have sold 150,000 copies worldwide. I'm not yet hanging up there with the big guns--not even close--but for a skinny kid who nearly flunked English in high school, I think I've done pretty well.
Hypocrisy, my fourth novel was released March of 2014, and A Piece of You, novel number five, should be released later this year. The moral of the story? If you have a passion for writing, don't let rejection hold you back or discourage you. Persevere and remember that rejection is a prerequisite to success. Keep those fingers poised above the keyboard and write, write, write.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 14, 2017
From the minute I read the book description, I knew I wanted to read this book. Based on the true account of the author's uncle, this is the incredible story of eighteen year-old Angelo J. DiMarco, an American soldier who fought during WWII in Italy, and survived the bloody battles, malaria, capture by the Germans, starvation, and an incredible escape behind enemy lines.
I read the whole book in one day. It's been years since I've done that. With its short chapters I couldn't help reading just one more chapter, and before long I was in tears as I turned the last page. Although the book takes place during one of the most horrible times in history, author D.M. Annechino focused on Angelo's story and wrote the book in the first person POV. We, therefore, see the war through young Angelo's eyes, beginning with his naive optimism of quickly defeating the Germans to the sober reality of the ravages of war that began soon after his first kill.
Through the army training, the camaraderie, the battles on the field and in the foxholes, and the humorous banter and ribbing between the soldiers, the author brought alive Angelo's world as he would have seen and experienced it. Through all that he went through, and the losses he suffered, Angelo showed strength of character, determination and above all, courage. He probably would not have survived if not for his brave and dangerous attempt to escape.
Most of the story takes place in Italy, from the Southern side all the way to Rome and then Florence. It was the first time I had seen Rome, a city I have visited several times and where most of my maternal aunts, uncles and cousins live, through the lens of war. It reminded me of stories my late grandmother used to tell me of the years when they survived the German invasion in Rome. She had eight children. Angelo's story prompted me to do research online and learn more about WWII in Italy.
Angelo was American and his family is of Sicilian origin. Having grown up myself as the daughter of Italian immigrant parents in a neighborhood full of kids whose parents were also Italian immigrants, several of whom were Sicilian, I could relate. Angelo joined the war so he could make his father, who is a hard unfeeling man, proud. My paternal grandfather was such a man. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes between Angelo and the Italians he met and who generously helped him when he was a fugitive. As a parent with a teen son, my heart ached for Angelo and all those young men who fought and suffered and died alone on the battlefield.
It was only once he was in his eighties, lying in a hospital bed that Angelo finally decided to tell his son Steve about the wartime experiences he had kept secret all his life. And Annechino's storytelling talent brought them to life for us to read.
More Than a Soldier is a moving, coming-of-age story that will remain with you long after the last page is turned. It is inspiring, unforgettable and perfect for readers who enjoy WWII stories. It is one of the best books I've read in 2017.
I read the whole book in one day. It's been years since I've done that. With its short chapters I couldn't help reading just one more chapter, and before long I was in tears as I turned the last page. Although the book takes place during one of the most horrible times in history, author D.M. Annechino focused on Angelo's story and wrote the book in the first person POV. We, therefore, see the war through young Angelo's eyes, beginning with his naive optimism of quickly defeating the Germans to the sober reality of the ravages of war that began soon after his first kill.
Through the army training, the camaraderie, the battles on the field and in the foxholes, and the humorous banter and ribbing between the soldiers, the author brought alive Angelo's world as he would have seen and experienced it. Through all that he went through, and the losses he suffered, Angelo showed strength of character, determination and above all, courage. He probably would not have survived if not for his brave and dangerous attempt to escape.
Most of the story takes place in Italy, from the Southern side all the way to Rome and then Florence. It was the first time I had seen Rome, a city I have visited several times and where most of my maternal aunts, uncles and cousins live, through the lens of war. It reminded me of stories my late grandmother used to tell me of the years when they survived the German invasion in Rome. She had eight children. Angelo's story prompted me to do research online and learn more about WWII in Italy.
Angelo was American and his family is of Sicilian origin. Having grown up myself as the daughter of Italian immigrant parents in a neighborhood full of kids whose parents were also Italian immigrants, several of whom were Sicilian, I could relate. Angelo joined the war so he could make his father, who is a hard unfeeling man, proud. My paternal grandfather was such a man. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes between Angelo and the Italians he met and who generously helped him when he was a fugitive. As a parent with a teen son, my heart ached for Angelo and all those young men who fought and suffered and died alone on the battlefield.
It was only once he was in his eighties, lying in a hospital bed that Angelo finally decided to tell his son Steve about the wartime experiences he had kept secret all his life. And Annechino's storytelling talent brought them to life for us to read.
More Than a Soldier is a moving, coming-of-age story that will remain with you long after the last page is turned. It is inspiring, unforgettable and perfect for readers who enjoy WWII stories. It is one of the best books I've read in 2017.
June 7, 2017
As is often the case with war heroes, Angelo DiMarco kept his story to himself until close to the end of his life when he finally revealed it to his son. The author, D. M. Annechino, has taken the facts of Angelo’s remarkable wartime experiences and crafted them into a compelling book, with Angelo as our engaging and credible narrator.
Posted to Sicily following his ranger training, Angelo experiences both the boredom and hardships of army camp life and the chaos and confusion of battle. The book depicts in vivid detail the true nature of frontline battle where fear is an ever present additional enemy.
‘The kind of fear that reaches inside your chest and squeezes your heart. The kind that lines the inside of your lungs with concrete so you can barely draw a breath. It steals every drop of saliva from your mouth so your throat is dry and on fire.’
Angelo knows it’s a case of kill or be killed but even knowing that, the enormity of the act weighs heavy on him as, for the first time, he lines up a shot on another human being – not a practice target – and places his finger on the trigger.
‘Any soldier who has yet to kill a man in combat tries to imagine what it will be like when the moment arises. There are no words to accurately explain how it feels to know than in a millisecond you will end a life; make his wife a widow; make his children fatherless; paralyze his family.’
The book does not seek to hide the horror of war or the conflicting emotions that arise following the death of comrades.
‘I felt great anger welling up inside me. Hatred actually. I wanted to kill every German soldier in the world. I wanted to even the score. I didn’t recognize the man thinking these dark thoughts and could only conclude that the war had finally transformed me from someone I once was to someone I might never recognize again….War is much more than a word that defines a conflict between nations. It’s a living, breathing predator, and its only goal is to devour your mind, body, and spirit.’
Nor does it pull any punches when it comes to describing the callous treatment of Angelo and his comrades at the hands of the Germans. Providing a counterpoint to this is the sense of comradeship amongst the soldiers; they truly do become a ‘band of brothers’.
‘Fighting side by side and struggling to survive every minute of every day seals an unbreakable bond between men. One of the only benefits of war.’
This close bond makes it even more traumatic when comrades are killed or suffer life-changing injuries and we see the effect on Angelo of the death of close comrades. And, on many occasions during his adventures, he himself is in imminent risk of death. However, along the way there are also lucky escapes, near misses and chance encounters with friendly locals. At times, the story read like a movie script and I had to remind myself that it was a true story. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the book got snapped up by a film studio. (They’d probably add a romantic Hollywood ending – you’ll no doubt guess what I’m thinking about when you read it.)
This is an inspiring story of heroism, comradeship and resilience in the face of the horrors of war.
I received a review copy courtesy of Italy Book Tours and the author in return for an honest review.
Posted to Sicily following his ranger training, Angelo experiences both the boredom and hardships of army camp life and the chaos and confusion of battle. The book depicts in vivid detail the true nature of frontline battle where fear is an ever present additional enemy.
‘The kind of fear that reaches inside your chest and squeezes your heart. The kind that lines the inside of your lungs with concrete so you can barely draw a breath. It steals every drop of saliva from your mouth so your throat is dry and on fire.’
Angelo knows it’s a case of kill or be killed but even knowing that, the enormity of the act weighs heavy on him as, for the first time, he lines up a shot on another human being – not a practice target – and places his finger on the trigger.
‘Any soldier who has yet to kill a man in combat tries to imagine what it will be like when the moment arises. There are no words to accurately explain how it feels to know than in a millisecond you will end a life; make his wife a widow; make his children fatherless; paralyze his family.’
The book does not seek to hide the horror of war or the conflicting emotions that arise following the death of comrades.
‘I felt great anger welling up inside me. Hatred actually. I wanted to kill every German soldier in the world. I wanted to even the score. I didn’t recognize the man thinking these dark thoughts and could only conclude that the war had finally transformed me from someone I once was to someone I might never recognize again….War is much more than a word that defines a conflict between nations. It’s a living, breathing predator, and its only goal is to devour your mind, body, and spirit.’
Nor does it pull any punches when it comes to describing the callous treatment of Angelo and his comrades at the hands of the Germans. Providing a counterpoint to this is the sense of comradeship amongst the soldiers; they truly do become a ‘band of brothers’.
‘Fighting side by side and struggling to survive every minute of every day seals an unbreakable bond between men. One of the only benefits of war.’
This close bond makes it even more traumatic when comrades are killed or suffer life-changing injuries and we see the effect on Angelo of the death of close comrades. And, on many occasions during his adventures, he himself is in imminent risk of death. However, along the way there are also lucky escapes, near misses and chance encounters with friendly locals. At times, the story read like a movie script and I had to remind myself that it was a true story. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the book got snapped up by a film studio. (They’d probably add a romantic Hollywood ending – you’ll no doubt guess what I’m thinking about when you read it.)
This is an inspiring story of heroism, comradeship and resilience in the face of the horrors of war.
I received a review copy courtesy of Italy Book Tours and the author in return for an honest review.
June 12, 2017
More Than a Soldier: One Army Ranger’s Daring Escape From the Nazis by D.M. Annechino is a biography of Angelo J. DiMarco, a US Army Ranger during World War II. This is a personal book, one written by the family to capture the history of their father for future generations.
I love books like More Than a Soldier: One Army Ranger’s Daring Escape From the Nazis by D.M. Annechino, they are fascinating and personal, along with a good chunk of history thrown in.
The story takes place during World War II, but the war is just a backdrop to this admirable, and well written, story. The reader learns about Mr. DiMarco’s family, his reasons for signing up, his training, first kill, capture and ultimate survival evading the Nazis.
I would have liked to read more about what happened to the people who helped Mr. DiMarco during his ordeal, especially the Italian family he stayed with. But this is just me as a reader, not a family member reading about their beloved, understanding where he came from and where they are going – after all, the value and importance of family comes up in this book often.
The story is told in a first person narrative, is fast and an easy read. Reading of the tragedy at Cisterna from a firsthand source added to the sad outcome of the battle, and brought the war to the front and center of the book.
I finished this book in two days. It is an amazing and personal journey that gets better as it moves along. Mr. Annechino draws the people so those of us, who have no personal connection, feel like we know them.
I have to commend Mr. DiMarco’s son, Steven, for being proactive and getting his father to tell his story. I’m positive that this effort will pay dividends in years to come and would become a treasured family history.
For more reviews and bookish posts please visit: http://www.ManOfLaBook.com
I love books like More Than a Soldier: One Army Ranger’s Daring Escape From the Nazis by D.M. Annechino, they are fascinating and personal, along with a good chunk of history thrown in.
The story takes place during World War II, but the war is just a backdrop to this admirable, and well written, story. The reader learns about Mr. DiMarco’s family, his reasons for signing up, his training, first kill, capture and ultimate survival evading the Nazis.
I would have liked to read more about what happened to the people who helped Mr. DiMarco during his ordeal, especially the Italian family he stayed with. But this is just me as a reader, not a family member reading about their beloved, understanding where he came from and where they are going – after all, the value and importance of family comes up in this book often.
The story is told in a first person narrative, is fast and an easy read. Reading of the tragedy at Cisterna from a firsthand source added to the sad outcome of the battle, and brought the war to the front and center of the book.
I finished this book in two days. It is an amazing and personal journey that gets better as it moves along. Mr. Annechino draws the people so those of us, who have no personal connection, feel like we know them.
I have to commend Mr. DiMarco’s son, Steven, for being proactive and getting his father to tell his story. I’m positive that this effort will pay dividends in years to come and would become a treasured family history.
For more reviews and bookish posts please visit: http://www.ManOfLaBook.com
June 13, 2017
More than a Soldier is a really good book about a soldier and his journey to survive. We meet Angelo first in a train car, with a few of his buddies and comrades. The story then goes back to when he signs up and what his family life is like. Will he make back to his battalion?
We get to follow Angelo and struggles through the military. We see how the Germans treat their prisoners and how rough life was behind enemy lines. The Germans are taking their prisoner through some extreme things.
The author did a wonderfully great job. With this being more of a Nonfiction book, It really told the story on each and every page. It was well written. Does the 1st Battalion survive or is Angelo the only survivor? You will want to read the book. You do get a somewhat of a tour of Italy.
We get to follow Angelo and struggles through the military. We see how the Germans treat their prisoners and how rough life was behind enemy lines. The Germans are taking their prisoner through some extreme things.
The author did a wonderfully great job. With this being more of a Nonfiction book, It really told the story on each and every page. It was well written. Does the 1st Battalion survive or is Angelo the only survivor? You will want to read the book. You do get a somewhat of a tour of Italy.
May 30, 2017
Angelo DiMarco was a US Army Ranger who survived the decimation of the Ranger First Battalion, who endured psychological torture, and as a POW made a harrowing escape from certain death in a labor camp. His story is a testament of survival, quiet patriotism and a memorial to lost comrades, and a story told with sincere humility and gratitude. At Cisterna di Latina, he engaged an overwhelming enemy. The explicit German victory shattered the Ranger First Battalion and forced the US Army to reassess its strategy in the early days of World War 2. The Nazis so destroyed the city that it took until the 1970s for Italy to rebuild it.
Angelo’s stoicism is both what is admirable and tragic about More Than A A Soldier. Most men of his generation did not talk about war. His story emerges after decades of silence, after his death in 2010. Most men of that era did not admit to wanting to kill for their country. Angelo wanted to kill. He sought out combat. He recounts his first kill. Men of The Greatest Generation did not express their emotions. My grandfather’s emotional rapport, for example, was limited to a handshake. These men did their service, came home, put their papers, medals (and memories) into a literal and metaphorical box, and then went out to get an education under the GI Bill, or a job somewhere because that is what men do. The inherent tragedy is that what we now call PTSD went untreated. I have no doubt that Angelo suffered from it.
War is the backdrop in this well-written and respectful narrative. The ‘real story’ is Angelo’s relationship with his family and with the family in Italy who harbored him at great personal risk. Angelo’s Italian father is himself a man of a different time and place: patriarchal and impossible to please. It’s moving and painful to read how Angelo begged for one crumb of acknowledgement from his dad, and just as visceral as Angelo’s account of how he had felt inadequate around his family in Italy. He wanted to pull his own weight, earn his keep, and felt embarrassed that he was vulnerable. Like most men of that generation, he made a promise to his family abroad and Angelo kept his word. His gratitude, his humility are virtues, and that I did not once feel preached at, or reminded of Angelo’s extraordinary heroism is a high compliment to D.M. Annechino’s understated and laudable style.
Angelo’s stoicism is both what is admirable and tragic about More Than A A Soldier. Most men of his generation did not talk about war. His story emerges after decades of silence, after his death in 2010. Most men of that era did not admit to wanting to kill for their country. Angelo wanted to kill. He sought out combat. He recounts his first kill. Men of The Greatest Generation did not express their emotions. My grandfather’s emotional rapport, for example, was limited to a handshake. These men did their service, came home, put their papers, medals (and memories) into a literal and metaphorical box, and then went out to get an education under the GI Bill, or a job somewhere because that is what men do. The inherent tragedy is that what we now call PTSD went untreated. I have no doubt that Angelo suffered from it.
War is the backdrop in this well-written and respectful narrative. The ‘real story’ is Angelo’s relationship with his family and with the family in Italy who harbored him at great personal risk. Angelo’s Italian father is himself a man of a different time and place: patriarchal and impossible to please. It’s moving and painful to read how Angelo begged for one crumb of acknowledgement from his dad, and just as visceral as Angelo’s account of how he had felt inadequate around his family in Italy. He wanted to pull his own weight, earn his keep, and felt embarrassed that he was vulnerable. Like most men of that generation, he made a promise to his family abroad and Angelo kept his word. His gratitude, his humility are virtues, and that I did not once feel preached at, or reminded of Angelo’s extraordinary heroism is a high compliment to D.M. Annechino’s understated and laudable style.
June 9, 2017
I don't even know where to begin this review other than to say bravo to author D. M Annechino. He is someone I've had the pleasure of reviewing several times, but for books in quite a different genre.
They Never Die Quietly, Resuscitation & A Piece of You are mystery/thriller/suspense works of fiction with an edge - they feature disturbing serial killers.
I believe More Than A Soldier is his first true life story - a military biography/memoir. It is his uncle's memoir of his time as a soldier. I cannot find where I read this, but I believe his uncle refused to talk about these experiences until his final days. It was only then he chose to share his memories of his time as a soldier with his son. His son then asked his cousin (D.M. Annechino) to turn the many notes he took into a book. It was a wise choice as Annechino nailed it. In fact I think this is hands down this author's best work yet.
Angelo J. DeMarco's story begins when the young patriot answered his country's call to service. He first joined the army, but wanted more. The story moves on to explore his time training as a Ranger and through numerous difficult wartimes memories where many of his fellow soldiers died in combat. From there we live through the dreadful time of his troop's capture, his daring escape behind enemy lines with three fellow Rangers and his ordeal surviving many months behind enemy line until Allied troops arrived.
Annechino captures these events with a personal eye, letting each unfold as if his uncle is setting across the table from the reader with a cup of coffee in hand, sharing his vivid memories. I honestly couldn't put the book down. And the way Annechino crafted this story had my mind creating pictures of the events as I read along. Months later I can still "see" many of these moments in the book in my mind's eye.
Again, bravo to the author. I hope to see him offer new titles in this genre in the future. The storytelling talents so evident in his works of fiction are perfect for helping a true-life story come to life.
They Never Die Quietly, Resuscitation & A Piece of You are mystery/thriller/suspense works of fiction with an edge - they feature disturbing serial killers.
I believe More Than A Soldier is his first true life story - a military biography/memoir. It is his uncle's memoir of his time as a soldier. I cannot find where I read this, but I believe his uncle refused to talk about these experiences until his final days. It was only then he chose to share his memories of his time as a soldier with his son. His son then asked his cousin (D.M. Annechino) to turn the many notes he took into a book. It was a wise choice as Annechino nailed it. In fact I think this is hands down this author's best work yet.
Angelo J. DeMarco's story begins when the young patriot answered his country's call to service. He first joined the army, but wanted more. The story moves on to explore his time training as a Ranger and through numerous difficult wartimes memories where many of his fellow soldiers died in combat. From there we live through the dreadful time of his troop's capture, his daring escape behind enemy lines with three fellow Rangers and his ordeal surviving many months behind enemy line until Allied troops arrived.
Annechino captures these events with a personal eye, letting each unfold as if his uncle is setting across the table from the reader with a cup of coffee in hand, sharing his vivid memories. I honestly couldn't put the book down. And the way Annechino crafted this story had my mind creating pictures of the events as I read along. Months later I can still "see" many of these moments in the book in my mind's eye.
Again, bravo to the author. I hope to see him offer new titles in this genre in the future. The storytelling talents so evident in his works of fiction are perfect for helping a true-life story come to life.
June 12, 2017
I chose to read this book after receiving a free copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I have read several books by DM Annechino, all murder mysteries, all very good. Since I already knew that I like his writing and I like historical fiction, I was looking forward to reading More Than a Soldier.
This story is about Angelo J. DiMarco, an actual soldier in World War II who started out working behind a desk but he didn’t feel like he was contributing to his country as much as he could so he became an Army Ranger. So he went from behind desk to the front lines voluntarily. Talk about a patriot!
More Than a Soldier was difficult to put down. Angelo faced so much in just a couple years, it proves that truth is stranger than fiction. Not only did he have to face the Germans on the front lines but he had malaria, was captured by the Germans, escaped and survived behind enemy lines for several months. He went through so much and still when he came home, all he wanted was a word from his father that he was proud of him. How sad is it that it took a war and near death for Angelo to finally hear the words he craved?
“You enter the Army with honor and a strong feeling of patriotism. You’re an indestructible force and nothing and nobody can stop you. But then you learn just how naive you are, that war is much more than a word that defines a conflict between nations. It’s a living, breathing predator, and its only goal is to devour your mind, body, and spirit.”
I definitely recommend More Than a Soldier. It’s full of war, death, heartbreak, survival, and history.
I have read several books by DM Annechino, all murder mysteries, all very good. Since I already knew that I like his writing and I like historical fiction, I was looking forward to reading More Than a Soldier.
This story is about Angelo J. DiMarco, an actual soldier in World War II who started out working behind a desk but he didn’t feel like he was contributing to his country as much as he could so he became an Army Ranger. So he went from behind desk to the front lines voluntarily. Talk about a patriot!
More Than a Soldier was difficult to put down. Angelo faced so much in just a couple years, it proves that truth is stranger than fiction. Not only did he have to face the Germans on the front lines but he had malaria, was captured by the Germans, escaped and survived behind enemy lines for several months. He went through so much and still when he came home, all he wanted was a word from his father that he was proud of him. How sad is it that it took a war and near death for Angelo to finally hear the words he craved?
“You enter the Army with honor and a strong feeling of patriotism. You’re an indestructible force and nothing and nobody can stop you. But then you learn just how naive you are, that war is much more than a word that defines a conflict between nations. It’s a living, breathing predator, and its only goal is to devour your mind, body, and spirit.”
I definitely recommend More Than a Soldier. It’s full of war, death, heartbreak, survival, and history.
May 29, 2017
Based on a true story, this account of Angelo J. DiMarco's dedication, fortitude and determination to return home is captivating and uplifting!
Without his parents knowledge, eighteen-year-old, recently graduated from High School, eldest of the five children, Angelo enlisted in the Army during World War ll. His parents had immigrated from Sicily when he was young and his paternal grandparents were from Germany, so Angelo spoke the Italian language fluently and knew German, too. He felt he could serve his country well. His dad was displeased with his enlistment without permission.
Angelo was disappointed when he received his first assignment after "boot camp" but persevered until he received his new training and assignment. Little did he know the events which he would face. His remarkable resilience, cleverness and determined nature is the only thing which saved him on many occasions. He was definitely "more than a soldier".
The book cover and title depicts the story well. The characters in the story are "brought to life" and the situations described in, sometimes morbid, detail. The story is full of action and drama. It is, also, very emotional at times. The only thing I didn't like is the strong profanity sometimes used.
This earns a Four and a Half Stars literary rating.
*Although this book was gifted to me, there was no obligation of giving a positive review. This is my unbiased, honest review.
Without his parents knowledge, eighteen-year-old, recently graduated from High School, eldest of the five children, Angelo enlisted in the Army during World War ll. His parents had immigrated from Sicily when he was young and his paternal grandparents were from Germany, so Angelo spoke the Italian language fluently and knew German, too. He felt he could serve his country well. His dad was displeased with his enlistment without permission.
Angelo was disappointed when he received his first assignment after "boot camp" but persevered until he received his new training and assignment. Little did he know the events which he would face. His remarkable resilience, cleverness and determined nature is the only thing which saved him on many occasions. He was definitely "more than a soldier".
The book cover and title depicts the story well. The characters in the story are "brought to life" and the situations described in, sometimes morbid, detail. The story is full of action and drama. It is, also, very emotional at times. The only thing I didn't like is the strong profanity sometimes used.
This earns a Four and a Half Stars literary rating.
*Although this book was gifted to me, there was no obligation of giving a positive review. This is my unbiased, honest review.
November 11, 2017
More Than a Solider is a truly powerful story of a young man who is determined to survive and fight for what he believes and knows is true. It is a story full of bravery, grace, resilience and leaves you feeling humbled, sad and hopeful. While a true story about Angelo's experiences during the war, it does not glorify war. It shows us the real pain, the hopes and frailness of life.
Angelo enlisted in the US Army and was soon off to fight at the front with the very important battalion, the Rangers. They are trained in a physically demanding manner that makes you cringe but once they are out in the field, you truly understand why they had to be so physically, mentally and emotionally prepared. When they are captured and many of the men in battalion are killed, you worry that the end is near. Somehow he manages to escape but is then out in the open behind enemy lines. This begins an even greater struggle for food, shelter and survival.
Through this novel we are exposed to the real sides of war - the brutality, the illness, the friendships, the hopes and fears. Everything is laid out bare for us in this novel. You feel sadness, hope and pray for him throughout his journey. More Than A Soldier should be a must read for young adults and adults a like. It is a truly special story that I feel blessed to have had read.
Angelo enlisted in the US Army and was soon off to fight at the front with the very important battalion, the Rangers. They are trained in a physically demanding manner that makes you cringe but once they are out in the field, you truly understand why they had to be so physically, mentally and emotionally prepared. When they are captured and many of the men in battalion are killed, you worry that the end is near. Somehow he manages to escape but is then out in the open behind enemy lines. This begins an even greater struggle for food, shelter and survival.
Through this novel we are exposed to the real sides of war - the brutality, the illness, the friendships, the hopes and fears. Everything is laid out bare for us in this novel. You feel sadness, hope and pray for him throughout his journey. More Than A Soldier should be a must read for young adults and adults a like. It is a truly special story that I feel blessed to have had read.
May 10, 2017
If you are a fan of true stories or military stories, then, you are in for a special treat. Additionally, if you have never read anything from Mr. Annechino, you will be exposed to what a great prolific writer he is. I can guarantee after reading this book that you will want to read more books from this author.
First before I go on about this book, I want to thank Steve DiMarco for sharing his father's extraordinary story. I was going to say I can't imagine all of the emotions that Angelo must have been experiencing while in Germany but this would be a little lie. Mr. Annechino portrayed Angelo very well and wrote with such detail that it was like I could hear Angelo telling his story as I was reading it. No matter the odds, Angelo still kept fighting to escape, while, still holding hope that he would see his fellow comrades and friends again. With all of the moments in this book, there was one that did touch me the most. It was when Angelo was reunited with his family and his father hugged him with tears in his eyes. More Than a Soldier is more than just a book, it is a piece of history. It also reminds us of those that should not be forgotten.
First before I go on about this book, I want to thank Steve DiMarco for sharing his father's extraordinary story. I was going to say I can't imagine all of the emotions that Angelo must have been experiencing while in Germany but this would be a little lie. Mr. Annechino portrayed Angelo very well and wrote with such detail that it was like I could hear Angelo telling his story as I was reading it. No matter the odds, Angelo still kept fighting to escape, while, still holding hope that he would see his fellow comrades and friends again. With all of the moments in this book, there was one that did touch me the most. It was when Angelo was reunited with his family and his father hugged him with tears in his eyes. More Than a Soldier is more than just a book, it is a piece of history. It also reminds us of those that should not be forgotten.
June 16, 2017
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Italy Book Reviews in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
More Than A Soldier by D.M. Annechino was a fantastic book. Anyone who has followed my reviews for just about any length of time knows that I love any book that has to do with WWII and this book was no different. This book is based on a true story, and I loved it because I love knowing that a real person had lived through the things that happened in this book. I have read other books by this author, and I really do enjoy his writing. I can’t say enough good things about this book because I am such a love of books like this one. I loved that as I was reading this book, I felt like I was there with Angelo and I felt like I was there with him. I was able to understand how he was feeling because the author did such a great job making you feel like you are with the character. If you are looking for a new WWII book to read this summer, I think that you will love this book just as much as I do.
More Than A Soldier by D.M. Annechino was a fantastic book. Anyone who has followed my reviews for just about any length of time knows that I love any book that has to do with WWII and this book was no different. This book is based on a true story, and I loved it because I love knowing that a real person had lived through the things that happened in this book. I have read other books by this author, and I really do enjoy his writing. I can’t say enough good things about this book because I am such a love of books like this one. I loved that as I was reading this book, I felt like I was there with Angelo and I felt like I was there with him. I was able to understand how he was feeling because the author did such a great job making you feel like you are with the character. If you are looking for a new WWII book to read this summer, I think that you will love this book just as much as I do.
August 20, 2017
Honor and dignity, story of a real hero
I chose this book initially because the biography of a person who lives during my time is a favorite read. This man's story makes me feel very proud of our soldiers who seldom get recognition. He is a hero to be honored and long remembered. Dignity is a dying virtue. He has revived it. Thank you, sir. RIP.
I chose this book initially because the biography of a person who lives during my time is a favorite read. This man's story makes me feel very proud of our soldiers who seldom get recognition. He is a hero to be honored and long remembered. Dignity is a dying virtue. He has revived it. Thank you, sir. RIP.
September 9, 2021
Inspiring story.
I felt I was with Angelo every step. The story drew me in quickly and kept me engaged. Great writing with historic my accurate accounts of the reality of war. I recommend this book to all.
I felt I was with Angelo every step. The story drew me in quickly and kept me engaged. Great writing with historic my accurate accounts of the reality of war. I recommend this book to all.
May 10, 2017
Outstanding
True ordeals of the greatest generation. And of the 2nd world war always a must read. Simply great story to read.
True ordeals of the greatest generation. And of the 2nd world war always a must read. Simply great story to read.
June 22, 2017
Great story!
An Well written story of story of survival and escape from a Nazi prisoner of war camp. Well done Angelo!
An Well written story of story of survival and escape from a Nazi prisoner of war camp. Well done Angelo!
April 18, 2019
Riveting
As a WW2 reader, I found More Than A Soldier riveting. It's a first hand look into the life of a soldier unlike any other I've read before.
As a WW2 reader, I found More Than A Soldier riveting. It's a first hand look into the life of a soldier unlike any other I've read before.
December 6, 2019
Great book! I would highly recommend it to anyone that has an interest in history.
April 30, 2017
Wow. I have so much to say, but nothing to say. This was an amazing read.
I am not well versed in history. It is too dark and depressing and angering, and this book was all of that.
It was an emotional rollercoaster that had me feeling fear, and sadness, and loss, and confusion, and love, and… just so many emotions. There were times that I was fighting back tears.
This is not a light read and not for the faint of heart. It can be triggering if you have a mental illness, PTSD, or may have experience with war.
I will say, however, that this was one of the best books I have read in a long time. I couldn’t put it down – I didn’t want to put it down.
If you enjoying reading about history and the personal experiences, you will feel like you are right by Angelo’s side during all that he endured.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will be holding on to it to read again in the future.
I am not well versed in history. It is too dark and depressing and angering, and this book was all of that.
It was an emotional rollercoaster that had me feeling fear, and sadness, and loss, and confusion, and love, and… just so many emotions. There were times that I was fighting back tears.
This is not a light read and not for the faint of heart. It can be triggering if you have a mental illness, PTSD, or may have experience with war.
I will say, however, that this was one of the best books I have read in a long time. I couldn’t put it down – I didn’t want to put it down.
If you enjoying reading about history and the personal experiences, you will feel like you are right by Angelo’s side during all that he endured.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will be holding on to it to read again in the future.
May 2, 2017
A Inspirational Story
This story flows from episode to episode and before you realized it you have read the entire book. And you know that this was truly "the greatest generation."
This story flows from episode to episode and before you realized it you have read the entire book. And you know that this was truly "the greatest generation."
May 29, 2017
Normally this is not my genere that I normally read but this looked to good to me that I couldn't pass it up and not read. I am glad that I was able to read this book.
This story touched my heart. I loved reading about war world 11 in history class but that was just about it. I didn't read to many books on year war world 11 either but since It's been so many years since I read about war world 11 I wanted to go back and let the story come back to life.
The author did just that. Writing was amazing and the description was so believable that I felt I was right there with them in the story. Just amazing. I also could feel the emotions of the characters.
A heartwrenching story that you definitely would want to pick up and read. I had this read in two days. Just couldn't put it down. Definitely had me turninging the pages.
I voultairly recieved this book from Italy Book Tours to give my honest review. All reviews are 100% my own.
This story touched my heart. I loved reading about war world 11 in history class but that was just about it. I didn't read to many books on year war world 11 either but since It's been so many years since I read about war world 11 I wanted to go back and let the story come back to life.
The author did just that. Writing was amazing and the description was so believable that I felt I was right there with them in the story. Just amazing. I also could feel the emotions of the characters.
A heartwrenching story that you definitely would want to pick up and read. I had this read in two days. Just couldn't put it down. Definitely had me turninging the pages.
I voultairly recieved this book from Italy Book Tours to give my honest review. All reviews are 100% my own.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews