First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Michael E. Bistrica for his service to our country. His dedication and sacrifice are deeply appreciated.
I would also like to thank him for the personal touch he added to the giveaway. Receiving a handwritten note addressed to me, along with a letter sharing his life story, was such a thoughtful gesture.
I finished this book in a single sitting, it was that captivating. The story took me by surprise, and I never saw the ending coming. I was literally in tears and taken on an emotional journey. The Officer truly delivers an important message about how fleeting time can be with our loved ones/soul mates, and it serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment we have with them.
What I especially appreciated was how the protagonist, Edward, defied the typical romance novel archetype. Instead of being the confident, charismatic "player", he is a humble and self-reflective man, who although was a bit frustrating at times lol (must read the book to understand), who often believes he hasn't achieved much in life. Yet, his service in the military and his commitment to his country are a testament to the depth of his character.
Lara on the other hand, was a refreshing portrayal of a celebrity. Instead of the usual glamorous, self-absorbed celebrity trope, she is down to earth, kind, and approachable, which makes her even more relatable and likeable. Although at times frustrating as well lol.
I will say, this book left me wondering what happens next. I would love to see a sequel that explores how Lara's life unfolds after such a tragedy. It would certainly be an intriguing and heartfelt read!!

A really good Army ROTC buddy, who I've known since way back when starting 1975. MAJ. Mike E. Bistrica, he was a Combat Engineer and we kept in contact. Now he and I were history, weapons & tactics, wargamer Geeks. Still are ! We both have two sets of wings awarded by the US Army ! Been all over the world ! We thought we seasoned "warriors".
So, he was back in town a few weeks ago. He told me he wrote a book and got it published by Dorrance Publishing, out of Pittsburg. I figured it would be something like Fredrick Forsyth or Tom Clancy would write. If a movie was made it would have guys like Arnold, Sly, etc. staring.
But then he handed me a copy. And basically, said it is a love story ... I thought he was kidding me ? But no he was serious ! The title - "The Officer" ... Mike asked me if I'd read and let him know what I thought. I was pretty impressed ... It pretty damn good ! I enjoyed reading it. I really wanted to know what the two main characters were going to do. What would happen to them.
Like most authors you write about some things you know about. I saw some of him in the main character - Edward. A Madin a US Army Combat Engineer Officer. I had been to many of the places he mentioned in the book. Like Ft. Bragg, NC, ROTC Advanced Camp, and more.
The love interest Lara, I thought it might be based a little bit on his lovely wife Karen ? The characters were well developed, not 2 dimensional, but like real people. Maybe people I know ? I think this a real-life case of teaching an old dog of war new tricks. This soldier, officer highly skilled in his military art. Now in his old age, he shows another side that no one knew was there. He can write a real love story. No M16s, no grenades, no helicopters, APCs, etc. The interaction and conversation between the two lovers sounded like something I'd overhear in a Starbucks.
If you have a chance, get a hold of a copy. Certainly, worth a look. The Officer by Michael E. Bistrica.

An unexpected love story between two very different people who would not have met except for one of those flukes we have in our lifetimes. The Officer by Michael E. Bistrica presents a couple - one in the service, the other in entertainment who work hard through mistakes and misfortunes to develop their relationship. Hollywood meet the U. S. Army! The reader will find themselves caring deeply for these two main characters and what will befall them all the way to the star-crossed ending. A gentle well written piece by this first time author. I would truly recommend reading The Officer.