Even before the withdrawal from Afghanistan, many were beginning to recognize, write about, even study the cross-generational impact of war and military service on veterans and their families. The broken relationships, the insanity of combat, the seeking for a higher meaning of it all. Yet few have captured the harsh reality as masterfully as Kevin C. Jones, a former Marine, in this second edition of Collateral Damage: Stories. As Jarhead author, Anthony Swofford, contends about this collection, "These stories live in the real-world psychedelics of warfare, poverty, love, hate, and just trying to get by. Jones's evocative language, the high stakes, and heartfelt characters create worlds of wonder and grace. The explosions, real and psychological, have a burning effect on the reader. Nothing here is easy, but so much is gained."
