Rescuing General Patton by Curtis Burdick is a work of historical fiction. It’s World War II, and Gen. George Patton has been captured by the Germans. However, the Germans do not know at first that they’ve captured Patton because just before being taken, he assumed the identity of a dead colonel. The Gestapo eventually learns who he is; his iconic ivory-handled revolvers helped give him away. The Allies launch an all-out attempt to rescue Patton because they fear he may be forced, through torture, to give away military secrets. Gen. Omar Bradley plays a prominent role in the rescue, although he’s not necessarily depicted in the way many people who know about him might expect. The author notes, accurately, that this book contains explicit language, realistic battle scenes, and graphic violence. It depicts the horror of war and the sometimes ruthlessness of soldiers on both sides.

This book should be made into a movie. Rescuing General Patton by Curtis Burdick is a terrific, enthralling novel. One does not need to be a fan of Patton—although I am—to get caught up in this fast-moving, realistic-sounding story. The story of Patton being captured and the Germans not immediately realizing who they have may sound implausible at first, but Burdick makes it believable. As noted, the book is graphic in nature. These elements don’t take away from the novel, though--they add to the realism. I think the author has probably experienced battle because his depictions of war are appropriately horrifying. Even apart from the superb story, this novel is worth reading because it should make every rational person hate war.

General Patton burst into the officers' mess in August 1943, visibly angry. The Germans were retreating unhindered through the northeastern part of Sicily. They also had control of the mountains and passes, complete with a stationed lethal collection of snipers and landmines. He had to lead from the front and take out the opposition by himself. Patton got into a Jeep with Sergeant Fresno and Colonel Mueller, while Corporal Bauer drove. The Jeep’s contact with a landmine led to the capture of General Patton by the Germans, albeit he was wearing a colonel’s disguise. As a matter of urgency, General Bradley delegated Major Pizzio, an insubordinate but tough and effective officer, to rescue Patton from the POW camp. Rescuing General Patton by Curt Burdick is a suicide mission in a book. Will Pizzio’s team succeed?

Rescuing General Patton by Curt Burdick is a gripping blend of fact and fiction–one that will get your adrenaline pumping. It is a tale of grit, loyalty, survival, tenacity, fierce determination, and more. I loved the plot which was inspired by a fusion of real happenings and a very active imagination. It was strong, enlightening, and had depth. The incorporated element of laid-back romance gave the story a needed balance. The development was perfect, giving the idea of a book within a book. I also loved many of the characters, especially Pizzio, Rosen, and Gorski. I felt like organizing a parade and decorating the three of them. The Second World War will always remain a part of history. However, we won’t forget those who laid their lives down, mentally and physically, for its sake. Curt Burdick should write more books like this.