Title: Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman’s Journey from the Front Lines of Combat to the Fight for Peace
Author: Joshua Shores
Publisher: Casemate
Publication Date: 08/15/2025
ASIN: B0FT5HRFP8
Read BookBook Description:
A Marine’s Journey Through Combat
Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman’s Journey from the Front Lines of Combat to the Fight for Peace by Joshua Shores offers a deeply personal account of military service, combat, and life after war. Drawing on his experiences as a U.S. Marine, Shores describes the realities of serving in some of the most demanding combat environments of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Moreover, he explores the bonds formed between Marines and the lasting impact of combat on those who survive.
Shores served with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines during intense fighting in Ramadi. Later, he deployed to Afghanistan with Marine Special Operations. Throughout the book, he reflects on the fear, uncertainty, and responsibility that come with serving in combat. As a result, readers gain a personal perspective on the experiences of a young Marine facing the realities of modern warfare.
Combat, Brotherhood, and Life After War
The book goes beyond battlefield experiences. Shores examines the emotional cost of losing fellow Marines and the challenges that can follow a soldier home. In addition, he explores themes of grief, survivor’s guilt, identity, resilience, and the struggle to reconnect with everyday life.
However, Counting on Death is not only a story about the hardships of war. It is also a story about brotherhood, personal growth, and the search for peace. Furthermore, Shores reflects on how combat experiences can shape a person’s identity long after deployment ends. Therefore, the book provides valuable insight into both military service and the human consequences of modern warfare.
Why Read Counting on Death?
By combining firsthand combat experience with honest personal reflection, Joshua Shores provides a powerful account of life before, during, and after war. Additionally, his story highlights the courage and resilience required to confront difficult memories and move forward.
Counting on Death is an excellent resource for readers interested in the Iraq War, Afghanistan War, U.S. Marines, military memoirs, combat leadership, veteran experiences, and the human cost of war. Finally, the book offers a meaningful perspective on sacrifice, brotherhood, loss, and the difficult journey toward peace after combat.
Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman’s Journey from the Front Lines of Combat to the Fight for Peace was featured in Military Publisher Intelligence: November 2025, alongside other notable military book releases.
Military Publisher Intelligence – November 2025