Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this advanced readers copy of John McNellis' novel Scout's Honor. The book tells the story of the consequences of a young man's choices in the midst of tragedy and how he tries to rebuild his life, but is forever haunted by his actions. Eddie Kawadasky is a 19 year old whose mother has abandoned him and his father has died as a pilot in Vietnam. Eddie goes to Mexico with a friend, and ends up being pushed to drive home a van filled with 50 kilos of cocaine. He makes it across the border, but things go south from there, and he finds himself in the need to get lost. He takes a new name, enlists in the Marine Corps, does two tours in Vietnam, and comes home to build his own financial empire as a property investor. But it's more complicated than that, and lest I provide spoilers, I'll let you discover on your own what happens. The book takes place over 25 years, and Eddie (now Richard Austen) can never really be free of his past. And eventually his past catches up to him. Will he have redemption? McNellis takes us on a interesting ride, through the character's life.

In general, I found the book to be well written, and interesting. I was occasionally frustrated by jumps in the timeline without as much character building or context, and was often having to figure out what had transpired at the start of the chapter - or even within a chapter. There were no headings or relative dates to guide the reader. In print the book is 332 pages, and I would have gladly read another 60 or 80 pages to add more context and depth. That is my primary criticism and the only reason for giving it 4 stars instead of 5.

This is very different than books I normally read, but I figured I would give it a try. I’m sure glad I did! Eddie has seemingly lost it all when he meets Roy, who convinces Eddie to smuggle drugs. Roy then turns on Eddie, who flees, changes his identity, serves as a Marine in Vietnam, and then becomes insanely rich through real estate. Of course, his past comes to haunt him though…

Thank you Netgalley for the advanced copy of Scout's Honor. All Eddie Wad Kawadsky wanted was to be a fighter pilot like his dad. Unfortunately, his dad died in combat and his mom abandon's him leading him to move in with his childhood friend, Roy. Following the advice of his unlikely mentor, Jonnie the owner of a weight loss spa, Eddie is working hard to be someone. Double crossed by Roy leads Eddie to leave his plans behind and go on the run. Great story by McNellis of overcoming adversity.

The story focuses on Eddie Kawadsky, a young man who at the tender age of 19 becomes involved with Roy Cross, a slick talking con man. This relationship will have devastating repercussions on Eddie’s life after Roy convinces Eddie to carry drugs across the border, unfortunately for Eddie the drugs he is carrying are not actually what he thinks but ones that will throw his life into complete turmoil. All Eddie is striving to do is to secure himself an education after losing his parents, and the temptation to commit this crime is based on his drive to learn and succeed in life.

Fast forward 25 years and Eddie is now one of the wealthiest men in New York, building up a real estate development business that sees him reap huge rewards. Due to his past Eddie has changed his name and become an intensely private man even to those he holds dearest, his biggest fear is his past coming back to haunt him. He soon meets a wonderful woman and loves the life he is living, but he also suffers as he knows this may become short lived if he is exposed.

This is a story of crime, murder, survival and redemption but also focuses on themes such as betrayal, morals, ethics and love. A fabulous story that is full of suspense and excitement, the book is fast paced and will have your undivided attention throughout. Highly recommended.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy, all opinions expressed are my own.

The world building in this piece was intricate, which shows the writer's attention to detail. From desperation to betrayal to murder, every part of this book felt authentic. The characters: well-done, with each of them having their own unique, although contrasting, personalities and motivations. Still needs a bit of work, but nevertheless, Scout's Honor was a fairly good read that appeals to fans of coming-of-age and thrilling stories.

This is a great book. McNellis' writing is thrilling and kept me on the edge of my seat. Everything is perfectly constructed to keep the reader on the edge of their seats, and the tension just builds and builds until the climax of the book which takes you a journey of redemption and morality as McNellis' writing keeps bringing you along on the story's events. It was a great read and if you are looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time, this is the book for you.