I write books. I also read them. Here’s a list of some of my favourites, both fiction and non-fiction.
–Bob Shepherd
NON-FICTION
No Mean Soldier by Peter McAleese
A great, no holds barred adventure story from a man I would class as a real soldier’s soldier.
From SAS to Blood Diamond Wars by Fred Marafono
A real life story from a man who soldiered and led with his heart and his head. I know because he led me!
The Super-Rich Shall Inherit the Earth by Stephen Armstrong
An uncompromising study of how a small group of global industrial billionaires is pushing us toward a new era of feudalism. Not for ostriches.
War plc: The Rise of the New Corporate Mercenary by Stephen Armstrong
An excellent study of the privatization of war.
Chavs: The Demonization of the Working Class by Owen Jones
An important book that blasts the myth of “meritocratic” Britain. Well researched and written with passion, Chavs is a long overdue call to arms urging us to take back our country from the ruling elites who have destroyed our public institutions and decimated our community values to serve their own narrow interests.
Butcher & Bolt: Two Hundred Years of Foreign Engagement in Afghanistan by David Loyn
Loyn’s page-turning history of failed British campaigns in Afghanistan will have you wondering why our current policy makers have learned so little.
The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
An economics book I couldn’t put down. Klein exposes globalization for what it really is: disaster capitalism.
The Special Air Service by Philip Warner
My Bible as a young lad, this was the book that introduced me to the Regiment.
FICTION
Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes
Hailed as the greatest Vietnam War novel ever written, what appealed to me most was the book’s uncompromising authenticity. A modern-day classic.
The Man Who Would Be King by Rudyard Kipling
My favourite story and the inspiration for my novel, The Infidel.
BOOKS ON MY NIGHTSTAND…
The Ghost Runner: The Tragedy of the Man They Couldn’t Stop by Bill Jones
Hi Bob
What about Peter Ratcliffe – Eye of the storm, Pete Winner – Soldier I, and Rusty Firmin – Go! Go! Go!?
Can I ask if you’ve read Big Phil Campion: Born fearless?
Your books are excellent, please keep writing!!!
Very best regards.
Jason Cooper.
PS Sharing your book links on Facebook.
Hi Jason,
Thanks very much for getting in touch.
I’ve not read any SAS memoir books as I haven’t written one myself. All I can say is that all three of the former lads mentioned were excellent soldiers. As for Phil Campion, I’m afraid I don’t know him, therefore can’t comment.
I’m pleased that you’ve enjoyed the Bob Shepherd books, and a big thank you too for helping to get them out to a broader readership through your facebook page, thanks again.
Very best regards.
B.S.
Bob, love the frankness of your work. As long as you release more work I’ll definitely read it!
Have you read any of the Mark Berent Novels, I found his series set in Vietnam from the perspective of the fighter pilots quite captivating.
Thanks Chris,
No I haven’t read any of Mark’s Vietnam novels but I will look out for them.
Very best.
B.S.