Super Short Summary

In Judith Sanders's contemporary novel In His Stead: A Father’s War, retired Army Ranger Thomas fights for the right to take his son Donnie's place on the front lines when Donnie is called up for military service. Amid the emotional aftermath of his other son's tragic death in Afghanistan, Thomas is determined to protect Donnie by invoking an old rule allowing a substitute on the battlefield. This story addresses themes of war, love, and family dynamics, capturing the essence of a father's devotion. Triggering topics include grief, the death of a family member, and the portrayal of mental health struggles, including PTSD.