The Butcher's Bill (Hammer's Slammers Series) Book

I was skeptical that stories of mercenary tank companies, all by the same author, would be significantly different stories, but I was pleasantly surprised at the diversity of the eight stories in this book (plus a ninth, which seems more of an epilogue). Though there is plenty of battle, none of the stories is simply about defeating the opposition; they explore themes such as loyalty, purpose, self-doubt, lust, and, of course, the high and multiple costs of war. Drake's terse style sometimes leaves me unclear about exactly what is happening, but seldom enough that, on the whole, I appreciate it for how it keeps the action moving.