Shelled by an Unseen Foe

"Shelled by an Unseen Foe" by Colonel James Fiske is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the experiences of young soldiers during World War I, particularly focusing on the characters Nickell-Wheelerson and Zaidos, who confront the realities of war while grappling with their personal dilemmas and familial obligations. The opening of the book introduces readers to three boys at a military school, deep in contemplation and conversation about going home amidst the chaos of the war. Nickell-Wheelerson expresses his desire to return to England, while Zaidos learns of his father's illness in Greece, prompting his urgency to leave. As he prepares to depart, he is unexpectedly swept into military service against his will, highlighting the conflicts and duties that arise during wartime. The narrative illustrates the boys' camaraderie and the pressures they face as they navigate their routes to duty, loss, and personal growth, setting the stage for the challenges ahead in a world engulfed in war.