Review of The Lieutenants by W.E.B. Griffin

I was introduced to Bill Butterworth IV through a mutual friend, James C. Linder. Jim often spoke about Bill and his father, Bill Butterworth III, and shared how much he enjoyed their books. I first met Bill IV at Jim’s 60th birthday celebration, and after our conversation, I decided it was time to pick up one of the books for myself. Bill IV has co-authored works, served as an editor for his father (who passed away in 2019), and also edited Boy’s Life magazine. Now that we’ve been formally introduced, I look forward to spending more time with him, as we share many common interests.

When I began reading the first book in the Brotherhood of War series, The Lieutenants, I was immediately impressed. Having served in the military and been stationed in Germany myself, I found Griffin’s attention to detail and authenticity especially striking. His character development stood out as another strength that pulled me into the story.

Originally published in 1982, The Lieutenants is the opening novel in Griffin’s long-running Brotherhood of War series. It covers the period from the end of World War II through the early Cold War, following the careers and personal lives of young U.S. Army officers. Griffin masterfully blends military structure, political context, and human drama, setting the stage for a sweeping saga of the modern American Army.

The novel introduces a wide cast of characters—Craig Lowell, Sandy Felter, Ernest “Ernie” Zimmerman, among others—each with distinct personalities, flaws, and ambitions. Their varied social backgrounds underscore the diversity and tension within the officer corps. Griffin’s deep research and military background shine through in the technical accuracy and realistic portrayal of Army life, from officer schools to command politics.

The narrative also grounds itself in real historical developments such as postwar downsizing, Cold War maneuvering, and the birth of NATO. While it is not a fast-paced war thriller, the novel serves as a layered introduction to Griffin’s Brotherhood of War universe. It succeeds in immersing the reader in the atmosphere of the U.S. Army during a pivotal era, with memorable characters who carry the story forward.

For readers who enjoy military fiction with historical depth, rich character arcs, and long-term narrative payoff, The Lieutenants is a strong and rewarding start to the series.