5.0 (1 rating)
Enemy A True Story of Courage, Childhood Trauma and the Cost of War
Ruth Clare learnt from a young age how to be a warrior. She protected her mum, stood up to her dad and defied authority in the face of injustice. But when the same fierceness that helped her survive, threatened to hurt her relationship with her children, she knew needed to confront the family secrets she had been guarding for so long. Tender, funny and wise, this unforgettable story shines a light on the unrecognized price families can pay when a parent returns home from war. For fans of Educated by Tara Westover and The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. "Extraordinary memoir." - Booktopia "Resembling a novel in its sensory detail and riveting narrative." - Australian Book Review "Brilliantly moving." - Annabel Crabb "An emotionally charged and thoroughly engaging book." - The Australian "Powerful and heart-rending memoir, told with grace and empathy." - Kate Forsyth "An extraordinary story by a very gifted writer." - Kari O'Gorman "Gripping, heart-breakingly sad, and breathtakingly forgiving, it is a story of childhood survived and transcended." - Bec Yule "Beautiful memoir about how our childhood shapes us and the scars it leaves." - Amra Pajalic
Pages: 354
ISBN: 9780645808506
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5.0
1 rating
Carina P.
Mar 14, 2026
This was a moving and thought-provoking book that explorers the relationship between a daughter and her Vietnam Vet father. This memoir sheds light on the profound impact war can have on an individual and their loved ones.
To me, one of the most compelling aspects of this book is it's raw and honest portrayal of Ruth's journey.
Ruth skillfully captures the conflicting emotions experienced by her, showcasing her initial confusion, anger, and resentment towards her father. Throughout the book we witness her gradual realization that her father's abusive behavior stems from the deep scars left by the war.
Ruth's writing style is captivating and immersed me into her world and evoked a range of emotions for me.
Being a daughter also of a Vietnam Vet, I was curious to see what Ruth went through. Although, I was fortunate my father wasn't abusive, there were signs of his struggle coming back from the war and until this day, even.
I applaud for Ruth for being brave to write her story and recommend reading this book.
To me, one of the most compelling aspects of this book is it's raw and honest portrayal of Ruth's journey.
Ruth skillfully captures the conflicting emotions experienced by her, showcasing her initial confusion, anger, and resentment towards her father. Throughout the book we witness her gradual realization that her father's abusive behavior stems from the deep scars left by the war.
Ruth's writing style is captivating and immersed me into her world and evoked a range of emotions for me.
Being a daughter also of a Vietnam Vet, I was curious to see what Ruth went through. Although, I was fortunate my father wasn't abusive, there were signs of his struggle coming back from the war and until this day, even.
I applaud for Ruth for being brave to write her story and recommend reading this book.