The Eagle Scout Picture, a WWII Espionage Thriller
As 2024 rolls into 2025, we must remember events from 80 years ago. Between December 16, 1944, and January 25, 1945, the Ardennes Offensive, what Americans call the Battle of the Bulge, was Germany’s last big effort in World War II. It led to Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 1945. Almost all who fought the war are gone now, but the stories of the Greatest Generation need to live on in our collective memories.
I grew up listening to the war stories of my older brothers and uncles. When I discovered an untold story, I felt compelled to share it. That’s why I have released The Eagle Scout Picture, a WWII spy thriller, at this time. “Lest we forget” the sacrifices of the men and the women who supported them. This novel is based on actual events. Read about them in the book’s description below.
Dive into The Eagle Scout Picture
“No American could survive the ruthless fascist police state,” they said. But one young spy tried.
The Eagle Scout Picture
By Gary Kidney
In The Eagle Scout Picture, Gary Kidney crafts a gripping tale of courage, deception, and resilience. Woven with historical precision and heart-pounding twists, this World War II espionage thriller unveils the dark realities of war and the sacrifices made in the name of liberty.
A farm boy. A deadly mission. A world on the brink of war.
The mission of 17-year-old Eagle Scout Fred Brown is to infiltrate the Third Reich, earn the trust of the SS, and report their darkest secrets back to the Allies. But in a world where loyalty is tested at every turn, Zelly faces impossible choices. A single misstep could cost him everything—including his soul.
From the icy heights of the Brenner Pass to the gilded halls of Berlin, The Eagle Scout Picture is a heart-pounding journey of courage and survival. Caught between a regime he despises and a mission that demands unthinkable sacrifices, Zelly must navigate a labyrinth of betrayal, secrets, and moral dilemmas.
From shadowy train car meetings to high-stakes encounters with Gestapo officers, he must maintain his cover or face a chilling fate. As he grapples with loyalty, morality, and his identity, he discovers that being a spy is far more than survival – it’s about the fight for justice in a world consumed by tyranny.
Can a single spy make a difference in the war? Or will the cost of survival shatter the boy who just wanted to serve his country?
Perfect for fans of Ken Follett’s Eye of the Needle and Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See, this gripping WWII espionage thriller will leave you breathless.
Don’t miss this unforgettable tale of bravery and deception during one of history’s darkest times. Available now in print and eBook
Early Reviews
History buffs, especially those drawn to World War II, are going to love The Eagle Scout Picture.
– Independent Book Review
Imagine being transported into the heart of Nazi Germany as you follow Fred’s journey from small-town Eagle Scout to an unlikely hero risking it all behind enemy lines. In this richly detailed story of World War II espionage, you’ll grapple with issues of morality, loyalty, justice, and self-identity.
– Book Writing Craft
The reader faces these questions: Will he discover the truth? Will he see behind his cover story? What will be his fate?
– OnlineBookClub. org Featured Review
Imagine having to live as another person for 5 years … the horrors of the Nazis had to be disheartening.
– Reedsy Discovery
The Eagle Scout Picture brims with tension, intrigue, moral complexity, meticulosly researched settings, palpable tension, and a hero whose internal suruggles are as compelling as the external challenges he faces.
– Book Writing Craft
An action-packed and detail-rich tale.
– Kirkus Reviews
The story kept my interest throughout. The characters are interesting and engaging. I loved it! 4 stars.
– Reedsy Discovery
An impressive imagining of a compelling what-if scenario.
– Kirkus Reviews
A tense historical tale set during World War II about identity and the sacrifices of war.
– Independent Book Review
A tense historical tale set during World War II about identity and the sacrifices of war.
– Independent Book Review
Imagine having to live as another person for 5 years … the horrors of the Nazis had to be disheartening.
– Reedsy Discovery
Are you ready to follow Fred’s journey into war?
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