Ahead of the Army

"Ahead of the Army" by William O. Stoddard is a historical novel that transports readers to the heart of the Mexican-American War. It presents the converging paths of a young Lieutenant Ulysses S. Grant, full of ambition amidst military conflict, and Ned Crawford, an adolescent whose voyage to Veracruz ensnares him in a clandestine operation aiding the Mexican army. The book explores the weighty themes of devotion to one's country, unwavering faithfulness, and the individual's trials during times of war. The narrative paints a vivid picture as it follows the young lieutenant waking to the deafening alarms of artillery fire on the shores of Texas, intercut with the boy sailing on his ship to Mexico. He soon discovers the complex responsibilities he carries and faces a moral dilemma. It’s a thrilling look at a war with loyalty being tested at every turn.