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Monday, September 8, 2025

Zone Rouge: How a Marine Corps Veteran’s Debut Novel Explores the Lingering Wounds of War

Episode 162 is a recording from conversation with my friend, Michael Jerome Plunkett, at Storyline Bookshop in Upper Arlington, Ohio.

Michael shares the journey behind his debut novel “Zone Rouge,” (published by Unnamed Press) chronicling his fascination with Verdun, France and the lingering effects of World War I on its people and landscape. We dive deep into Michael’s unique approach to writing in present tense and how our life experiences shape the perspectives we bring to the writing process.

In this episode:

  • Valuable insights into the realities of publishing a debut novel
  • The importance of supporting local bookstores
  • The power of literature to connect veterans and civilians
  • Trauma, community, and resilience
  • Drawing connections between historical conflict and modern struggles

Episode Sponsors:

  • VM Merch
  • Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
  • BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
  • True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
  • Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
  • Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

https://www.instagram.com/michaeljeromeplunkett/

https://www.instagram.com/storylinebookshop

https://www.instagram.com/unnamedpress/


READ MORE 👁️ https://bit.ly/488oDEh