Death in the desert by Jim Eldridge

Egmont, 2011. ISBN 9781405251945
I would recommend this book for 12 to 18 year olds. The front cover says it all. A dramatic photograph of a group of fully armed soldiers in combat gear run through an explosive war zone. This book is high action and deals with the war in Afghanistan.
Six Black Ops soldiers, Mitch, Two Moons, Gaz, Tug, Benny and Nelson are on a secret mission and must help a peace negotiator travel through Taliban controlled areas in Afghanistan. Danger surrounds them, they are constantly at risk of death or injury and are involved in combat on several occasions. This sense of constant threat makes for a very suspenseful read and keeps the reader wondering 'What will happen next?' or 'How will they get out of this one?'.
Friendship and camaraderie are strong themes throughout the story and all of the men look out for each other and will put themselves in danger to save their mates.
The realities of war are apparent and the book does come with a warning that it contains graphic scenes of warfare but Jim Eldridge's writing style makes this book readable for young teens.
 A secret file of all the Black Ops soldiers at the end of the book is an interesting addition.
This book is the second in the Black Ops series, the first being Jungle Kill.
Jane Moore