Intro to our 2026 Book List: War is Heck
We are so excited to dive into the 2026 “War is Heck” Book List! Every novel was selected for the purpose of exploring human conflict to better understand spiritual conflict.
July 2026
Meeting Date: 7/27/2026
By J.R.R. Tolkien
Perseverance in Darkness
The Fellowship has broken. Frodo and Sam trudge toward Mordor with their treacherous guide Gollum. Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas chase across Rohan. Merry and Pippin find themselves prisoners of orcs. This is the long middle of the war—the darkest hour when hope seems lost and the enemy's victory feels inevitable. Yet each character perseveres. Sam carries Frodo when Frodo can't walk. Aragorn serves even when kingship seems impossible. The Ents march to war. Tolkien teaches us that heroism isn't victory—it's continuing when continuation itself seems impossible.
As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links at no additional cost to you.
We are so excited to dive into the 2026 “War is Heck” Book List! Every novel was selected for the purpose of exploring human conflict to better understand spiritual conflict.
How Tolkien's Catholic faith shaped Middle-earth and influenced fantasy literature.
Sign up to receive study guides and participate in our monthly book discussions!
Join the Book Club