The Hosts of the Air

by Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander) Altsheler

"The Hosts of the Air" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a war novel written in the early 20th century. This book serves as the third installment in the World War Series, following the narratives established in "The Guns of Europe" and "The Forest of Swords." The story primarily revolves around John Scott, a young American soldier, as he navigates the complexities of love and war, specifically his feelings for Julie Lannes, while also addressing the broader experiences of soldiers entrenched in World War I. At the start of the novel, the scene is set in a grim trench during a harsh winter, where John Scott and his comrades grapple with the harsh realities of war. As John shaves amidst the squalor, he reminisces about his past and his feelings for Julie, who is far from the frontlines. The chapter introduces key characters like Carstairs and Wharton, who add to the dynamic of the narrative with their conversations. The tension escalates with a sudden German attack, forcing John's unit to defend against overwhelming odds. Amidst the chaos and violence, John receives news about Julie’s journey to Chastel to assist the wounded, which ignites both hope and determination in him as he yearns to reunite with her, setting the stage for further developments in their relationship against the backdrop of wartime turmoil.