Thank you to Nolcha Fox, editor of Chewers by Masticadores for sharing the next episode in The Soldier and the Radium Girl.
Jake Tanner
27 August 1917
Jake’s battalion had been stationed at the mobilization point of Camp Bartlett in Westfield, Massachusetts for eight days.
The men quickly discovered there was little difference between life at Camp Keyes and life at Camp Bartlett, despite being one step closer to their destination of France. They were housed in tents, and there was a wide-open parade and drill ground where they continued to be trained in the art of trench warfare.
The one notable difference was that visiting French officers, who’d been at the Western Front, directed some of their training.
“That Capitaine Moreau is always on my back about something: salute, eyes to the front, present arms. And there is inspection after inspection. I had no idea our training would be like this. It’s such a waste of time,” Beau exploded one evening.
“They are trying to instill discipline and ensure we keep our uniform and equipment in good order, Beau,” Joe said.
Continue reading here: https://chewersmasticadores.wordpress.com/2025/11/14/the-soldier-and-the-radium-girl-part-1-the-bloom-of-youth-chapter-1-enlist-in-haste-repent-at-leisure-cont-5-by-roberta-eaton-cheadle/
roberta-writes.com 
Hopping over to read!
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It’s riveting, Robbie. Hugs.
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Fascinating story, Roberta! It reminds me of how I felt about the officers’ emphasis on shiny boots and perfectly ironed uniforms when I came back from Vietnam.
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Although I’ve never experienced war on the ground, Tim, I’ve read dozens of books about war. More than enough to understand your frustration. It’s about discipline but it can be overdone 💜🌈
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I enjoyed it before going to Vietnam and being in combat, even re-enlisted. After combat, I thought the emphasis should be preparation for combat.
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Wonderful storyline Robbie.🤗
Really enjoying this !
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I’m pleased to know that, Maggie
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Robbie 💖
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Congratulations, Robbie! Clicking over to read the rest.
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Thanks, Liz
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You’re welcome, Robbie.
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Heading over now, Robbie. This is a great way to entice your readers!
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Hi Barbara, thank you. I am trying out the reader appetite to see if it’s worth putting the effort into completing this book. I have written the whole of part 1, 50,000 words.
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I think you should go for it!
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I so enjoyed this episode, Robbie!
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FAB!
I popped over to read.
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Thank you 💛
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It’s always a treat to read your work, Robbie!
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Thank you, Dawn
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