The book is a mix of short war stories and original cocktails. Scuttlebutt is a military term for rumors being spread around. It is usually based on something real, but as it spreads, it becomes embellished. Sometimes, the truth is completely lost to history, but the stories continue. The book contains half of war stories over the last three millennia about warriors from around the world, such as Scipio Africanus, Colonel Benjamin Franklin, Jan Kubiš, Trondheim, and Boudica. The other half is original cocktails created as tributes to their stories. Each recipe includes two additional variations: the "Trench Edition" with easy substitutions using common ingredients, and the "Garrison Edition" with instructions on how to make the drink sweeter. There are more than 90 recipes in the book.

This book is a gem for anyone who loves cocktails and history. The author has done a remarkable job of researching and narrating the stories of some of the most fascinating warriors in history, from ancient Rome to modern times. The stories are full of action, intrigue, and humor, and they make you appreciate the courage and sacrifice of these heroes. The cocktails are equally amazing. They are inspired by the stories and the ingredients that relate to them. They are also very easy to make, thanks to the clear instructions and the variations for different situations and preferences. The book is also beautifully designed, with colorful illustrations and photos that complement the text. It is a book that you will want to read again and again, and to share with your friends and family. It is a must-have for any cocktail lover or history buff! ( )

Loved it! A military mini bio precedes each drink recipe and each recipe includes 3 variations. A physical version of this work would be a good gift idea. Even the AI artwork earns an A+. I would have liked for it to be longer or perhaps part of an ongoing series, but overall worth a shot.

LibraryThing Early Reviewer ( )

I may be biased because I come from a military family (3 generations and counting) and my husband and I love experimenting with cocktails...this is a great book. The stories are fun to read and I really liked how thoughtful the author was when creating these cocktails in honor of each story. I also love that that there are variations for each so you can make it sweeter or less sweet depending on your palate. I haven't worked through all of the cocktails yet (there are a lot!) but I'm a big fan of the Hail Cesar and Lady Death ( )

Absolutely fantastic book! I enjoy a good drink, I enjoy reading history, and I particularly enjoy military history. This book combines all of that, and includes some basic mixology tips.

The author includes precise recipes for multiple cocktails, delves into their history, all are military in origin, and presents them in brilliant anecdotal manner. Scuttlebutt is a term used for gossip, but originated on navy ships.

The recipes include the official one, another with valid replacements in case you're not able to gather everything, and finally a less potent version in case you need to go on parade right after.

I plan on working my way through every recipe, not necessarily on the same night, though. It has just under thirty recipes, if I'm counting right. All beautifully presented and their origins explained.

Cheers! ( )

Delightful. I very much enjoy reading all the stories and lore, as well as some interesting combinations and drinks, several of which I look forward to experimenting with, when I can get my hands on the ingredients ( )