A book review of Behind the Maltese Cross by Garrie Madison Stoutimore
Stars: ****
Mountain Aura Publishing (2025)
Memoir/True Stories
242 pages
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This post contains affiliate links.
Summary: Behind the Maltese Cross is a compelling blend of memoir and investigative storytelling that takes readers into the heart of the firefighting world. The sister of two career firefighters, Garrie Madison Stoutimore weaves personal growth with the raw, often untold stories of firefighters on the front lines, balancing moments of humor, heartbreak, and triumph, offering readers an authentic look at the realities of fire service life.
This isn’t just another book about fire engines and burning buildings. It’s a tribute to the silent heroes who run headlong into danger while others run away. From unforgettable calls that haunt a firefighter’s memory to traditions laced with honor and courage, these are deeply human stories about ordinary people who do extraordinary work- men and women who charge into chaos- not for glory, but for the sake of the people they serve. Their stories capture not only the excitement and danger of the job but also the quiet moments that follow- moments filled with reflection, grief, laughter, and resilience.
Some stories will make you laugh. Others may bring a tear. All will stay with you. Whether you’ve ridden the engine or simply wondered about those who do, Behind the Maltese Cross will take you behind the badge and into the fire
Behind the Maltese Cross
This book is written/edited by the sister of two firefighters and she interviews and shares stories from many different firefighters, fire chiefs and even the Fire Marshall.
The book was a little slow at first but shortly after got into the meat of the book which is the interviews. I like that instead of an interview format the interviews are shared as if she is just talking to you about the interview she did and sharing their stories in a digestible way. Interview format is hard to read and follow sometimes.
The book isn’t very big and it didn’t take too long to read it but some of the stories are heavy with emotion, both happy and sad.
You don’t have to be a firefighter or an aspiring firefighter to enjoy this book. In fact I think it makes a bigger impact on those who are NOT in the firefighter profession because if you aren’t in it, you don’t know what it’s really like. This is an eye opener into life as a firefighter.
Buy Behind the Maltese Cross at Amazon.com