One common theme is the struggle for equality. Female characters often have to fight not only the external enemies but also the gender bias within the military. For example, they might face discrimination when it comes to promotions or being given important missions.
Another theme is friendship and camaraderie. Just like in male - dominated military novels, female military novels also highlight the strong bonds formed between soldiers. In a military setting, these friendships can be a source of strength and support. For instance, in 'Code Name Verity', the friendship between the two main characters is central to the story and helps them endure the hardships they face.
Self - discovery is also a prevalent theme. Many female military characters start out unsure of themselves but through their military experiences, they learn about their capabilities, their values, and who they really are. This can involve facing their fears, learning new skills, and coming to terms with their place in the military and in society as a whole.
Faith and courage are common themes. The characters often rely on their Christian faith to find the courage to face the horrors of war. Another theme is redemption. Soldiers might seek redemption for their actions in combat through their faith.
One common theme is war and combat. This can range from large - scale interstellar battles to guerrilla warfare on alien planets. Another theme is military technology, like super - advanced weapons and armored suits. Also, the idea of loyalty within military units and the struggle for power between different military factions often shows up.
Another theme is the impact of war on individuals and society. In realistic military fiction, we often see how war changes the lives of soldiers, their families, and the communities they come from. It can show the psychological trauma, as well as the physical destruction. For instance, a soldier may return from war with PTSD and struggle to reintegrate into civilian life, which has a ripple effect on those around him. War can also transform a society, causing economic and political upheaval.
The idea of the military as a microcosm of society is also a theme. The military units in these novels can represent different aspects of society, such as hierarchy, rules, and cooperation. The relationships between the soldiers, from the low - ranking grunts to the high - ranking officers, can mirror the relationships in a broader social context. Also, the struggle for survival in a hostile universe is a recurring theme. The soldiers are constantly facing threats from alien races or other dangerous forces, and they must fight to stay alive and protect their own kind.
One common theme is the strategic use of the river. In military terms, rivers can be barriers, supply routes, or places for ambushes. For example, in a fictional war on an alien planet with a large river system, armies might fight over control of bridges across the river. Another theme is the ecological impact. Military operations near rivers can disrupt the local ecology, which can then have unforeseen consequences, like mutated species emerging in the river due to pollution from military tech.
One common theme is combat. Whether it's against aliens or other humans in a future setting. Another theme is loyalty, like the loyalty of soldiers to their comrades and their cause. Also, there's often the theme of technological advancement, as military in these stories usually have advanced weapons and equipment.
Warfare is a common theme. It shows different forms of battles, like space battles or ground combat against aliens. Another theme is military strategy. Writers often explore how commanders plan and execute their operations.
One common theme is honor. British soldiers in these fictions are often depicted as upholding a sense of honor in the face of battle and difficult situations. For example, in the 'Sharpe' series, Sharpe's actions are guided by his sense of personal and military honor.
One common theme is changing the course of history. In military time travel fiction, characters often go back in time with military knowledge or technology to alter battles or historical events. Another theme is the clash of different military cultures. For example, a modern military - trained person might find themselves in an ancient military society and have to adapt. Survival is also a theme. They have to survive in a different time period while dealing with military threats.
Survival is a major theme. Characters in military short stories are constantly in situations where their survival is at stake, and they have to use their wits and skills. Additionally, the psychological impact of war is a theme. This can include post - traumatic stress disorder, as well as the moral and ethical dilemmas soldiers face. For instance, in 'The Sniper', the protagonist has to deal with the psychological burden of killing his own brother without realizing it at first.