There’s something uniquely powerful about a military memoir. It’s a legacy, a reflection of courage, sacrifice, and often, quiet strength that deserves to be shared. But writing a book that does justice to your experience (or someone else’s) can feel overwhelming. And publishing it in a way that reaches the right readers can be a whole different journey.
At Lucid Books, we’ve worked alongside veterans, military spouses, and families to help turn memories into books that truly matter.
Here are a few things we’ve learned along the way.
Start With the “Why”
Before you begin writing, ask yourself why this story needs to be told. Is it for your kids? To honor a friend? To help someone understand the military experience? Knowing your purpose will help guide the tone, structure, and focus of your book.
It also helps you stay grounded when the writing process feels difficult. And at some point, it probably will.
Get Real, Not Just Tactical
Readers aren't just looking for a list of events. They want to feel what you felt. What was going through your mind during deployment? How did it feel to come home? What moments left the biggest mark?
Being honest and open connects more deeply than simply describing what happened. The most impactful memoirs bring readers into the emotional experience, not just the physical one.
Don’t Wait to Write
Many veterans think they need more time before they start writing. They wait for clarity, or for the emotions to settle. But memories fade. And what feels raw or complicated now might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
Start with small steps. Jot down notes. Record voice memos. Keep a journal. Capture the moments while they’re still fresh and honest.
Find a Partner Who Understands
When you’re ready to publish, choose a team that understands the importance of your story. A good publishing partner helps with so much more than generic edits. They’ll help you protect and shape your story with clarity and care, and they’ll help you connect with readers who will truly value what you’ve written.
That’s what we do at Lucid, and we would love to work with you! Reach out today to learn more about our partnership publishing opportunities.
