Editorial Reviews: Humph’s War

Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers’ Favorite

Review Rating:

5 Stars 

Humph’s War by Wayne Clark is a captivating story set in 1941, New York City, at the height of World War II. The protagonist, private investigator Humphrey (Humph), is a patriotic man eager to contribute to the war effort. He investigates a camp that teaches German ideologies to German Americans after one of the instructors is murdered. As the case unfolds, Humph discovers the difficult circumstances faced by the teenagers at the camp, leading him to protect Anke, a young girl forced to participate in Nazi propaganda and violence. Humph also uncovers an art theft ring tied to the funding of the German military. His curiosity eventually takes him across the Atlantic to England to conclude this important case, where he earns significant recognition for his efforts.

Humph’s War is an intriguing narrative that combines tense investigation with humorous elements. Unlike other novels in this genre that emphasize the emotional toll on the main characters and their loved ones, this book adopts a more lighthearted tone while effectively conveying profound messages about patriotism and justice. I appreciated the balance in the storytelling, which keeps the reader engaged while showing the characters’ witty personalities, making them relatable and easy to connect with. Wayne Clark addresses sensitive topics such as antisemitism, racism, sexual assault, and cross-dressing with the utmost respect, providing constructive dialogue that recognizes the importance of approaching these issues thoughtfully and compassionately. For fans of mystery and investigative dramas, this is a wonderful book to add to your library. Overall, it is an impressive work, and I look forward to reading more from this author and exploring these characters further.