In this engrossing memoir, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Vindman tells how he went from being a Russian immigrant living in New York City to the Ukraine expert on the National Security Council whose testimony contributed to the first impeachment of former President Trump.

Vindman speaks about his time in the military as well as his time in the White House. He also tells the story of how him, his twin brother, and their family emigrated to America from Russia. Through all the various personal and professional narratives that make up this memoir, his passion for his work and, especially, his love of his adopted country shine through. He doesn't downplay the pushback and challenges he faced as part of the Trump administration, yet his commentary about it isn't mean-spirited or catty in any way. He had a job to do, and he did it based on his knowledge of international diplomacy and what he held as important governing principles of the United States. As interesting as this section was, I most enjoyed the stories of him and his brother growing up, emigrating to the United States, and coming to love this country so much they dedicated their professional lives to defending it. This book shows again how vital immigrants are to our country's growth and its humanity.