When Patrick Hennessey returned home from Afghanistan, he left behind him the surreal intensity and exhilaration of battle. He also left behind lasting bonds of friendship formed with his Afghan comrades Qiam, Syed and Majhib. Kandak is the story of how, in the heat of the moment between living and dying, unlikely alliances can be forged. Patrick Hennessey tells of their awkward first meetings, mutual suspicion and incomprehension, and how this eventually turned into brotherhood. 'This beautifully-written sequel to his first book tells us much about the bonds forged by combat in the dust and heat and danger, when there was no 'them and us'.' Mail on Sunday 'A passionate tribute to the Afghan soldiers he fought alongside in Helmand . . . excellent.' Sunday Times 'A moving, humbling and rare account of mutual respect among men who might as well be from different galaxies but have forever bonded through battle.' Independent 'His prose is lean and muscular, characterised by dry wit and acute intelligence. He also has a novelist's eye for the vivid image and the telling detail.' Daily Mail 'This topical book, beautifully written, gives important insights at a crucial time in Afghanistan's transition.' Daily Telegraph