About

Join us for the highly anticipated launch of Upgunner, the debut novel by Corporal Christopher Bryde. This compelling and deeply personal story provides an unflinching portrayal of a U.S. Marine's battle for survival, both physically and mentally, after awakening from a coma to discover he has lost his leg to an IED explosion.
Corporal Bryde's story delivers an unflinching portrayal of a U.S. Marine's physical and emotional journey as he endures the trials of rehabilitation and struggles with his faith. Upgunner delves into the brutal realities of war and its lasting impact on the human spirit.
The evening will begin at 6:00 PM with an exclusive interview with the author, followed by a reading from the novel. Afterward, guests will have the opportunity to meet Corporal Bryde and continue the conversation over drinks.

About the Author:
Christopher Bryde, a former U.S. Marine Infantry Machine Gunner, lost both legs below the knee in 2008 due to a Taliban IED explosion in Afghanistan. After years of recovery, he shifted focus to academic study. He has earned a BA in Creative and Professional Writing and an MA in Creative Writing: First Novel at St. Mary's University Twickenham, London. As of 2024, he is pursuing a PhD in Creative Writing at St. Mary's. Bryde is also an Invictus Games athlete, training for the inaugural Winter Invictus Games in 2025.