Once again the Colliers deal with the impact of war on humanity. The nature of [War Comes to Willy Freeman], a fast-paced adventure, precludes extensive character development. Willy is an endearing creature, though, and her exploits and daring ensure exciting reading. The Colliers certainly have a gift for using dialect realistically without it becoming obtrusive, although the sometimes use of the word "nigger" by both blacks and whites … may offend modern sensibilities. More disturbing to some readers may be the fact that although Willy bemoans woman's lot as unequal and unfair—the authors acknowledge she may sound too modern—she twice uses the fact of her gender to save her life.