Review of Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath

[Obinna Njoku]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath" by Randy Miller.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath by Randy Miller is an evocative tale that weaves the experiences of Navy members during and post-service into a compelling narrative. The story chronicles the journey of Zachariah Martin, a Vermont farm boy, as he navigates his naval tenure, forges bonds, and explores romance until his service's end, which unfolds as a gross injustice.Among the literature on the Vietnam War and its aftermath, none has struck me as deeply as this novel. Miller meticulously recounts the saga of Zachariah and his acquaintances, their struggles during service, the pain of separation from family, and their eventual cold treatment by Veterans Affairs. The characters are crafted with such depth that they resonate profoundly with the reader. The plot is expertly structured, delivering an exhilarating experience that makes the book irresistible.

What I like about this book is that its narrative deftly presents both the Vietcong and U.S. troops' viewpoints, shedding light on the war's impact on both factions and their survival tactics. The novel doesn't shy away from stark historical truths, such as the U.S. military's deployment of nearly eight million metric tonnes of bombs and over nineteen million gallons of Agent Orange. Yet, it balances the gravity with humour, like when Zachariah jests with Eastman, a fellow sailor, about accents, providing a hearty laugh amidst the narrative.

There was nothing I didn't like about this book. Miller's storytelling is executed with flair and precision, allowing readers to deeply connect with the characters without superfluous detail. The glossary is a helpful touch for navigating military jargon. The story's flow is impeccable, and its conclusion, while sombre, is an apt finale. The absence of errors suggests professional editing, contributing to a seamless reading experience. Hence, I rate this novel 5 out of 5 for enthusiasts of historical fiction and those seeking insight into the Vietnam War, this book is a treasure.

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Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath
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