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

[Keerti Yadav]

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

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4 out of 5 stars

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Randy Miller's compelling historical fiction book "Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath" explores the underappreciated hardships of Vietnam Blue Water Navy sailors. The narrative centers on Zack Martin, a young man enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War who leaves his farm in Vermont. Readers witness the terrifying realities of riverine and coastal combat, the strong bond between sailors, and the unwavering love between Zack and Tally Goodwin, his hometown sweetheart, through his eyes.


Miller's story, which illuminates the fallout from exposure to Agent Orange and the ensuing betrayal by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, is both heartbreaking and educational. By evoking the harsh and dangerous life onboard a destroyer, the author's descriptive prose effectively conveys the severity of war and the tenacity of those who serve. The intense stress of warfare is poignantly counterbalanced by Zack and Tally's affection, which makes their last confrontation with the VA all the more painful.


The Hawke, the Providence, and the Repercussions, the three sections that make up the book's structure, successfully depict Zack's development from an unsuspecting sailor to a seasoned veteran coping with the repercussions of war. Every section is painstakingly written, with rich descriptions and fully realized characters that make the narrative come to life. The novel is well edited and has no obvious faults, which makes for a more enjoyable read.


Even though "Deadly Waters" is a superb work of historical fiction, there are a few small issues with it. Even though the technical descriptions are fascinating, readers who are not familiar with nautical terminology may find them overwhelming. Furthermore, some readers may find the subject matter's intensity upsetting, especially given the violent depictions of battle and its aftermath.


"Deadly Waters" receives a strong 4 out of 5 stars overall. Anyone interested in the Vietnam War or the difficulties experienced by veterans should read this book because of Miller's skill at weaving historical details into an engaging story. It is an incredible and enlightening book because of the author's strong storytelling and the editing's fluidity.

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Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath
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