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

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[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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Review:

Randy Miller’s “Deadly Waters” is not solely a war story, even though the reader can observe that it is at the core of the author’s work. The Vietnam War is a powerful story of the war itself and its effects on soldiers’ lives, told through the experience of young sailor Zack Martin.
The presentation of the naval battle plays out effectively by Miller about the confined space. Crazy research puts the ever-present danger of the Viet Cong attack into sharp focus. The audience can see the character’s evolution from a boy living on a farm to a sailor facing the reality of war.

As for the psychological aspect, the sound of cannons, the light of the explosions, and the feeling of a possible underwater attack create strong pressure. Apart from the war context, the dimension of love between Zack and Tally enriches the novel. Miller describes their pre-war love as rather innocent and sweet, and while they exchange letters, they are edgy and concerned.

Thus, when Zack comes home, the burden of repressed trauma is felt. Miller succeeds in depicting such features of the relationships between the characters as stilted speech and endless attempts at maintaining the semblance of a natural family life marred by deep misery. Veteran benefits show the government’s shortcomings, which is another battlefield for Zack.

All in all, this critical depiction reveals information about a world that, for the most part, remains hidden behind the curtain of war and its aftermath. It is necessary to recall that the novel's romantic subplot is rather traditional, and its essential value is in the component of the emotional reference point. It is a story of the resilience of the human soul and how families stand by their members even in the most trying of times.

Altogether, “Deadly Waters” has a good dose of historical truth and an equal portion of sentimentality. It is a recommended book to read for those who are curious about the not-very-well-known naval battles of the Vietnam War and their consequences on the lives of those who participated in them. Miller creates a deep impression on the reader that makes one think and be grateful for the heroes who laid down their lives.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

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Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath
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