From Publishers Weekly
Set in the days of the still-escalating war in Vietnam, this is a compact, raw-edged novel with occasional moments of power written by an award-winning combat correspondent. It is a straightforward and realistic narrative told from the viewpoint of Mike Ripp, a young Southerner who leaves behind a pregnant wife when he goes overseas. The story follows the men of Bravo Company from their final days in basic training to Vietnam, where they are involved in harmless patrols until called up to reinforce a major offensive against Hill 711, an enemy stronghold. The assault and its aftermath constitute the novel's dramatic highpoint and some of the best writing. Attempting to capture a sense of irony, however, the author fails to produce either the mordancy or the desperate realism of other novels chronicling the Vietnam experience.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
In 1967 Mike Ripp is sent to Vietnam as part of an infantry platoon. His comrades include a couple of good-old-boy Southerners, a dazed idealist, a Chinese-American, and assorted blacks and whites. Lt. Col. Gurgles, their blowhard commanding officer, enjoys giving stirring pep talks and staying away from battle. When he does approach the combat area, it is before or after an encounter, flying over in a helicopter and booming forth encouragement. Just before the big one Mike learns his wife has left him. In the heat of battle he becomes a hero and somehow makes it back. Tone is everything here, and there are layers of irony and frustration, anger and hurt. The author, an award-winning journalist, has created (or re-created) some of the most devastating battle scenes to come out of the conflict. Hard, fast-moving, drenched with authenticity, this first novel is a strong war story strongly recommended. Robert H. Donahugh, Youngstown & Mahoning Cty. P.L., Ohio
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
