Review: A Unique Twist On The Vietnam War Genre
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 15, 2013
I've read my share of stories set during the Vietnam war. So many (over the years) that I am a little weary of the genre. This book is different. Introducing a mythological creature into the mix stirs new life into this genre. Sure you have your classic elements of slogging through jungle terrain, dealing with deadly booby-traps and getting into pulse pounding fire fights, but in this novel there is something more.The way the dragons are handled is very matter of fact. This is not some fantasy book dealing with wizards and spells. No, these are regular soldier who find themselves pitted against dragons and enemy forces at the same time. And the result is a really fun read.Despite me calling the read "fun," be warned, there are some very graphic scenes in this book. The violence is often gory, and the torture scenes are somewhat disturbing. No recommended for readers who are squeamish.I am not one of those readers and I found this read engaging. I liked the new twist on the classic Vietnam way story. One complaint:*SPOILERS**** (Kinda)I wasn't a big fan of the ending. It wasn't bad, it was just so damn bleak, it made me feel like all the struggle that led up to it was somehow pointless... After all Jacobs had been through I was hoping for something better for him. Plus, I could see Moore turning on Jacobs at the end, but I don't understand Stephens' rational for his actions at the end. I guess he was just crazy. I will admit the gritty tone of the ending matched the rest of the book, but be prepared readers, it may leave you feeling kinda bleak. Despite my feeling on this I still consider this book a 4-star read.