Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath Audiobook By randy miller cover art

Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath

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Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath

By: randy miller
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About this listen

Deadly Waters is a work of historical fiction based on true events that tells how the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs perverted Congressional Law to cheat 229,000 Vietnam Blue Water Navy Sailors out of all possible compensation for Agent Orange caused illnesses. It is a book every patriotic American should read. This is a story of love, war, and the promise America made and broke to those sailors she sent to fight on the toxic waters of South East Asia. It’s told through the eyes of seventeen year old Zachariah Martin, who in the fall of 1964, leaves his family farm in rural Vermont to enlist in the Navy. After boot camp he is stationed on a destroyer which is quickly deployed to Vietnam. He and his ship are heavily involved in close coastal and river warfare. Martin grows into a skilled deck seaman, gunner, and helmsman. He manages to survive the constant dangers of the Viet Cong, and an unforgiving sea. In spite of prolonged separations, his love for his hometown girl, Tally Goodwin, survives, and grows as well. After his discharge it blossoms into a strong and loving marriage. Side by side Zack and Tally face the many obstacles and hardships life throws in their path, including diseases caused by his exposure to the defoliant Agent Orange in Vietnam. When they least expect it, they find themselves embroiled in the toughest fight of their lives with an organization they were counting on for medical help; an organization they, like most Americans, believed to be a friend to all who served their country with honor, but turned out to be a true and terrible enemy far more cold-hearted and callous then Zack or any of his 229,000 brothers had ever encountered before: the Veterans Administration. Heartfelt Inspiring Scary Thought-Provoking Veteran War

What listeners say about Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath

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Emotional Storytelling Vivid Character Portrayals Authentic War Depiction Powerful Emotional Core
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A Realistic Take on War's Aftermath

Deadly Waters offers an emotional and historically accurate portrayal of Vietnam veteran Zack Martin's fight with cancer from Agent Orange and the Veterans Administration. Randy Miller’s attention to detail brings a haunting realism to Zack’s battle, while the narration captures the emotional depth of his relationships, especially with his wife Tally and friend Bill. The raw honesty of Zack’s struggle with the VA bureaucracy adds weight, making this an authentic and heartbreaking listen. The friendships and personal trials shine through, creating a poignant listening experience.

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Deadly Water

Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath by Randy Miller tells the devastating yet profoundly moving story of Zack Martin, a Vietnam Navy veteran who survives the war only to face an even greater battle at home. Exposed to Agent Orange, Zack’s health begins to deteriorate, and he must navigate the unforgiving bureaucracy of the VA in his fight for justice. Miller captures Zack’s heartbreak, frustration, and enduring love for his wife, Tally, offering a story that balances despair with moments of hope, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.

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There's So Much To Like

Randy Miller’s poignant exploration of war and its devastating aftermath is powerfully conveyed through the narration. The recurring motif of water is brought to life, enhancing the symbolic and emotional weight of Zack Martin’s journey as both a survivor and a victim of Agent Orange. The narrator’s pacing deepens the listener’s experience of Zack’s betrayal by his own government, the slow decay of his health, and the emotional strain on his relationships. This gripping audiobook captures the raw emotions of survival, loss, and the fight for justice with profound impact. An amazing listen!

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Immersive and Emotional: Deadly Waters

Listening to Randy Miller’s Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath on Audible is an unforgettable experience that captures both the intensity of naval warfare and the emotional toll of service. The story centers on Zack Martin, whose journey from the USS Hawke to life after war is brought to life through a narrator who perfectly captures the tension, camaraderie, and heartbreak of the Vietnam War. One standout scene—Zack and his crew intercepting a suspicious sampan—feels especially vivid, with the oppressive South China Sea heat and the taut anticipation of conflict resonating in every word.

The audiobook format also enhances Miller’s thoughtful inclusion of details like the Vermont and naval glossaries, which translate seamlessly into the narration. Zack’s regional dialect and the military jargon are made accessible without losing their authenticity, adding depth to his character and the immersive world Miller builds. While some military terms may still challenge listeners, the narrator’s ability to contextualize these moments minimizes disruptions and keeps the story flowing.

Above all, Deadly Waters on Audible excels in blending action with emotional depth. Zack’s internal struggles, his bonds with his shipmates, and the sacrifices he faces are delivered with nuance and sincerity. it's a nice listen overall.

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War's Moral Complexities In Light

Listening to Randy Miller’s Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath brings the story of Zack Martin vividly to life, capturing both the physical and emotional battles faced by soldiers during and after the Vietnam War. The audiobook’s narration immerses listeners in Zack's internal struggle, especially as he confronts the devastating effects of Agent Orange. Miller’s nuanced exploration of the ethical dilemmas surrounding war, from the moral gray areas to the long-term health impacts on soldiers, makes the story all the more gripping. The complexity of duty versus conscience is keenly felt, and the narrator’s performance heightens the emotional weight of Zack’s journey, making it a thought-provoking experience.

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I liked the story

In the story in Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath, Randy Miller’s powerful narrative of Zack Martin’s post-war struggles comes to life with heightened emotional intensity. The narrator’s performance deepens the impact of Zack’s battle with the government’s neglect after his exposure to Agent Orange, making his pain and sense of betrayal palpable. Miller’s portrayal of Zack’s fight against bureaucracy and his government’s indifference is heart-wrenching, and the audiobook amplifies the novel’s themes of loyalty and injustice. It’s a moving and unforgettable listening experience, reminding us of the lasting effects of war on those who serve.

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Enjoyed It.

Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath by Randy Miller delivers a powerful and emotionally charged story about Zack Martin, a Vietnam veteran whose battles don’t end when he returns home. The novel captures Zack’s harrowing struggle with the effects of Agent Orange and his fight against the VA’s broken healthcare system. Miller’s depiction of bureaucratic injustice is gut-wrenching, showing how veterans, after risking their lives, often face a new war—this time, against red tape and apathy. It’s an emotional reminder of the overlooked challenges veterans endure long after the conflict is over.

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Betrayal and Relationships in Focus

The narration expertly captures the emotional heart of Zack Martin’s battle with cancer, the Veterans Administration, and the slow erosion of his spirit. Randy Miller’s portrayal of Zack’s relationships with his wife Tally and best friend Bill Holmann is both nuanced and deeply moving, grounding the story in a raw, emotional reality. The betrayal Zack feels from the system is palpable, and the narrator's performance amplifies the frustration and devastation. This is an intense and heartbreaking listen that explores war’s toll on relationships and trust.

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Audible Review for Deadly Waters by Randy Miller

Narration plays a critical role in bringing Deadly Waters to life, and this audiobook delivers on every front. The story itself is an emotional powerhouse, weaving themes of war, betrayal, and the resilience of relationships, but it’s the narration that elevates the experience. The narrator captures Zack Martin’s quiet determination and heartbreak with an authenticity that makes his struggle with Agent Orange and the Veterans Administration (VA) system all the more poignant. Each line is delivered with a deliberate pacing that mirrors Zack’s internal battle, whether it’s his moments of despair, flashes of hope, or the tenderness in his relationships.

The voices for supporting characters, particularly Tally and Bill, are distinct and rich with emotion. Tally’s unwavering yet strained devotion is palpable in the narrator’s tone, while Bill’s mix of tough love and steadfast loyalty comes through in every line. The narration doesn’t just recount the story—it immerses you in it. One particularly memorable scene, where Zack silently absorbs yet another devastating rejection from the VA, lingers with haunting resonance thanks to the narrator’s nuanced performance. You feel Zack’s defeat in your bones, a testament to the skillful voice work.

This audiobook’s narration balances the weight of the story’s themes with clarity and depth, never veering into melodrama but always honoring the emotional gravity of Zack’s journey. It complements Randy Miller’s straightforward yet impactful prose, ensuring that every frustration, every small victory, and every heartbreak hits with full force. For anyone who values narration that enhances rather than distracts, this audiobook is a must-listen. It’s an unforgettable tale made even more gripping through a performance that brings Zack’s fight to vivid, heartrending life.

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A Gripping Dive into "Deadly Waters".

Randy Miller’s Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War and Its Aftermath delivers an unforgettable journey into the chaos of the Vietnam War, shedding light on the high-stakes naval battles, the emotional toll of combat, and the enduring scars of war. At its core, this is more than just a war novel. It’s a deeply moving exploration of resilience, love, and the sacrifices demanded by service. The narrative centers on Zack Martin, a young sailor from Vermont, as he confronts the harrowing realities of war aboard two ships, the USS Hawke and the USS Providence. Yet, what truly sets this novel apart is its ability to humanize the conflict without losing sight of its historical weight.

The heart-pounding sequences, particularly those during Operation Sea Dragon, are some of the book’s most gripping moments. Imagine this: Zack and his shipmates find themselves amid relentless bombardments aimed at disrupting Viet Cong supply lines. The intense depictions of the ship's movements, the thunderous roar of the guns, and the charged atmosphere among the crew bring the South China Sea to life. Can you hear the deafening explosions? Feel the oppressive heat? Miller’s writing makes sure you do. These moments don’t just showcase the action—they also capture the anxiety, camaraderie, and determination of the sailors, making you feel like you’re right there with them.

But let’s not stop at the action—this book also excels as a lesson in history. The sheer depth of research poured into every page is remarkable. From the intricacies of naval operations to the broader political and social context of the Vietnam War, Miller paints an immersive and authentic portrait of the era. The narrative doesn’t just skim the surface; it dives deep, exploring everything from the devastating use of Agent Orange to the bureaucratic battles veterans faced long after returning home. Yet, all of this is woven seamlessly into Zack’s personal story, making it both educational and emotionally resonant.

That said, is the historical depth always a good thing? Well, here’s where opinions might diverge. For readers unfamiliar with military history, the avalanche of detail—terms like "ASROC" and "General Quarters" flying left and right—can feel a bit much. While there’s a glossary included (thankfully!), the narrative itself doesn’t always stop to lend a helping hand to the less-informed. It’s not that these details aren’t fascinating—they absolutely are—but the sheer volume of them might make casual readers feel like they’ve accidentally wandered into a military history seminar. A touch more context woven directly into the story could have made it a tad more approachable, without compromising its depth.

Does this minor critique dim the book’s brilliance? Absolutely not! If anything, it’s a testament to the richness of Miller’s work that it inspires this kind of nitpicking. For those who appreciate a blend of historical authenticity and emotional storytelling, Deadly Waters is a shining example of both. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the brutal truths of war, but it balances them with moments of humanity and resilience, leaving readers with a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who served.

In the end, Deadly Waters deserves a resounding 5 out of 5 stars. The historical detail can feel dense, but it’s also what makes this book such a standout. Miller doesn’t just tell a story—he immerses you in an era, making the Vietnam War feel immediate and personal. Whether you’re a history buff or someone looking for a deeply human story, this novel is one you won’t soon forget.

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