FATAL LIGHT

by Richard Currey
FATAL LIGHT cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 8136
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9780977679928
  • Publisher: Santa Fe Writers Project
  • Published: 2009-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Fatal Light delves into the harrowing experiences of a combat medic in Vietnam, contrasting the chaos of war with the tranquility of family life back home. Upon his return, the protagonist stays with his grandfather, where he is forced to confront his shattered personal history and the enigmatic human capacity for renewal. /n/nThis powerful narrative explores themes of trauma, healing, and the enduring human spirit, set against the backdrop of a changing America. The book's evocative descriptions and poignant storytelling make it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and the psychological impact of war.

Reviews
Diary of an Eccentric · 2010-12-09
thought-provoking 3.50

The novel is not linear but offers glimpses into a soldier's disillusionment with war and life. The narrative style is unique and thought-provoking, though it may not appeal to all readers.

The reviewer notes that 'Fatal Light' is not a traditional linear novel but rather a collection of vignettes from a soldier's life. They appreciate the unique narrative style, which provides deep insights into the protagonist's disillusionment with war and life. However, they acknowledge that this style might not be everyone's cup of tea, as it lacks a conventional plot structure. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, highlighting the raw and unfiltered experiences of the soldier.

Quick quotes

    Fatal Light is not a linear novel, but more like snippets from the life of a young soldier who becomes disillusioned with war and life after all.

    The narrative style is unique and thought-provoking.

    It may not appeal to all readers, but it offers a deep and emotional experience.

Savvy Verse & Wit · 2010-11-16
emotional 4.00

The prose is sparse and the chapters are small, but each line and chapter can have a significant emotional impact on the reader.

The reviewer notes that 'Fatal Light' features sparse prose and short chapters, but each line and chapter packs a powerful emotional punch. They appreciate the book's ability to knock readers off their feet with its raw and unfiltered portrayal of the soldier's experiences. The reviewer finds the book to be deeply affecting and memorable, highlighting its ability to evoke strong emotions and leave a lasting impression. They also mention that the book's structure, with its short vignettes, adds to its emotional impact.

Quick quotes

    The prose is sparse and the chapters are small, but each line, each chapter can knock readers over or back into their seats after putting them through an emotional rollercoaster.

    The book's structure, with its short vignettes, adds to its emotional impact.

    It is deeply affecting and memorable.

Alive on the Shelves · 2009-04-10
beautiful 4.00

The book is lyrical and beautifully written, even in the midst of terrible situations. It is told in snippets, which adds to its emotional impact.

The reviewer describes 'Fatal Light' as a beautifully written and lyrical book, even when depicting the most harrowing situations. They appreciate the book's structure, which consists of short vignettes that build up to a powerful emotional impact. The reviewer finds the prose to be sparse yet deeply affecting, making it a memorable read. They highlight the book's ability to evoke strong emotions and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Quick quotes

    Fatal Light is absolutely lyrical – it is beautifully written, even in the midst of the most terrible situations.

    It is told in snippets, which adds to its emotional impact.

    The prose is sparse yet deeply affecting.

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