FIELDS OF FIRE

by James Webb
FIELDS OF FIRE cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Historical Fiction
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8137
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9781788635196
  • Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Ltd
  • Published: 2019-04-29
  • Reviews: 4

Fields of Fire is a gripping and visceral account of the Vietnam War, told through the experiences of three young Marines from vastly different backgrounds. James Webb's novel delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of war, exploring themes of identity, camaraderie, and the brutal realities of combat. The story is set in the An Hoa Basin in 1969, where the characters are thrust into a world of chaos and violence that forever changes them. /n/n Webb's writing is noted for its razor-sharp observation and poetic power, capturing the essence of war with a level of detail and authenticity that has been compared to the works of Stephen Crane and Norman Mailer. The novel is not just a story of battle but also a profound exploration of the human condition under extreme stress, making it a must-read for fans of literary fiction and war narratives.

Reviews
Reddit - Books · 2025-12-20
fantastic 4.00

The book is violent and disturbing, with a unique narrative flow that takes some getting used to. It is ultimately a fantastic read for those who appreciate raw and intense storytelling.

This reviewer found 'Fields of Fire' to be one of the most violent and disturbing books they've read, which is part of what makes it so compelling. The initial narrative flow can be a bit off-putting, but once you get into it, the book becomes a gripping and fantastic read. They appreciate the raw and intense portrayal of the Vietnam War, which makes it a standout novel for those who enjoy powerful and unflinching storytelling.

Quick quotes

    This is easily one of the most violent, disturbing, and fantastic books I've read.

    The flow of the book is a little off putting at first but once you start...

    It's a powerful and unflinching portrayal of the Vietnam War.

Paul Davison Crime · 2018-11-13
powerful 4.50

The book is not meant to be a fun read, but it is a powerful and unflinching look at the realities of war. It is a significant piece of literature that captures the essence of the Vietnam War.

This reviewer notes that 'Fields of Fire' is not a fun book to read, nor is it meant to be. It delves deeply into the harsh realities faced by soldiers during the Vietnam War. The novel is praised for its powerful and unflinching portrayal of the war, making it a significant piece of literature. They appreciate how the book captures the essence of the Vietnam War, providing a raw and honest look at the experiences of the soldiers and Marines who fought there.

Quick quotes

    It is not a fun book to read, nor is it meant to be.

    The soldiers and Marines who comprised the bulk of our Vietnam infantry were thrown into...

    A powerful and unflinching look at the realities of war.

Paul Davison Crime · 2018-11-13
harrowing 4.00

The book is intense and not meant to be enjoyable, reflecting the harsh realities faced by soldiers in the Vietnam War. It offers a raw and unflinching look at the experiences of Marines.

This book isn't a light read, and it's not supposed to be. It dives deep into the brutal and often disturbing experiences of soldiers in Vietnam. The author doesn't shy away from the gritty details, making it a powerful, if not always pleasant, journey. The characters and their struggles are vividly portrayed, giving a sense of the chaos and camaraderie of war. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page, not because it's enjoyable, but because it's so utterly real.

Quick quotes

    It is not a fun book to read, nor is it meant to be.

    The soldiers and Marines who comprised the bulk of our Vietnam infantry were thrown into a nightmare.

    The book drives home the harsh realities faced by soldiers.

The Washington Times · 2018-11-11
finest 4.75

The novel is considered the finest piece of literature to come out of the Vietnam War. It is a gripping and poetic portrayal of the conflict, with razor-sharp observation and agonizing human truths.

This reviewer considers 'Fields of Fire' the finest piece of literature to emerge from the Vietnam War. The novel is praised for its gripping and poetic portrayal of the conflict, with razor-sharp observation and agonizing human truths. They highlight the book's ability to capture the essence of the war, making it a standout piece of literature. The reviewer appreciates the novel's depth and the way it drives home the harsh realities faced by soldiers, making it a must-read for those interested in the Vietnam War.

Quick quotes

    Fields of Fire is the finest piece of literature to come out of the Vietnam War.

    A novel of poetic power, razor-sharp observation, and agonizing human truths.

    It has been republished on the 40th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, a testament to its enduring relevance.

Appears in Lists