John Heinz

I was absolutely swept away by John Heinz' book, FNG, to the point where I am here today still trying to close my mouth; my jaw dropped suddenly after completing the final chapter of his novel. Yes, the ending is quite a surprise! Originally, my main reason for purchasing FNG was to compare it with my own, Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel. Both refer to newly arrived soldiers in Vietnam and I wanted to read John's version.

I was sucked into the story from the very beginning and found myself intrigued by the main character (Dwight - FNG Medic) and his ability to "feel" the enemy. At first, I thought that his weapon, GG, was magical, instead, I found that he, himself, had a special gift.

The scenes in the story are eloquently written and very detailed and descriptive. In fact, this is the first Vietnam War Novel that I've read to have such explicit, steamy and descriptive sexual content to describe the encounters between the Dwight and his CIA lady friend. It will take your breath away!

Of course this is still a war story about a special medic that leads a special platoon to glory in Vietnam. Dwight is a hero and almost on a first name basis with the division general. He'd also had dinner with General Westmoreland and staff, and was looking forward to meeting the President of the United States in the very near future. John's description of Dwight flying the O-38 bird dog after the pilot had been killed had to have come from personal experience; otherwise the story would not have flowed as fluently as it did.

FNG is a wild ride and like the other reviewers have stated before me, this book is difficult to put down once you start it. Highly recommended. Great job Mr. Heinz!

John Podlaski, author
Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel… (meer)