Cheerful Obedience by Patrick M. McLaughlin, BREW Fiction Book Excellence Award 2023 War Fiction of the Year, takes readers on an unflinching journey into the lives of soldiers during the Vietnam War, blending historical detail with deeply human moments. A gripping and methodical portrayal of military service, this novel delivers authenticity, emotional weight, and precision.
Table of Contents
Review
Duty, camaraderie, sacrifice. In times of war, ordinary individuals are thrust into extraordinary circumstances, leaving indelible marks on their psyche and the world they inhabit. The Vietnam War remains one of history’s most studied and debated conflicts, not only for its geopolitical implications but also for the profound emotional and physical toll it exacted on those who served. Against this backdrop, McLaughlin offers a story that captures the grit and humanity of young men confronting the terrors of combat and the challenges of a military life dominated by discipline, uncertainty, and brotherhood.
The novel follows the journey of Conor McKall, an eager young soldier, and a host of characters, from seasoned veterans to green recruits, as they face the rigors of training, the bonds of camaraderie, and the shadow of deployment to a distant war. From ambushes planned in the tropical humidity near Cambodia to boot camp antics in Georgia, the narrative paints a detailed picture of the physical and emotional landscapes that defined a soldier’s experience. McLaughlin avoids sugarcoating the harsh realities, immersing the reader in tense moments of preparation and execution, yet leaves room for small but powerful reflections on personal duty, family bonds, and dreams left on pause.
This book excels in its authenticity, offering readers a tangible sense of time and place. The technical accuracy surrounding military operations, weapons like the M-14 and Claymore mine, and the cultural nuances of the 1960s are presented with unflinching clarity. Particularly memorable is McKall’s confrontation with military bureaucracy when defending a comrade falsely accused, a moment that underscores his steadfast character and the moral complexities of military life. The story’s pacing allows readers to absorb the harsh rhythms of soldiering, and the dialogue feels natural, capturing the diverse voices of men thrown together from different corners of America.
Readers who enjoy stories centered on the human spirit’s endurance under pressure will appreciate this book. The historical fidelity and rich descriptions will appeal to fans of authors like Tim O’Brien or Karl Marlantes, though some may find its methodical pacing a challenge. Those looking for a faster, more action-oriented narrative may feel disconnected, but for readers invested in character depth and realism, this novel is a rewarding experience.
At its core, Cheerful Obedience is an evocative tribute to the sacrifices of service, a mosaic of perseverance, and a homage to unsung heroes. Like a finely tuned instrument, McLaughlin harmonizes the stark realities of war with the quieter notes of human connection and resilience. This novel stands as both a gripping narrative and a profound exploration of duty, identity, and survival. It invites us to sit with the weight of history, honor its complexities, and feel the pulse of those who lived it.
About the Author
Patrick McLaughlin, a decorated Vietnam War combat veteran, served as a squad leader with the 1st Infantry Division. After military service, he earned law degrees, became a U.S. Attorney under President Reagan, and practiced law for three decades. Patrick, an Ohio Military Hall of Fame inductee, now writes from Cleveland.
Book Details
- Title: Cheerful Obedience
- Author: Patrick M. McLaughlin
- Genre(s) and Sub-genre(s):
- Main Genre: Fiction
- Sub-genre(s): Historical Fiction (based on its focus on Vietnam War-era events and military life).
- Theme(s), 1 or 2-word items only:
- War, Duty, Training, Brotherhood, Patriotism, Sacrifice.
- Minimum Audience Age: 16+ (due to mature themes of war, violence, and strong language).
- Main Language: English
Book Themes
(Note: 0=none, 1=a few, 2=considerable, 3=pronounced, 4=excessive)
- Sexual Themes: 0
- There are no notable sexual themes present in the text.
- Religious Themes: 1
- Some mentions of faith and moral obligations, but minimal focus.
- Violence, Self-Harm, etc.: 3
- Frequent and detailed descriptions of combat, injuries, and military conflict.
- Crude Language, Expletives, Swearing, etc.: 2
- Moderate use of profanity and crude phrases appropriate for military context.
- Other Adult Themes: 2
- Explores themes like war trauma, bureaucracy, and military ethics.
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[…] Cheerful Obedience by Patrick M. McLaughlin – A powerful piece of historical fiction, Cheerful Obedience presents a compelling look at life during the Vietnam War. Through the eyes of its soldier characters, McLaughlin offers a story filled with moral complexity, camaraderie, and the lasting psychological impact of combat. […]
[…] Cheerful Obedience by Patrick M. McLaughlin – A powerful piece of historical fiction, Cheerful Obedience presents a compelling look at life during the Vietnam War. Through the eyes of its soldier characters, McLaughlin offers a story filled with moral complexity, camaraderie, and the lasting psychological impact of combat. […]
[…] Cheerful Obedience by Patrick M. McLaughlin – A powerful piece of historical fiction, Cheerful Obedience presents a compelling look at life during the Vietnam War. Through the eyes of its soldier characters, McLaughlin offers a story filled with moral complexity, camaraderie, and the lasting psychological impact of combat. […]
My compliments to the reviewer on a thoughtful, descriptive, and spot-on commentary on Cheerful Obedience. This book, my debut fiction novel, has received a number of reviews but none that are superior to that offered by the Chrysalis BREW Project. The book is a proud recipient of the BREW Fiction Book Excellence Award 2023 War Fiction of the Year. Cheers, Patrick McLaughlin
Thank you, Patrick, for your kind words and for sharing your literary gem with us. Congratulations again on your accolades! All the best, now and always! Keep shining!