I count myself
fortunate that I was able to lay my hands on a copy of Tom Fulton’s book ‘Into the Vortex’. Despite the many books
written about the wars and conflicts in Southern Africa, this book is worthy to
stand on its own.
Perhaps it was
inquisitiveness or perhaps I was trying to relive the days of growing up in a
slow-boiling Africa through Tom’s eyes, or perhaps both. Regardless, Tom’s book
did not disappoint me.
The book is a vivid and
exciting glimpse into days long gone—days when boys were boys and were forced
through circumstance, challenges and conflicting politics to grow up and stand
tall as both men and soldiers called on to fight a dirty war.
Tom takes the reader into
his home as a young boy growing up in a sometimes difficult environment, but there
is no pity as that was how it was—instead he uses his humour to lighten the
situations he and his brother frequently found themselves in.
His entry into the
Rhodesian Army and the subsequent humour and oftentimes sorrow that followed is
well written and intense. Commissioned
as an officer in the Rhodesian African Rifles (RAR), he goes on to discuss the
bonds made and shared as only men under fire can do. Readers who are unfamiliar
with Africa and the closeness and comradeship of black and white men at war will
do well to take note of the respect they had for one another.
The scenes of combat
are well and intensely described along with the tension before triggers are
pulled and the exhilaration of success and survival when the guns fell silent. At
times, the fast pace of combat is softened with humour and the aftermath of a
deployment where young men go about their social lives—social lives that were lived
and enjoyed to the maximum.
Tom’s easy style of writing
brings to life many sad and traumatic events, yet there is no trace of
victimhood—the mark of a man and a soldier with character.
As clichéd as it might
be, ‘Into the Vortex’ will stand on
its own as a Rhodesian classic.
Well done Tom Fulton!
For
ordering information
The book can be ordered directly from Tom at:
The book can be ordered directly from Tom at:
Or through Bush War Books:
https://www.warbooks.co.za/products/into-the-vortex-tom-fulton?variant=26102647363
2 comments:
Thank you so much Sir. I am truly humbled that a man of your reputation and standing should write so well of my first literary effort. - Tom Fulton.
It is a great book that deserves to be read by all Tom.
I think you did an outstanding piece and I also know how we struggle to get our books read by as wide an audience as possible.
Keep up your writing!
Rgds,
Eeben
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