#Vietnam War #Dan Mulvagh #Xlibris NZ

Exploring the Depths of Youth and War in 'When Fate Called Their Name'

Dan Mulvagh's latest novel, 'Ballot: When Fate Called Their Name', published by Xlibris NZ, offers a compelling narrative that blends history with poignant personal stories of young men caught in the tumult of the Vietnam War era. The book is a vivid portrayal that resonates with themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the profound impact of war on life choices.

The Uncertain Future of Young Australians

Set against the backdrop of the late 1960s, the narrative begins with four young Australians, Mitch Masters, Jay Petrovich, Greg Sunderland, and Kiwi Parata. These characters find their fates sealed by a lottery system that determines their enlistment into the Vietnam War. Through the lottery, which serves as a harrowing symbol of chance and fate, Mulvagh delves into how these young men confront the harsh realities of being conscripted into a war that tests not just their bravery but their very identities.

As these men's lives unfold, they are forced to grapple with their beliefs, questioning the very ideologies that led them into such perilous circumstances. The story is not merely about warfare; it taps into deep-seated issues such as camaraderie, the sense of belonging, and the psychological toll inflicted by allegiance to one's country amid conflicts over ideologies.

A Story Interwoven with Historical Truth

Mulvagh's writing stands out due to its meticulous attention to historical detail and its capacity to combine fast-paced storytelling with profound emotional depth. The tale does not shy away from the horrors of combat but extends to explore the xenophobic tendencies and patriotic pressures that marked the decades following the war.