I don't have a lot positive to say about this novel, it was alright but initially seemed to meander all over the place. There was flashbacks and what not then about a third to halfway through things start making a bit more sense.

It's a vietnam prisoner of war/espionage tale with the focus on the events surrounding circumstances rather than the actual espionage. ( )

A very good yarn if a bit contrived in places. Not one to rush, more to read carefully and enjoy the detail (or you'll get lost!).

Toll for the Brave - Jack Higgins **** ½

Ellis Jackson is a failed English soldier and considered a disgrace to his General Grandfather. With this in mind he joins the American army and goes to Vietnam.

Whilst there he becomes captured and imprisoned along with the almost superhero status 'Black Max'.

They manage to escape to freedom, but not before months of mental torture.

A number of years later Ellis has settled down, has a steady girlfriend but is still haunted by nightmares of his past. One day, while taking the dog for a walk in the English countryside he is assaulted by 2 Viet cong. Convinced he is was right, but told by everyone he is losing his mind he sets out to find evidence. However, upon returning home he in knocked unconscious only to awaken to shotgun blasted remains of his partner and best friend.

Has he really lost his mind, or is it an elaborate plan to make him think he has.........

Another good story by Higgins, although once again a bit on the short side. Read it in practically one go, and loved it. ( )

An easy rereading of an undemanding novel. ( )

Reissue of a brisk, competent 1971 thriller (under his real name of Harry Patterson) featuring a martially expert hero brutalised in Vietnam fighting ruthless Chinese Maoist villains in Southern England. This is a slick transient read. ( )